Deloris Farthing, regional director of health information management with the University of Kansas Health System for HaysMed, Great Bend Campus and Pawnee Valley Campus, was awarded the 2021 Champion Award from the Kansas Health Information Management Association during this month's virtual KHIMA annual meeting.

The Champion award was given to recognize Farthing for advancing and demonstrating outstanding volunteer leadership in the KHIMA organization at the national and state level by demonstrating distinctive leadership qualities and contributed to leading KHIMA to significant accomplishments that advance the health information management field.&nbsp;

Farthing has served as KHIMA’s president, director and secretary/treasurer and has held several committee chairperson roles in the past. She has previously been awarded the Achievement Award in 2005 and the Outstanding Member Award in 2009.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619202980027.jpeg" alt="Deloris Farthing " />
 <figcaption>Deloris Farthing </figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedDeloris Farthing, regional director of health information management with the University of Kansas Health System for HaysMed, Great Bend Campus and Pawnee Valley Campus, was awarded the 2021 Champion Award from the Kansas Health Information Management Association during this month's virtual KHIMA annual meeting.The Champion award was given to recognize Farthing for advancing and demonstrating outstanding volunteer leadership in the KHIMA organization at the national and state level by demonstrating distinctive leadership qualities and contributed to leading KHIMA to significant accomplishments that advance the health information management field.&nbsp;Farthing has served as KHIMA’s president, director and secretary/treasurer and has held several committee chairperson roles in the past. She has previously been awarded the Achievement Award in 2005 and the Outstanding Member Award in 2009.

HaysMed associate honored by statewide organization

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A Girl Scout from Hays recently earned an award for cataloging a cemetery near Bunker Hill and learned a little bit about her own family history in the process.

Mariella Dreiling, 13 and a Cadette with Troop 10095, was awarded the Girl Scout Silver Award, the second highest award for girls in Scouting for her work at the Dubuque Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.&nbsp;

Mariella's mother, Monica Dreiling, grew up in Bunker Hill and her grandparents still live there. Mariella, through her genealogical research was able to determine members of her family were buried at the cemetery.

"We knew that it didn't have a proper map and a proper map of the people who were buried there, so I thought this would be a good way to help out the community," Mariella said.

Mariella, a seventh-grader at Hays Middle School, donated a small directory to the Bunker Hill Historical Society Museum and added the information into the Find A Grave website. Mariella added 49 entries into Find A Grave. There are 151 people buried in the cemetery.

"I think it will and already has helped people with genealogical research to find their family trees," she said. "And people who want to visit the cemetery will know where their family members are buried."

Mariella found that some of the headstones were deteriorated to the point the information on them could no longer be read.&nbsp;

An example of this was a small limestone marker for Genive Thorne, who died as an infant in 1914. Mariella used genological records to identify Thorne and determine she was a relative on her mother's side of the family.

She also added the infant's information to Ancestry.com.

Mariella was also able to determine an iron cross at the cemetery marked the grave of her great-great-great-great-grandmother, Maria Engel Klusener. She born on Feb. 23, 1821, and died July 6, 1892. Her marker held a porcelain plaque, which translated from German read "Christ lives and we shall also."

Mariella has used her genealogical research to apply for and receive membership in the Children of the American Revolution. She documented her lineage to the Revolutionary War Patriot Cornelius Bogart.

Mariella said she plans to continue in Girl Scouts and work toward her Gold Award when she eligible as she enters high school. The Gold Award is the highest award in Girl Scouting, also requires a community service project and is equivalent to Boy Scout Eagle Award.

She is excited with her troops upcoming project, which will include the troop sending up an atmospheric balloon in cooperation with Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Mariella worked on her project from December 2019 to June 2020. She received her Silver Award on April 10 during the annual meeting of the Girl Scouts of the Kansas Heartland.

Adult volunteers from service unit 74, which includes Ellis, Trego, Russell, Ness and Gove counties, were also recognized at the annual meeting. Those awards are listed below.

Volunteer of Excellence: Chelsey Hoffman, Danielle Scott, Kris Bradley and Monica Dreiling Appreciation Pin: Amy Church, Jessica Albers Treasured Time: Karen Wilson Young Alumna Shining Star: Maggie Woodward

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619023911829.png" alt="Hays Girl Scout Mariella Dreiling, 13, with the map she created for the Dubuque Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery." />
 <figcaption>Hays Girl Scout Mariella Dreiling, 13, with the map she created for the Dubuque Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Girl Scout from Hays recently earned an award for cataloging a cemetery near Bunker Hill and learned a little bit about her own family history in the process.Mariella Dreiling, 13 and a Cadette with Troop 10095, was awarded the Girl Scout Silver Award, the second highest award for girls in Scouting for her work at the Dubuque Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.&nbsp;Mariella's mother, Monica Dreiling, grew up in Bunker Hill and her grandparents still live there. Mariella, through her genealogical research was able to determine members of her family were buried at the cemetery."We knew that it didn't have a proper map and a proper map of the people who were buried there, so I thought this would be a good way to help out the community," Mariella said.Mariella, a seventh-grader at Hays Middle School, donated a small directory to the Bunker Hill Historical Society Museum and added the information into the Find A Grave website. Mariella added 49 entries into Find A Grave. There are 151 people buried in the cemetery."I think it will and already has helped people with genealogical research to find their family trees," she said. "And people who want to visit the cemetery will know where their family members are buried."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619030730554.png" alt="Girl Scout Mariella Dreiling with the cemetery map she donated to the&nbsp;Bunker Hill Historical Society Museum. Behind her is the original altar from&nbsp;Dubuque Immanuel Lutheran Church." />
 <figcaption>Girl Scout Mariella Dreiling with the cemetery map she donated to the&nbsp;Bunker Hill Historical Society Museum. Behind her is the original altar from&nbsp;Dubuque Immanuel Lutheran Church.</figcaption>
 </figure>Mariella found that some of the headstones were deteriorated to the point the information on them could no longer be read.&nbsp;An example of this was a small limestone marker for Genive Thorne, who died as an infant in 1914. Mariella used genological records to identify Thorne and determine she was a relative on her mother's side of the family.She also added the infant's information to Ancestry.com.Mariella was also able to determine an iron cross at the cemetery marked the grave of her great-great-great-great-grandmother, Maria Engel Klusener. She born on Feb. 23, 1821, and died July 6, 1892. Her marker held a porcelain plaque, which translated from German read "Christ lives and we shall also."Mariella has used her genealogical research to apply for and receive membership in the Children of the American Revolution. She documented her lineage to the Revolutionary War Patriot Cornelius Bogart.Mariella said she plans to continue in Girl Scouts and work toward her Gold Award when she eligible as she enters high school. The Gold Award is the highest award in Girl Scouting, also requires a community service project and is equivalent to Boy Scout Eagle Award.She is excited with her troops upcoming project, which will include the troop sending up an atmospheric balloon in cooperation with Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Mariella worked on her project from December 2019 to June 2020. She received her Silver Award on April 10 during the annual meeting of the Girl Scouts of the Kansas Heartland.Adult volunteers from service unit 74, which includes Ellis, Trego, Russell, Ness and Gove counties, were also recognized at the annual meeting. Those awards are listed below.Volunteer of Excellence: Chelsey Hoffman, Danielle Scott, Kris Bradley and Monica Dreiling Appreciation Pin: Amy Church, Jessica Albers Treasured Time: Karen Wilson Young Alumna Shining Star: Maggie Woodward

Hays Girl Scout honored for work to catalog cemetery

Three-day weather outlook

Take a picture of your finished product and upload it here. One lucky winner will receive a special gift just for Mom this Mother's Day courtesy of Riedel's Garden Center!

<div> <script src="https://embed-790419.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="9f08feb2-825c-43f7-9b58-b509850209f0" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>Take a picture of your finished product and upload it here. One lucky winner will receive a special gift just for Mom this Mother's Day courtesy of Riedel's Garden Center!

Riedel's Garden Center's Mother's Day coloring contest

BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Picture this. Imagine a series of gorgeous images depicting beautiful views of natural landscapes. Today we’ll meet a rural Kansas couple who specialize in producing photographs of beautiful landscapes in Kansas and beyond.&nbsp;

Kevin Kirkwood is the founder of Kirkwood Kreations Photography. Kevin grew up in eastern Kansas and studied farm and ranch management at Colby Community College. In 1996, his daughter was playing club volleyball. As a proud dad, Kevin took photos of her playing. The pictures were so excellent that other parents wanted them.&nbsp;

When it was time for his daughter’s senior pictures, Kevin took those too. They turned out so well that when she showed them to friends at school, her friends wanted Kevin to take their senior pictures as well. This became a side business for Kevin, as he did commercial and sports photography while working in agriculture.&nbsp;

“Rural agriculture has been part of my life for the last 30 years,” Kevin said. He is now plant manager for McGraw Fertilizer in Tonganoxie. His wife Julie grew up in Lawrence, raised her family in Manhattan, and now works at an insurance agency in Lawrence. They live outside Tonganoxie, a rural community of 5,583 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Kevin has been a contract photographer for the American Royal and Denver Stock Show. Currently, Kirkwood Kreations is the official photographer for EquiFest of Kansas, Kansas Agri Business Expo, the Ranchland Trust of Kansas Pre-Symphony of the Flint Hills event, and the Meriden Antique Engine and Threshers Association. This involves the type of photography that Kevin enjoys most.&nbsp;

“As a farmer, I see every sunrise and every sunset,” Kevin said. He enjoys capturing the natural beauty of rural Kansas. “I love what I do as a farmer, and this is a way of sharing it.”&nbsp;

On weekends, Julie and Kevin like to go on what Julie calls “Boonie Cruizin’ adventures.” That’s her nickname for what we used to call “out in the boondocks.” These adventures include random explorations of the countryside, stopping to take pictures of scenic views along the way.&nbsp;

“A normal 1 1/2 hour drive might become a five-hour trip,” Kevin said. Those trips have resulted in gorgeous and popular pictures.&nbsp;

After a friend purchased Juli’s Coffee and Bistro in downtown Topeka, they asked the Kirkwoods for photos to decorate the walls. The exhibit opened in March 2018. Now a hundred of their photos can be viewed and purchased there as well as at Hazel Hill Chocolate in Topeka. “That has been the best exposure for people to see our photos locally,” Kevin said.&nbsp;

The University of Kansas Medical Center Rural Health Education and Services unit annually sponsors a photo contest for pictures of rural Kansas. Kirkwood Kreations has been a winner in five different categories. Kevin’s photos have been sold and shipped as far away as Massachusetts and California.&nbsp;

What is the key to successful photography? “I believe beauty is in the eye of the beholder, when it comes to art,” Kevin said. He is fond of farm, rural, and natural landscapes. While most of the photography is Kansas-based, he and Julie have also taken pictures of Colorado mountains and other natural scenery.&nbsp;

“I belong to several Facebook forums,” Kevin said. “I’ll post some pictures on Facebook and gauge people’s comments, and that can help me decide which to print.” They also donate photos to groups that are important to them, such as the American Cancer Society in Kansas.&nbsp;

“As long as it pleases the person looking at it, then it’s perfect,” Kevin said. “We want to put art in people’s homes.”&nbsp;

For more information, search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kirkwood-Kreations-Photography-192238577475446">Kirkwood Kreations Photography on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;

Picture this: A set of beautiful landscape photographs, taken by a Kansas farmer and earning multiple awards. We commend Kevin and Julie Kirkwood for making a difference with their high-quality photography. It helps rural Kansas look picturesque.&nbsp;

And there’s more. One of Kevin’s photographs would provide inspiration to a New York filmmaker. We’ll learn about that next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619011299986.png" alt="Kevin and Julie Kirkwood" />
 <figcaption>Kevin and Julie Kirkwood</figcaption>
 </figure>BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentPicture this. Imagine a series of gorgeous images depicting beautiful views of natural landscapes. Today we’ll meet a rural Kansas couple who specialize in producing photographs of beautiful landscapes in Kansas and beyond.&nbsp;Kevin Kirkwood is the founder of Kirkwood Kreations Photography. Kevin grew up in eastern Kansas and studied farm and ranch management at Colby Community College. In 1996, his daughter was playing club volleyball. As a proud dad, Kevin took photos of her playing. The pictures were so excellent that other parents wanted them.&nbsp;When it was time for his daughter’s senior pictures, Kevin took those too. They turned out so well that when she showed them to friends at school, her friends wanted Kevin to take their senior pictures as well. This became a side business for Kevin, as he did commercial and sports photography while working in agriculture.&nbsp;“Rural agriculture has been part of my life for the last 30 years,” Kevin said. He is now plant manager for McGraw Fertilizer in Tonganoxie. His wife Julie grew up in Lawrence, raised her family in Manhattan, and now works at an insurance agency in Lawrence. They live outside Tonganoxie, a rural community of 5,583 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Kevin has been a contract photographer for the American Royal and Denver Stock Show. Currently, Kirkwood Kreations is the official photographer for EquiFest of Kansas, Kansas Agri Business Expo, the Ranchland Trust of Kansas Pre-Symphony of the Flint Hills event, and the Meriden Antique Engine and Threshers Association. This involves the type of photography that Kevin enjoys most.&nbsp;“As a farmer, I see every sunrise and every sunset,” Kevin said. He enjoys capturing the natural beauty of rural Kansas. “I love what I do as a farmer, and this is a way of sharing it.”&nbsp;On weekends, Julie and Kevin like to go on what Julie calls “Boonie Cruizin’ adventures.” That’s her nickname for what we used to call “out in the boondocks.” These adventures include random explorations of the countryside, stopping to take pictures of scenic views along the way.&nbsp;“A normal 1 1/2 hour drive might become a five-hour trip,” Kevin said. Those trips have resulted in gorgeous and popular pictures.&nbsp;After a friend purchased Juli’s Coffee and Bistro in downtown Topeka, they asked the Kirkwoods for photos to decorate the walls. The exhibit opened in March 2018. Now a hundred of their photos can be viewed and purchased there as well as at Hazel Hill Chocolate in Topeka. “That has been the best exposure for people to see our photos locally,” Kevin said.&nbsp;The University of Kansas Medical Center Rural Health Education and Services unit annually sponsors a photo contest for pictures of rural Kansas. Kirkwood Kreations has been a winner in five different categories. Kevin’s photos have been sold and shipped as far away as Massachusetts and California.&nbsp;What is the key to successful photography? “I believe beauty is in the eye of the beholder, when it comes to art,” Kevin said. He is fond of farm, rural, and natural landscapes. While most of the photography is Kansas-based, he and Julie have also taken pictures of Colorado mountains and other natural scenery.&nbsp;“I belong to several Facebook forums,” Kevin said. “I’ll post some pictures on Facebook and gauge people’s comments, and that can help me decide which to print.” They also donate photos to groups that are important to them, such as the American Cancer Society in Kansas.&nbsp;“As long as it pleases the person looking at it, then it’s perfect,” Kevin said. “We want to put art in people’s homes.”&nbsp;For more information, search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kirkwood-Kreations-Photography-192238577475446">Kirkwood Kreations Photography on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;Picture this: A set of beautiful landscape photographs, taken by a Kansas farmer and earning multiple awards. We commend Kevin and Julie Kirkwood for making a difference with their high-quality photography. It helps rural Kansas look picturesque.&nbsp;And there’s more. One of Kevin’s photographs would provide inspiration to a New York filmmaker. We’ll learn about that next week.

Now That’s Rural: Kevin and Julie Kirkwood, Kirkwood Kreations 

It was Saturday afternoon several years ago, and Joyce and I were snug in our blind, hoping to harvest her spring turkey. We had seen turkeys each afternoon, gleaning after the cattle in this small patch of feed stalks that now lay in front of our blind. Rows of round bales lined this side of the patch, split into two groups by a driveway left for a tractor. The turkeys got there by way of a field drive through the thick, overgrown fencerow behind the bales, continuing down the tractor drive and onto the stalks. 

Once before, some days ago, we were set up here amongst the bales. The turkeys streamed past, well within gun range, but none would stop or raise their head to offer Joyce a clean shot. We were close enough she could have nailed several turkeys on-the-run with one shot, but besides being slightly illegal since she only had one tag, the prized breast meat would have been so full of pellets it would’ve been like sand blasting the insides of our mouths with each bite. Today we had tried to solve that problem by adding a couple decoys in the drive just before it entered the stalks, in hopes the turkeys would slow down and mill around long enough for a good standing head shot.&nbsp;

What was meant to fix one problem ultimately created another. This was a small lot of just a few acres, so the cattle were never far away, forcing extra caution when shooting. After all, the last thing we needed was to pepper one of the land owner’s heifers in the butt with lead shot. Our county game warden may have been young and a wee bit naïve, but I think he’d still have caught on when I tried explaining the dandy T-Bones we got from this turkey. So the party was about to begin, and here we sat awaiting the guests of honor, when a half dozen of the cattle began to take a shine to our plastic turkey decoys. They gathered just inside the electric fence, exactly where Joyce would need to shoot, and stood there like dumbstruck junior high girls at the Christmas dance! You could almost sense their thoughts. “They look like turkeys,” Clara thought, “But they sure don’t move much.”&nbsp; “But they don’t smell like turkeys,” Elsie added. “Turkey’s stink and these things smell like rubber or something.”&nbsp; “Girls, I have an idea,” Bessie chimed in, “I’ll turn around and try to pee on one and see if it moves like they usually do.” &nbsp;

“This won’t last long,” I told myself… Fifteen minutes later I was fuming! I stuck my arm out the blind window, and waved it franticly, but barely drew stares from our bovine spectators. “Rocks,” I mumbled. “Rocks should do the trick.” I slunk out the back of the blind and scoured the ground. Rats! Nothing but sand and weeds; not a rock to be found! (By now, I think my wife had fast-forwarded through this whole scenario, and already seen the ending.) I tugged on one of the weeds that were as thick as my wrist, and it tore from the ground sporting a wad of dirt around its roots the size of volleyball. Eureka! Just what I needed! I swung the thing over my head like an Olympic hammer thrower and let fly, only to watch it dribble to a halt at the feet of the nearest cow, which looked down at it with disgust. “Stupid cows,” I mumbled. 

Still hidden behind the bales, I jumped up and down and waved my arms frantically like a first-time auction goer trying to bid; still no response.&nbsp; I’m sure the cows were thinking something like “Will you look at that stupid turkey hunter jumping up and down like a first-time auction goer trying to bid.” “That does it,” I thought! Turkeys or not, I WILL walk over there and those cows WILL move! (By now it had become a matter of principle.) I had only taken a few steps when I heard something behind me. Was it turkeys after all this? A dozen scenarios flashed through my mind; What if I spooked the turkeys, causing them to fly everywhere and my wife accidentally shot a cow in the butt in the melee; What if she accidentally shot me in the butt in the melee; What if she PURPOSELY shot me in the butt just to get me out of the way? I stopped to listen, but the sound I heard was not turkeys.&nbsp; No, it was raucous laughter coming from the blind! I squinted to peer inside from where I stood, and saw my wife bent over, howling hysterically. “Who’s the blockhead now,” I wondered. “Cows enamored with plastic turkeys or yours truly?”

We packed up and headed home, once again conceding defeat. “They’re all in cahoots,” I muttered. “Those cows and turkeys have a pack of some sort, I’m sure of it!” “Whatever you say honey,” Joyce replied with a smirk. As we drove away, I imagined that little patch of feed stalks now filled with turkeys celebrating our defeat, however cows and turkeys celebrate. I was sure that off to one side, a group of turkeys had Bessie cornered; the spokesman for the group was asking her “Soooooo, all those times you were really TRYING to pee on us?&nbsp;

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>It was Saturday afternoon several years ago, and Joyce and I were snug in our blind, hoping to harvest her spring turkey. We had seen turkeys each afternoon, gleaning after the cattle in this small patch of feed stalks that now lay in front of our blind. Rows of round bales lined this side of the patch, split into two groups by a driveway left for a tractor. The turkeys got there by way of a field drive through the thick, overgrown fencerow behind the bales, continuing down the tractor drive and onto the stalks. Once before, some days ago, we were set up here amongst the bales. The turkeys streamed past, well within gun range, but none would stop or raise their head to offer Joyce a clean shot. We were close enough she could have nailed several turkeys on-the-run with one shot, but besides being slightly illegal since she only had one tag, the prized breast meat would have been so full of pellets it would’ve been like sand blasting the insides of our mouths with each bite. Today we had tried to solve that problem by adding a couple decoys in the drive just before it entered the stalks, in hopes the turkeys would slow down and mill around long enough for a good standing head shot.&nbsp;What was meant to fix one problem ultimately created another. This was a small lot of just a few acres, so the cattle were never far away, forcing extra caution when shooting. After all, the last thing we needed was to pepper one of the land owner’s heifers in the butt with lead shot. Our county game warden may have been young and a wee bit naïve, but I think he’d still have caught on when I tried explaining the dandy T-Bones we got from this turkey. So the party was about to begin, and here we sat awaiting the guests of honor, when a half dozen of the cattle began to take a shine to our plastic turkey decoys. They gathered just inside the electric fence, exactly where Joyce would need to shoot, and stood there like dumbstruck junior high girls at the Christmas dance! You could almost sense their thoughts. “They look like turkeys,” Clara thought, “But they sure don’t move much.”&nbsp; “But they don’t smell like turkeys,” Elsie added. “Turkey’s stink and these things smell like rubber or something.”&nbsp; “Girls, I have an idea,” Bessie chimed in, “I’ll turn around and try to pee on one and see if it moves like they usually do.” &nbsp;“This won’t last long,” I told myself… Fifteen minutes later I was fuming! I stuck my arm out the blind window, and waved it franticly, but barely drew stares from our bovine spectators. “Rocks,” I mumbled. “Rocks should do the trick.” I slunk out the back of the blind and scoured the ground. Rats! Nothing but sand and weeds; not a rock to be found! (By now, I think my wife had fast-forwarded through this whole scenario, and already seen the ending.) I tugged on one of the weeds that were as thick as my wrist, and it tore from the ground sporting a wad of dirt around its roots the size of volleyball. Eureka! Just what I needed! I swung the thing over my head like an Olympic hammer thrower and let fly, only to watch it dribble to a halt at the feet of the nearest cow, which looked down at it with disgust. “Stupid cows,” I mumbled. Still hidden behind the bales, I jumped up and down and waved my arms frantically like a first-time auction goer trying to bid; still no response.&nbsp; I’m sure the cows were thinking something like “Will you look at that stupid turkey hunter jumping up and down like a first-time auction goer trying to bid.” “That does it,” I thought! Turkeys or not, I WILL walk over there and those cows WILL move! (By now it had become a matter of principle.) I had only taken a few steps when I heard something behind me. Was it turkeys after all this? A dozen scenarios flashed through my mind; What if I spooked the turkeys, causing them to fly everywhere and my wife accidentally shot a cow in the butt in the melee; What if she accidentally shot me in the butt in the melee; What if she PURPOSELY shot me in the butt just to get me out of the way? I stopped to listen, but the sound I heard was not turkeys.&nbsp; No, it was raucous laughter coming from the blind! I squinted to peer inside from where I stood, and saw my wife bent over, howling hysterically. “Who’s the blockhead now,” I wondered. “Cows enamored with plastic turkeys or yours truly?”We packed up and headed home, once again conceding defeat. “They’re all in cahoots,” I muttered. “Those cows and turkeys have a pack of some sort, I’m sure of it!” “Whatever you say honey,” Joyce replied with a smirk. As we drove away, I imagined that little patch of feed stalks now filled with turkeys celebrating our defeat, however cows and turkeys celebrate. I was sure that off to one side, a group of turkeys had Bessie cornered; the spokesman for the group was asking her “Soooooo, all those times you were really TRYING to pee on us?&nbsp;Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: The cows and the decoys

April 29 is a fifth Thursday of the month; therefore, there will not be a Hays City Commission work session that evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysApril 29 is a fifth Thursday of the month; therefore, there will not be a Hays City Commission work session that evening.

No city commission work session Thursday

46% of adults do not feel comfortable going back to living life like they used to before the pandemic

MANHATTAN – A new report from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apa.org/">American Psychological Association</a>&nbsp;indicates that most U.S. adults are surprised that the COVID-19 pandemic has lasted so long.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2021/one-year-pandemic-stress-conclusion">APA’s report on Stress in America</a>&nbsp;found that 82% of American adults are surprised that the pandemic has lasted more than a year. Nearly 7 in 10 (67%) said that living through the pandemic has been a rollercoaster of emotions.&nbsp;

And Elaine Johannes,&nbsp;the Kansas Health Foundation Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, said&nbsp;46% of adults do not feel comfortable going back to living life like they used to before the pandemic&nbsp;

“It’s amazing that this has gone on more than a year,” Johannes said.&nbsp;“So, it’s not surprising that so many are re-evaluating and wondering what’s next as they re-enter community life.&nbsp;

“It’s hard for us to deal with. Usually we can acclimate to a sudden trauma, grief or loss. With the help of our friends or family, we can move on.&nbsp;But these repeated ups and downs …it’s been tough.”&nbsp;

Johannes noted that many adults likely have gone through stages of shock, denial, sadness and grief and, eventually, acceptance.&nbsp;

“But some of the research around grief and change and how we feel about that has added another perspective, a sixth stage&nbsp;of meaning.” Johannes said. “This is where we feel like we have to have meaning assigned to (the occurrence). I think that’s where our emotions are right now. We’re asking ourselves, ‘what do we do now,’ ‘how do we recover knowing that we can’t go back to the way life was’ or ‘what’s the meaning that we can take away from this pandemic, even though it’s still going on.’”&nbsp;

Johannes said there is evidence that indicates Americans 100 years ago dealt with the same emotions during the Spanish Flu pandemic. During that time, there was also political unrest, doubts about the proper way forward and many deaths. That incident also showed that the ripple effects were felt for many years after.&nbsp;

“As a society, we need to be ready to re-acclimate (after the COVID-19 pandemic), redefine what our recovery is and reflect on what we gained from it,” Johannes said. “We can’t just go back to ‘normal’ because we will never be the same again.”&nbsp;

Work that has been done to address disaster-related psychological trauma has led to strategies that aid in recovery. Those include adapting to a different normal; feeling a sense of some control over our emotions; gaining perspective and assigning meaning to the losses; and feeling mastery from the experience.&nbsp;

Johannes punctuated her point by recalling a saying from President Harry S. Truman: ‘The reward of suffering is experience.’&nbsp;

“That, to me, kind of gives an understanding that the suffering and loss is real, and the sadness is authentic,” she said. “But, what can we gain from that? I think we can say that we are wiser and we have this experience to guide us in the future.”&nbsp;

Johannes added that the APA report highlighted an important point that Americans shared the experience as “a true community.”&nbsp;

“No matter where we were, Americans realized this was a tough, tough thing to go through,” she said. “We felt this roller coaster, up and down, not being sure what was next…But, as a group, we were still a community.”&nbsp;

A full interview with Johannes on the mental health aspects of living through the pandemic is available on the weekly radio program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/radio-network/sound-living.html">Sound Living</a>, produced by K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617107995572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>46% of adults do not feel comfortable going back to living life like they used to before the pandemic</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN – A new report from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apa.org/">American Psychological Association</a>&nbsp;indicates that most U.S. adults are surprised that the COVID-19 pandemic has lasted so long.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2021/one-year-pandemic-stress-conclusion">APA’s report on Stress in America</a>&nbsp;found that 82% of American adults are surprised that the pandemic has lasted more than a year. Nearly 7 in 10 (67%) said that living through the pandemic has been a rollercoaster of emotions.&nbsp;And Elaine Johannes,&nbsp;the Kansas Health Foundation Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, said&nbsp;46% of adults do not feel comfortable going back to living life like they used to before the pandemic&nbsp;“It’s amazing that this has gone on more than a year,” Johannes said.&nbsp;“So, it’s not surprising that so many are re-evaluating and wondering what’s next as they re-enter community life.&nbsp;“It’s hard for us to deal with. Usually we can acclimate to a sudden trauma, grief or loss. With the help of our friends or family, we can move on.&nbsp;But these repeated ups and downs …it’s been tough.”&nbsp;Johannes noted that many adults likely have gone through stages of shock, denial, sadness and grief and, eventually, acceptance.&nbsp;“But some of the research around grief and change and how we feel about that has added another perspective, a sixth stage&nbsp;of meaning.” Johannes said. “This is where we feel like we have to have meaning assigned to (the occurrence). I think that’s where our emotions are right now. We’re asking ourselves, ‘what do we do now,’ ‘how do we recover knowing that we can’t go back to the way life was’ or ‘what’s the meaning that we can take away from this pandemic, even though it’s still going on.’”&nbsp;Johannes said there is evidence that indicates Americans 100 years ago dealt with the same emotions during the Spanish Flu pandemic. During that time, there was also political unrest, doubts about the proper way forward and many deaths. That incident also showed that the ripple effects were felt for many years after.&nbsp;“As a society, we need to be ready to re-acclimate (after the COVID-19 pandemic), redefine what our recovery is and reflect on what we gained from it,” Johannes said. “We can’t just go back to ‘normal’ because we will never be the same again.”&nbsp;Work that has been done to address disaster-related psychological trauma has led to strategies that aid in recovery. Those include adapting to a different normal; feeling a sense of some control over our emotions; gaining perspective and assigning meaning to the losses; and feeling mastery from the experience.&nbsp;Johannes punctuated her point by recalling a saying from President Harry S. Truman: ‘The reward of suffering is experience.’&nbsp;“That, to me, kind of gives an understanding that the suffering and loss is real, and the sadness is authentic,” she said. “But, what can we gain from that? I think we can say that we are wiser and we have this experience to guide us in the future.”&nbsp;Johannes added that the APA report highlighted an important point that Americans shared the experience as “a true community.”&nbsp;“No matter where we were, Americans realized this was a tough, tough thing to go through,” she said. “We felt this roller coaster, up and down, not being sure what was next…But, as a group, we were still a community.”&nbsp;A full interview with Johannes on the mental health aspects of living through the pandemic is available on the weekly radio program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/radio-network/sound-living.html">Sound Living</a>, produced by K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

Health expert discusses mental health impacts of pandemic 

Following a lengthy approval process, Fort Hays State University will begin offering a master of science in athletic training degree this summer.

FHSU received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) in March, and enrollment is now open for the first cohort of students in the professional graduate program, which will begin June 7.

Fort Hays State, one of only four athletic training (AT) master’s programs in Kansas currently accredited at the graduate level, began making plans for the transition when the CAATE announced it would begin requiring a master’s degree for eligibility to take the Board of Certification exam.

Students receiving a graduate degree in athletic training will develop competencies (knowledge and skills) in the five domains of athletic training defined by the Board of Certification (BOC) Practice Analysis. Upon graduation, they are eligible for certification by the BOC and licensure by the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJPYjxa4L5wudNeaNvZ-2BddCZWTi08xGXs0Rn7gdc6gx5srQ4P_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem-2F2dfvJf3mXdKOkM36cxZipbsSyIk7VcXa-2FUQs-2BBKvaU3PA95ZhqtTB9UM-2B99FIXOrpJjfYmWNMBKhoxN6JBpuoUNrNTenASggoWCSTyW8oBva11bBJ-2Buu88jTZhkWShxlYNg-2BpISMu8oHE165hdWDB72HiFgHG-2Bkbd0GGCVaCdEC1Uez7QetvruKriCPhRmuqCgxO6G9vbZy9TWKi6VxfmT7Lbz-2B6zIflYXqHM5HtejAiU-2FLrWlPyczeUgTUst6ePB6VKhQHaSJ71APEQGlehA-3D-3D">Kansas State Board of Healing Arts</a>.

Some institutions opted to phase out their AT program rather than make the transition, but Fort Hays State began moving forward with steps to develop the master’s level program.

“We felt our program was strong enough to get the resources needed to continue our history of teaching athletic trainers,” said Dr. David Fitzhugh, director of FHSU’s athletic training program and an associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance. “We already had a strong program at the undergraduate level, and moving to a master’s has a lot of pros.”

Fort Hays State upgraded its curriculum to meet the master’s level standards and created a lab space for the AT program. The program will feature both excellence and uniqueness, Fitzhugh said.

FHSU will begin a muscular-skeletal diagnostic ultrasound class, an intra-professional course with the diagnostic ultrasound students in the Department of Allied Health. The AT students also will get to work with a new therapeutic laser used to treat pain and inflammatory conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The new CAATE standards require institutions to employ three full-time faculty who are dedicated specifically for teaching in the AT master’s program. Joining current FHSU faculty members Fitzhugh and Jason Graham will be Dr. Jeffrey Bonacci, who developed a graduate athletic training program at the University of Arkansas more than 20 years ago.

Fitzhugh, in his 14th year at FHSU, is looking forward to the transition.&nbsp;

“This profession has so many options, and more than 70 percent of all athletic trainers have a graduate degree,” he said, “so we are really pleased that we will be offering this master’s degree at Fort Hays State.”

Besides the traditional athletic training careers with athletic teams and school settings, there are numerous other professional options for AT graduates, including orthopedic clinics and hospitals, law enforcement and military, occupational and industrial settings, and even the performing arts.

The last cohort of students to enroll in the current bachelor’s AT program at FHSU was the fall 2018 semester.

Students can still work on a bachelor’s program under the new model by enrolling in a pre-professional program and majoring in health and human performance within the sport and exercise therapy concentration. After earning their bachelor’s degree and meeting admission standards, students can easily apply and get into the master’s AT program.

To learn more about Fort Hays State’s AT program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtM2GzqYW21RqaP-2BZxgKcRjZUluYjX-2FZUpzHYSjJeAl5EGChNcWIVa9XaT5zuztROZg-3D-3DdD0U_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem-2F2dfvJf3mXdKOkM36cxZipbsSyIk7VcXa-2FUQs-2BBKvaU3PA95ZhqtTB9UM-2B99FIXOrpJjfYmWNMBKhoxN6JBpuoEXHK6dOWiovnEMeh2J7nS2xWBBuIiUX-2FqPoX25AoiNjyKIgS4-2F-2B9RRQzTfmhNPYrDeICUHELbJE1IWPxBOoWVY9ZXLAjlEu-2B9xIRV4j2ci2LAzdlqJMzcfrPwm-2BOJaVLooeDPvtOMJeBAmKzD85LmWbI4pfHFGvd1SjdEyEHotZto6M9opbqcT2Q0T9zroXA-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/hhp/ms-in-athletic-training.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619185083338.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFollowing a lengthy approval process, Fort Hays State University will begin offering a master of science in athletic training degree this summer.FHSU received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) in March, and enrollment is now open for the first cohort of students in the professional graduate program, which will begin June 7.Fort Hays State, one of only four athletic training (AT) master’s programs in Kansas currently accredited at the graduate level, began making plans for the transition when the CAATE announced it would begin requiring a master’s degree for eligibility to take the Board of Certification exam.Students receiving a graduate degree in athletic training will develop competencies (knowledge and skills) in the five domains of athletic training defined by the Board of Certification (BOC) Practice Analysis. Upon graduation, they are eligible for certification by the BOC and licensure by the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJPYjxa4L5wudNeaNvZ-2BddCZWTi08xGXs0Rn7gdc6gx5srQ4P_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem-2F2dfvJf3mXdKOkM36cxZipbsSyIk7VcXa-2FUQs-2BBKvaU3PA95ZhqtTB9UM-2B99FIXOrpJjfYmWNMBKhoxN6JBpuoUNrNTenASggoWCSTyW8oBva11bBJ-2Buu88jTZhkWShxlYNg-2BpISMu8oHE165hdWDB72HiFgHG-2Bkbd0GGCVaCdEC1Uez7QetvruKriCPhRmuqCgxO6G9vbZy9TWKi6VxfmT7Lbz-2B6zIflYXqHM5HtejAiU-2FLrWlPyczeUgTUst6ePB6VKhQHaSJ71APEQGlehA-3D-3D">Kansas State Board of Healing Arts</a>.Some institutions opted to phase out their AT program rather than make the transition, but Fort Hays State began moving forward with steps to develop the master’s level program.“We felt our program was strong enough to get the resources needed to continue our history of teaching athletic trainers,” said Dr. David Fitzhugh, director of FHSU’s athletic training program and an associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance. “We already had a strong program at the undergraduate level, and moving to a master’s has a lot of pros.”Fort Hays State upgraded its curriculum to meet the master’s level standards and created a lab space for the AT program. The program will feature both excellence and uniqueness, Fitzhugh said.FHSU will begin a muscular-skeletal diagnostic ultrasound class, an intra-professional course with the diagnostic ultrasound students in the Department of Allied Health. The AT students also will get to work with a new therapeutic laser used to treat pain and inflammatory conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new CAATE standards require institutions to employ three full-time faculty who are dedicated specifically for teaching in the AT master’s program. Joining current FHSU faculty members Fitzhugh and Jason Graham will be Dr. Jeffrey Bonacci, who developed a graduate athletic training program at the University of Arkansas more than 20 years ago.Fitzhugh, in his 14th year at FHSU, is looking forward to the transition.&nbsp;“This profession has so many options, and more than 70 percent of all athletic trainers have a graduate degree,” he said, “so we are really pleased that we will be offering this master’s degree at Fort Hays State.”Besides the traditional athletic training careers with athletic teams and school settings, there are numerous other professional options for AT graduates, including orthopedic clinics and hospitals, law enforcement and military, occupational and industrial settings, and even the performing arts.The last cohort of students to enroll in the current bachelor’s AT program at FHSU was the fall 2018 semester.Students can still work on a bachelor’s program under the new model by enrolling in a pre-professional program and majoring in health and human performance within the sport and exercise therapy concentration. After earning their bachelor’s degree and meeting admission standards, students can easily apply and get into the master’s AT program.To learn more about Fort Hays State’s AT program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtM2GzqYW21RqaP-2BZxgKcRjZUluYjX-2FZUpzHYSjJeAl5EGChNcWIVa9XaT5zuztROZg-3D-3DdD0U_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem-2F2dfvJf3mXdKOkM36cxZipbsSyIk7VcXa-2FUQs-2BBKvaU3PA95ZhqtTB9UM-2B99FIXOrpJjfYmWNMBKhoxN6JBpuoEXHK6dOWiovnEMeh2J7nS2xWBBuIiUX-2FqPoX25AoiNjyKIgS4-2F-2B9RRQzTfmhNPYrDeICUHELbJE1IWPxBOoWVY9ZXLAjlEu-2B9xIRV4j2ci2LAzdlqJMzcfrPwm-2BOJaVLooeDPvtOMJeBAmKzD85LmWbI4pfHFGvd1SjdEyEHotZto6M9opbqcT2Q0T9zroXA-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/hhp/ms-in-athletic-training.</a>

Fort Hays State adding a master’s in athletic training

The garden, located at the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of Hays, was established in 2016 with funds provided by a grant from the Heartland Community Foundation.&nbsp;

The garden area measures approximately 12’ x 20’.&nbsp; The soil was tested, prepared and a fall garden was planted in 2016, with its official debut during Horticulture Night at the Ag Research Center, September 20, 2016.

Work resumed during the spring of 2017 when a fence was built and compost bins were constructed out of pallets on the east end of the garden plot. Spring crops of onions, potatoes and beans were planted, as well as perennial crops of rhubarb and asparagus. Other vegetables that have been grown are radishes, beets, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, cabbage, carrots and eggplant.

The purpose and goal of the Backyard Garden Project is to demonstrate to the general public how to start and maintain a vegetable garden in a smaller space like a backyard area. A composting station is also maintained as part of this project. This garden provides an opportunity for Master Gardeners to show the various crops that can be grown in a small area. It also gives Master Gardeners opportunities to experiment with best practices in fertilization, watering, weeding, mulching and producing and using compost in a garden to optimize crop production.

The Backyard Garden committee decides yearly which crops to plant and determines the layout of the garden plot. It decides on any new ideas or methods to try for the new season. Several Master Gardener volunteers help with the planning, planting and maintenance throughout the year. This garden project would not be possible or successful without the hard work and dedication of this group.

The public is welcome and encouraged to stop by and visit the garden’s progress during the growing season at the Ag Research Center.&nbsp;There is signage on the east end of the garden plot concerning composting and a Kansas Garden Guide booklet in the attached mailbox for reference. Gardening questions can be addressed by the Master Gardeners or the Extension Horticulturist by calling the Cottonwood District Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430..

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614966296214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The garden, located at the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of Hays, was established in 2016 with funds provided by a grant from the Heartland Community Foundation.&nbsp; The garden area measures approximately 12’ x 20’.&nbsp; The soil was tested, prepared and a fall garden was planted in 2016, with its official debut during Horticulture Night at the Ag Research Center, September 20, 2016. Work resumed during the spring of 2017 when a fence was built and compost bins were constructed out of pallets on the east end of the garden plot. Spring crops of onions, potatoes and beans were planted, as well as perennial crops of rhubarb and asparagus. Other vegetables that have been grown are radishes, beets, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, cabbage, carrots and eggplant. The purpose and goal of the Backyard Garden Project is to demonstrate to the general public how to start and maintain a vegetable garden in a smaller space like a backyard area. A composting station is also maintained as part of this project. This garden provides an opportunity for Master Gardeners to show the various crops that can be grown in a small area. It also gives Master Gardeners opportunities to experiment with best practices in fertilization, watering, weeding, mulching and producing and using compost in a garden to optimize crop production. The Backyard Garden committee decides yearly which crops to plant and determines the layout of the garden plot. It decides on any new ideas or methods to try for the new season. Several Master Gardener volunteers help with the planning, planting and maintenance throughout the year. This garden project would not be possible or successful without the hard work and dedication of this group. The public is welcome and encouraged to stop by and visit the garden’s progress during the growing season at the Ag Research Center.&nbsp;There is signage on the east end of the garden plot concerning composting and a Kansas Garden Guide booklet in the attached mailbox for reference. Gardening questions can be addressed by the Master Gardeners or the Extension Horticulturist by calling the Cottonwood District Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430..

From the Ellis Co. Master Gardeners: Backyard family demonstration garden

Anyone following American state politics this spring has witnessed, time and again, bizarre legislative proposals. Most notably and seriously, dozens of state legislatures have put forward an avalanche of initiatives that target trans athletes and impose limitations on voting.&nbsp;

Beyond those, however, lawmakers have pursued a host of off-the-wall actions. Among many others, these include: (1) a Texas bill to allow any adult, regardless of background or mental health, &nbsp;to carry a gun without a permit; (2) Idaho legislation to create a “greater Idaho,” annexing much of eastern Oregon; (3) Iowa proposals to ban the discussion of diversity in schools and to prohibit schools from embarking on diversity planning; (4) Florida legislation that&nbsp;grants immunity from civil legal action for people who drive through protesters blocking a road; and (5) here in Kansas, an unwillingness to force the resignation of state senator Gene Sullentrop, after his wrong-way speeding, eluding police, and driving-while-intoxicated incident that could have ended in tragedy.

Still, state legislatures are notorious for pushing nutty ideas, so we should not be surprised.&nbsp; But why so many such proposals now, and why so much assertiveness by state legislature at present on issues like trans athletes and voting?

Much of this trend flows from the nationalization of state politics, with Kansas being no exception. Numerous studies have pegged the start of increased partisanship to around 1980, with a sharp acceleration since the mid-1990s.&nbsp; Over the past 25-plus years, as partisan polarization in national politics has grown, the resulting divisions have filtered down to states and even localities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Almost all congressional districts now elect members who share a partisan identification with the presidential candidate who prevailed there; ticket-splitting has declined precipitously as most voters view politics through partisan lenses.

&nbsp;Save for Minnesota, all states currently have one-party control of both legislative chambers. In Kansas, specifically, over the past few years, moderate Republicans have gone the way of the dodo bird.

At the national level, severe polarization has often led to policy gridlock, as multiple veto points, most notably in the Senate, block the passage of many proposals that enjoy strong public support, such as immigration reform.&nbsp; When we turn to the states, however, gridlock often vanishes, and legislation gushes through one-party chambers like water through a fire hose.

Although California highlights this issue on the left, far more common are highly partisan, overwhelmingly Republican legislatures in perhaps 20 states where party leaders completely dominate agenda-setting and bill passage.&nbsp;

In the end, while intense partisanship makes national politics closely divided and contentious, in many states it produces solid red legislative majorities that open the door to: (a) foolish proposals, like a Florida survey of academics’ political beliefs; (b) deeply damaging legislation, as with&nbsp;highly permissive gun laws; and (c) some that are both foolish and deeply damaging, per the wave of anti-trans bills and unwarranted restrictions on voting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With less countervailing power across parties, factions, or branches of government, the most extreme, and even nutty, elements of an already extreme party often go unchecked.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Kansas, this means that the sharp decline in moderate Republicans has eliminated most restraint and compromise as far-right Republicans dominate the process. &nbsp;The traditional moderate-conservative nature of Kansas politics hangs in the balance, and the future does not look good.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574348610067.jpeg" alt="Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone following American state politics this spring has witnessed, time and again, bizarre legislative proposals. Most notably and seriously, dozens of state legislatures have put forward an avalanche of initiatives that target trans athletes and impose limitations on voting.&nbsp;Beyond those, however, lawmakers have pursued a host of off-the-wall actions. Among many others, these include: (1) a Texas bill to allow any adult, regardless of background or mental health, &nbsp;to carry a gun without a permit; (2) Idaho legislation to create a “greater Idaho,” annexing much of eastern Oregon; (3) Iowa proposals to ban the discussion of diversity in schools and to prohibit schools from embarking on diversity planning; (4) Florida legislation that&nbsp;grants immunity from civil legal action for people who drive through protesters blocking a road; and (5) here in Kansas, an unwillingness to force the resignation of state senator Gene Sullentrop, after his wrong-way speeding, eluding police, and driving-while-intoxicated incident that could have ended in tragedy.Still, state legislatures are notorious for pushing nutty ideas, so we should not be surprised.&nbsp; But why so many such proposals now, and why so much assertiveness by state legislature at present on issues like trans athletes and voting?Much of this trend flows from the nationalization of state politics, with Kansas being no exception. Numerous studies have pegged the start of increased partisanship to around 1980, with a sharp acceleration since the mid-1990s.&nbsp; Over the past 25-plus years, as partisan polarization in national politics has grown, the resulting divisions have filtered down to states and even localities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Almost all congressional districts now elect members who share a partisan identification with the presidential candidate who prevailed there; ticket-splitting has declined precipitously as most voters view politics through partisan lenses.&nbsp;Save for Minnesota, all states currently have one-party control of both legislative chambers. In Kansas, specifically, over the past few years, moderate Republicans have gone the way of the dodo bird.At the national level, severe polarization has often led to policy gridlock, as multiple veto points, most notably in the Senate, block the passage of many proposals that enjoy strong public support, such as immigration reform.&nbsp; When we turn to the states, however, gridlock often vanishes, and legislation gushes through one-party chambers like water through a fire hose.Although California highlights this issue on the left, far more common are highly partisan, overwhelmingly Republican legislatures in perhaps 20 states where party leaders completely dominate agenda-setting and bill passage.&nbsp;In the end, while intense partisanship makes national politics closely divided and contentious, in many states it produces solid red legislative majorities that open the door to: (a) foolish proposals, like a Florida survey of academics’ political beliefs; (b) deeply damaging legislation, as with&nbsp;highly permissive gun laws; and (c) some that are both foolish and deeply damaging, per the wave of anti-trans bills and unwarranted restrictions on voting.&nbsp;&nbsp;With less countervailing power across parties, factions, or branches of government, the most extreme, and even nutty, elements of an already extreme party often go unchecked.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Kansas, this means that the sharp decline in moderate Republicans has eliminated most restraint and compromise as far-right Republicans dominate the process. &nbsp;The traditional moderate-conservative nature of Kansas politics hangs in the balance, and the future does not look good.Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: How national partisanship infects the states

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court appointed two members to complete unexpired terms on the Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys.

Rebecca Faurot, Scott City, will complete the unexpired term of Stanley DeFries, Topeka. She will serve through June 30.

Thomas Hammond II, Overland Park, will complete the unexpired term of Court of Appeals Judge Sarah Warner, Lenexa. He will serve through June 30, 2022.

The Office of the Disciplinary Administrator works under the direction of the Supreme Court. The disciplinary administrator reviews and investigates misconduct complaints filed against attorneys. The office also presents cases to the Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys, recommends discipline to the Supreme Court in serious matters, and provides education and resources to Kansas attorneys to prevent misconduct.

John Gatz, Colby, chairs the board, and Derrick Roberson, Manhattan, is vice chair. They serve on the review committee, along with at-large member Leslie Miller, Lawrence. The committee reviews all cases docketed for investigation and issues reports on case dispositions. Disposition can be dismissal (with or without a letter of caution), diversion, informal admonition, or formal charges.&nbsp;

Board members are attorneys from across the state. They meet in three-person panels to conduct hearings. Each panel includes two board members and one at-large attorney. Panels hear cases after the review committee has found probable cause that an attorney has violated the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct and that published discipline is warranted.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593180302304.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OJATOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court appointed two members to complete unexpired terms on the Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys.Rebecca Faurot, Scott City, will complete the unexpired term of Stanley DeFries, Topeka. She will serve through June 30.Thomas Hammond II, Overland Park, will complete the unexpired term of Court of Appeals Judge Sarah Warner, Lenexa. He will serve through June 30, 2022.The Office of the Disciplinary Administrator works under the direction of the Supreme Court. The disciplinary administrator reviews and investigates misconduct complaints filed against attorneys. The office also presents cases to the Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys, recommends discipline to the Supreme Court in serious matters, and provides education and resources to Kansas attorneys to prevent misconduct.John Gatz, Colby, chairs the board, and Derrick Roberson, Manhattan, is vice chair. They serve on the review committee, along with at-large member Leslie Miller, Lawrence. The committee reviews all cases docketed for investigation and issues reports on case dispositions. Disposition can be dismissal (with or without a letter of caution), diversion, informal admonition, or formal charges.&nbsp;Board members are attorneys from across the state. They meet in three-person panels to conduct hearings. Each panel includes two board members and one at-large attorney. Panels hear cases after the review committee has found probable cause that an attorney has violated the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct and that published discipline is warranted.&nbsp;Other members of the board are:<ul>
 <li>Gregory Bauer, Great Bend; </li><li>Stephen Cavanaugh, Topeka; </li><li>Jeffrey Chubb, Independence; </li><li>Shaye Downing, Lawrence; </li><li>John Duma, Olathe; </li><li>Glenn Kerbs, Dodge City; </li><li>John Larson, Shawnee; </li><li>Terry Mann, Wichita; </li><li>Kathryn Marsh, Leawood; </li><li>Mira Mdivani, Overland Park; </li><li>Stacy Ortega, Wichita; </li><li>James Rankin, Topeka; </li><li>Lee Smithyman, Overland Park; </li><li>Kala Spigarelli, Pittsburg; </li><li>Gaye Tibbets, Wichita; and </li><li>Darcy Williamson, Topeka.</li>
 </ul>

W. Kansans appointed to statewide attorney discipline board

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a pair of bridge repair projects along Interstate 70 in Russell County the week of April 26.

Crews will be repairing the westbound bridges located between mile markers 196 and 200 near Dorrance. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the construction zones with a decreased speed limit of 60 mph. Minor delays not exceeding 5 minutes should be anticipated. KDOT expects work to be completed by the end of July, weather permitting.

Wildcat Construction of Wichita is the primary contractor for the projects with a total contract cost of approximately $429,000. For more information, contact KDOT area construction engineer Nick Rogers at 785-625-9718 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nick.rogers@ks.gov">nick.rogers@ks.gov</a>.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a pair of bridge repair projects along Interstate 70 in Russell County the week of April 26.Crews will be repairing the westbound bridges located between mile markers 196 and 200 near Dorrance. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the construction zones with a decreased speed limit of 60 mph. Minor delays not exceeding 5 minutes should be anticipated. KDOT expects work to be completed by the end of July, weather permitting.Wildcat Construction of Wichita is the primary contractor for the projects with a total contract cost of approximately $429,000. For more information, contact KDOT area construction engineer Nick Rogers at 785-625-9718 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nick.rogers@ks.gov">nick.rogers@ks.gov</a>.

Bridge repairs starting on I-70 in Russell County

Beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, the 500 block of East 11th will be closed to through traffic for pavement repairs. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day Friday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603291672014.jpeg" alt="(File photo-Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>(File photo-Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning at 8 a.m. Monday, the 500 block of East 11th will be closed to through traffic for pavement repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day Friday. For more information, call 785-628-7350.

500 block of E. 11th closed this week for pavement repairs

<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>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8da5d13d-9536-498a-a07c-c6902a0843ba">To read more about the meeting click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="City officials discuss infrastructure during weekly meeting" 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=ud3ag-1018cb3-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><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><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8da5d13d-9536-498a-a07c-c6902a0843ba">To read more about the meeting click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: City officials discuss infrastructure during weekly meeting

Helpful advice on when to start using pre-emergents to help stop crab grass.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aWFvo7cc9xM"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Helpful advice on when to start using pre-emergents to help stop crab grass.

🎥 Green & Growing 2021: Crab grass prevention

LAWRENCE — Eleven doctoral students have been selected to receive the University of Kansas’ prestigious Madison and Lila Self Graduate Fellowship for the 2021-22 academic year. This incoming group of fellows is among over 200 students who have benefited from the fellowship since it was established in 1989.

The Self Graduate Fellowship is a four-year package awarded to incoming or first-year doctoral students who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and passion for achievement. The fellowship covers full tuition and fees, provides graduate research assistant support of $32,000 per year, a $5,500 professional development award and a unique professional development program.&nbsp; The Fellow Development Program provides general education and training in communication, management, innovation, policy and leadership to assist Self Graduate Fellows in preparation for future leadership roles. The role of the development program is to complement the specialized education and training provided in doctoral programs. The total value of the four-year doctoral fellowship exceeds $180,000.  

The fellowship’s mission is to identify and recruit exceptional doctoral students who demonstrate the promise to make significant contributions to their fields and society as a whole.  

The late Madison “Al” and Lila Self launched and permanently endowed the Self Graduate Fellowship in 1989, motivated by their strong belief in the vital importance of developing leadership for tomorrow.&nbsp; Madison Self was a 1943 KU graduate in chemical engineering.&nbsp; Lila Self grew up in Eudora and attended KU with the Class of 1943.  

The new Self Graduate Fellows for 2021-2025:&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619183987570.png" alt="Ring" />
 <figcaption>Ring</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — Eleven doctoral students have been selected to receive the University of Kansas’ prestigious Madison and Lila Self Graduate Fellowship for the 2021-22 academic year. This incoming group of fellows is among over 200 students who have benefited from the fellowship since it was established in 1989.The Self Graduate Fellowship is a four-year package awarded to incoming or first-year doctoral students who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and passion for achievement. The fellowship covers full tuition and fees, provides graduate research assistant support of $32,000 per year, a $5,500 professional development award and a unique professional development program.&nbsp; The Fellow Development Program provides general education and training in communication, management, innovation, policy and leadership to assist Self Graduate Fellows in preparation for future leadership roles. The role of the development program is to complement the specialized education and training provided in doctoral programs. The total value of the four-year doctoral fellowship exceeds $180,000.  The fellowship’s mission is to identify and recruit exceptional doctoral students who demonstrate the promise to make significant contributions to their fields and society as a whole.  The late Madison “Al” and Lila Self launched and permanently endowed the Self Graduate Fellowship in 1989, motivated by their strong belief in the vital importance of developing leadership for tomorrow.&nbsp; Madison Self was a 1943 KU graduate in chemical engineering.&nbsp; Lila Self grew up in Eudora and attended KU with the Class of 1943.  The new Self Graduate Fellows for 2021-2025:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Alicia Brown&nbsp;of Chinle, Arizona: bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences from&nbsp;Haskell Indian Nations University; first-year doctoral student in molecular biosciences</li><li>Madeline Haga&nbsp;of Fort Smith, Arkansas: expected bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Central Arkansas; incoming doctoral student in chemistry&nbsp;</li><li>Samuel Lim&nbsp;of Kansas City, Missouri: bachelor’s degree in computer sciences from the University of Missouri-Kansas City; first-year doctoral student in&nbsp;computational biology</li><li>Megan Myers&nbsp;of Olathe: bachelor’s degree in microbiology from KU; doctoral student in the interdisciplinary graduate program in biomedical sciences, KU Medical Center</li><li>Daniel Owen&nbsp;of&nbsp;Brookfield, Wisconsin: bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the Florida Institute of Technology; first-year doctoral student in aerospace engineering&nbsp;</li><li>Scott Ring&nbsp;of Hays: bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from KU; first-year doctoral student in mechanical engineering&nbsp;</li><li>Bryan Rodriguez-Colon&nbsp;of Manati, Puerto Rico: bachelor’s degree in geology and bachelor’s degree in biology from the University Puerto Rico Mayaguez and master’s degree in geology from KU;&nbsp;first-year doctoral student in geology&nbsp;</li><li>Mikayla Smith&nbsp;of Olathe: bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from KU; first-year doctoral student in&nbsp;pharmaceutical chemistry</li><li>Lillian Springer&nbsp;of Indianapolis, Indiana: expected bachelor’s degree in economics from Butler University; incoming doctoral student in economics&nbsp;</li><li>Lee Taylor&nbsp;of Atherton, Missouri: bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the KU;&nbsp;incoming&nbsp;doctoral student in electrical engineering&nbsp;</li><li>Megan Wittman&nbsp;of Bloomington, Illinois: expected bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from KU; incoming doctoral student in environmental engineering.</li>
 </ul>

Hays student earns prestigious fellowship at KU

The 62nd annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair at Fort Hays State University is set for Friday, April 30, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.&nbsp; The event features junior high and high school students in technology education classes to bring their projects to be displayed and judged at Gross Memorial Coliseum. Students in schools all across Kansas participate in the fair. The coliseum is open to the public for viewing the projects, which range from wood furniture and metal works to CAD drawings and drafting. Doors open to the public at 8 a.m., and an awards ceremony is set for about 3:30 p.m. Each entry is awarded a ribbon or medal. Awards also are given for winners of several live competitions that take place during the day, including communication, metric 500 racing, tech challenge (quiz bowl) and problem solving.

“We are excited to be able to host the annual technology fair this year.&nbsp;Having this event means area high school and middle school students and their technology teachers will be on the Fort Hays State University campus and that is good news!,” Kim Stewart, chair of the department of applied technology. Students in FHSU's Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association run the entire fair.

Due to COVID-19 policy, when present on university property, all employees, students, and visitors must wear face coverings over their mouths and noses and practice social distancing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618932632693.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe 62nd annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair at Fort Hays State University is set for Friday, April 30, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.&nbsp; The event features junior high and high school students in technology education classes to bring their projects to be displayed and judged at Gross Memorial Coliseum. Students in schools all across Kansas participate in the fair. The coliseum is open to the public for viewing the projects, which range from wood furniture and metal works to CAD drawings and drafting. Doors open to the public at 8 a.m., and an awards ceremony is set for about 3:30 p.m. Each entry is awarded a ribbon or medal. Awards also are given for winners of several live competitions that take place during the day, including communication, metric 500 racing, tech challenge (quiz bowl) and problem solving.“We are excited to be able to host the annual technology fair this year.&nbsp;Having this event means area high school and middle school students and their technology teachers will be on the Fort Hays State University campus and that is good news!,” Kim Stewart, chair of the department of applied technology. Students in FHSU's Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association run the entire fair.Due to COVID-19 policy, when present on university property, all employees, students, and visitors must wear face coverings over their mouths and noses and practice social distancing.

FHSU to host 62nd annual Western Kansas Technology Education Fair

BY STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

All fertilizers are salts and can cause germination problems if too much is placed with the seed. Too much fertilizer may inhibit germination completely, which results in a loss of stand. In other instances, too much fertilizer placed with the seed may simply delay germination, or it may result in weak seedlings with poorly developed root systems. In either case, the affected seedlings will be at a competitive disadvantage and a loss of yield potential may result.&nbsp;

Several points should be kept in mind when evaluating seed-placed fertilizer.&nbsp;

- Soil between the seed and the fertilizer band provides a buffer.&nbsp;

- The potential for injury from seed-applied fertilizer is greater for sandy and/or dry soils.&nbsp;

- Certain types of fertilizers should never be applied with the seed, even at low rates. No urea-containing fertilizer (urea, UAN solution) should be placed in direct seed contact. The hydrolysis of urea to ammonia can result in ammonia toxicity to seedlings.&nbsp;

- Reduce rates 30 percent for grain sorghum. We suggest no seed placed fertilizer for soybeans, sunflowers, or dry beans.&nbsp;

The amount of fertilizer Nitrogen (N) plus Potassium (K2O) applied in direct seed contact should not exceed the values presented in the above table. These guidelines are relatively conservative. Some producers have gotten by with using higher rates at times. However, rates higher than those in this table have real potential for causing germination problems in some years.

If N and Phosphorus (P) are applied without any K2O, such as using 11-52-0 or 10-34-0 then rates can be increased. In corn on 30 inch rows in medium to fine textured soils, the maximum amount of fertilizer that can be safely applied with the seed is 72 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 6.9 gal/ac of 10-34-0. In sandy or dry soils 54 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 5.2 gal/ac of 10-34-0. In grain sorghum, 30 inch rows in medium to fine textured soils 50 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 4.9 gal/ac of 10-34-0. In sandy or dry soils 38 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 3.6 gal/ac of 10-34-0. Remember this is assuming no added potassium (K20).&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619031087901.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BY STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictAll fertilizers are salts and can cause germination problems if too much is placed with the seed. Too much fertilizer may inhibit germination completely, which results in a loss of stand. In other instances, too much fertilizer placed with the seed may simply delay germination, or it may result in weak seedlings with poorly developed root systems. In either case, the affected seedlings will be at a competitive disadvantage and a loss of yield potential may result.&nbsp;Several points should be kept in mind when evaluating seed-placed fertilizer.&nbsp;- Soil between the seed and the fertilizer band provides a buffer.&nbsp;- The potential for injury from seed-applied fertilizer is greater for sandy and/or dry soils.&nbsp;- Certain types of fertilizers should never be applied with the seed, even at low rates. No urea-containing fertilizer (urea, UAN solution) should be placed in direct seed contact. The hydrolysis of urea to ammonia can result in ammonia toxicity to seedlings.&nbsp;- Reduce rates 30 percent for grain sorghum. We suggest no seed placed fertilizer for soybeans, sunflowers, or dry beans.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619031159769.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The amount of fertilizer Nitrogen (N) plus Potassium (K2O) applied in direct seed contact should not exceed the values presented in the above table. These guidelines are relatively conservative. Some producers have gotten by with using higher rates at times. However, rates higher than those in this table have real potential for causing germination problems in some years.If N and Phosphorus (P) are applied without any K2O, such as using 11-52-0 or 10-34-0 then rates can be increased. In corn on 30 inch rows in medium to fine textured soils, the maximum amount of fertilizer that can be safely applied with the seed is 72 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 6.9 gal/ac of 10-34-0. In sandy or dry soils 54 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 5.2 gal/ac of 10-34-0. In grain sorghum, 30 inch rows in medium to fine textured soils 50 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 4.9 gal/ac of 10-34-0. In sandy or dry soils 38 lbs./ac of 11-52-0 and 3.6 gal/ac of 10-34-0. Remember this is assuming no added potassium (K20).&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: How much fertilizer can safely be placed with seed? 

Freedom Forum Fellow Lata Nott defines cancel culture and explores what it means for the First Amendment.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YpBjfOp5t8U"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Freedom Forum Fellow Lata Nott defines cancel culture and explores what it means for the First Amendment.

🎥 FIRST FIVE EXPRESS: A closer look a 'cancel culture'

PHILLIPS COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects on drug charges after an arrest in northwest Kansas.

On April 21, a traffic complaint about an SUV traveling at a high rate of speed resulted in Phillips County Sheriff 's deputies assisting the Kansas Highway Patrol in the recovery of a significant amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, according to a media release.

Four New York state residents were returning from the Colorado 420 festivities and allegedly thought it was a good idea to travel home with some souvenirs.  This resulted in them spending some time in taxpayer-provided lodging at the Phillips County courthouse. 

Charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia are pending. The sheriff's office released no additional details Friday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619210242546.png" alt="Photos courtesy Phillips County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Phillips County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPS COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects on drug charges after an arrest in northwest Kansas.On April 21, a traffic complaint about an SUV traveling at a high rate of speed resulted in Phillips County Sheriff 's deputies assisting the Kansas Highway Patrol in the recovery of a significant amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, according to a media release.Four New York state residents were returning from the Colorado 420 festivities and allegedly thought it was a good idea to travel home with some souvenirs. This resulted in them spending some time in taxpayer-provided lodging at the Phillips County courthouse. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619210416221.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia are pending. The sheriff's office released no additional details Friday afternoon.

Souvenirs from marijuana holiday land four in NW Kan. jail

The business relationship between the University of Kansas Health System and Hays Med will soon end, but with the decision, no impact to services are expected.

The decision was announced to employees Thursday and was confirmed by the University of Kansas Health System media relations director Jill Chadwick on Friday.

She described the situation as amicable and will not change in any way the medical staff or services that currently work at Hays Med.

"In terms of patients and the public, nothing is going to change," Chadwick said. "Everybody still has access to health care. We are still going to be in Hays, and people will still have the opportunity to get access to any specialist that they might need."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4d8e11e3-2e85-4a41-8404-561202ba7a9c">RELATED: HaysMed's complete statement on the changes.</a>

The system operates in 66 counties as part of its mission to help provide rural areas access to specialized health care and she said they look forward to continuing to do so.

"We will still be working with them (HaysMed)," Chadwick said. "We will still be getting referrals, we will still be treating patients, just like we do in 66 other counties."

The decision to end the relationship was mutual, she said, and reflects only a difference in business administration between the two parties.

"We had a shared vision five years ago, but now we don't share the same vision," Chadwick said. "We decided that we still want to care for patients ... but it's this side of the business we want to change."

A timeline for the change has not been set, she said but as details are worked out visitors to the facility will see no changes.

"It has no public impact or patient impact," Chadwick said.

"While we have worked together over the past five years, we have mutually decided that stepping back and working independently best supports the long-term health and wellness of our communities," a statement from Hays Med said. "Taking this step allows both entities to actively pursue the unique approaches to serving their respective populations.  This action also applies to the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in Larned, which is a managed partner of HaysMed."

The statement from Hays Med also noted providers are supportive of the decision.

“The medical staff at HaysMed supports this decision,” said Dr. Heather Harris, medical director and physician at Hays Family Medicine. &nbsp;

“In our opinion, administration and the board did what was in the best interest of staff and patients of Hays and western Kansas," he said.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe business relationship between the University of Kansas Health System and Hays Med will soon end, but with the decision, no impact to services are expected.The decision was announced to employees Thursday and was confirmed by the University of Kansas Health System media relations director Jill Chadwick on Friday.She described the situation as amicable and will not change in any way the medical staff or services that currently work at Hays Med."In terms of patients and the public, nothing is going to change," Chadwick said. "Everybody still has access to health care. We are still going to be in Hays, and people will still have the opportunity to get access to any specialist that they might need."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4d8e11e3-2e85-4a41-8404-561202ba7a9c">RELATED: HaysMed's complete statement on the changes.</a>The system operates in 66 counties as part of its mission to help provide rural areas access to specialized health care and she said they look forward to continuing to do so."We will still be working with them (HaysMed)," Chadwick said. "We will still be getting referrals, we will still be treating patients, just like we do in 66 other counties."The decision to end the relationship was mutual, she said, and reflects only a difference in business administration between the two parties."We had a shared vision five years ago, but now we don't share the same vision," Chadwick said. "We decided that we still want to care for patients ... but it's this side of the business we want to change."A timeline for the change has not been set, she said but as details are worked out visitors to the facility will see no changes."It has no public impact or patient impact," Chadwick said."While we have worked together over the past five years, we have mutually decided that stepping back and working independently best supports the long-term health and wellness of our communities," a statement from Hays Med said. "Taking this step allows both entities to actively pursue the unique approaches to serving their respective populations. This action also applies to the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in Larned, which is a managed partner of HaysMed."The statement from Hays Med also noted providers are supportive of the decision.“The medical staff at HaysMed supports this decision,” said Dr. Heather Harris, medical director and physician at Hays Family Medicine. &nbsp;Dr. Roger Dietz, chief of staff, agreed.“In our opinion, administration and the board did what was in the best interest of staff and patients of Hays and western Kansas," he said.

UPDATE: KU, HaysMed end business relationship; health care remains the same

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A major stage in the development of improved traffic flow on the northwest side of Hays will get underway next month.

City commissioners Thursday night approved a contract for improvements to the intersection of 230th Avenue and 55th Street just north of the Interstate 70 Exit 157.

The low bid of $1,878,301 from Hess Services of Hays - which was below the engineer's estimate - was just $9,100 less than the next lowest bid from Smoky Hill Construction, Salina.&nbsp;The construction engineering agreement with Driggs Design, Hays, at a cost of $140,800 puts the total project cost at $2 million.

At the request of Ellis County,&nbsp;the city in December 2019 assumed responsibility for a $1.5 million Kansas Department of Transportation economic development grant for the project.

The improvement work will be paid with the KDOT grant. 

The $500,000 overage will be paid by the developer of the Hays Truck Plaza, D&amp;J Land and Development LLC. A new truck stop is being built just north of the intersection.&nbsp;

All project costs will be reimbursed to the city by the KDOT grant and the truck stop developer.&nbsp;

The intersection sits at the southwest edge of the Ellis County Northwest Business Corridor project which will improve the width and surface condition of two county roads along a four-mile stretch north and west of Hays. The north/south section is 230th Avenue.

The well-traveled hilly avenue passes by several heavy industrial sites, Goodman Energy Center, Celebration Community Church, and private residences.

Intersection improvements include grading, pavement, curb and gutter, storm sewer,&nbsp;sidewalk, and pavement markings, according to Hays Project Manager John Braun.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619144148311.jpeg" alt="Improvements to the intersection of 230th Ave. and 55th Street will enhance development of a new truck plaza and Ellis County's Northwest Business Corridor. The&nbsp; intersection work is scheduled to begin in May and be completed in September.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Improvements to the intersection of 230th Ave. and 55th Street will enhance development of a new truck plaza and Ellis County's Northwest Business Corridor. The&nbsp; intersection work is scheduled to begin in May and be completed in September.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA major stage in the development of improved traffic flow on the northwest side of Hays will get underway next month.City commissioners Thursday night approved a contract for improvements to the intersection of 230th Avenue and 55th Street just north of the Interstate 70 Exit 157.The low bid of $1,878,301 from Hess Services of Hays - which was below the engineer's estimate - was just $9,100 less than the next lowest bid from Smoky Hill Construction, Salina.&nbsp;The construction engineering agreement with Driggs Design, Hays, at a cost of $140,800 puts the total project cost at $2 million.At the request of Ellis County,&nbsp;the city in December 2019 assumed responsibility for a $1.5 million Kansas Department of Transportation economic development grant for the project.The improvement work will be paid with the KDOT grant. The $500,000 overage will be paid by the developer of the Hays Truck Plaza, D&amp;J Land and Development LLC. A new truck stop is being built just north of the intersection.&nbsp;All project costs will be reimbursed to the city by the KDOT grant and the truck stop developer.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619041550141.jpeg" alt="Ellis County's&nbsp; proposed Northwest Business Corridor will move&nbsp; semi-truck traffic and oversized loads around the west side Hays rather than through the middle of the city.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County's&nbsp; proposed Northwest Business Corridor will move&nbsp; semi-truck traffic and oversized loads around the west side Hays rather than through the middle of the city.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The intersection sits at the southwest edge of the Ellis County Northwest Business Corridor project which will improve the width and surface condition of two county roads along a four-mile stretch north and west of Hays. The north/south section is 230th Avenue.The well-traveled hilly avenue passes by several heavy industrial sites, Goodman Energy Center, Celebration Community Church, and private residences.Intersection improvements include grading, pavement, curb and gutter, storm sewer,&nbsp;sidewalk, and pavement markings, according to Hays Project Manager John Braun. Hess Services has hired subcontractor Morgan Brothers, LaCrosse, to do the concrete paving, while Hess will do the earthwork and storm sewer improvement.Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked if the intersection would have to be closed during the work, which is expected to take 120 days.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rfHLQ_YOHYw"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The project will be "done in three phases and they're finding ways around," Braun said."It's mostly because of the elevation differences. They're flattening the hills and raising the valleys. The offset difference between trying to construct half of it and keeping a lane of traffic open and keeping it safe and the amount of space it would take, just wouldn't be possible. So they actually have to shut down entire sections at a time, and they're finding ways around."Commissioners also approved four low bids as recommended by Jeff Crispin, water resources director:* $119,000 from Integrity Municipal Systems, Poway, Calif., for a replacement lime slaker used in the process of softening city water&nbsp; * $94,705 from Foley Power Solutions, Topeka, for two portable generators, one each for water production and water reclamation * $108,937 from Pipe Detectives, Jamestown, N.D., for light cleaning and video inspection of 22 miles of sanitary sewer line * $65,246 from Downey Drilling, Lexington, Neb., for rehabilitation of four city water wells and two Smoky Hill River wells near SchoenchenThe following volunteer committee member appointments recommended by Jacobs were approved:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619148911570.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The March 2021 financial statement presented by Kim Rupp, finance director, was accepted and a cereal malt beverage license for the Hays Kiwanis Club for the Wild West Festival in July was approved.Commissioners also heard a recent progress report by city departments from Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.&nbsp;

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