TOPEKA—Kansas Court of Appeals judges will hear appeals by videoconference Monday, Aug. 10. The oral arguments will be&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/cMnNBXXjyG39_TRJHMotaVOhk5CygdZ3FdGlK_ja49M" target="_blank">livestreamed on YouTube</a>.

Judge Stephen Hill is the presiding judge and is joined by Judge Thomas Malone and Senior Judge Richard Walker for the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/cMnNBXXjyG39_TRJHMotaQbiT3eXwMFQZmvvA1lbCzg" target="_blank">August 10 docket</a>.

9 a.m.&nbsp;•&nbsp;August 10, 2020

Appeal No. 120,054:&nbsp;Denise Ann Roenne, Jeanette Marie Miller, Mark Benton Miller and Justin Miller v. Lawrence Bradley Miller and Amy Starr Miller

Rooks County: This action involves a testamentary trust that held royalty interests in certain oil leases. The beneficiaries of the trust were five siblings—the parties to this suit. The defendant, Brad Miller, was also named the trustee. The four plaintiffs sued Brad and his wife after learning Brad had conveyed all the trust assets to himself. The district court ruled Brad did not breach his fiduciary duties as trustee because the trust gave him absolute discretion over the trust. The plaintiffs appeal from that judgment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592516692814.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OJATOPEKA—Kansas Court of Appeals judges will hear appeals by videoconference Monday, Aug. 10. The oral arguments will be&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/cMnNBXXjyG39_TRJHMotaVOhk5CygdZ3FdGlK_ja49M" target="_blank">livestreamed on YouTube</a>.Judge Stephen Hill is the presiding judge and is joined by Judge Thomas Malone and Senior Judge Richard Walker for the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/cMnNBXXjyG39_TRJHMotaQbiT3eXwMFQZmvvA1lbCzg" target="_blank">August 10 docket</a>.9 a.m.&nbsp;•&nbsp;August 10, 2020Appeal No. 120,054:&nbsp;Denise Ann Roenne, Jeanette Marie Miller, Mark Benton Miller and Justin Miller v. Lawrence Bradley Miller and Amy Starr MillerRooks County: This action involves a testamentary trust that held royalty interests in certain oil leases. The beneficiaries of the trust were five siblings—the parties to this suit. The defendant, Brad Miller, was also named the trustee. The four plaintiffs sued Brad and his wife after learning Brad had conveyed all the trust assets to himself. The district court ruled Brad did not breach his fiduciary duties as trustee because the trust gave him absolute discretion over the trust. The plaintiffs appeal from that judgment.

Rooks Co. case to be heard by Kansas Court of Appeals via video

	When we turned the calendar to August it can mean only one thing; school bells will be ringing soon. The challenges that COVID19 has brought to our school boards and administrators are many, but in the end, children need to continue learning in whichever format is available. With the start of another school year, it is the perfect time to call a family meeting and get everyone on board with the new routine.

	Research shows that kids ages 3 to 6 need ten to twelve hours of sleep each day. As youngsters begin pre-school or the early grades it is important to have a set bedtime with a routine that encourages success. Perhaps you want to target 8 p.m. as bedtime. If so you will want to begin the wind down process around 7. Perhaps a warm bath and bed time story would help your child to relax. Planning what will be worn the next day or eaten for breakfast also encourages a less hectic morning when the alarm goes off. Whatever you want to adopt as a routine, now is a good time to start working toward your final goal. If the summer schedule has been lax, start moving the bedtime up a few minutes each day until your target is reached. That should help make the first day of school a success.

	As families strive to get the school year off to a good start, the morning rush can create a huge obstacle. Whether your kids catch an early morning bus, if you provide the ride, or if they bike or walk to school, make sure time is set aside to eat a healthy breakfast. It has long been reported that eating breakfast is a good thing – first by moms, and then backed up by numerous research studies. Nutrition educators have shown that eating breakfast is important to weight control. It also helps youngsters perform better in school.

	If you live close enough to school, perhaps your child can walk or bike safely to school. Research shows that starting your day with some physical activity (i.e. walking to school) encourages better concentration and behavior in the classroom. If your schedule allows it, do a trial run with your child; either walking or biking on a safe route to the front door of the school.&nbsp;

	Here’s hoping your school year gets off to a great start!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>	When we turned the calendar to August it can mean only one thing; school bells will be ringing soon. The challenges that COVID19 has brought to our school boards and administrators are many, but in the end, children need to continue learning in whichever format is available. With the start of another school year, it is the perfect time to call a family meeting and get everyone on board with the new routine.	Research shows that kids ages 3 to 6 need ten to twelve hours of sleep each day. As youngsters begin pre-school or the early grades it is important to have a set bedtime with a routine that encourages success. Perhaps you want to target 8 p.m. as bedtime. If so you will want to begin the wind down process around 7. Perhaps a warm bath and bed time story would help your child to relax. Planning what will be worn the next day or eaten for breakfast also encourages a less hectic morning when the alarm goes off. Whatever you want to adopt as a routine, now is a good time to start working toward your final goal. If the summer schedule has been lax, start moving the bedtime up a few minutes each day until your target is reached. That should help make the first day of school a success.	As families strive to get the school year off to a good start, the morning rush can create a huge obstacle. Whether your kids catch an early morning bus, if you provide the ride, or if they bike or walk to school, make sure time is set aside to eat a healthy breakfast. It has long been reported that eating breakfast is a good thing – first by moms, and then backed up by numerous research studies. Nutrition educators have shown that eating breakfast is important to weight control. It also helps youngsters perform better in school.	If you live close enough to school, perhaps your child can walk or bike safely to school. Research shows that starting your day with some physical activity (i.e. walking to school) encourages better concentration and behavior in the classroom. If your schedule allows it, do a trial run with your child; either walking or biking on a safe route to the front door of the school.&nbsp;	Here’s hoping your school year gets off to a great start!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Settling in to the school routine

Three-day weather outlook

&nbsp;By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

“Let’s go one lap around.” That sounds easy. But what if that one lap didn’t refer to the local walking track? What if it referred to one lap – around the entire globe? This week, we’ll meet a young Kansas couple who took on the amazing goal of circumnavigating the globe by themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heidi Plumb and Kale Dankenbring are the remarkable young couple who made this amazing journey. Heidi grew up near Dallas. Kale grew up at St. Francis, Kansas. He studied information technology at Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, a rural community of 4,489 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

After graduation, Kale’s IT career took him to Phoenix where he met Heidi. The two shared lots of interests, including nutrition, coffee and travel. They had an incredible idea: What if they could travel around the world on a shoestring budget?&nbsp;&nbsp;

They got married, prepared their travel plans, finished up their jobs and sold their belongings. On May 17, 2011, they left to visit family in Kansas and Texas before flying to New York for the transcontinental flight to Ireland.&nbsp;

This trip would ultimately include the proverbial planes, trains and automobiles, plus buses, boats, bicycles, scooters, hitch-hiking, rickshaws and even camels.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Ireland, they did sight-seeing around Dublin, Cork and Killarney. They found that the private hotel room which they had booked online was no longer available, so they ended up sharing a room with another couple – who snored. Later conditions would be much worse. They did see magnificent cathedrals, beautiful countryside, lots of sheep, and fascinating people.&nbsp;

They took the ferry to Wales and stayed in London for a month, sightseeing and traveling to Scotland.&nbsp;

From London, they flew to Luxor, Egypt. They spent a week in Cairo, saw the pyramids and walked along the Nile River before flying to Mumbai. They stayed on the beach and then moved to the Himalayan region.&nbsp;

Kale suggested they find some sort of volunteer service which they could perform while in the country. They found such an opportunity through&nbsp;<a href="http://www.workaway.info/">www.workaway.info</a>. On this site, they learned about a remote school near the Himalayas where they could teach classes for room and board. Heidi taught English, and Kale taught math and science to kids ages four to 10. The students were from very poor, rural families. Heidi and Kale would teach there for about a month.&nbsp;

Heidi wrote in their blog: “This experience makes me think of how fortunate our kids (are) in America and other western societies as a whole … . The kids here got extremely excited when we brought out a basketball during playtime. Even though there was no hoop, just the chance at kicking or throwing a ball around was pure happiness to them. They are so grateful for such simple offerings … for every drawing we make, for every game we play, for every song we sing and for every word we teach them.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

One day while at a coffee shop in Pushkar, India, Kale and Heidi got to talking about having a coffee roastery of their own. One thing led to another, and they learned about an abandoned building which was for sale in Kale’s hometown. It could serve as a site for their motorcycle shop and apartment as well as a base for their coffee roastery trailer. They bought the building sight unseen and made plans to return to the United States.&nbsp;

First, they went to Nepal and flew over Mount Everest before stopping in Bangkok and having a layover in Japan on their way home. By the date of Heidi’s birthday in December 2011, they were back in the USA.&nbsp;

They went one lap around – not just the track, but around the world. We commend Kale Dankenbring and Heidi Plumb for making a difference by teaching in an impoverished region of the world. As Heidi wrote of her students: “Their confidence, happy smiles and genuine laughter is proof that the school is changing these children’s lives for the better and expanding their opportunities by providing an excellent education.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

And there’s more. What about that roastery back home? We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596633654531.png" alt="Heidi Plumb and Kale Dankenbring" />
 <figcaption>Heidi Plumb and Kale Dankenbring</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Let’s go one lap around.” That sounds easy. But what if that one lap didn’t refer to the local walking track? What if it referred to one lap – around the entire globe? This week, we’ll meet a young Kansas couple who took on the amazing goal of circumnavigating the globe by themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Heidi Plumb and Kale Dankenbring are the remarkable young couple who made this amazing journey. Heidi grew up near Dallas. Kale grew up at St. Francis, Kansas. He studied information technology at Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, a rural community of 4,489 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;After graduation, Kale’s IT career took him to Phoenix where he met Heidi. The two shared lots of interests, including nutrition, coffee and travel. They had an incredible idea: What if they could travel around the world on a shoestring budget?&nbsp;&nbsp;They made it happen.&nbsp;They got married, prepared their travel plans, finished up their jobs and sold their belongings. On May 17, 2011, they left to visit family in Kansas and Texas before flying to New York for the transcontinental flight to Ireland.&nbsp;This trip would ultimately include the proverbial planes, trains and automobiles, plus buses, boats, bicycles, scooters, hitch-hiking, rickshaws and even camels.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In Ireland, they did sight-seeing around Dublin, Cork and Killarney. They found that the private hotel room which they had booked online was no longer available, so they ended up sharing a room with another couple – who snored. Later conditions would be much worse. They did see magnificent cathedrals, beautiful countryside, lots of sheep, and fascinating people.&nbsp;They took the ferry to Wales and stayed in London for a month, sightseeing and traveling to Scotland.&nbsp;From London, they flew to Luxor, Egypt. They spent a week in Cairo, saw the pyramids and walked along the Nile River before flying to Mumbai. They stayed on the beach and then moved to the Himalayan region.&nbsp;Kale suggested they find some sort of volunteer service which they could perform while in the country. They found such an opportunity through&nbsp;<a href="http://www.workaway.info/">www.workaway.info</a>. On this site, they learned about a remote school near the Himalayas where they could teach classes for room and board. Heidi taught English, and Kale taught math and science to kids ages four to 10. The students were from very poor, rural families. Heidi and Kale would teach there for about a month.&nbsp;Heidi wrote in their blog: “This experience makes me think of how fortunate our kids (are) in America and other western societies as a whole … . The kids here got extremely excited when we brought out a basketball during playtime. Even though there was no hoop, just the chance at kicking or throwing a ball around was pure happiness to them. They are so grateful for such simple offerings … for every drawing we make, for every game we play, for every song we sing and for every word we teach them.”&nbsp;&nbsp;One day while at a coffee shop in Pushkar, India, Kale and Heidi got to talking about having a coffee roastery of their own. One thing led to another, and they learned about an abandoned building which was for sale in Kale’s hometown. It could serve as a site for their motorcycle shop and apartment as well as a base for their coffee roastery trailer. They bought the building sight unseen and made plans to return to the United States.&nbsp;First, they went to Nepal and flew over Mount Everest before stopping in Bangkok and having a layover in Japan on their way home. By the date of Heidi’s birthday in December 2011, they were back in the USA.&nbsp;They went one lap around – not just the track, but around the world. We commend Kale Dankenbring and Heidi Plumb for making a difference by teaching in an impoverished region of the world. As Heidi wrote of her students: “Their confidence, happy smiles and genuine laughter is proof that the school is changing these children’s lives for the better and expanding their opportunities by providing an excellent education.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And there’s more. What about that roastery back home? We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Kale Dankenbring and Heidi Plumb, Part 1

Each August, Earth passes through a stream of dust and debris left behind by the Swift-Tuttle Comet. With perfect weather conditions and no light pollution from the moon, the Perseid meteor shower can produce up to 100 shooting stars an hour.&nbsp; Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center will host its annual Perseid meteor shower watch party Friday, Aug. 14, from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Join Wetlands staff for a night of activities, crafts, and shooting stars. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the night sky.&nbsp; Come make an Alka-Seltzer rocket, explore how the chemical composition of a meteor affects its color, create a colorful planetary craft, discover if gravity makes a difference in plant growth, and view the constellations and hear the mythology behind them during a planetarium show. Actual meteorite specimens will be on display on loan from the FHSU Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp; Due to Covid-19, the event may change as needed. Masks are required inside the KWEC. There will not be a Hershey S’mores station this year, but a celestial pre-packaged snack will be available.&nbsp; The KWEC is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms,&nbsp;592 NE K-156 HWY, Great Bend, KS 67530.&nbsp; For more information, visit its website at&nbsp;<a href="http://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596467237321.jpeg" alt="KWEC is hosting a Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party Aug. 14 with planetarium shows, crafts, and science experiments. " />
 <figcaption>KWEC is hosting a Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party Aug. 14 with planetarium shows, crafts, and science experiments. </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsEach August, Earth passes through a stream of dust and debris left behind by the Swift-Tuttle Comet. With perfect weather conditions and no light pollution from the moon, the Perseid meteor shower can produce up to 100 shooting stars an hour.&nbsp; Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center will host its annual Perseid meteor shower watch party Friday, Aug. 14, from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Join Wetlands staff for a night of activities, crafts, and shooting stars. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the night sky.&nbsp; Come make an Alka-Seltzer rocket, explore how the chemical composition of a meteor affects its color, create a colorful planetary craft, discover if gravity makes a difference in plant growth, and view the constellations and hear the mythology behind them during a planetarium show. Actual meteorite specimens will be on display on loan from the FHSU Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp; Due to Covid-19, the event may change as needed. Masks are required inside the KWEC. There will not be a Hershey S’mores station this year, but a celestial pre-packaged snack will be available.&nbsp; The KWEC is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms,&nbsp;592 NE K-156 HWY, Great Bend, KS 67530.&nbsp; For more information, visit its website at&nbsp;<a href="http://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.&nbsp;

Kansas Wetlands Education Center annual meteor shower watch party

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced that four new cases of COVID-19 have been identified in the county since Wednesday.

According to the health department, there are now 13 active coronavirus cases, with two active hospitalizations, and 127 recovered cases.

Since reporting began, there has been 141 cases of COVID-19 in Ellis County, including one death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced that four new cases of COVID-19 have been identified in the county since Wednesday.According to the health department, there are now 13 active coronavirus cases, with two active hospitalizations, and 127 recovered cases.Since reporting began, there has been 141 cases of COVID-19 in Ellis County, including one death.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596824125959.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Four new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis Co.

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The city of Hays has had less feedback than it anticipated about the mandatory mask ordinance in effect from July 27 to Aug. 31.

The response has been mixed, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, who said&nbsp; there were quite a few phone calls to city officials the first day the ordinance was in place — but those have dropped off since then.

"Right now, we’re taking an educational approach—voluntary compliance," Bielser said.

People in Hays are required to wear a face covering inside any indoor public space where distancing of 6 feet is not possible.

"There is an email — masks@haysusa.com — where you can report or ask questions of the police department," Bielser said.

"I’m aware that they’ve responded to two or three incidents at private businesses for trespassing because of refusing to wear a mask.”

Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor, said she has received support
from residents since the city’s face mask ordinance went into effect.

"We all know it was a challenging issue," she said during Thursday's city commission work session. "I've had more emails and handwritten notes, which nobody takes the time to write any more, thanking the commission for what we did."

Jacobs recalled what Commissioner Michael Berges said during their discussion prior to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/78a708f5-4f1e-401f-9bd3-85c618edb4de">approving the ordinance</a>&nbsp;on July 23.

"You said the worse that can happen is that is an inconvenience.&nbsp; The best that can happen is that we're going to keep somebody alive," Jacobs said.

There are 10 exemptions to the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/733/Face-Mask-Ordinance">ordinance</a>, including children
younger than age 8. The ordinance is enforceable inside city limits and at the Hays Regional Airport.

Violators can be <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/3154/Mask-Frequently-Asked-Questions">fined</a>.

Ellis County is one of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/172dfb63-0643-4592-ad45-f1129e6064ff">90 Kansas counties that is not
enforcing</a> the governor’s executive order last month for face coverings in public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596805526389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays has had less feedback than it anticipated about the mandatory mask ordinance in effect from July 27 to Aug. 31.The response has been mixed, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, who said&nbsp; there were quite a few phone calls to city officials the first day the ordinance was in place — but those have dropped off since then."Right now, we’re taking an educational approach—voluntary compliance," Bielser said.People in Hays are required to wear a face covering inside any indoor public space where distancing of 6 feet is not possible.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OZXCwWyX3fA"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"There is an email — masks@haysusa.com — where you can report or ask questions of the police department," Bielser said."I’m aware that they’ve responded to two or three incidents at private businesses for trespassing because of refusing to wear a mask.”Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor, said she has received support
from residents since the city’s face mask ordinance went into effect."We all know it was a challenging issue," she said during Thursday's city commission work session. "I've had more emails and handwritten notes, which nobody takes the time to write any more, thanking the commission for what we did."Jacobs recalled what Commissioner Michael Berges said during their discussion prior to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/78a708f5-4f1e-401f-9bd3-85c618edb4de">approving the ordinance</a>&nbsp;on July 23."You said the worse that can happen is that is an inconvenience.&nbsp; The best that can happen is that we're going to keep somebody alive," Jacobs said.There are 10 exemptions to the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/733/Face-Mask-Ordinance">ordinance</a>, including children
younger than age 8. The ordinance is enforceable inside city limits and at the Hays Regional Airport.Violators can be <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/3154/Mask-Frequently-Asked-Questions">fined</a>.Ellis County is one of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/172dfb63-0643-4592-ad45-f1129e6064ff">90 Kansas counties that is not
enforcing</a> the governor’s executive order last month for face coverings in public.

🎥 Hays officials: Few questions, mixed feedback on face mask ordinance

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, has issued its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Falgae-illness%2Fdownload%2Fmilford-lake-zoned.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C5b4cbf7612974544e7d808d83a4c4bbf%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637323446639377626&amp;sdata=UAkvMcDWNBVfVPG95cKds4sSTtnYyTwsMlLC8GLxokQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Milford Lake</a>&nbsp;Zone B and C,&nbsp;Geary County

Gathering Pond, Geary County (upgraded from watch)

Lovewell Reservoir, Jewell County (new)

Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County (downgraded from warning)

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Falgae-illness%2Fdownload%2Fmilford-lake-zoned.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C5b4cbf7612974544e7d808d83a4c4bbf%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637323446639377626&amp;sdata=UAkvMcDWNBVfVPG95cKds4sSTtnYyTwsMlLC8GLxokQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Milford Lake</a>&nbsp;Zone A, Geary County

South Lake, Johnson County (downgraded from warning)

Unit G Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Area, Linn County

Cheney Reservoir, Reno/Kingman/Sedgwick Counties

Plainville Township Lake – Rooks County (new)

ADVISORIES THAT HAVE BEEN LIFTED EFFECTIVE AUG. 6:

Tomahawk Park Lakes (all three), Johnson County

Rooks State Fishing Lake, Rooks County

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.

Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit <a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm">www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm</a>. KDHE updates the listings of advisories every Thursday but may update more frequently if needed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="Blue-green algae" />
 <figcaption>Blue-green algae</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, has issued its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.WARNING<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Falgae-illness%2Fdownload%2Fmilford-lake-zoned.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C5b4cbf7612974544e7d808d83a4c4bbf%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637323446639377626&amp;sdata=UAkvMcDWNBVfVPG95cKds4sSTtnYyTwsMlLC8GLxokQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Milford Lake</a>&nbsp;Zone B and C,&nbsp;Geary CountyGathering Pond, Geary County (upgraded from watch)Lovewell Reservoir, Jewell County (new)WATCHBrown State Fishing Lake, Brown County (downgraded from warning)Mission Lake, Brown CountyFord State Fishing Lake, Ford County<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Falgae-illness%2Fdownload%2Fmilford-lake-zoned.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C5b4cbf7612974544e7d808d83a4c4bbf%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637323446639377626&amp;sdata=UAkvMcDWNBVfVPG95cKds4sSTtnYyTwsMlLC8GLxokQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Milford Lake</a>&nbsp;Zone A, Geary CountySouth Lake, Johnson County (downgraded from warning)Unit G Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Area, Linn CountyMarion County Lake, Marion CountyMarion Reservoir, Marion County)Overbrook City Lake, Osage CountyCheney Reservoir, Reno/Kingman/Sedgwick CountiesPlainville Township Lake – Rooks County (new)Webster Reservoir, Rooks CountyADVISORIES THAT HAVE BEEN LIFTED EFFECTIVE AUG. 6:Tomahawk Park Lakes (all three), Johnson CountyPeter Pan Pond, Lyon CountyRooks State Fishing Lake, Rooks CountyRock Garden Pond, Shawnee CountyWARNING PROTOCOLSWhen a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.</li>
 </ul>WATCH PROTOCOLSA watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit <a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm">www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm</a>. KDHE updates the listings of advisories every Thursday but may update more frequently if needed.

Algae watch: One Rooks Co. lake added, another removed 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

There is still time to pick up a backpack of school supplies in Hays.

The Backpacks for Kids program, which is sponsored by First Call for Help, handed out backpacks to families who preregistered for the program Thursday.

However, families who did not register can pick up backpacks from 8 a.m. to noon Friday on the south side of the Presbyterian Church,&nbsp;2900 Hall.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Families registered for 318 backpacks this year, which is down from previous years, Schoaff said.&nbsp;

However, First Call packed 777 backpacks to fill the needs for families who may have missed the registration deadline.

If you miss both the distribution days, contact First Call for Help at&nbsp;785-623-2800.&nbsp;

Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school, in both public and private schools, whose families are low-income or who have financial hardships are eligible. No proof of income is required to pickup a backpack.

The backpacks are coordinated for gender and grade. Families can also pickup up hygiene packs and masks for their children during the distribution.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Students in all Hays schools, both public and private, will be required to wear masks this school year.

Hygiene packs include a full bottle of shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and bar of soap. Third graders and older also receive deodorant. The dental items were donated by Delta Dental.

If you did not receive a mask when you picked up your supplies, contact the First Call for Help to arrange to pickup masks for your children. Some families may have been missed early on Thursday morning.

Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help Project coordinator, said COVID-19 limited some of the project's ability to reach families about the program.

Local schools usually send out notes in backpacks about the program, but school was not in session during the spring. The program also diverted some of the funds it usually dedicates to advertising the program to buying supplies because donations were down this year.

However, First Call was able to amass enough supplies to fill all of the backpacks.

First Call for Help modified its distribution process this year, taking in mind COVID-19 precautions. A drive-through system has been set up, and volunteers are wearing masks.

Shoaff said the community was very generous, answering the call to donate hundreds of handmade children's face masks.

The community also stepped up to donate other items, such as wide-ruled notebook paper and colored pencils, which First Call ran short of as the packing process neared completion, Shoaff said.

"I am so excited about the community we live in because we receive so much help from the community. ... I think we are so fortunate to have a welcoming community who cares about each other," Shoaff said.

Eighteen volunteers signed up to help during the two distribution days. A group of Hays High School football players also helped unload the backpacks for First Call for Help.

Quinton McQuire, a HHS sophomore, and Ashton Putz, HHS sophomore, both offered to stay and assist with the backpack distribution.

"Our coach sent out a text yesterday asking for help setting up cones outside," McGuire said. "Then asked if anyone could help today, and I figured I would come out and help the community."

Caitlin Leiker, HHS senior, has been a regular volunteer with First Call for Help. She has helped pack backpacks in past years.

"I wasn't able to participate in the actual giving away of the bags last year," she said, "so I figured I would give it a shot this year. It's been a lot of fun. ...

"It is so awesome to see the kids with those big smiles, and 'Oh, yeah! That's the one I wanted.' That's great. It's a great cause, and I'm glad to be a part of it."

First Call for Help accepts donations of school supplies and monetary donations for the Backpack for Kids program year round. You can find more on the program on <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/events">First Call for Help's website</a>.

"This is kind of a cool project to get your kids involved in if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford extra school supplies," Shoaff said. "I see a lot of families that have young children, and they will let them pick out a backpack for someone else and they get to pick out the school supplies.

"They will say on it, 'This is for a third grader at O'Loughlin.' The kids get so excited to think someone else is going to get their bag."

The Backpacks for Kids program has been conducted annually in Hays since 1981.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596742706505.jpeg" alt="Volunteers man a station at the Backpack for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Volunteers man a station at the Backpack for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThere is still time to pick up a backpack of school supplies in Hays.The Backpacks for Kids program, which is sponsored by First Call for Help, handed out backpacks to families who preregistered for the program Thursday.However, families who did not register can pick up backpacks from 8 a.m. to noon Friday on the south side of the Presbyterian Church,&nbsp;2900 Hall.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743256308.jpeg" alt="A woman smiles as she receives a free mask for her child during the Backpacks for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays." />
 <figcaption>A woman smiles as she receives a free mask for her child during the Backpacks for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Families registered for 318 backpacks this year, which is down from previous years, Schoaff said.&nbsp;However, First Call packed 777 backpacks to fill the needs for families who may have missed the registration deadline.If you miss both the distribution days, contact First Call for Help at&nbsp;785-623-2800.&nbsp;Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school, in both public and private schools, whose families are low-income or who have financial hardships are eligible. No proof of income is required to pickup a backpack.The backpacks are coordinated for gender and grade. Families can also pickup up hygiene packs and masks for their children during the distribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students in all Hays schools, both public and private, will be required to wear masks this school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596742881973.jpeg" alt="Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, holds up one of hygiene bags that is being distributed along with schools supplies as part of the Backpack for Kids program." />
 <figcaption>Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, holds up one of hygiene bags that is being distributed along with schools supplies as part of the Backpack for Kids program.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hygiene packs include a full bottle of shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and bar of soap. Third graders and older also receive deodorant. The dental items were donated by Delta Dental.If you did not receive a mask when you picked up your supplies, contact the First Call for Help to arrange to pickup masks for your children. Some families may have been missed early on Thursday morning.Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help Project coordinator, said COVID-19 limited some of the project's ability to reach families about the program.Local schools usually send out notes in backpacks about the program, but school was not in session during the spring. The program also diverted some of the funds it usually dedicates to advertising the program to buying supplies because donations were down this year.However, First Call was able to amass enough supplies to fill all of the backpacks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743046246.jpeg" alt="Volunteers assist with backpack distribution Thursday as part of the Backpack for Kids program. More than 700 backpacks with donated school supplies were packed for this year's program. " />
 <figcaption>Volunteers assist with backpack distribution Thursday as part of the Backpack for Kids program. More than 700 backpacks with donated school supplies were packed for this year's program. </figcaption>
 </figure>First Call for Help modified its distribution process this year, taking in mind COVID-19 precautions. A drive-through system has been set up, and volunteers are wearing masks.Shoaff said the community was very generous, answering the call to donate hundreds of handmade children's face masks.The community also stepped up to donate other items, such as wide-ruled notebook paper and colored pencils, which First Call ran short of as the packing process neared completion, Shoaff said."I am so excited about the community we live in because we receive so much help from the community. ... I think we are so fortunate to have a welcoming community who cares about each other," Shoaff said.Eighteen volunteers signed up to help during the two distribution days. A group of Hays High School football players also helped unload the backpacks for First Call for Help.Quinton McQuire, a HHS sophomore, and Ashton Putz, HHS sophomore, both offered to stay and assist with the backpack distribution."Our coach sent out a text yesterday asking for help setting up cones outside," McGuire said. "Then asked if anyone could help today, and I figured I would come out and help the community."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743209716.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Caitlin Leiker, HHS senior, has been a regular volunteer with First Call for Help. She has helped pack backpacks in past years."I wasn't able to participate in the actual giving away of the bags last year," she said, "so I figured I would give it a shot this year. It's been a lot of fun. ..."It is so awesome to see the kids with those big smiles, and 'Oh, yeah! That's the one I wanted.' That's great. It's a great cause, and I'm glad to be a part of it."First Call for Help accepts donations of school supplies and monetary donations for the Backpack for Kids program year round. You can find more on the program on <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/events">First Call for Help's website</a>."This is kind of a cool project to get your kids involved in if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford extra school supplies," Shoaff said. "I see a lot of families that have young children, and they will let them pick out a backpack for someone else and they get to pick out the school supplies."They will say on it, 'This is for a third grader at O'Loughlin.' The kids get so excited to think someone else is going to get their bag."The Backpacks for Kids program has been conducted annually in Hays since 1981.

Backpacks for Kids hopes to attract non-registered families Friday

TOPEKA
 – A lucky Kansas Lottery player in North Central Kansas matched all 
four numbers in Thursday night’s 2by2 drawing to win the top prize of 
$22,000.

The winning numbers in the 2by2 drawing on August 6 are Red 11 - 24 and White 13 - 25.

The
 counties in north-central Kansas include Smith, Jewell, Republic, 
Washington, Osborne, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Russell, Lincoln, Ottawa, 
Ellsworth, Saline, and Dickinson counties.

<a href="https://www.kslottery.com/games/dailydraw/TwobyTwo" target="_blank">2by2</a>&nbsp;is a daily draw game that offers eight ways to win! Tickets start at just $1 to play.

To 
see information about claiming a prize in 
person, click&nbsp;<a href="https://kslottery.com/news-releases/kansas-lottery-begins-in-person-claims-by-appointment-june-18-2020/" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592536149457.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA
 – A lucky Kansas Lottery player in North Central Kansas matched all 
four numbers in Thursday night’s 2by2 drawing to win the top prize of 
$22,000. The winning numbers in the 2by2 drawing on August 6 are Red 11 - 24 and White 13 - 25.The
 counties in north-central Kansas include Smith, Jewell, Republic, 
Washington, Osborne, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Russell, Lincoln, Ottawa, 
Ellsworth, Saline, and Dickinson counties.<a href="https://www.kslottery.com/games/dailydraw/TwobyTwo" target="_blank">2by2</a>&nbsp;is a daily draw game that offers eight ways to win! Tickets start at just $1 to play.To 
see information about claiming a prize in 
person, click&nbsp;<a href="https://kslottery.com/news-releases/kansas-lottery-begins-in-person-claims-by-appointment-june-18-2020/" target="_blank">here</a>.

North-central Kan. player wins $22K in Kansas Lottery

Reopening Kansas schools this fall is a gamble.&nbsp; The COVID-19 new infections rate and death rate are still rising at this writing.&nbsp; Will returning to school-site learning be safe?&nbsp; Will it increase the spread of COVID-19?&nbsp;

The only thing we know for certain is that school is scheduled to begin across Kansas within the coming month.&nbsp; Answers are not coming from national, state or local education leaders.&nbsp; None of these entities, alone or in concert, has the power or ability to bring school safety and learning to our children until there is an effective, widely-distributed vaccine. Thus, returning to full-time, on-site schooling is “rolling the dice.”

A recent review by science writer Laurie Garrett found that school risk reflects the larger coronavirus prevalence in a community.&nbsp; Therefore, Kansas counties with fewer than 10 recorded cases of COVID-19 automatically have a better chance for a safe school reopening than schools in urban and suburban counties with more than 1,000 confirmed cases.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, hot-spots develop quickly, so there’s no real confidence that schools can reopen safely even in sparsely populated, rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Regardless of a school’s location, there is concern over the level of danger to children and their teachers.&nbsp; Unless a school allows only for gatherings of 15 or fewer, CDC guidelines warn of increased spread through repeated contact across classrooms, food service areas, sports, other activities and school buses.&nbsp;

As for the children, COVID-19 infection seems relatively rare but, in those infected, it can be severe.&nbsp; Research studies show a gradient of infection downward with age—younger children are less likely to test positive and less likely to pass the virus to others—however, teenagers, if infected, may pass the virus to others more often while having no or less severe symptoms than adults. But even the most optimistic scientists aren’t saying that almost all&nbsp;students will avoid serious infections, and we don’t know if the rate of infection will grow due to the impact of student interactions over time.

The challenge for school employees is the sheer volume of traffic and tight quarters in many school environments which make social distancing a significant problem.&nbsp; Moreover, reports from both the Kaiser Health Foundation and the American Association of Retired Persons estimate that teachers mirror the general population of workers in that about 25 percent have a condition that puts them a higher risk of serious illness or other health complications from COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite concerns, on-campus learning appears to be the choice of most students and families.&nbsp;&nbsp; In San Diego area where COVID-19 continues to rage, a survey within one large school district found on-campus learning was the choice of 65 percent of parents with 30 percent opting to start the year with remote schooling.&nbsp;

The odds for a COVID-19 controlled school start aren’t favorable notwithstanding widespread, public support for traditional school as the best overall learning environment.

Fortunately, it’s possible to hedge the odds by mitigating the school reopening risk, if all:

Community commitment will go a long way toward increasing the chances of a safe school restart.

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Reopening Kansas schools this fall is a gamble.&nbsp; The COVID-19 new infections rate and death rate are still rising at this writing.&nbsp; Will returning to school-site learning be safe?&nbsp; Will it increase the spread of COVID-19?&nbsp;The only thing we know for certain is that school is scheduled to begin across Kansas within the coming month.&nbsp; Answers are not coming from national, state or local education leaders.&nbsp; None of these entities, alone or in concert, has the power or ability to bring school safety and learning to our children until there is an effective, widely-distributed vaccine. Thus, returning to full-time, on-site schooling is “rolling the dice.”A recent review by science writer Laurie Garrett found that school risk reflects the larger coronavirus prevalence in a community.&nbsp; Therefore, Kansas counties with fewer than 10 recorded cases of COVID-19 automatically have a better chance for a safe school reopening than schools in urban and suburban counties with more than 1,000 confirmed cases.&nbsp;Nevertheless, hot-spots develop quickly, so there’s no real confidence that schools can reopen safely even in sparsely populated, rural Kansas.&nbsp;Regardless of a school’s location, there is concern over the level of danger to children and their teachers.&nbsp; Unless a school allows only for gatherings of 15 or fewer, CDC guidelines warn of increased spread through repeated contact across classrooms, food service areas, sports, other activities and school buses.&nbsp;As for the children, COVID-19 infection seems relatively rare but, in those infected, it can be severe.&nbsp; Research studies show a gradient of infection downward with age—younger children are less likely to test positive and less likely to pass the virus to others—however, teenagers, if infected, may pass the virus to others more often while having no or less severe symptoms than adults. But even the most optimistic scientists aren’t saying that almost all&nbsp;students will avoid serious infections, and we don’t know if the rate of infection will grow due to the impact of student interactions over time.The challenge for school employees is the sheer volume of traffic and tight quarters in many school environments which make social distancing a significant problem.&nbsp; Moreover, reports from both the Kaiser Health Foundation and the American Association of Retired Persons estimate that teachers mirror the general population of workers in that about 25 percent have a condition that puts them a higher risk of serious illness or other health complications from COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite concerns, on-campus learning appears to be the choice of most students and families.&nbsp;&nbsp; In San Diego area where COVID-19 continues to rage, a survey within one large school district found on-campus learning was the choice of 65 percent of parents with 30 percent opting to start the year with remote schooling.&nbsp;The odds for a COVID-19 controlled school start aren’t favorable notwithstanding widespread, public support for traditional school as the best overall learning environment.Fortunately, it’s possible to hedge the odds by mitigating the school reopening risk, if all:<ul>
 <li>Kansans wear masks and follow safety guidelines,</li><li>Schools follow safety guidelines on school sites and off campus activities,</li><li>Students who choose to learn remotely have the technology to do so and</li><li>Voters urged their federal legislators to include state-level safety funding in the proposed new stimulus bill.</li>
 </ul>Community commitment will go a long way toward increasing the chances of a safe school restart.Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: How to make school reopening safer

A field survey is underway on a portion of U.S. 83 in northwest Kansas, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Crews from Olsson of Lincoln, Neb., are surveying KDOT right-of-way in Logan, Thomas, Sheridan and Decatur counties starting at the U.S. 40 junction in Oakley and ending near the U.S. 36 junction in Oberlin. Activities include the use of a drone to collect aerial footage for a project to place conduit for transportation infrastructure along the route. Drones will not survey private property.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of August.

For more information, contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTA field survey is underway on a portion of U.S. 83 in northwest Kansas, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.Crews from Olsson of Lincoln, Neb., are surveying KDOT right-of-way in Logan, Thomas, Sheridan and Decatur counties starting at the U.S. 40 junction in Oakley and ending near the U.S. 36 junction in Oberlin. Activities include the use of a drone to collect aerial footage for a project to place conduit for transportation infrastructure along the route. Drones will not survey private property.Work is expected to be completed by the end of August.For more information, contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>.

KDOT drone surveys underway on U.S. 83 in NW Kan.

Heartland Gymnastics Academy, the leading gymnastics club in Western Kansas, is now accepting online enrollment for fall/spring classes!&nbsp; Heartland has gymnastics classes for boy and girls preschool age and up.&nbsp; They also offer Cheer Tumbling, Private Lessons, and a Ninja Warrior Fitness class!

Heartland is owned and&nbsp;operated by Richard and Tawnita Augustine who have over&nbsp;40 years&nbsp;of coaching experience&nbsp;each.&nbsp; Under the Augustine's and their energetic coaches, students are given the full gymnastics experience on uneven bars, floor exercise, vault, balance beam, and trampoline.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gymnastics teaches coordination, flexibility, body awareness, confidence, power, and determination. It also promotes goal setting, discipline, sportsmanship, active listening, and social skills. It is undeniable that these gymnastics benefits will carry over to all areas of your child’s life from other sports participation to future job skills.

Classes are forming to accommodate the child that is interested in being more active in recreational classes to someone that is ready to push themselves to new heights on Heartland's competitive team.&nbsp;

Online enrollment is open at&nbsp;<a href="http://haysgymnastics.com/" target="_blank">haysgymnastics.com</a>/enroll&nbsp;for classes starting August 17th.&nbsp;But, you can enroll and start at any time!&nbsp;Heartland&nbsp;Academy will be holding an Open House on August 10 from 4:30 - 7:00 PM to tour the gym and chat about classes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596215341650.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Heartland Gymnastics Academy, the leading gymnastics club in Western Kansas, is now accepting online enrollment for fall/spring classes!&nbsp; Heartland has gymnastics classes for boy and girls preschool age and up.&nbsp; They also offer Cheer Tumbling, Private Lessons, and a Ninja Warrior Fitness class!Heartland is owned and&nbsp;operated by Richard and Tawnita Augustine who have over&nbsp;40 years&nbsp;of coaching experience&nbsp;each.&nbsp; Under the Augustine's and their energetic coaches, students are given the full gymnastics experience on uneven bars, floor exercise, vault, balance beam, and trampoline.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gymnastics teaches coordination, flexibility, body awareness, confidence, power, and determination. It also promotes goal setting, discipline, sportsmanship, active listening, and social skills. It is undeniable that these gymnastics benefits will carry over to all areas of your child’s life from other sports participation to future job skills.Classes are forming to accommodate the child that is interested in being more active in recreational classes to someone that is ready to push themselves to new heights on Heartland's competitive team.&nbsp;Online enrollment is open at&nbsp;<a href="http://haysgymnastics.com/" target="_blank">haysgymnastics.com</a>/enroll&nbsp;for classes starting August 17th.&nbsp;But, you can enroll and start at any time!&nbsp;Heartland&nbsp;Academy will be holding an Open House on August 10 from 4:30 - 7:00 PM to tour the gym and chat about classes.&nbsp;

BOOR: Dealing with stress

TOPEKA - Program highlights for the Aug. 13 Kansas Livestock Association/Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day near Smith Center will include discussions on leveraging genetics to achieve cowherd objectives, managing and planning for tough economic times, optimizing gain with post-weaning nutrition and combating farm stress. The event will be hosted by W &amp; S Ranch Inc., owned and operated by the Weltmer family, which encompasses a farming business, cow-calf operation and feedyard.

Select Sires Beef Sire Analyst Jon Herrick will kick off the educational portion of the field day. The discussion will be centered on how genetics can be leveraged to increase the profitability of an operation. The presentation will cover how to tailor trait selection and capitalize on the genetic and reproductive tools available, as well as the feasibility, from a timing and financial standpoint, of achieving the genetic goals of the operation.

With the current state of the livestock industry, being able to manage through economic uncertainty is more important than ever. Mark Wood, Kansas Farm Management Association extension specialist, will share how ranchers can better prepare and plan for challenging times, rather than just reacting to them.

K-State Extension beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner will discuss nutrition management steps that need to be considered during the post weaning stage. He also will highlight some of the successes W &amp; S Ranch has had in leveraging nutrition to achieve their cattle weight-gain goals.

Kelsey Olson, deputy secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, will provide an update on the resources her team has compiled to assist Kansas farmers and ranchers in managing stress, financial and legal challenges and other issues.

The field day will begin with registration at 3:00 p.m. and include a free beef dinner at 6:45 p.m. All livestock producers and others involved in the business are invited to attend.&nbsp;<a>The event will be set up to ensure proper spacing to accommodate social distancing protocol. Masks will be available and hand sanitizer will be provided to each attendee.</a>

W &amp; S Ranch is located southeast of Smith Center. Head east on U.S. Highway 36 for 1 mile, then turn south on R Road and travel 2 miles. Or, go 1 mile south on U.S. Highway 281 from Smith Center, then east on 180 Road for 2 miles. The field day site is located on the southeast corner of R and 180 Roads. Directional signs will be posted.&nbsp;

The second and final event in the 2020 field day series will be held August 18 at G-Three Cattle Company near Uniontown. Both events are sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Bayer Animal Health. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">www.kla.org</a>. The educational sessions from each field day will be recorded and posted on the KLA website following the events.&nbsp;

KLA is a trade organization representing the business interests of independent beef producers at the state and national levels. Members of the association are involved in all segments of the livestock industry, including cow-calf production, backgrounding, cattle feeding, swine, dairy and sheep.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596485688217.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KLA TOPEKA - Program highlights for the Aug. 13 Kansas Livestock Association/Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day near Smith Center will include discussions on leveraging genetics to achieve cowherd objectives, managing and planning for tough economic times, optimizing gain with post-weaning nutrition and combating farm stress. The event will be hosted by W &amp; S Ranch Inc., owned and operated by the Weltmer family, which encompasses a farming business, cow-calf operation and feedyard.Select Sires Beef Sire Analyst Jon Herrick will kick off the educational portion of the field day. The discussion will be centered on how genetics can be leveraged to increase the profitability of an operation. The presentation will cover how to tailor trait selection and capitalize on the genetic and reproductive tools available, as well as the feasibility, from a timing and financial standpoint, of achieving the genetic goals of the operation.With the current state of the livestock industry, being able to manage through economic uncertainty is more important than ever. Mark Wood, Kansas Farm Management Association extension specialist, will share how ranchers can better prepare and plan for challenging times, rather than just reacting to them.K-State Extension beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner will discuss nutrition management steps that need to be considered during the post weaning stage. He also will highlight some of the successes W &amp; S Ranch has had in leveraging nutrition to achieve their cattle weight-gain goals.Kelsey Olson, deputy secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, will provide an update on the resources her team has compiled to assist Kansas farmers and ranchers in managing stress, financial and legal challenges and other issues.The field day will begin with registration at 3:00 p.m. and include a free beef dinner at 6:45 p.m. All livestock producers and others involved in the business are invited to attend.&nbsp;<a>The event will be set up to ensure proper spacing to accommodate social distancing protocol. Masks will be available and hand sanitizer will be provided to each attendee.</a>W &amp; S Ranch is located southeast of Smith Center. Head east on U.S. Highway 36 for 1 mile, then turn south on R Road and travel 2 miles. Or, go 1 mile south on U.S. Highway 281 from Smith Center, then east on 180 Road for 2 miles. The field day site is located on the southeast corner of R and 180 Roads. Directional signs will be posted.&nbsp;The second and final event in the 2020 field day series will be held August 18 at G-Three Cattle Company near Uniontown. Both events are sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Bayer Animal Health. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">www.kla.org</a>. The educational sessions from each field day will be recorded and posted on the KLA website following the events.&nbsp;KLA is a trade organization representing the business interests of independent beef producers at the state and national levels. Members of the association are involved in all segments of the livestock industry, including cow-calf production, backgrounding, cattle feeding, swine, dairy and sheep.

Smith Center ranch to host Kansas Livestock Association Field Day

However, families who did not register can pick up backpacks from 8 a.m. to noon Friday on the south side of the Presbyterian Church,&nbsp;2900 Hall. Registered families can pick up backpacks until 6 p.m. today at the same location.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596742706505.jpeg" alt="Volunteers man a station at the Backpack for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Volunteers man a station at the Backpack for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThere is still time to pick up a backpack of school supplies in Hays.The Backpacks for Kids program, which is sponsored by First Call for Help, handed out backpacks to families who preregistered for the program Thursday.However, families who did not register can pick up backpacks from 8 a.m. to noon Friday on the south side of the Presbyterian Church,&nbsp;2900 Hall. Registered families can pick up backpacks until 6 p.m. today at the same location.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743256308.jpeg" alt="A woman smiles as she receives a free mask for her child during the Backpacks for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays." />
 <figcaption>A woman smiles as she receives a free mask for her child during the Backpacks for Kids distribution Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Families registered for 318 backpacks this year, which is down from previous years, Schoaff said.&nbsp;However, First Call packed 777 backpacks to fill the needs for families who may have missed the registration deadline.If you miss both the distribution days, contact First Call for Help at&nbsp;785-623-2800.&nbsp;Ellis County students in grades pre-K through high school, in both public and private schools, whose families are low-income or who have financial hardships are eligible. No proof of income is required to pickup a backpack.The backpacks are coordinated for gender and grade. Families can also pickup up hygiene packs and masks for their children during the distribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students in all Hays schools, both public and private, will be required to wear masks this school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596742881973.jpeg" alt="Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, holds up one of hygiene bags that is being distributed along with schools supplies as part of the Backpack for Kids program." />
 <figcaption>Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, holds up one of hygiene bags that is being distributed along with schools supplies as part of the Backpack for Kids program.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hygiene packs include a full bottle of shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and bar of soap. Third graders and older also receive deodorant. The dental items were donated by Delta Dental.If you did not receive a mask when you picked up your supplies, contact the First Call for Help to arrange to pickup masks for your children. Some families may have been missed early on Thursday morning.Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help Project coordinator, said COVID-19 limited some of the project's ability to reach families about the program.Local schools usually send out notes in backpacks about the program, but school was not in session during the spring. The program also diverted some of the funds it usually dedicates to advertising the program to buying supplies because donations were down this year.However, First Call was able to amass enough supplies to fill all of the backpacks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743046246.jpeg" alt="Volunteers assist with backpack distribution Thursday as part of the Backpack for Kids program. More than 700 backpacks with donated school supplies were packed for this year's program.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers assist with backpack distribution Thursday as part of the Backpack for Kids program. More than 700 backpacks with donated school supplies were packed for this year's program.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>First Call for Help modified its distribution process this year, taking in mind COVID-19 precautions. A drive-through system has been set up, and volunteers are wearing masks.Shoaff said the community was very generous, answering the call to donate hundreds of handmade children's face masks.The community also stepped up to donate other items, such as wide-ruled notebook paper and colored pencils, which First Call ran short of as the packing process neared completion, Shoaff said."I am so excited about the community we live in because we receive so much help from the community. ... I think we are so fortunate to have a welcoming community who cares about each other," Shoaff said.Eighteen volunteers signed up to help during the two distribution days. A group of Hays High School football players also helped unload the backpacks for First Call for Help.Quinton McQuire, a HHS sophomore, and Ashton Putz, HHS sophomore, both offered to stay and assist with the backpack distribution."Our coach sent out a text yesterday asking for help setting up cones outside," McGuire said. "Then asked if anyone could help today, and I figured I would come out and help the community."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596743209716.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Caitlin Leiker, HHS senior, has been a regular volunteer with First Call for Help. She has helped pack backpacks in past years."I wasn't able to participate in the actual giving away of the bags last year," she said, "so I figured I would give it a shot this year. It's been a lot of fun. ..."It is so awesome to see the kids with those big smiles, and 'Oh, yeah! That's the one I wanted.' That's great. It's a great cause, and I'm glad to be a part of it."First Call for Help accepts donations of school supplies and monetary donations for the Backpack for Kids program year round. You can find more on the program on <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/events">First Call for Help's website</a>."This is kind of a cool project to get your kids involved in if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford extra school supplies," Shoaff said. "I see a lot of families that have young children, and they will let them pick out a backpack for someone else and they get to pick out the school supplies."They will say on it, 'This is for a third grader at O'Loughlin.' The kids get so excited to think someone else is going to get their bag."The Backpacks for Kids program has been conducted annually in Hays since 1981.

One person detained, but investigation ongoing

ELLIS — An investigation by the Ellis Police Department is underway after a string of car burglaries occurred late Tuesday night and into the early morning hours Wednesday.

Ellis Police Chief Chris Krom said 11 to 12 victims had come forward by Thursday morning, but reports are continuing to come in.

"Basically, the person was breaking into unlocked vehicles and rummaging around, taking various items and leaving the door slightly ajar," Krom said.

The reports came from various parts of the city, he said, but were in residential areas.

The burglaries were thought to have occurred mainly between the hours of 1 to 4 a.m. Wednesday, but Krom believes it is likely the suspect began earlier in the evening.

"From what we can tell, the person committing the crimes was doing it by themself," he said.

Krom is asking any Ellis resident with outdoor cameras covering vehicles to check footage from Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, even if the vehicle was not broken into and report suspicious activity to the police department.

One suspect has been detained, but the stolen property remains missing and the investigation is ongoing.

Krom said he was thankful for the public's assistance with the investigation.

<h2>One person detained, but investigation ongoing</h2>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — An investigation by the Ellis Police Department is underway after a string of car burglaries occurred late Tuesday night and into the early morning hours Wednesday.Ellis Police Chief Chris Krom said 11 to 12 victims had come forward by Thursday morning, but reports are continuing to come in."Basically, the person was breaking into unlocked vehicles and rummaging around, taking various items and leaving the door slightly ajar," Krom said.The reports came from various parts of the city, he said, but were in residential areas.The burglaries were thought to have occurred mainly between the hours of 1 to 4 a.m. Wednesday, but Krom believes it is likely the suspect began earlier in the evening."From what we can tell, the person committing the crimes was doing it by themself," he said.Krom is asking any Ellis resident with outdoor cameras covering vehicles to check footage from Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, even if the vehicle was not broken into and report suspicious activity to the police department.One suspect has been detained, but the stolen property remains missing and the investigation is ongoing.Krom said he was thankful for the public's assistance with the investigation.

Ellis PD investigating a string of car burglaries

<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="FHSU readies for students return" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/j6ib3-e5ec11?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;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: FHSU readies for students return

Out of all of the regular camping traditions, one childhood favorite stands out as a necessary part of the experience — S'mores.

On Saturday at Cedar Bluff State Park, the beloved campfire favorite will be celebrated during the inaugural S'moresfest, a unique event that will include a cooking competition, bonfire, music and games.

"I think what is nice about this is, I've done the research and I can't find another Smoresfest anywhere else,"&nbsp;said Amber McLaughlin, administrative specialist.

The cook-off will kick off the events at 3 p.m. at the Community Shelter in the Bluffton Park.

"If you have ever been to a cook-off, you know they are kind of fun,"&nbsp; McLaughlin said.

Graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate are the required ingredients, but anything else can be added and can be made in any combination or form, she said.

"I think it will be a unique event. ... Everybody has chili cook-offs, but who has a Smoresfest and cook-off?" McLaughlin said.

Judging will begin at 6 p.m. and the winner will receive half of the total collected entry fees. The remainder of the funds raised will be used for future events at the park.

After the cooking competition, there will be S'mores-themed activities beginning at 7 p.m.

"We are calling them the Smore Games," McLaughlin said. "They will be like minute-to-win-it type games."

Some of the games planned include "Shake your Smore," where participants will shake marshmallows from a box around their waist, "Cookie Face," where participants will move a graham cracker from their face into their mouth, and the tallest S'mores contest.

McLaughlin said the games and events are a fun way for people to get together safely, noting organizers are are conscious of social distancing and will keep participants at a safe distance from each other.

Wrapping up the event will be a group campfire at 9 p.m.

"You came just come and bring your chair and have a S'more,"&nbsp;McLaughlin said.

Local musician Tim Schumacher will play during the campfire.

"What is better than a campfire and a guitar?" McLaughlin said.

Overall, McLaughlin said events like these help showcase the state parks and can be a way to bring people together for wholesome fun.

"I definitely feel like it is important. It gives people an activity and things to do," she said. "Plus I like to think of people that have never camped before. They come to the park, they come to the event and they think 'this place is really awesome' then they come back and bring a tent, or buy a boat and they come back next time."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596656565549.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostOut of all of the regular camping traditions, one childhood favorite stands out as a necessary part of the experience — S'mores.On Saturday at Cedar Bluff State Park, the beloved campfire favorite will be celebrated during the inaugural S'moresfest, a unique event that will include a cooking competition, bonfire, music and games."I think what is nice about this is, I've done the research and I can't find another Smoresfest anywhere else,"&nbsp;said Amber McLaughlin, administrative specialist.The cook-off will kick off the events at 3 p.m. at the Community Shelter in the Bluffton Park.The entry fee for the cook-off is $20."If you have ever been to a cook-off, you know they are kind of fun,"&nbsp; McLaughlin said.Graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate are the required ingredients, but anything else can be added and can be made in any combination or form, she said."I think it will be a unique event. ... Everybody has chili cook-offs, but who has a Smoresfest and cook-off?" McLaughlin said.Judging will begin at 6 p.m. and the winner will receive half of the total collected entry fees. The remainder of the funds raised will be used for future events at the park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596659362889.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After the cooking competition, there will be S'mores-themed activities beginning at 7 p.m."We are calling them the Smore Games," McLaughlin said. "They will be like minute-to-win-it type games."Some of the games planned include "Shake your Smore," where participants will shake marshmallows from a box around their waist, "Cookie Face," where participants will move a graham cracker from their face into their mouth, and the tallest S'mores contest.McLaughlin said the games and events are a fun way for people to get together safely, noting organizers are are conscious of social distancing and will keep participants at a safe distance from each other.Wrapping up the event will be a group campfire at 9 p.m."You came just come and bring your chair and have a S'more,"&nbsp;McLaughlin said.Local musician Tim Schumacher will play during the campfire."What is better than a campfire and a guitar?" McLaughlin said.Overall, McLaughlin said events like these help showcase the state parks and can be a way to bring people together for wholesome fun."I definitely feel like it is important. It gives people an activity and things to do," she said. "Plus I like to think of people that have never camped before. They come to the park, they come to the event and they think 'this place is really awesome' then they come back and bring a tent, or buy a boat and they come back next time."&nbsp;

S'moresfest planned for this weekend at Cedar Bluff

The Backpacks For Kids distribution will be through 6 p.m. today at the Presbyterian Church in Hays for registered students only.

Backpacks full of school supplies as well as hygiene bags and masks will be available for non-registered families from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at the same location.

The Backpacks For Kids distribution will be through 6 p.m. today at the Presbyterian Church in Hays for registered students only.Backpacks full of school supplies as well as hygiene bags and masks will be available for non-registered families from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at the same location.