This past Tuesday, the people of Hays First United Methodist Church presented First Call for Help of Ellis County with a check for $25,000 to continue its First Step Housing project.

Representatives from the church, Senior Pastor Mike Rose, Troy Miller, and FUMC Endowment Chair Greg Doughhetee, along with Hale Sloan representing Hays Noon Rotary, which contributed $1,000 as well, were on hand to present the gift to Linda Mills, executive director of First Call for Help.

The First Step Housing project is an initiative to provide transitional housing while the participants are working through other obstacles they have encountered for housing stability.

For up to six months, families have the opportunity to focus on priorities, such as gainful employment, savings, permanent housing, self-care and family. First Call also helps provide counseling for money management and budgeting during this time.

“This gift will help us move into the next phase of our building plan. This puts us at 70 percent of our project goal of $250,000. We are very grateful for this wonderful gift,” Mills said.

Doughhetee&nbsp;said he was very pleased with the response from the people of the church as they captured the vision of First Call and responded in such a generous way.

For more information on the project or how you may partner with First Call for Help, visit <a href="http://www.firstcallelliscounty.com">www.firstcallelliscounty.com</a> or call 785-623-2800.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610487278342.jpeg" alt="(Not in order) Representatives from the Hays First United Methodist Church Senior Pastor Mike Rose, Troy Miller, and FUMC Endowment Chairman Greg Doughhetee, along with Hale Sloan representing Hays Noon Rotary present funds to Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, for the&nbsp;First Step Housing project." />
 <figcaption>(Not in order) Representatives from the Hays First United Methodist Church Senior Pastor Mike Rose, Troy Miller, and FUMC Endowment Chairman Greg Doughhetee, along with Hale Sloan representing Hays Noon Rotary present funds to Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, for the&nbsp;First Step Housing project.</figcaption>
 </figure>First Call for HelpThis past Tuesday, the people of Hays First United Methodist Church presented First Call for Help of Ellis County with a check for $25,000 to continue its First Step Housing project.Representatives from the church, Senior Pastor Mike Rose, Troy Miller, and FUMC Endowment Chair Greg Doughhetee, along with Hale Sloan representing Hays Noon Rotary, which contributed $1,000 as well, were on hand to present the gift to Linda Mills, executive director of First Call for Help.The First Step Housing project is an initiative to provide transitional housing while the participants are working through other obstacles they have encountered for housing stability.For up to six months, families have the opportunity to focus on priorities, such as gainful employment, savings, permanent housing, self-care and family. First Call also helps provide counseling for money management and budgeting during this time.“This gift will help us move into the next phase of our building plan. This puts us at 70 percent of our project goal of $250,000. We are very grateful for this wonderful gift,” Mills said.Doughhetee&nbsp;said he was very pleased with the response from the people of the church as they captured the vision of First Call and responded in such a generous way.For more information on the project or how you may partner with First Call for Help, visit <a href="http://www.firstcallelliscounty.com">www.firstcallelliscounty.com</a> or call 785-623-2800.

First Step Housing of Hays receives another step up

TOPEKA - Know a Kansas farmer, rancher or forestland owner who goes above and beyond in the care and management of natural resources? Nominate them for the 2021 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®.

<a href="https://sandcountyfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Sand County Foundation</a>&nbsp;and national sponsor&nbsp;<a href="https://farmland.org/" target="_blank">American Farmland Trust</a>&nbsp;present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 22 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://sandcountyfoundation.org/our-work/leopold-conservation-award-program/state/kansas" target="_blank">Kansas</a>, the $10,000 award is presented with&nbsp;<a href="https://kacdnet.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Association of Conservation Districts</a>, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org/" target="_blank">Ranchland Trust of Kansas</a>&nbsp;(RTK).

“The Leopold Conservation Award Program provides a valuable opportunity to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Kansas&nbsp;agricultural landowners who are committed to strong conservation practices and effective stewardship,” said Dan Meyerhoff, Hays, executive director of the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD).

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes those who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Nominations may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may nominate themselves.&nbsp;Applications are reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.&nbsp;The application can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sandcountyfoundation.org/ApplyLCA" target="_blank">www.sandcountyfoundation.org/ApplyLCA</a>.

The application deadline date is June 1, 2021. Applications can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:award@sandcountyfoundation.org" target="_blank">award@sandcountyfoundation.org</a>. If mailed, applications must be postmarked by June 1, and mailed to:

KACD c/o Dan Meyerhoff 414 Autumn Lane Hays KS 67601

“RTK is a proud supporter of the Leopold Conservation Award in Kansas. It is an honor to help recognize those conservationists who go above and beyond in the stewardship of our natural resources,” said Chelsea Good, chair of the board of Ranchland Trust of Kansas.

“Conserving our state’s rich and diverse natural resources is ingrained deeply in the culture of our multi-generational farms and ranches,” said Kansas Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam. “The Leopold Conservation Award serves an important role of reminding the general public of how private land managers conserve and enhance these resources for future generations.”

“As a national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of farmers, ranchers and forestland owners,” said John Piotti, AFT president and CEO. “At AFT we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”

“Recipients of this award are real life examples of conservation-minded agriculture,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation president and chief executive officer. “These hard-working families are essential to our environment, food system and rural economy.”

The award will be presented in November at the KACD Annual Convention in Wichita.

The 2020 recipient of the award was Josh and Gwen Hoy’s Flying W Ranch of Cedar Point. The first Kansas Leopold Conservation Award was presented in 2015 to Sproul Ranch of Sedan.

The Leopold Conservation Award Program in Kansas is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust; Kansas Association of Conservation Districts; Ranchland Trust of Kansas; Sand County Foundation; Evergy; Farm Credit Associations of Kansas; ITC Great Plains; Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Conservation; Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism; Kansas Forest Service; McDonald’s; The Nature Conservancy in Kansas; USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and a Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient.

For more information on the award, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.leopoldconservationaward.org/" target="_blank">www.leopoldconservationaward.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610465355504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RTKTOPEKA - Know a Kansas farmer, rancher or forestland owner who goes above and beyond in the care and management of natural resources? Nominate them for the 2021 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®.<a href="https://sandcountyfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Sand County Foundation</a>&nbsp;and national sponsor&nbsp;<a href="https://farmland.org/" target="_blank">American Farmland Trust</a>&nbsp;present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 22 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. In&nbsp;<a href="https://sandcountyfoundation.org/our-work/leopold-conservation-award-program/state/kansas" target="_blank">Kansas</a>, the $10,000 award is presented with&nbsp;<a href="https://kacdnet.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Association of Conservation Districts</a>, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org/" target="_blank">Ranchland Trust of Kansas</a>&nbsp;(RTK).“The Leopold Conservation Award Program provides a valuable opportunity to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Kansas&nbsp;agricultural landowners who are committed to strong conservation practices and effective stewardship,” said Dan Meyerhoff, Hays, executive director of the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD).Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes those who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.Nominations may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may nominate themselves.&nbsp;Applications are reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.&nbsp;The application can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sandcountyfoundation.org/ApplyLCA" target="_blank">www.sandcountyfoundation.org/ApplyLCA</a>.The application deadline date is June 1, 2021. Applications can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:award@sandcountyfoundation.org" target="_blank">award@sandcountyfoundation.org</a>. If mailed, applications must be postmarked by June 1, and mailed to:KACD c/o Dan Meyerhoff 414 Autumn Lane Hays KS 67601“RTK is a proud supporter of the Leopold Conservation Award in Kansas. It is an honor to help recognize those conservationists who go above and beyond in the stewardship of our natural resources,” said Chelsea Good, chair of the board of Ranchland Trust of Kansas.“Conserving our state’s rich and diverse natural resources is ingrained deeply in the culture of our multi-generational farms and ranches,” said Kansas Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam. “The Leopold Conservation Award serves an important role of reminding the general public of how private land managers conserve and enhance these resources for future generations.”“As a national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of farmers, ranchers and forestland owners,” said John Piotti, AFT president and CEO. “At AFT we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”“Recipients of this award are real life examples of conservation-minded agriculture,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation president and chief executive officer. “These hard-working families are essential to our environment, food system and rural economy.”The award will be presented in November at the KACD Annual Convention in Wichita.The 2020 recipient of the award was Josh and Gwen Hoy’s Flying W Ranch of Cedar Point. The first Kansas Leopold Conservation Award was presented in 2015 to Sproul Ranch of Sedan.The Leopold Conservation Award Program in Kansas is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust; Kansas Association of Conservation Districts; Ranchland Trust of Kansas; Sand County Foundation; Evergy; Farm Credit Associations of Kansas; ITC Great Plains; Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Conservation; Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism; Kansas Forest Service; McDonald’s; The Nature Conservancy in Kansas; USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and a Kansas Leopold Conservation Award recipient.For more information on the award, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.leopoldconservationaward.org/" target="_blank">www.leopoldconservationaward.org</a>.

Meyerhoff: Kansas Leopold Conservation Award call for nominations

Three-day weather outlook

Despite his own crazed efforts, President Donald Trump is leaving the White House. His departure comes in the wake of groundless lawsuits, delusional conspiracy theories, and a deadly pro-Trump riot which sought to prevent the certification of Trump’s electoral college loss. The damage he has done to America’s body politic over the past two months, with his ranting and his lies, has been great.&nbsp;

It’d be nice to think that Kansas, being far away from Washington DC, had been spared this damage. Unfortunately, the negatives of Trumpism may stay with Kansas for years.&nbsp;

Consider Trump’s incompetence early on in communicating the seriousness of the covid-19 pandemic, and his subsequent refusal (or his ignorant inability) to use the example-setting power of his office to encourage consistent health protocols. Far from firmly rejecting the national politicization of responses to the pandemic, or providing a standard around which a suffering country could rally, his disengagement tacitly encouraged his partisans to connect their paranoia to his political cause.&nbsp;

In Kansas the consequences of this connection were tragic. By May, the narrative, in the minds of too many, was clear: to wear a mask was to be a Democrat and a lover of tyranny; to refuse to wear a mask was to be a Republican who loved freedom, America, and Trump. Thus did hundreds of doctors, nurses, and others who were risking their lives treating the sick and dying often find themselves, here in our strongly Republican state, harassed, attacked, and dismissed as political enemies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Vicki Collie-Akers of the University of Kansas, Kansas lost over a quarter of its public health workers last year. They changed jobs, took early retirement, relocated out of state, or found their jobs cut by a state government whose Republican majority failed to fully support coordinated efforts to promote necessary health restrictions. Many of those workers were in Kansas’s small towns, whose hospitals, denied the funds which Medicaid expansion could provide, are more vulnerable than ever.&nbsp;

These are broad harms partly attributable to Trumpism; here’s a more singular one.&nbsp;

Kansas is not a politically powerful state; on the national level, our representatives have to work hard building up networks and connections to protect the needs and promote the interests of Kansans. For all the flaws of Senator Pat Roberts, he embraced and operated effectively within the rules of the U.S. Senate, and thus was able to find the votes to support Kansas in many ways.&nbsp;

His replacement, Senator Roger Marshall, may someday do the same. But under the fanatic spell of Trumpism, Marshall chose to begin his senate career by angering his own party leadership, antagonizing his fellow senators, and joining a pointless challenge to President-elect Biden’s electoral college victory anyway, just hours after the death and damage visited upon the U.S. Capitol building. The praise Marshall may enjoy in Trumpland will not soon translate into the kind of institutional influence he could have started building on behalf of Kansas voters instead.

Kansas suffered for six long years under the spell former Governor Brownback, as he led the state’s Republican majority away from the moderate conservatism which had served the state well for decades. We can only hope that, eventually, most Kansas Republicans will escape the damaging legacy of Trumpism as well–but tragically, it may be a while yet.&nbsp;

Dr. Russell Arben Fox runs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita, KS .

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583339056495.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox runs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita, KS ." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox runs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita, KS .</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite his own crazed efforts, President Donald Trump is leaving the White House. His departure comes in the wake of groundless lawsuits, delusional conspiracy theories, and a deadly pro-Trump riot which sought to prevent the certification of Trump’s electoral college loss. The damage he has done to America’s body politic over the past two months, with his ranting and his lies, has been great.&nbsp;It’d be nice to think that Kansas, being far away from Washington DC, had been spared this damage. Unfortunately, the negatives of Trumpism may stay with Kansas for years.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Consider Trump’s incompetence early on in communicating the seriousness of the covid-19 pandemic, and his subsequent refusal (or his ignorant inability) to use the example-setting power of his office to encourage consistent health protocols. Far from firmly rejecting the national politicization of responses to the pandemic, or providing a standard around which a suffering country could rally, his disengagement tacitly encouraged his partisans to connect their paranoia to his political cause.&nbsp;In Kansas the consequences of this connection were tragic. By May, the narrative, in the minds of too many, was clear: to wear a mask was to be a Democrat and a lover of tyranny; to refuse to wear a mask was to be a Republican who loved freedom, America, and Trump. Thus did hundreds of doctors, nurses, and others who were risking their lives treating the sick and dying often find themselves, here in our strongly Republican state, harassed, attacked, and dismissed as political enemies.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Vicki Collie-Akers of the University of Kansas, Kansas lost over a quarter of its public health workers last year. They changed jobs, took early retirement, relocated out of state, or found their jobs cut by a state government whose Republican majority failed to fully support coordinated efforts to promote necessary health restrictions. Many of those workers were in Kansas’s small towns, whose hospitals, denied the funds which Medicaid expansion could provide, are more vulnerable than ever.&nbsp;These are broad harms partly attributable to Trumpism; here’s a more singular one.&nbsp;Kansas is not a politically powerful state; on the national level, our representatives have to work hard building up networks and connections to protect the needs and promote the interests of Kansans. For all the flaws of Senator Pat Roberts, he embraced and operated effectively within the rules of the U.S. Senate, and thus was able to find the votes to support Kansas in many ways.&nbsp;His replacement, Senator Roger Marshall, may someday do the same. But under the fanatic spell of Trumpism, Marshall chose to begin his senate career by angering his own party leadership, antagonizing his fellow senators, and joining a pointless challenge to President-elect Biden’s electoral college victory anyway, just hours after the death and damage visited upon the U.S. Capitol building. The praise Marshall may enjoy in Trumpland will not soon translate into the kind of institutional influence he could have started building on behalf of Kansas voters instead.Kansas suffered for six long years under the spell former Governor Brownback, as he led the state’s Republican majority away from the moderate conservatism which had served the state well for decades. We can only hope that, eventually, most Kansas Republicans will escape the damaging legacy of Trumpism as well–but tragically, it may be a while yet.&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox runs the History &amp; Politics major and the Honors program at Friends University in Wichita, KS .

INSIGHT KANSAS: The damage Trump has done

KANSAS CITY – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USCE), Kansas City District reminds all to be prepared for cold water emergencies on or around lakes or rivers this winter. If you fall into the water or through ice, it is critical to get out of the cold water as quickly as possible since you can lose your ability to swim within minutes as hypothermia begins.

If you find yourself in cold water by falling through ice, turn towards the direction you came from, because that is most likely to have the thickest ice. Kick your legs to “swim” out horizontally and get your body as far out onto the ice as you can. Use your sharp objects to pull yourself out with your arms onto your elbows. You may need to wait briefly for some water to drain from your clothes in order to be able to pull yourself out farther. Once you’re out, stay lying flat and roll away from the hole to keep your weight spread out or you may fall through again.

While we don’t encourage recreating on ice, we want you to be prepared before heading out into the cold weather and to understand cold water facts and tips. For more water safety information visit or follow pleasewearit.com.

Please recreate responsibly and return home safely.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610667538453.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USACEKANSAS CITY – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USCE), Kansas City District reminds all to be prepared for cold water emergencies on or around lakes or rivers this winter. If you fall into the water or through ice, it is critical to get out of the cold water as quickly as possible since you can lose your ability to swim within minutes as hypothermia begins.If you find yourself in cold water by falling through ice, turn towards the direction you came from, because that is most likely to have the thickest ice. Kick your legs to “swim” out horizontally and get your body as far out onto the ice as you can. Use your sharp objects to pull yourself out with your arms onto your elbows. You may need to wait briefly for some water to drain from your clothes in order to be able to pull yourself out farther. Once you’re out, stay lying flat and roll away from the hole to keep your weight spread out or you may fall through again.While we don’t encourage recreating on ice, we want you to be prepared before heading out into the cold weather and to understand cold water facts and tips. For more water safety information visit or follow pleasewearit.com.FACTS<ul>
 <li>Nearly 9 out of every 10 water-related deaths involved individuals not wearing a life jacket (per USACE 10-year average statistics).</li><li>It only takes 20 seconds for a child to drown.</li><li>It only takes 60 seconds for an adult to drown.</li><li>Cold water immersion starts with shock, gasping for air and inhaling water as the human body cools 25 times faster in cold water than air.</li><li>Next is failure to swim, as you lose strength and exhaustion sets in.</li><li>Next is hypothermia as your body starts to shut down.</li><li>If rescuers make it to you, you are lucky but still have a tough fight ahead.</li><li>Don’t just remember to take your life jacket, remember to wear it no matter the season.</li>
 </ul>TIPS<ul>
 <li>Make sure someone knows where you will be and when you are expected to return.</li><li>Have a signaling device such as a whistle, strobe or flare.</li><li>Always wear a life jacket or consider options such as a dry suit, wet suit, immersion suit or floater suit.</li><li>Use the Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP) to conserve body heat-This is done by bringing the knees up to the chest and wrapping your arms around them. Huddle together if you are with multiple people in the water.</li>
 </ul>Please recreate responsibly and return home safely.&nbsp;

USACE: Be prepared for cold water emergencies while recreating this winter

The TMP-Marian Monarchs begin play at the Mid-Continent League tournament in a feather bracket game against the Smith Center Redmen at 3 p.m. Saturday.

Listen live on 99.5 KHAZ and online by clicking <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">HERE</a>.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs begin play at the Mid-Continent League tournament in a feather bracket game against the Smith Center Redmen at 3 p.m. Saturday.The pregame show is set for 2:40 p.m.Listen live on 99.5 KHAZ and online by clicking <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">HERE</a>.

🏀LISTEN: TMP boys vs Stockton

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

<div><iframe title="Planning underway for beautification projects in Ellis" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/xumtv-f7ad9d?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></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>

🎙 Post Podcast: Planning underway for beautification projects in Ellis

HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's basketball game against Missouri Western scheduled for Saturday afternoon (Jan. 16) in Hays is now postponed due to COVID-19 protocols. The MWSU women's team will not be able to complete their road trip as well. A reschedule date will be announced at a later time. Please hold on to your tickets for the rescheduled date of the women's and men's contests vs. Missouri Western that have both been postponed. Looking ahead, the Tigers go on the road next week to Missouri Southern and Pittsburg State. The next home action for FHSU as it stands right now is January 30 against Nebraska-Kearney.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610813785312.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's basketball game against Missouri Western scheduled for Saturday afternoon (Jan. 16) in Hays is now postponed due to COVID-19 protocols. The MWSU women's team will not be able to complete their road trip as well. A reschedule date will be announced at a later time. Please hold on to your tickets for the rescheduled date of the women's and men's contests vs. Missouri Western that have both been postponed. Looking ahead, the Tigers go on the road next week to Missouri Southern and Pittsburg State. The next home action for FHSU as it stands right now is January 30 against Nebraska-Kearney.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 FHSU women's game vs. Missouri Western postponed

MANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will offer virtual workshops February 16–19, 2021, to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and also for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers. The workshop series includes three online Lunch and Learn sessions, followed by a half-day virtual workshop.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and&nbsp;these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who&nbsp;are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, food safety&nbsp;specialist with K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) and the University of Missouri. “It’s also&nbsp;important for farmers to understand certain legal, safety and financial parameters before choosing to&nbsp;sell either directly to the consumer or at a farmers’
market.”

<a></a>In 2020, 76 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.

Dates and topics for each Lunch and Learn online session are as follows:

* Tuesday, February 16, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Food Safety for Value-Added Food Products

* Wednesday, February 17, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Meat and Poultry Regulations

* Thursday, February 18, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Taxation and Accepting EBT/SNAP

The half-day virtual workshop on&nbsp;Friday, February 19, 2021, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;will cover topics such as COVID-19 related changes, Double Up Food Bucks program, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program, and resources available from KSRE. Keynote speaker Michael Kilpatrick of the Thriving Farmer podcast will also discuss marketing tips for direct-to-consumer sales.

KDA’s weights and measures program will offer free scale certification with a paid registration to an online workshop.

Registration for the February virtual workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fromthelandofkansas.com%2FFMworkshop&amp;data=04%7C01%7CPio-stwide%40list.da.ks.gov%7Ca4e7f7bc54404596c06708d8b66de3c5%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637459930932652145%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=0C5tDUZdDUB4KkPZ6hUDdc%2FZCcypaiwyTv5uAv74mpw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop</a>.

For more information, contact Robin Blume, KDA’s education and events coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:robin.blume@ks.gov" target="_blank">Robin.Blume@ks.gov</a>.

The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, the Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587734501182.jpeg" alt="Farmers market (Photo by KSRE)" />
 <figcaption>Farmers market (Photo by KSRE)</figcaption>
 </figure>KDAMANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will offer virtual workshops February 16–19, 2021, to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and also for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers. The workshop series includes three online Lunch and Learn sessions, followed by a half-day virtual workshop.“Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and&nbsp;these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who&nbsp;are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, food safety&nbsp;specialist with K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) and the University of Missouri. “It’s also&nbsp;important for farmers to understand certain legal, safety and financial parameters before choosing to&nbsp;sell either directly to the consumer or at a farmers’
market.”<a></a>In 2020, 76 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.Dates and topics for each Lunch and Learn online session are as follows:* Tuesday, February 16, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Food Safety for Value-Added Food Products* Wednesday, February 17, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Meat and Poultry Regulations* Thursday, February 18, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Taxation and Accepting EBT/SNAPThe half-day virtual workshop on&nbsp;Friday, February 19, 2021, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;will cover topics such as COVID-19 related changes, Double Up Food Bucks program, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program, and resources available from KSRE. Keynote speaker Michael Kilpatrick of the Thriving Farmer podcast will also discuss marketing tips for direct-to-consumer sales.KDA’s weights and measures program will offer free scale certification with a paid registration to an online workshop.Registration for the February virtual workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fromthelandofkansas.com%2FFMworkshop&amp;data=04%7C01%7CPio-stwide%40list.da.ks.gov%7Ca4e7f7bc54404596c06708d8b66de3c5%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637459930932652145%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=0C5tDUZdDUB4KkPZ6hUDdc%2FZCcypaiwyTv5uAv74mpw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop</a>.For more information, contact Robin Blume, KDA’s education and events coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:robin.blume@ks.gov" target="_blank">Robin.Blume@ks.gov</a>. The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, the Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Virtual workshops offered for farmers market vendors, managers

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Lincoln Elementary School is the first school in USD 489 to be part of the Kansas Department of Education school redesign project.

Principal Kerri Lacy updated the Hays school board on the school's progress on the redesign at its meeting on Monday.

The school is building its redesign model. Lacy said COVID in the spring delayed the school's progress in the redesign timeline somewhat.

The four principals of the redesign include building student success skills, creating personalized learning, developing family, business and community partnerships, and using learning models with real-world applications.&nbsp;

"It's everyone's instinct to jump in and say, 'I know this and I know this,' " Lacy said, "but it really made us step back and say, 'What is the root? What is our why? Why do we think redesign is the way to go? Why do we think our families and students deserve this? And why do we think our staff deserves that?'"

The school surveyed its families, students, staff and teachers.

The school learned through those surveys it has a greater language barrier with parents than school officials thought.&nbsp;

Parents indicated they would like a foreign language taught at the school.&nbsp;

That is not possible under the school's current model, but Lacy said it could be possible through the redesign.

The school has a significant number of bilingual students.&nbsp;

Parents also said they were having a hard time helping their students with school work at home. Lacy said the language barrier contributes to this problem.&nbsp;

"The makeup of Lincoln is a lot different than that of the other schools in the district," Lacy said. "We have a lot of Spanish-speaking students."

Parents indicated few complaints with the school, Lacy said.&nbsp;

The survey also indicated students at Lincoln feel safe at school and their teachers are available to help them.

The redesign process is not driven by school or central administration, but by teachers and staff.

The school has established it vision to "Empower students to persevere."

"Relationships, that is our big one. That is No. 1 for Lincoln right now," Lacy said. "We want to build relationships with our families. We want to build relationships with our community.

"When COVID is over, I can't wait to have community members come back in and start being part of our buildings again, presenting to our students again, sharing the knowledge that they have," she said. "There is so much knowledge to be had in our community. [It is hard] for kids to understand that unless you get them in front of that."

The school will continue to focus on social and emotional growth.

"Our kids have more social/emotional needs than they ever have," Lacy said.

Students are learning differently than they did 10 years ago and have different needs, Lacy said.

"I can't expect someone to learn who hasn't had breakfast," she said. "I can't expect someone to learn who is worried about who is going to pick them up from school or where they are going to be tomorrow morning."

Meeting the individual needs of students is a significant aspect of the redesign.

"We might have a kindergartener reading at a second-grade level," Lacy said. "Why are we keeping them in the kindergarten classroom? Sure we can enhance their learning there, but why can't we put them with the second graders while they are doing their reading?"

She continued, "Redesign, to me, I was very scared at first, and now I just can't wait. I can't wait to kick it off. I can't wait to get started and see what we can really do."

The school will be developing its implementation plan for redesign in the coming months and making budgetary decisions. School officials hope to launch the redesign in the next school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610558255925.jpeg" alt="Hays school board members tour Lincoln Elementary School in early 2020." />
 <figcaption>Hays school board members tour Lincoln Elementary School in early 2020.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLincoln Elementary School is the first school in USD 489 to be part of the Kansas Department of Education school redesign project.Principal Kerri Lacy updated the Hays school board on the school's progress on the redesign at its meeting on Monday.The school is building its redesign model. Lacy said COVID in the spring delayed the school's progress in the redesign timeline somewhat.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610555594201.png" alt="Redesign principles" />
 <figcaption>Redesign principles</figcaption>
 </figure>The four principals of the redesign include building student success skills, creating personalized learning, developing family, business and community partnerships, and using learning models with real-world applications.&nbsp;"It's everyone's instinct to jump in and say, 'I know this and I know this,' " Lacy said, "but it really made us step back and say, 'What is the root? What is our why? Why do we think redesign is the way to go? Why do we think our families and students deserve this? And why do we think our staff deserves that?'"The school surveyed its families, students, staff and teachers.The school learned through those surveys it has a greater language barrier with parents than school officials thought.&nbsp;Parents indicated they would like a foreign language taught at the school.&nbsp;That is not possible under the school's current model, but Lacy said it could be possible through the redesign.The school has a significant number of bilingual students.&nbsp;Parents also said they were having a hard time helping their students with school work at home. Lacy said the language barrier contributes to this problem.&nbsp;"The makeup of Lincoln is a lot different than that of the other schools in the district," Lacy said. "We have a lot of Spanish-speaking students."Parents indicated few complaints with the school, Lacy said.&nbsp;The survey also indicated students at Lincoln feel safe at school and their teachers are available to help them.The redesign process is not driven by school or central administration, but by teachers and staff.The school has established it vision to "Empower students to persevere.""Relationships, that is our big one. That is No. 1 for Lincoln right now," Lacy said. "We want to build relationships with our families. We want to build relationships with our community."When COVID is over, I can't wait to have community members come back in and start being part of our buildings again, presenting to our students again, sharing the knowledge that they have," she said. "There is so much knowledge to be had in our community. [It is hard] for kids to understand that unless you get them in front of that."The school will continue to focus on social and emotional growth."Our kids have more social/emotional needs than they ever have," Lacy said.Students are learning differently than they did 10 years ago and have different needs, Lacy said."I can't expect someone to learn who hasn't had breakfast," she said. "I can't expect someone to learn who is worried about who is going to pick them up from school or where they are going to be tomorrow morning."Meeting the individual needs of students is a significant aspect of the redesign."We might have a kindergartener reading at a second-grade level," Lacy said. "Why are we keeping them in the kindergarten classroom? Sure we can enhance their learning there, but why can't we put them with the second graders while they are doing their reading?"She continued, "Redesign, to me, I was very scared at first, and now I just can't wait. I can't wait to kick it off. I can't wait to get started and see what we can really do."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610557706275.png" alt="Lincoln redesign next steps" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln redesign next steps</figcaption>
 </figure>The school will be developing its implementation plan for redesign in the coming months and making budgetary decisions. School officials hope to launch the redesign in the next school year.

Lincoln redesign to focus on personalized learning plans, relationships

Martin Straub, Hays High principal, has been selected as &nbsp;the State KMEA (Kansas Music Educators Association) Honor Administrator of the Year.

This prestigious award was presented at the HHS Winter Concert Jan. 11 by the KMEA state President Gae Phillips.

Straub has shown consistently through his words and deeds that he values a fine arts education as an integral part of a student’s education.

Straub had previously won the NW KMEA District Honor Administrator of the Year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610661663583.jpeg" alt="Hays High Principal&nbsp;Martin Straub receives the&nbsp;Kansas Music Educators Association Honor Administrator of the Year award from&nbsp;KMEA state President Gae Phillips at the HHS&nbsp;Winter Concert Jan. 11. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays High Principal&nbsp;Martin Straub receives the&nbsp;Kansas Music Educators Association Honor Administrator of the Year award from&nbsp;KMEA state President Gae Phillips at the HHS&nbsp;Winter Concert Jan. 11. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 489Martin Straub, Hays High principal, has been selected as &nbsp;the State KMEA (Kansas Music Educators Association) Honor Administrator of the Year.This prestigious award was presented at the HHS Winter Concert Jan. 11 by the KMEA state President Gae Phillips.Straub has shown consistently through his words and deeds that he values a fine arts education as an integral part of a student’s education.Straub had previously won the NW KMEA District Honor Administrator of the Year.

Hays High's Straub honored by KMEA 

By&nbsp;JOE VINDUSKA Barton Community College

GREAT BEND — Kansas has an abundance of natural beauty and the Shafer Gallery at Barton Community College will be celebrating this stunning imagery with its “Kansas Byways” exhibit from Jan. 18 through Feb. 19 with a virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 18 via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/shafergallery" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">facebook.com/shafergallery.</a>

The exhibit features artwork developed using the Kansas Scenic Byways system as subject and inspiration and there are twelve recognized byways in Kansas, which are detailed at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.travelks.com/ksbyways" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">travelks.com/ksbyways</a>. Nine of them are scenic, two of which are designated as “National Scenic Byways” and three are historic trails.

“The byways are a component of the National Scenic Byways Program, and both “seek to identify and designate national scenic byways to increase tourism and educate the traveling public about our environment, history and culture,” according to the Kansas Office of Tourism &amp; Travel website.&nbsp;

The exhibit features invited regional artists who were asked to conceive work that reflects one or more of these designated byways. The show was originally conceived with a generous grant from the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, by the Sandzen Memorial Gallery.

Director of the Sandzen Memorial Gallery Ron Michael said the artists were empowered to use their own interpretations.

“This exhibition is the result of each artist’s vision, ability, and perseverance to create a work that would be true to the exhibition’s intent,” he said. “The imagery could come from direct observation of the landscape or the personal feelings, mood or memories evoked by their own personal experience of it.”

Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he is excited to share this exhibit with patrons.

“Some people refer to Kansas as a flyover state or a snooze through state, but if you get off the major ‘superslab’ and explore the smaller highways and byways you will discover no shortage of amazing beauty,” he said. 

“It’s not always flashy like the sandy shores and rocky coasts of the western seaboard or the majestic mountain ranges of the west but in its own way it is profound and even grand.&nbsp; From the picturesque rolling hills with meandering streams and perfectly round knolls dotting the Smoky Hills, to the incredible sea of grass that extends to the omnipresent horizon of western Kansas, it offers a beauty, sometimes Zen-like sometimes harsh, but always unique and moving to those who have the eyes to see. The artists in the byways exhibit have those exceptional eyes, and their looking has paid off in unique and thoughtful works of art.”

Barnes added that he likes to work alongside like-minded creative organizations as it helps to broaden the horizons of not only the patrons of the Shafer Gallery, but for himself as well.

“It’s great when we can collaborate with sister institutions like the Sandzen Memorial Gallery in Lindsborg and The Hays Art Center to give Barton County folks a chance to experience remarkable art such as this,” he said.

For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Masks are required. Admission is always free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610377461048.jpeg" alt="'Sunset on a Dirt Road' by Shannon Trevethan, Hays" />
 <figcaption>'Sunset on a Dirt Road' by Shannon Trevethan, Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;JOE VINDUSKA Barton Community CollegeGREAT BEND — Kansas has an abundance of natural beauty and the Shafer Gallery at Barton Community College will be celebrating this stunning imagery with its “Kansas Byways” exhibit from Jan. 18 through Feb. 19 with a virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 18 via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/shafergallery" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">facebook.com/shafergallery.</a>The exhibit features artwork developed using the Kansas Scenic Byways system as subject and inspiration and there are twelve recognized byways in Kansas, which are detailed at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.travelks.com/ksbyways" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">travelks.com/ksbyways</a>. Nine of them are scenic, two of which are designated as “National Scenic Byways” and three are historic trails.“The byways are a component of the National Scenic Byways Program, and both “seek to identify and designate national scenic byways to increase tourism and educate the traveling public about our environment, history and culture,” according to the Kansas Office of Tourism &amp; Travel website.&nbsp;The exhibit features invited regional artists who were asked to conceive work that reflects one or more of these designated byways. The show was originally conceived with a generous grant from the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, by the Sandzen Memorial Gallery.Director of the Sandzen Memorial Gallery Ron Michael said the artists were empowered to use their own interpretations.“This exhibition is the result of each artist’s vision, ability, and perseverance to create a work that would be true to the exhibition’s intent,” he said. “The imagery could come from direct observation of the landscape or the personal feelings, mood or memories evoked by their own personal experience of it.”Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he is excited to share this exhibit with patrons.“Some people refer to Kansas as a flyover state or a snooze through state, but if you get off the major ‘superslab’ and explore the smaller highways and byways you will discover no shortage of amazing beauty,” he said. “It’s not always flashy like the sandy shores and rocky coasts of the western seaboard or the majestic mountain ranges of the west but in its own way it is profound and even grand.&nbsp; From the picturesque rolling hills with meandering streams and perfectly round knolls dotting the Smoky Hills, to the incredible sea of grass that extends to the omnipresent horizon of western Kansas, it offers a beauty, sometimes Zen-like sometimes harsh, but always unique and moving to those who have the eyes to see. The artists in the byways exhibit have those exceptional eyes, and their looking has paid off in unique and thoughtful works of art.”Barnes added that he likes to work alongside like-minded creative organizations as it helps to broaden the horizons of not only the patrons of the Shafer Gallery, but for himself as well.“It’s great when we can collaborate with sister institutions like the Sandzen Memorial Gallery in Lindsborg and The Hays Art Center to give Barton County folks a chance to experience remarkable art such as this,” he said.For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Masks are required. Admission is always free.

Hays artist featured in 'Kansas Byways' exhibit at Shafer Art Gallery 

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

K-State Research and Extension will host the 18th annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on Tuesday, January 19, from 1 to 5 pm (CST) in an online format.

Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the central High Plains region.

The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year it will feature a shorter, half-day format with university specialists discussing the following topics:

The sessions will be streamed live via Zoom and YouTube from 1:00 to 5:00 pm CST.&nbsp; Attendees will be able to submit questions on those platforms and via email.&nbsp; Additionally, locations have been established where attendees can participate in the conference while taking appropriate COVID precautions:

Current Locations to Participate-in-Person (COVID precautions must be followed)

There is no charge for the conference thanks to our sponsors, however attendees do need to register regardless if they are participating at their own home/office or at one of the watch locations.

To view the conference details and for online registration, visit <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>. &nbsp;For questions, call 785-462-6281.

Premier sponsors of this year’s conference include American Ag Labs, Hoxie Implement, Bayer Crop Science, Lang Diesel, National Sunflower Association, AKRS Equipment Solutions, and SureFire Ag Systems. &nbsp;CCA credits have been applied for.

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/2021/1/1610555002704.jpeg" alt="CYA logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>CYA logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictK-State Research and Extension will host the 18th annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on Tuesday, January 19, from 1 to 5 pm (CST) in an online format.Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the central High Plains region.The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year it will feature a shorter, half-day format with university specialists discussing the following topics:<ul>
 <li>Water Use of Weeds in Dryland Systems, 
Jourdan Bell, Texas A&amp;M Panhandle Agronomist, Amarillo 
&nbsp;</li><li>Current Weed Control Research in Western Kansas 
Vipan Kumar, Weed Scientist, K-State Ag Research Center, Hays 
&nbsp;</li><li>Managing the Highs and Lows of Soil pH 
Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, Soil Fertility Specialist, K-State Dept. of Agronomy, Manhattan 
&nbsp;</li><li>Economics of Dryland Rotations and Tillage Systems 
Lucas Haag, Area Agronomist, K-State Northwest Research-Extension Center, Colby 
&nbsp;</li><li>New Frontiers in Sorghum Weed Control 
Sarah Lancaster, Weed Management Specialist, K-State Dept. of Agronomy, Manhattan</li>
 </ul>The sessions will be streamed live via Zoom and YouTube from 1:00 to 5:00 pm CST.&nbsp; Attendees will be able to submit questions on those platforms and via email.&nbsp; Additionally, locations have been established where attendees can participate in the conference while taking appropriate COVID precautions:Current Locations to Participate-in-Person (COVID precautions must be followed)<ul>
 <li>Finney County - Fairgrounds, Grandstand Meeting Room</li><li>Ness County - Fairgrounds, 4-H Building</li><li>Norton County - Fairgrounds, 4-H Building</li><li>Scott County - Fairgrounds, Wm. Carpenter 4-H Building</li><li>Stevens County - Extension Office Mtg. Room, 114 East 5th, Hugoton</li>
 </ul>There is no charge for the conference thanks to our sponsors, however attendees do need to register regardless if they are participating at their own home/office or at one of the watch locations.To view the conference details and for online registration, visit <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>. &nbsp;For questions, call 785-462-6281.Premier sponsors of this year’s conference include American Ag Labs, Hoxie Implement, Bayer Crop Science, Lang Diesel, National Sunflower Association, AKRS Equipment Solutions, and SureFire Ag Systems. &nbsp;CCA credits have been applied for.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: Cover Your Acres Winter Conference goes virtual

As our day to day schedule continues to be affected by the COVID pandemic, my hope is that you are staying well and finding ways to calm your mind and body each day. It is easy to get overloaded with news stories that we have no control over. Taking time each day for what I call “self-care” is more important than ever. Carving out time for whatever brings you peace of mind may look different for you than it does for me. Those of you who know me, can guess that part of my self-care includes a bike ride, &nbsp; every chance I get.

A “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” (pronounced Doe-een) class is set to begin February 2nd at the Great Bend Activity Center. The class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through February 18th.&nbsp; A $10 fee paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend will hold your spot.&nbsp; Due to COVID restrictions, class size is limited to ten participants. If you are reading this and have an interest in learning more about meditation and do-in exercises but are not quite comfortable with a face to face class there is an alternative. A link to the recorded session titled, Everyday Mindfulness, can be found on our Cottonwood Extension District web page <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; Click on the Health and Nutrition link on the left side of the front page and you will see the Everyday Mindfulness link.

This was a recording I was asked to do at one of our agent updates. Extension colleagues, Charlotte Shoup-Olsen and Debra Bolton, join me as we share the benefits of taking deep breaths and clearing the many thoughts racing through our minds. About 31 minutes into the recording, my husband, John, a retired chiropractor with extensive training in acupuncture, leads the short meditation and Do-In&nbsp; exercises.

Mindfulness was a hot topic before the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. I encourage you to take time to read the “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet I helped write a couple of years ago. It highlights the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:

If you are interested in checking out the fact sheet and leaders guide, it can be found on the KSRE web site. You can search by the publication title, “Everyday Mindfulness” or publication numbers MF3424 and MF3425.

Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>As our day to day schedule continues to be affected by the COVID pandemic, my hope is that you are staying well and finding ways to calm your mind and body each day. It is easy to get overloaded with news stories that we have no control over. Taking time each day for what I call “self-care” is more important than ever. Carving out time for whatever brings you peace of mind may look different for you than it does for me. Those of you who know me, can guess that part of my self-care includes a bike ride, &nbsp; every chance I get.A “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” (pronounced Doe-een) class is set to begin February 2nd at the Great Bend Activity Center. The class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through February 18th.&nbsp; A $10 fee paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend will hold your spot.&nbsp; Due to COVID restrictions, class size is limited to ten participants. If you are reading this and have an interest in learning more about meditation and do-in exercises but are not quite comfortable with a face to face class there is an alternative. A link to the recorded session titled, Everyday Mindfulness, can be found on our Cottonwood Extension District web page <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; Click on the Health and Nutrition link on the left side of the front page and you will see the Everyday Mindfulness link.This was a recording I was asked to do at one of our agent updates. Extension colleagues, Charlotte Shoup-Olsen and Debra Bolton, join me as we share the benefits of taking deep breaths and clearing the many thoughts racing through our minds. About 31 minutes into the recording, my husband, John, a retired chiropractor with extensive training in acupuncture, leads the short meditation and Do-In&nbsp; exercises.Mindfulness was a hot topic before the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. I encourage you to take time to read the “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet I helped write a couple of years ago. It highlights the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:<ul>
 <li>Increased ability to relax</li><li>Improved concentration</li><li>Increased energy and enthusiasm for life</li><li>Increased creativity</li><li>Increased self-awareness</li><li>Improved self-esteem</li><li>Improved work/school performance</li>
 </ul>If you are interested in checking out the fact sheet and leaders guide, it can be found on the KSRE web site. You can search by the publication title, “Everyday Mindfulness” or publication numbers MF3424 and MF3425.Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Practice mindfulness every day

For the first time this season the TMP-Marian basketball teams are at home as they play host to the Ellis Railroaders in the Battle of Big Creek.

&nbsp;The girls game is set to start at 6 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show at 5:40 on KHAZ.

For the first time this season the TMP-Marian basketball teams are at home as they play host to the Ellis Railroaders in the Battle of Big Creek.&nbsp;The girls game is set to start at 6 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show at 5:40 on KHAZ.Girls game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iBpgGa1X9rA"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Boys game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wGc-VdOuJEc"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

 🏀WATCH: TMP-Marian vs Ellis

The Hays High basketball teams host the Garden City Buffaloes Friday night for a WAC matchup.

The girls game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow. The pregame show is set for 5:40 p.m.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;You can also listen to the games on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

The Hays High basketball teams host the Garden City Buffaloes Friday night for a WAC matchup.The girls game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow. The pregame show is set for 5:40 p.m.Girls game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fKSCzGcQP94"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Boys game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1dCT9dqx90U"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;You can also listen to the games on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

 🏀WATCH: Hays High v Garden City

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained flat at nine.

The department also reported two additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 46.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/">RELATED: Vaccine information for state of Kansas</a>

There were 13 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 108 active cases, including five active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,206 recovered cases.

As of Friday, there were 19 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 22 on Thursday, with 17 of those cases active and two in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from 11.6 percent on Wednesday to 10 percent on Friday.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,360 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 46 coronavirus-related deaths.

NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610734374904.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: Jan. 15, 2021" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/7waw3-f7acc6?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained flat at nine.The department also reported two additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total to 46.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/">RELATED: Vaccine information for state of Kansas</a>There were 13 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 108 active cases, including five active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,206 recovered cases.As of Friday, there were 19 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 22 on Thursday, with 17 of those cases active and two in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from 11.6 percent on Wednesday to 10 percent on Friday.Since reporting began, there have been 3,360 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 46 coronavirus-related deaths.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610745792078.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnw0R-SGsnA"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 13 new cases of COVID-19 in Ellis Co.; two additional deaths reported

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Last year was unprecedented for the city of Hays because of the coronavirus pandemic and throughout it all, Shaun Musil served as mayor.&nbsp;

"We disagreed.&nbsp;We worked it out. And that's what I think true government should be," Musil said after thanking the other city commissioners for working together as a team in 2020.&nbsp;

"We don't always have to agree, but at the end of the day, we do it for our community," Musil added.

The city commission was reorganized Thursday night, with Vice-Mayor Sandy Jacobs appointed as mayor by the commission to serve in 2021. Mason Ruder was appointed vice-mayor.

Musil admitted he was "scared to death" in making some of the calls he did regarding the city's response to the outbreak but said "the people came out of the woodwork thanking us, not just me, for what we did. You made it all worth it," Musil told the other commissioners.&nbsp;

Residents for and against COVID restrictions appeared before the commission at several meetings.&nbsp;

Commissioners voted 4-1 last summer to implement a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/78a708f5-4f1e-401f-9bd3-85c618edb4de">face covering ordinance</a> in effect from July 27 to August 30, 2020.&nbsp;

Following a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/71b2e036-1db2-45b6-86a9-c9d86520f000">contentious meeting</a> with protestors gathered outside city hall on August 27, a 3-2 vote extended the ordinance through Oct. 5.&nbsp;

The following Saturday morning, Mayor Musil woke up to find his family's three <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b6b545b-0f8f-43fd-936e-fcd6d851e41a">vehicles vandalized</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At a special meeting on Oct. 2, the commission voted 3-1 to again&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b927d4eb-e1b4-4c57-bc57-56ad4e14516e">extend the face mask mandate</a> in Hays, but this time it was until certain metrics are met.&nbsp;

The ordinance now will be lifted if the seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County is at five or fewer for 14 consecutive days, as reported by Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy — or if Gov. Laura Kelly's statewide emergency declaration is lifted.&nbsp;

Neither situation has happened so far, even as <a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hays/posts/ab969163-2f2c-46c4-9982-65dea3a47e4d">rollout of the coronavirus vaccine </a>is underway in Ellis County and across Kansas.

Musil also thanked city staff and employees.

No essential city services have had to be cut back or shut down to date, although public access has been denied to most city buildings at times since last March.

Musil's wife Heather was in the commission chamber and he left his seat to give her a hug.

"There's many things that happened to my family this year that without Heather over there, I never would have made it," he said.

Shaun and Heather Musil are co-owners of the downtown Hays business Paisley Pear, which was affected by the governor's emergency declaration of business shutdowns in Kansas early in the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The five members of the Musil family have experienced the coronavirus and quarantines.

The commission was able to conduct business as usual in 2020, despite the pandemic.

Newly-appointed Mayor Jacobs listed many of the city's accomplishments last year and thanked Musil for his leadership "from the heart."

Among the major projects the commission supported or approved in 2020 are the construction start of the North Vine Street traffic roundabouts, new playground shelters at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, the Arc Park splash pad, the development agreement, CID and TIF for a travel plaza on Interstate 70 on the west side of Hays, and an RHID for the Tallgrass Addition for workforce housing.

"None of us will know if what we did is right or wrong for 10 or 15 years or even longer," Musil said, "but I feel like we did the right thing."

* Approved a letter of support to the Federal Aviation Administration for a three-year Essential Air Contract with SkyWest/United Airlines to provide commercial passenger service at the airport.

* Heard an update on progress of the North Vine Street Improvement Corridor Project which is 40 percent complete as construction enters the winter months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610676288843.jpeg" alt="Sandy Jacobs was appointed mayor and Mason Ruder as vice-mayor during Thursday's reorganization of the Hays city commission. Brandon Cooley, Convention and Visitors Bureau videographer, aligns commissioners for their official portrait after the meeting." />
 <figcaption>Sandy Jacobs was appointed mayor and Mason Ruder as vice-mayor during Thursday's reorganization of the Hays city commission. Brandon Cooley, Convention and Visitors Bureau videographer, aligns commissioners for their official portrait after the meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostLast year was unprecedented for the city of Hays because of the coronavirus pandemic and throughout it all, Shaun Musil served as mayor.&nbsp;"We disagreed.&nbsp;We worked it out. And that's what I think true government should be," Musil said after thanking the other city commissioners for working together as a team in 2020.&nbsp;"We don't always have to agree, but at the end of the day, we do it for our community," Musil added.The city commission was reorganized Thursday night, with Vice-Mayor Sandy Jacobs appointed as mayor by the commission to serve in 2021. Mason Ruder was appointed vice-mayor.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X-hX05VkIE4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Musil admitted he was "scared to death" in making some of the calls he did regarding the city's response to the outbreak but said "the people came out of the woodwork thanking us, not just me, for what we did. You made it all worth it," Musil told the other commissioners.&nbsp;Residents for and against COVID restrictions appeared before the commission at several meetings.&nbsp;Commissioners voted 4-1 last summer to implement a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/78a708f5-4f1e-401f-9bd3-85c618edb4de">face covering ordinance</a> in effect from July 27 to August 30, 2020.&nbsp;Following a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/71b2e036-1db2-45b6-86a9-c9d86520f000">contentious meeting</a> with protestors gathered outside city hall on August 27, a 3-2 vote extended the ordinance through Oct. 5.&nbsp; The following Saturday morning, Mayor Musil woke up to find his family's three <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b6b545b-0f8f-43fd-936e-fcd6d851e41a">vehicles vandalized</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;At a special meeting on Oct. 2, the commission voted 3-1 to again&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b927d4eb-e1b4-4c57-bc57-56ad4e14516e">extend the face mask mandate</a> in Hays, but this time it was until certain metrics are met.&nbsp;The ordinance now will be lifted if the seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County is at five or fewer for 14 consecutive days, as reported by Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy — or if Gov. Laura Kelly's statewide emergency declaration is lifted.&nbsp;Neither situation has happened so far, even as <a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hays/posts/ab969163-2f2c-46c4-9982-65dea3a47e4d">rollout of the coronavirus vaccine </a>is underway in Ellis County and across Kansas.Musil also thanked city staff and employees.No essential city services have had to be cut back or shut down to date, although public access has been denied to most city buildings at times since last March.Musil's wife Heather was in the commission chamber and he left his seat to give her a hug.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610684405992.jpeg" alt="Past Hays Mayor Shaun Musil hugs his wife Heather and thanks her for her support in the pandemic tumult of last year during Thursday's city commission meeting.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Past Hays Mayor Shaun Musil hugs his wife Heather and thanks her for her support in the pandemic tumult of last year during Thursday's city commission meeting.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"There's many things that happened to my family this year that without Heather over there, I never would have made it," he said.Shaun and Heather Musil are co-owners of the downtown Hays business Paisley Pear, which was affected by the governor's emergency declaration of business shutdowns in Kansas early in the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;The five members of the Musil family have experienced the coronavirus and quarantines.The commission was able to conduct business as usual in 2020, despite the pandemic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610675356581.jpeg" alt="Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Mason Ruder, vice-mayor will serve in those positions during 2021." />
 <figcaption>Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Mason Ruder, vice-mayor will serve in those positions during 2021.</figcaption>
 </figure>Newly-appointed Mayor Jacobs listed many of the city's accomplishments last year and thanked Musil for his leadership "from the heart."Among the major projects the commission supported or approved in 2020 are the construction start of the North Vine Street traffic roundabouts, new playground shelters at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, the Arc Park splash pad, the development agreement, CID and TIF for a travel plaza on Interstate 70 on the west side of Hays, and an RHID for the Tallgrass Addition for workforce housing."None of us will know if what we did is right or wrong for 10 or 15 years or even longer," Musil said, "but I feel like we did the right thing."In other business, the commission:* Approved a letter of support to the Federal Aviation Administration for a three-year Essential Air Contract with SkyWest/United Airlines to provide commercial passenger service at the airport.* Heard an update on progress of the North Vine Street Improvement Corridor Project which is 40 percent complete as construction enters the winter months.

🎥 City commission reorganized; past mayor Musil thankful for support during pandemic 

CASA of the High Plains received a $1,000 donation from the Midwest Energy Community Fund Fall disbursement.

These funds were used to create a Board Game Library for CASA volunteers.

With Midwest Energy’s help, 81 board and card games were purchased to fill the cabinet.

Games range in age level, starting with as young as 2 years old.&nbsp; The Board Game Library is accessible to all CASA volunteers to check out games to take while visiting children.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CASA recruits, trains and supports volunteers to advocate for the best interest of children in need.

One way CASA supports volunteers is by providing activities and resources to aid in building a life-long, positive connections.

To get involved, contact CASA’s office at 785-628-8641 or casahighplains@kansascasa.org.

The Midwest Energy Community Fund was created in 2005, and provides funds to activities that focus on youth, arts, education, libraries, community events and similar projects.&nbsp; Five committees of Midwest Energy customers determine who receives the awards ranging from $50 to $1,000.

The Midwest Community Fund awards grants twice a year. Application deadlines are March 1 and Oct. 1. Applications are being accepted now for disbursements in spring 2021.&nbsp; Interested organizations should visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com">www.mwenergy.com</a>, and click on the “Community” tab for guidelines and an application.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610488115579.jpeg" alt="With Midwest Energy’s help, CASA purchased 81 board and card games for its new Board Game Library." />
 <figcaption>With Midwest Energy’s help, CASA purchased 81 board and card games for its new Board Game Library.</figcaption>
 </figure>CASACASA of the High Plains received a $1,000 donation from the Midwest Energy Community Fund Fall disbursement.These funds were used to create a Board Game Library for CASA volunteers.With Midwest Energy’s help, 81 board and card games were purchased to fill the cabinet.Games range in age level, starting with as young as 2 years old.&nbsp; The Board Game Library is accessible to all CASA volunteers to check out games to take while visiting children.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610488086400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CASA recruits, trains and supports volunteers to advocate for the best interest of children in need.One way CASA supports volunteers is by providing activities and resources to aid in building a life-long, positive connections.To get involved, contact CASA’s office at 785-628-8641 or casahighplains@kansascasa.org.The Midwest Energy Community Fund was created in 2005, and provides funds to activities that focus on youth, arts, education, libraries, community events and similar projects.&nbsp; Five committees of Midwest Energy customers determine who receives the awards ranging from $50 to $1,000.The Midwest Community Fund awards grants twice a year. Application deadlines are March 1 and Oct. 1. Applications are being accepted now for disbursements in spring 2021.&nbsp; Interested organizations should visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com">www.mwenergy.com</a>, and click on the “Community” tab for guidelines and an application.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610488312479.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

CASA uses Midwest Energy grant to create Board Game Library

BUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS will be broadcasting&nbsp;Thof’s Dragon&nbsp;on Thursday, Jan. 21, at 7 p.m.&nbsp; This film was produced by Brenda Tropf, Deb Goodrich and the Fort Wallace Museum in Wallace County.

Thof's Dragon is an exciting historical documentary about a young Army captain’s scientific discovery in Kansas in 1867.&nbsp; The young soldier was Theophilus Turner, also known as Thof.&nbsp;

With no paleontology experience, he found the first major fossil from Kansas.&nbsp; His discovery of the Elasmosaurus Platyurus is now on display in the Fort Wallace Museum in Wallace, Kansas.

To learn more about Turner’s amazing discovery, tune in to Smoky Hills PBS on January 21 at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610548800059.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS will be broadcasting&nbsp;Thof’s Dragon&nbsp;on Thursday, Jan. 21, at 7 p.m.&nbsp; This film was produced by Brenda Tropf, Deb Goodrich and the Fort Wallace Museum in Wallace County.Thof's Dragon is an exciting historical documentary about a young Army captain’s scientific discovery in Kansas in 1867.&nbsp; The young soldier was Theophilus Turner, also known as Thof.&nbsp; With no paleontology experience, he found the first major fossil from Kansas.&nbsp; His discovery of the Elasmosaurus Platyurus is now on display in the Fort Wallace Museum in Wallace, Kansas.To learn more about Turner’s amazing discovery, tune in to Smoky Hills PBS on January 21 at 7 p.m.You can also stream our channel here:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream/" target="_blank">video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information click here:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/wKigucmOZjA" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/wKigucmOZjA</a>.

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