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ELLIS COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Sunday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by Brenton David Hoffman, 29, Victoria.&nbsp;was eastbound on Severin Road four miles east of U.S. 183.

The Silverado struck a southbound 2006 Dodge Ram driven by Connor Jacob&nbsp;Aldridge, 22, Plainville, at the intersection of Toulon Avenue.

EMS transported&nbsp;Hoffman, Aldridge and a passenger in the Dodge Amalia Rose&nbsp;Aldridge, 22, Plainville, to Hays Medical Center.

All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

ELLIS COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Sunday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by Brenton David Hoffman, 29, Victoria.&nbsp;was eastbound on Severin Road four miles east of U.S. 183.The Silverado struck a southbound 2006 Dodge Ram driven by Connor Jacob&nbsp;Aldridge, 22, Plainville, at the intersection of Toulon Avenue.EMS transported&nbsp;Hoffman, Aldridge and a passenger in the Dodge Amalia Rose&nbsp;Aldridge, 22, Plainville, to Hays Medical Center.All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

3 hospitalized after pickups collide in Ellis County

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Vanessa Dinkel was pelted with rocks as a chid, bullied relentlessly becuase she was bi-racial.

Raeanna Peacock was given what she thought was a gift basket containing pictures of fried chicken, jelly and a noose by girls who she thought were her friends.

Charles Law's daughter was called the n-word by a spectator during a Russell basketball game.

Although speakers during a Juneteenth Celebration Friday in Hays spoke of painful instances of racism, they also urged a multi-racial audience to move forward with understanding and unity.

Law during his short speech to the audience asked everyone to stand up and look at their neighbor.

"Say, neighbor, I love you," he said and the audience repeated in a chorus of raised voices.

"No matter what your skin color is, I love you," he said and the crowd repeated.

"We need people to stand up," he said. "After the George Floyd thing, why now? I will tell you why. The world is tired of it. All races are tired of it."

He continued, "Some people are scared to stand up, some people are afraid of what their friends will think."

Law pointed to a friend at the back of the crowd.

"That man right there was against black people 10 years ago, strongly," Law said, "but that was the first man who came and hit me on Facebook when I was going to go through with the protest in Russell, Kan. If he can change, anyone can change."

Law said trying to explain racism to a crying child is tough and it hurts.

However, he said the youth of today can make a difference.

"That is the reason we are going the break the chain," he said.

Danzel Major, a grad student at FHSU, talked about recent racist posts that had been circulating from one local resident on Facebook.

"It was interesting. That guy was doubling down on him saying 'jungle bunny' only until his business was being threatened," Major said. 'Eventually he told everyone that it was the way it was being taken that was a mistake. I don't about y'all, but if I hear the term 'jungle bunny,' in a sentence, there is only way I can take that."

Dinkel, who has lived most of her life in Hays, said, as a biracial women, part of breaking the chain of racism for her was learning to love herself despite being exposed to racism.

"It's been rough when you don't know your place because you're either too white, or you say something and they say you're too black," Dinkel said.

&nbsp;"You don't know who you are. You feel like an alien, becuase you don't really fit in with anybody."

Although she proudly wears her hair natural today, Dinkel said she was relentlessly bullied when she was younger, especially about her hair.

"You start to build up walls," she said. "You start to get a thick skin. You start to be hard hearted."

Dinkel still gets followed in stores as if she were a thief. Her son has come home in tears after being called the n-word. Her son was told by another child that he must have been burnt as a baby, she said.

Her son told her he didn't want to be brown anymore — something that broke her heart.

"It chips away at you and chips away at you and chips away at you until you are an empty shell," she said.

She finally learned to love herself and her hair in all of its beautiful curliness.

"Now I have the confidence to go out there proudly as a biracial woman, black woman, white woman, whatever, and be proud of what I am," she said.

She said it is our job to talk to each other and educate each other and call each other to action.

"It is our job to have those hard conversations and be uncomfortable," Dinkel said. "I have had so many people reach out to me and ask, 'How can I do better? What can I say to make sure I am being the best version of myself? What can I do to help [prevent] the injustices that are going on right now? Where can I donate? What can I do?'"

"When you know better, you do better," she said. "Love people. I hope you can all leave with changed hearts."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592699118675.jpeg" alt="A multi-racial crowd attended a Juneteenth Celebration Friday in Hays, which featured a call for unity." />
 <figcaption>A multi-racial crowd attended a Juneteenth Celebration Friday in Hays, which featured a call for unity.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostVanessa Dinkel was pelted with rocks as a chid, bullied relentlessly becuase she was bi-racial.Raeanna Peacock was given what she thought was a gift basket containing pictures of fried chicken, jelly and a noose by girls who she thought were her friends.Charles Law's daughter was called the n-word by a spectator during a Russell basketball game.Although speakers during a Juneteenth Celebration Friday in Hays spoke of painful instances of racism, they also urged a multi-racial audience to move forward with understanding and unity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592700683699.jpeg" alt="Charles Law of Russell urged the Juneteenth crowd gathered Friday in Hays to love their neighbor no matter what their skin color." />
 <figcaption>Charles Law of Russell urged the Juneteenth crowd gathered Friday in Hays to love their neighbor no matter what their skin color.</figcaption>
 </figure>Law during his short speech to the audience asked everyone to stand up and look at their neighbor."Say, neighbor, I love you," he said and the audience repeated in a chorus of raised voices."No matter what your skin color is, I love you," he said and the crowd repeated."We need people to stand up," he said. "After the George Floyd thing, why now? I will tell you why. The world is tired of it. All races are tired of it."He continued, "Some people are scared to stand up, some people are afraid of what their friends will think."Law pointed to a friend at the back of the crowd."That man right there was against black people 10 years ago, strongly," Law said, "but that was the first man who came and hit me on Facebook when I was going to go through with the protest in Russell, Kan. If he can change, anyone can change."Law said trying to explain racism to a crying child is tough and it hurts.However, he said the youth of today can make a difference."That is the reason we are going the break the chain," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592698696012.jpeg" alt="Danzel Major, a grad student at FHSU, talked about recent racist posts that have been circulating on local social media." />
 <figcaption>Danzel Major, a grad student at FHSU, talked about recent racist posts that have been circulating on local social media.</figcaption>
 </figure>Danzel Major, a grad student at FHSU, talked about recent racist posts that had been circulating from one local resident on Facebook."It was interesting. That guy was doubling down on him saying 'jungle bunny' only until his business was being threatened," Major said. 'Eventually he told everyone that it was the way it was being taken that was a mistake. I don't about y'all, but if I hear the term 'jungle bunny,' in a sentence, there is only way I can take that."Dinkel, who has lived most of her life in Hays, said, as a biracial women, part of breaking the chain of racism for her was learning to love herself despite being exposed to racism."It's been rough when you don't know your place because you're either too white, or you say something and they say you're too black," Dinkel said.&nbsp;"You don't know who you are. You feel like an alien, becuase you don't really fit in with anybody."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592700294681.jpeg" alt="Vanessa Dinkel told a group gathered for Juneteenth Friday in Hays she was pelted with rocks by a bully as a child because of her race." />
 <figcaption>Vanessa Dinkel told a group gathered for Juneteenth Friday in Hays she was pelted with rocks by a bully as a child because of her race.</figcaption>
 </figure>Although she proudly wears her hair natural today, Dinkel said she was relentlessly bullied when she was younger, especially about her hair."You start to build up walls," she said. "You start to get a thick skin. You start to be hard hearted."Dinkel still gets followed in stores as if she were a thief. Her son has come home in tears after being called the n-word. Her son was told by another child that he must have been burnt as a baby, she said.Her son told her he didn't want to be brown anymore — something that broke her heart."It chips away at you and chips away at you and chips away at you until you are an empty shell," she said.She finally learned to love herself and her hair in all of its beautiful curliness."Now I have the confidence to go out there proudly as a biracial woman, black woman, white woman, whatever, and be proud of what I am," she said.She said it is our job to talk to each other and educate each other and call each other to action."It is our job to have those hard conversations and be uncomfortable," Dinkel said. "I have had so many people reach out to me and ask, 'How can I do better? What can I say to make sure I am being the best version of myself? What can I do to help [prevent] the injustices that are going on right now? Where can I donate? What can I do?'""When you know better, you do better," she said. "Love people. I hope you can all leave with changed hearts."

Hays Juneteenth celebration yields a call to love neighbors

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Saturday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Ford Fusion driven by Jazmine Shanell Peters, 23, Wichita, was fleeing from law enforcement&nbsp; eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Sylvan Grove exit.

The driver attempted to avoid tire deflation devices, crossed the median and the westbound lanes of the interstate and entered the north ditch. 

The Ford then traveled back onto the roadway eastbound in the westbound lanes into oncoming traffic and struck a 2019 Volvo semi driven by William P. Woodley, 62, Salina.

EMS transported Peters to the hospital in Ellsworth.

EMS transported a passenger in the Ford Geneva Lee Walker, 19, Wichita, to Hays Medical Center. Woodley was not injured.&nbsp; Walker was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

The KHP did not report what prompted the chase or possible charges against Peters.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Saturday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Ford Fusion driven by Jazmine Shanell Peters, 23, Wichita, was fleeing from law enforcement&nbsp; eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Sylvan Grove exit.The driver attempted to avoid tire deflation devices, crossed the median and the westbound lanes of the interstate and entered the north ditch. The Ford then traveled back onto the roadway eastbound in the westbound lanes into oncoming traffic and struck a 2019 Volvo semi driven by William P. Woodley, 62, Salina.EMS transported Peters to the hospital in Ellsworth.EMS transported a passenger in the Ford Geneva Lee Walker, 19, Wichita, to Hays Medical Center. Woodley was not injured.&nbsp; Walker was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.The KHP did not report what prompted the chase or possible charges against Peters.

2 hospitalized after wrong-way crash during I-70 chase

RUSSELL — Join the excitement of the Ad Astra Music Festival for its sixth summer of collaborative concerts and celebration of community. Despite the ongoing pandemic, Ad Astra is committed to bringing exceptional and diverse performances to the communities of western Kansas, this time in an all-new virtual format. The 2020 season features four unique performances spanning two weekends in July. All performances will be streamed live in central time and archived on the Ad Astra Music Festival Facebook page (@adastramusicfestival), free of charge.

The first performance, Young Artists at Home, will take place on Friday, July 17, at 7:30 pm. This performance features the undergraduate voice students of the Ad Astra young artist program. Curated by Katelyn Mattson-Levy, Young Artists at Home features our young artists sharing their voices from their own living rooms. Although we will not be able to meet them in person, we wanted to ensure a platform for their music and provide them with professional performance opportunities. Next, Ad Astra has commissioned composer Andrew Rodriguez to create an original work entitled Scattered Inheritance, featuring flute, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano, and voice. This piece will be premiered in real time and streamed live on Saturday, July 18, at 7:30 pm.&nbsp;

The following weekend, starting on Friday, July 24, at 7:30 pm, Ad Astra will stream a performance from the High School and Community Virtual Choir. High school students from around the country will collaborate to perform a cappella, pop, and jazz arrangements in small groups, coached by industry professionals. Tune in to be inspired by the next generation of musicians! The Russell Community Choir will sing the finale in the familiar virtual choir format. The Community Choir is open to anyone willing to commit to the rehearsal and performance schedule and is led by artistic director and Russell native Alex Underwood. If you would like to take part in the Community Choir, keep an eye on Ad Astra’s website (<a href="http://adastramusicfestival.org/">adastramusicfestival.org</a>) as registration will be open soon. Closing out the 2020 season on Saturday, July 25, at 7:30 pm, will be a sneak peak of the upcoming Trudey Furney Opera. The festival has commissioned composer Anna Pidgorna and librettist Maria Reva to create an opera about the life of beloved Russell High School art teacher Trudy Furney. This sneak peek will be prerecorded in person featuring local Kansas artists and streamed live. Viewers will get an inside look into the creative process, complete with interviews and sketches. This livestream culminates with a workshop performance of scenes from the opera, to be premiered in full at Prairiesta next year.

While the festival is headquartered in Russel, Kansas, this new virtual format will allow viewers worldwide to enjoy these outstanding performances. Ad Astra is proud to be able to offer these live streamed performances free of charge on their official Facebook page.&nbsp;

The Ad Astra Music Festival was established in 2014 by Russell native Alex Underwood. Each July, Ad Astra colors central Kansas with classical music by integrating emerging young artists, community members, and professional musicians. Audiences have come to expect fresh, new music alongside vibrant performances of history’s richest musical works of art. Ad Astra is dedicated to making this festival of and for the people of Russell as we annually collaborate with local visual artists, poets, and musicians to design meaningful creative experiences.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592506781446.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseRUSSELL — Join the excitement of the Ad Astra Music Festival for its sixth summer of collaborative concerts and celebration of community. Despite the ongoing pandemic, Ad Astra is committed to bringing exceptional and diverse performances to the communities of western Kansas, this time in an all-new virtual format. The 2020 season features four unique performances spanning two weekends in July. All performances will be streamed live in central time and archived on the Ad Astra Music Festival Facebook page (@adastramusicfestival), free of charge.The first performance, Young Artists at Home, will take place on Friday, July 17, at 7:30 pm. This performance features the undergraduate voice students of the Ad Astra young artist program. Curated by Katelyn Mattson-Levy, Young Artists at Home features our young artists sharing their voices from their own living rooms. Although we will not be able to meet them in person, we wanted to ensure a platform for their music and provide them with professional performance opportunities. Next, Ad Astra has commissioned composer Andrew Rodriguez to create an original work entitled Scattered Inheritance, featuring flute, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano, and voice. This piece will be premiered in real time and streamed live on Saturday, July 18, at 7:30 pm.&nbsp;The following weekend, starting on Friday, July 24, at 7:30 pm, Ad Astra will stream a performance from the High School and Community Virtual Choir. High school students from around the country will collaborate to perform a cappella, pop, and jazz arrangements in small groups, coached by industry professionals. Tune in to be inspired by the next generation of musicians! The Russell Community Choir will sing the finale in the familiar virtual choir format. The Community Choir is open to anyone willing to commit to the rehearsal and performance schedule and is led by artistic director and Russell native Alex Underwood. If you would like to take part in the Community Choir, keep an eye on Ad Astra’s website (<a href="http://adastramusicfestival.org/">adastramusicfestival.org</a>) as registration will be open soon. Closing out the 2020 season on Saturday, July 25, at 7:30 pm, will be a sneak peak of the upcoming Trudey Furney Opera. The festival has commissioned composer Anna Pidgorna and librettist Maria Reva to create an opera about the life of beloved Russell High School art teacher Trudy Furney. This sneak peek will be prerecorded in person featuring local Kansas artists and streamed live. Viewers will get an inside look into the creative process, complete with interviews and sketches. This livestream culminates with a workshop performance of scenes from the opera, to be premiered in full at Prairiesta next year.While the festival is headquartered in Russel, Kansas, this new virtual format will allow viewers worldwide to enjoy these outstanding performances. Ad Astra is proud to be able to offer these live streamed performances free of charge on their official Facebook page.&nbsp;The Ad Astra Music Festival was established in 2014 by Russell native Alex Underwood. Each July, Ad Astra colors central Kansas with classical music by integrating emerging young artists, community members, and professional musicians. Audiences have come to expect fresh, new music alongside vibrant performances of history’s richest musical works of art. Ad Astra is dedicated to making this festival of and for the people of Russell as we annually collaborate with local visual artists, poets, and musicians to design meaningful creative experiences.

Ad Astra Music Festival announces 2020 virtual season

The Free Community Meal will reopen on Sunday, July 12, at Breathe Coffeehouse, 703B Main Street.

Everyone is welcome to attend from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The meal will be held on the second and fourth Sundays of each month.

For more information, contact Breathe Coffeehouse at 785-621-4080 or check out their<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BreatheCoffeeHouse/"> Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592583451363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Free Community Meal will reopen on Sunday, July 12, at Breathe Coffeehouse, 703B Main Street. Everyone is welcome to attend from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The meal will be held on the second and fourth Sundays of each month.For more information, contact Breathe Coffeehouse at 785-621-4080 or check out their<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BreatheCoffeeHouse/"> Facebook page</a>.Submitted&nbsp;

Free community meal underway again at Breathe Coffee House

COLBY — A nationally recognized home-visiting program, known as the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up (ABC) approach, is being expanded across northwest Kansas as two local organizations come together to support families experiencing trauma and toxic stress. Ultimately, the goal of the ABC program is to benefit children at risk of placement in foster care.

“The ABC program offers a unique opportunity to position Kansas as a leader in child welfare, and LiveWell Northwest Kansas (LiveWell) is honored to be called upon to support vulnerable families of northwest Kansas,” said LiveWell Director Travis Rickford. 

“We’ve partnered with Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) in Hays to ensure the program’s success throughout the entire region.”

The ABC approach is a home visiting, coach-led treatment which has been successful at holding families together and preventing children from entering the foster care system, explained Rickford. The evidence-based program benefits families who have experienced neglect, abuse, and domestic violence by providing parents and caregivers with skills to offer nurturing care and create bonds with children.

“LiveWell works to implement evidence-based interventions that improve overall health and well-being for northwest Kansas counties,” added Rickford. “As we explore opportunities to address toxic stress and trauma within families, we’ve discovered that ABC is a proven method to make families happier and healthier, which in turn improves our ability to thrive as a community.”

With support from the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund (UMHMF), LiveWell began offering the ABC program in 2017. Initially, the program was offered to 12 northwest Kansas counties from Cheyenne to Trego. Now, it supports 18 counties.

Then, in Oct. 2019, additional funding support was received from the Department of Health and Family Services (DCF) through the Family First Prevention Services Act (Family First). The grant was awarded to the University of Kansas Medical Center’s Project Eagle (Project Eagle) who, in turn, named LiveWell the local organization responsible for meeting goals across rural and frontier parts of Kansas.

As a result of additional funding from DCF by way of Project Eagle, and a new partnership with DSNWK, LiveWell is now able to grow the program and include families in six more counties.

Today, six certified home visitors from LiveWell and DSNWK are working to reduce trauma and toxic stress while preventing the need for foster care throughout the counties of Cheyenne, Rawlins, Decatur, Norton, Phillips, Smith, Sherman, Thomas, Sheridan, Graham, Rooks, Osborne, Wallace, Logan, Gove, Trego, Ellis and Russell.

Additionally, LiveWell continues to receive support from UMHMF to implement the ABC program.

“Partnering with DNSWK to expand ABC offerings is a natural solution to this collective effort being realized throughout the state,” said Rickford. “DSNWK has an incredible track record for their ability to support children and families and we are proud to join them in this effort.”

At DSNWK, the ABC program will be offered as a new service called Fam-Link, explained Steve Keil, Director of Development at DSNWK in Hays.

“The Fam-Link program focuses on nurturing and supporting families to improve outcomes for children in northwest Kansas using the ABC approach,” he said. “The intervention is designed to help families develop critical skills leading to better outcomes for children and thus family preservation.”

Fam-Link service at DSNWK is offered to parents and caregivers of babies who are between 6 and 24 months old. Fam-Link strengthens the relationship with the child, while helping the child to learn to regulate behaviors and emotions. DSNWK’s Fam-Link program helps to identify and respond to a baby’s signals.

“Together with leadership from Project Eagle and our partnership with DSNWK, we have an incredibly well-built team of ABC Home Visitors who are qualified to offer parent coaching throughout the region,” continued Rickford. “From LiveWell, we have Emily Palmer, Robert Opat and two bilingual home visitors, Sandra Estrada and Liz Merchan, who join two other DSNWK home visitors, Kathleen Plummer and Franses Schmidt.

“We couldn’t do this work without support from DCF, Project Eagle and the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund.”

For more information, contact Rickford at (785) 460-8177 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:travisr@nwksprevention.org" target="_blank">travisr@nwksprevention.org</a>. Learn more about the ABC program by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.livewellnwk.org/" target="_blank">www.LiveWellNWK.org</a>.

Information about DSNWK’s Fam-Link program can be found by contacting Sara Biggs at (785) 621-5329 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sara_biggs@mydsnwk.org" target="_blank">sara_biggs@mydsnwk.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592435846825.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578522464134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>COLBY — A nationally recognized home-visiting program, known as the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up (ABC) approach, is being expanded across northwest Kansas as two local organizations come together to support families experiencing trauma and toxic stress. Ultimately, the goal of the ABC program is to benefit children at risk of placement in foster care.“The ABC program offers a unique opportunity to position Kansas as a leader in child welfare, and LiveWell Northwest Kansas (LiveWell) is honored to be called upon to support vulnerable families of northwest Kansas,” said LiveWell Director Travis Rickford. “We’ve partnered with Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) in Hays to ensure the program’s success throughout the entire region.”The ABC approach is a home visiting, coach-led treatment which has been successful at holding families together and preventing children from entering the foster care system, explained Rickford. The evidence-based program benefits families who have experienced neglect, abuse, and domestic violence by providing parents and caregivers with skills to offer nurturing care and create bonds with children.“LiveWell works to implement evidence-based interventions that improve overall health and well-being for northwest Kansas counties,” added Rickford. “As we explore opportunities to address toxic stress and trauma within families, we’ve discovered that ABC is a proven method to make families happier and healthier, which in turn improves our ability to thrive as a community.”With support from the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund (UMHMF), LiveWell began offering the ABC program in 2017. Initially, the program was offered to 12 northwest Kansas counties from Cheyenne to Trego. Now, it supports 18 counties.Then, in Oct. 2019, additional funding support was received from the Department of Health and Family Services (DCF) through the Family First Prevention Services Act (Family First). The grant was awarded to the University of Kansas Medical Center’s Project Eagle (Project Eagle) who, in turn, named LiveWell the local organization responsible for meeting goals across rural and frontier parts of Kansas.As a result of additional funding from DCF by way of Project Eagle, and a new partnership with DSNWK, LiveWell is now able to grow the program and include families in six more counties.Today, six certified home visitors from LiveWell and DSNWK are working to reduce trauma and toxic stress while preventing the need for foster care throughout the counties of Cheyenne, Rawlins, Decatur, Norton, Phillips, Smith, Sherman, Thomas, Sheridan, Graham, Rooks, Osborne, Wallace, Logan, Gove, Trego, Ellis and Russell.Additionally, LiveWell continues to receive support from UMHMF to implement the ABC program.“Partnering with DNSWK to expand ABC offerings is a natural solution to this collective effort being realized throughout the state,” said Rickford. “DSNWK has an incredible track record for their ability to support children and families and we are proud to join them in this effort.”At DSNWK, the ABC program will be offered as a new service called Fam-Link, explained Steve Keil, Director of Development at DSNWK in Hays.“The Fam-Link program focuses on nurturing and supporting families to improve outcomes for children in northwest Kansas using the ABC approach,” he said. “The intervention is designed to help families develop critical skills leading to better outcomes for children and thus family preservation.”Fam-Link service at DSNWK is offered to parents and caregivers of babies who are between 6 and 24 months old. Fam-Link strengthens the relationship with the child, while helping the child to learn to regulate behaviors and emotions. DSNWK’s Fam-Link program helps to identify and respond to a baby’s signals.“Together with leadership from Project Eagle and our partnership with DSNWK, we have an incredibly well-built team of ABC Home Visitors who are qualified to offer parent coaching throughout the region,” continued Rickford. “From LiveWell, we have Emily Palmer, Robert Opat and two bilingual home visitors, Sandra Estrada and Liz Merchan, who join two other DSNWK home visitors, Kathleen Plummer and Franses Schmidt.“We couldn’t do this work without support from DCF, Project Eagle and the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund.”For more information, contact Rickford at (785) 460-8177 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:travisr@nwksprevention.org" target="_blank">travisr@nwksprevention.org</a>. Learn more about the ABC program by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.livewellnwk.org/" target="_blank">www.LiveWellNWK.org</a>.Information about DSNWK’s Fam-Link program can be found by contacting Sara Biggs at (785) 621-5329 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sara_biggs@mydsnwk.org" target="_blank">sara_biggs@mydsnwk.org</a>.News release

DSNWK, LiveWell partner to support families experiencing trauma, toxic stress

Businesses that adapt are likely to thrive, she says

MANHATTAN – The executive director of a program that helps rural business owners manage new media says that the rush to using online marketing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic does not have to be complicated.

Cheryl Boyer, co-founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement at Kansas State University, talked recently to more than 60 small business owners during a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/community/business/entrepreneurship">First Friday</a>&nbsp;webinar hosted by the university.

Boyer said she understands the anxiety among some to transform their brick-and-mortar, Main Street businesses into an online sales format. Yet, parts of society continue to be locked down or limited, and it’s not yet clear that consumers are ready to get back to shopping the way they once did.

“Businesses that can adapt to this new economy are more likely to thrive,” Boyer said. “And we want you to thrive. We want your businesses to stay functioning and thriving and for people to spend more money with you.”

The tangle of services that offer online business platforms can be overwhelming, including Wordpress, Weebly, Wix, Square, Shopify, Amazon and more. The number of payment tools also can be confusing, from WooCommerce,&nbsp;<a href="http://authorize.net/">Authorize.net</a>, Square, Stripe, PayPal, Cash, VenMo and others.

But Boyer urged business owners not to get paralyzed by the numerous options. “Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good,” she said.

“Get something up there, get started, don’t go out of business,” she said. “Find a way to communicate what you’re selling so that people can purchase something from you, because they want to buy from you; they just need to know how. Keep working at building your e-commerce presence over time. It doesn’t have to perfect and it doesn’t all have to be up there on day one.”

In her presentation, Boyer outlined advantages and disadvantages of many online platforms. Her full presentation is available&nbsp;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paygHY1q4MI">online through the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement.</a>&nbsp;Boyer is also available to answer questions and give guidance by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:crboyer@ksu.edu">crboyer@ksu.edu</a>.

She noted that while most stay-at-home orders have expired across the country, an online presence is still going to be valuable to most businesses. It may also become critical again in the case of future shutdowns.

“A lot of times when we’re setting up e-commerce, it’s new for everybody,” she said. “It’s new for you as a business owner and it’s new for the customer trying to make an order. I think the most critical piece is to respond to customers as quickly as possible. Even if you can’t give them all the information they need, acknowledge that you received it; let them know you exist, you heard them and it may take a while to get back to them with all the information but you are working on it.”

Establishing a valuable online store could include a lot of work, including gathering images of each product with descriptions, and uploading that information into a website. All of that has to be kept updated, as well.

“As a business owner, you should think about who in your community wants to help you be successful and can do a piece of the puzzle for you,” Boyer said. “Maybe there are current employees who you can re-direct to do this work, or maybe there are local allied businesses that you can partner with. And in a lot of communities there may be students who are looking for experience and have the knowledge to be able to do some of that work.”

In 2015, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/">Pew Research Center</a>&nbsp;reported that 8 in 10 Americans are online shoppers, and 15% buy products online weekly. Those numbers have likely increased during the pandemic when all Americans – at one point – were under government stay-at-home orders.

It led many businesses to get creative in how they are serving customers, including online sales, curbside pickup, home delivery and email ordering. For businesses, Boyer said it also required a new set of best practices for businesses, including:

More information and tips are available from the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralengagement.org/">online through its website</a>, as well as&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://A37604CB-5B31-4D33-B4D3-8DC90EA45148/Facebook.com/ruralengagement">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://A37604CB-5B31-4D33-B4D3-8DC90EA45148/Tinyurl.com/CREEyoutube">YouTube</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579678484.jpeg" alt="Photo by Thomas Lefebvre on Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Thomas Lefebvre on Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Businesses that adapt are likely to thrive, she says</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN – The executive director of a program that helps rural business owners manage new media says that the rush to using online marketing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic does not have to be complicated.Cheryl Boyer, co-founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement at Kansas State University, talked recently to more than 60 small business owners during a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/community/business/entrepreneurship">First Friday</a>&nbsp;webinar hosted by the university.Boyer said she understands the anxiety among some to transform their brick-and-mortar, Main Street businesses into an online sales format. Yet, parts of society continue to be locked down or limited, and it’s not yet clear that consumers are ready to get back to shopping the way they once did.“Businesses that can adapt to this new economy are more likely to thrive,” Boyer said. “And we want you to thrive. We want your businesses to stay functioning and thriving and for people to spend more money with you.”The tangle of services that offer online business platforms can be overwhelming, including Wordpress, Weebly, Wix, Square, Shopify, Amazon and more. The number of payment tools also can be confusing, from WooCommerce,&nbsp;<a href="http://authorize.net/">Authorize.net</a>, Square, Stripe, PayPal, Cash, VenMo and others.But Boyer urged business owners not to get paralyzed by the numerous options. “Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good,” she said.“Get something up there, get started, don’t go out of business,” she said. “Find a way to communicate what you’re selling so that people can purchase something from you, because they want to buy from you; they just need to know how. Keep working at building your e-commerce presence over time. It doesn’t have to perfect and it doesn’t all have to be up there on day one.”In her presentation, Boyer outlined advantages and disadvantages of many online platforms. Her full presentation is available&nbsp;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paygHY1q4MI">online through the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement.</a>&nbsp;Boyer is also available to answer questions and give guidance by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:crboyer@ksu.edu">crboyer@ksu.edu</a>.She noted that while most stay-at-home orders have expired across the country, an online presence is still going to be valuable to most businesses. It may also become critical again in the case of future shutdowns.“A lot of times when we’re setting up e-commerce, it’s new for everybody,” she said. “It’s new for you as a business owner and it’s new for the customer trying to make an order. I think the most critical piece is to respond to customers as quickly as possible. Even if you can’t give them all the information they need, acknowledge that you received it; let them know you exist, you heard them and it may take a while to get back to them with all the information but you are working on it.”Establishing a valuable online store could include a lot of work, including gathering images of each product with descriptions, and uploading that information into a website. All of that has to be kept updated, as well.“As a business owner, you should think about who in your community wants to help you be successful and can do a piece of the puzzle for you,” Boyer said. “Maybe there are current employees who you can re-direct to do this work, or maybe there are local allied businesses that you can partner with. And in a lot of communities there may be students who are looking for experience and have the knowledge to be able to do some of that work.”In 2015, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/">Pew Research Center</a>&nbsp;reported that 8 in 10 Americans are online shoppers, and 15% buy products online weekly. Those numbers have likely increased during the pandemic when all Americans – at one point – were under government stay-at-home orders.It led many businesses to get creative in how they are serving customers, including online sales, curbside pickup, home delivery and email ordering. For businesses, Boyer said it also required a new set of best practices for businesses, including:<ol>
 <li>Communicate clearly. Let customers know you are following guidelines set forth by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and you are telling people exactly what you are doing to be safe in your store</li><li>Put up signs encouraging social distancing.</li><li>Make sure your staff is following safety guidelines, such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, cleaning displays and washing hands.</li><li>Install clear dividers between staff and customers at checkout stands and other appropriate areas.</li><li>Disinfect surfaces between customers, and make sure they see you doing it.</li><li>Check guidelines regularly. The CDC’s coronavirus page is at&nbsp;<a href="http://cdc.gov/coronavirus">cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.</li>
 </ol>More information and tips are available from the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralengagement.org/">online through its website</a>, as well as&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://A37604CB-5B31-4D33-B4D3-8DC90EA45148/Facebook.com/ruralengagement">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://A37604CB-5B31-4D33-B4D3-8DC90EA45148/Tinyurl.com/CREEyoutube">YouTube</a>.

New media expert urges businesses to start online presence

SHERMAN COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating 2 Florida men on multiple charges after a chase on Interstate 70 in portions of eastern Colorado and northwest Kansas.

Just after 1p.m. Thursday, deputies in Colorado notified Kansas authorities they were in pursuit of a 2007 Dodge Ram and a 2012 Nissan Pickup eastbound on Interstate 0 just west of the Kit Carson County Line, according to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Heilman.&nbsp;

A short time later, the suspects ditched the Nissan and continued eastbound in the Dodge.&nbsp; The pickup struck spike strips placed by deputies in Colorado and the KHP but continued traveling on rims until a KHP trooper forced it off the road near mile post 9 in Sherman County.

The two suspects later identified as 24-year-old Taylor Lee Epperhart and 23-year-old Cody M. Rupert both of Florida ran from the vehicle.&nbsp;

Due to temperatures near 90 degrees, they didn't run far. Both are being held in the Kit Carson County Jail in Burlington, Colorado facing multiple charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592591248054.png" alt="Rupert photo Kit Carson County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Rupert photo Kit Carson County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERMAN COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating 2 Florida men on multiple charges after a chase on Interstate 70 in portions of eastern Colorado and northwest Kansas.Just after 1p.m. Thursday, deputies in Colorado notified Kansas authorities they were in pursuit of a 2007 Dodge Ram and a 2012 Nissan Pickup eastbound on Interstate 0 just west of the Kit Carson County Line, according to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Heilman.&nbsp;A short time later, the suspects ditched the Nissan and continued eastbound in the Dodge.&nbsp; The pickup struck spike strips placed by deputies in Colorado and the KHP but continued traveling on rims until a KHP trooper forced it off the road near mile post 9 in Sherman County.The two suspects later identified as 24-year-old Taylor Lee Epperhart and 23-year-old Cody M. Rupert both of Florida ran from the vehicle.&nbsp;Due to temperatures near 90 degrees, they didn't run far. Both are being held in the Kit Carson County Jail in Burlington, Colorado facing multiple charges.

2 suspects in stolen pickup jailed after NW Kan. high speed chase

Submitted By St. Nicholas of Myra Evangelization Committee

Processions in honor of the Feast of Corpus Christi have been a staple of the eight Heartland Parishes of Ellis County for several years.&nbsp;

But as with everything else in 2020, this year’s procession was different for parishioners and priests who serve the Heartland parishes.

The COVID-19 pandemic guidelines, restricting churches in their ability to minister to their congregation, caused ministry in all denominations to think outside the box in reaching out to their faithful.

Responsibility for organizing the processions rotates each year with the three largest parishes in Heartland Parishes – St. Joseph, St. Nicholas, and Immaculate Heart of Mary. This year, the evangelization committee at St. Nicholas decided to be creative.

Corpus Christi is a solemnity celebrating the real presence of the body and blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ in the elements of the Eucharist, so the procession of taking Jesus to the people was a way to&nbsp; offer a beacon of hope in the midst of fear, uncertainty and turmoil throughout the world.&nbsp;

This year’s Corpus Christi celebration – a public profession of the Catholic faith in the real presence of Christ in the Holy Sacrament – took on a somewhat deeper meaning since Catholics have been unable to receive Holy Communion physically during the COVID-19 lockdown.

The Hays 2020 Corpus Christi procession was meant to literally bring Jesus to the people.

With a forecast of 95 degrees and gusts of wind, a cloud cover rolled in just before the 2 p.m. start of the procession on June 14, giving pleasant relief from the heat to the estimated 150 people who participated in the procession.

The ceremony and procession began at St Joseph Church at the corner of 13th and Ash and ended at Immaculate Heart of Mary at 18th and Vine. Leading the procession were cross- and candle-bearers, followed by the clergy and priests.

As the crowd made its way along the streets, priests from the three parishes took turns holding high the monstrance carrying the Holy Eucharist, walking under a canopy supported by the members of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization.

Members of the Daughters of Isabella, the female auxiliary of the K of C, held red candles indicating the presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Cheryl Glassman, music director at St. Nicholas of Myra, led the procession in song as they walked the distance of about a mile between St. Joseph and IHM, stopping along the way at three temporary tented altars.

Participants knelt and stood near the temporary altars as the priests from the three Catholic parishes led the group in a gospel reading, prayer, and benediction, each taking their turn at their respective altar.

With the welcomed assistance of the Hays Police Department, the group sang songs and praises along the way, ending at Immaculate Heart of Mary with prayer, benediction and divine praises.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592660926423.jpeg" alt="Clergy lead the Corpus Christi procession with parishioners from the Heartland Parishes of Ellis County." />
 <figcaption>Clergy lead the Corpus Christi procession with parishioners from the Heartland Parishes of Ellis County.</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted By St. Nicholas of Myra Evangelization CommitteeProcessions in honor of the Feast of Corpus Christi have been a staple of the eight Heartland Parishes of Ellis County for several years.&nbsp;But as with everything else in 2020, this year’s procession was different for parishioners and priests who serve the Heartland parishes.The COVID-19 pandemic guidelines, restricting churches in their ability to minister to their congregation, caused ministry in all denominations to think outside the box in reaching out to their faithful.Responsibility for organizing the processions rotates each year with the three largest parishes in Heartland Parishes – St. Joseph, St. Nicholas, and Immaculate Heart of Mary. This year, the evangelization committee at St. Nicholas decided to be creative.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592660980463.jpeg" alt="Parishioners join in prayer at one of the tent stops – at Massey Park at 17th and Pine." />
 <figcaption>Parishioners join in prayer at one of the tent stops – at Massey Park at 17th and Pine.</figcaption>
 </figure>Corpus Christi is a solemnity celebrating the real presence of the body and blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ in the elements of the Eucharist, so the procession of taking Jesus to the people was a way to&nbsp; offer a beacon of hope in the midst of fear, uncertainty and turmoil throughout the world.&nbsp;This year’s Corpus Christi celebration – a public profession of the Catholic faith in the real presence of Christ in the Holy Sacrament – took on a somewhat deeper meaning since Catholics have been unable to receive Holy Communion physically during the COVID-19 lockdown.The Hays 2020 Corpus Christi procession was meant to literally bring Jesus to the people.With a forecast of 95 degrees and gusts of wind, a cloud cover rolled in just before the 2 p.m. start of the procession on June 14, giving pleasant relief from the heat to the estimated 150 people who participated in the procession.The ceremony and procession began at St Joseph Church at the corner of 13th and Ash and ended at Immaculate Heart of Mary at 18th and Vine. Leading the procession were cross- and candle-bearers, followed by the clergy and priests.As the crowd made its way along the streets, priests from the three parishes took turns holding high the monstrance carrying the Holy Eucharist, walking under a canopy supported by the members of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization.Members of the Daughters of Isabella, the female auxiliary of the K of C, held red candles indicating the presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Cheryl Glassman, music director at St. Nicholas of Myra, led the procession in song as they walked the distance of about a mile between St. Joseph and IHM, stopping along the way at three temporary tented altars.Participants knelt and stood near the temporary altars as the priests from the three Catholic parishes led the group in a gospel reading, prayer, and benediction, each taking their turn at their respective altar.With the welcomed assistance of the Hays Police Department, the group sang songs and praises along the way, ending at Immaculate Heart of Mary with prayer, benediction and divine praises..&nbsp;

Procession offers a beacon of hope

By JAMES BELL &amp; CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Although the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk was canceled this year because of COVID-19, the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition that anchors that event is set to open Monday.

This is the 51st year for the exhibition, which is the longest continuous juried art exhibition in the state. The exhibit will run through Aug. 14.

There are 54 pieces in this year's exhibition.

Because of social distancing concerns, the HAC will not be hosting an opening reception for the exhibition or the summer art walk, said Brenda Meder, HAC executive director.

"For eight weeks, people can come in and see this fabulous art exhibit of wonderful contemporary works," Meder said, "some of it in a traditional format, some of it more conceptual and less representational."

The exhibit includes a variety of media, including sculptures, ceramics, metals, metal jewelry pieces, wood carving, print making and photography.

The exhibit even features an assemblage sculpture, which includes a 388-pound cast-iron zucchini squash, Meder said.

"We have some really neat things in here — some innovative things," she said, "and some very beautiful, stunning traditional paintings. It really covers it all. There is something in here for everyone."

She said the exhibit is suitable for all ages, and she encouraged parents or grandparents to bring children to the HAC to see the show.

"It is just that delightful exposure," Meder said. "If someone is intrigued enough, they are going to stand there and study that one a little longer and maybe chuckle or ask, 'Why is this in here?' or 'Is this really art?' or 'Gosh, that's beautiful.'&nbsp;

"It covers the gamut, and not everything appeals to everyone, but I guarantee you this year in the Smoky, there isn't anyone that I can imagine who can't come in and find something that truly speaks to them."

This year's juror, Paul Allen, an art instructor for 37 years, will distribute $2,750 in cash prizes. Allen's own work has been exhibited throughout the United States and Great Britain. He was a partner in the development and design of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art and serves as a member of its aquisitions committee.

"The artists were so happy with everything closed down and other exhibits being completely canceled," Meder said.&nbsp;

There is never a charge to visit the gallery, which is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

Meder said the gallery is an open, comfortable space in which visitors can social distance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592514760962.jpeg" alt="Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council prepares for Smoky Hill exhibition and student summer classes" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/d5h8z-e02e97?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL &amp; CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAlthough the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk was canceled this year because of COVID-19, the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition that anchors that event is set to open Monday.This is the 51st year for the exhibition, which is the longest continuous juried art exhibition in the state. The exhibit will run through Aug. 14.There are 54 pieces in this year's exhibition.Because of social distancing concerns, the HAC will not be hosting an opening reception for the exhibition or the summer art walk, said Brenda Meder, HAC executive director."For eight weeks, people can come in and see this fabulous art exhibit of wonderful contemporary works," Meder said, "some of it in a traditional format, some of it more conceptual and less representational."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592514943690.jpeg" alt="Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>The exhibit includes a variety of media, including sculptures, ceramics, metals, metal jewelry pieces, wood carving, print making and photography.The exhibit even features an assemblage sculpture, which includes a 388-pound cast-iron zucchini squash, Meder said."We have some really neat things in here — some innovative things," she said, "and some very beautiful, stunning traditional paintings. It really covers it all. There is something in here for everyone."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592515077310.jpeg" alt="Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>She said the exhibit is suitable for all ages, and she encouraged parents or grandparents to bring children to the HAC to see the show."It is just that delightful exposure," Meder said. "If someone is intrigued enough, they are going to stand there and study that one a little longer and maybe chuckle or ask, 'Why is this in here?' or 'Is this really art?' or 'Gosh, that's beautiful.'&nbsp;"It covers the gamut, and not everything appeals to everyone, but I guarantee you this year in the Smoky, there isn't anyone that I can imagine who can't come in and find something that truly speaks to them."This year's juror, Paul Allen, an art instructor for 37 years, will distribute $2,750 in cash prizes. Allen's own work has been exhibited throughout the United States and Great Britain. He was a partner in the development and design of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art and serves as a member of its aquisitions committee.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592515205400.jpeg" alt="Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>"The artists were so happy with everything closed down and other exhibits being completely canceled," Meder said.&nbsp;There is never a charge to visit the gallery, which is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.Meder said the gallery is an open, comfortable space in which visitors can social distance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592515296676.jpeg" alt="Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hill Art Exhibition 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays Arts Council Smoky Hill Exhibition to open Monday

Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau

With many COVID-related restrictions lifted in Ellis County, the <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival committee</a> is working with local officials to put on a free concert Friday, July 3 and Main Street parade on Saturday, July 4 to accompany the holiday weekend’s fireworks show.

<a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hays/WildWest5K">In addition, the Wild West Festival 5K is planned for the morning of July 4.</a>

The event committee has partnered with the <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/">Downtown Hays Development Corporation</a> for two days of activities, “Fourth of July on the Bricks.” All events have ample opportunities for social distancing so participants can feel comfortable and stay safe.

Fourth of July on the Bricks schedule of events:

Friday afternoon’s activities will include a free concert at noon in the Downtown Pavilion as part of the Bach’s Lunch summer concert series with a performance by Miles on End. 

Box lunches by Augustine’s Bakery can be reserved ahead of time for $10 by calling the DHDC office at 621- 4171 or patrons are welcome to bring their own lunch.

Friday night’s concert in Municipal Park will be free, with an option for a free-will donation to benefit the Wild West Festival. 

Interested businesses can contact Sandi Maier at 785-639-3365 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@wildwestfestival.com" target="_blank">info@wildwestfestival.com</a>&nbsp;for sponsorship opportunities.

<a href="http://www.HeartlandTiming.com">Race participants can register for the Wild West Festival 5K at www.HeartlandTiming.com.</a>&nbsp;

The cost is $20, but the price will increase after June 29. 

The parade will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4 on Main Street. 

Local organizations or businesses may sign up to be in the parade by filling out the entry form at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wildwestfestival.com/" target="_blank">www.WildWestFestival.com</a>.&nbsp;

With this year’s theme being “Hometown Heroes,” our healthcare workers, fire department, police department, EMS personnel, teachers, etc. are especially welcome.

The parade will be followed by a Block Party at the Downtown Pavilion at 10th&nbsp;and Main Street with hot dogs, live music by DoC, and family games.

The free Fireworks Spectacular is made possible by a sponsorship by the City of Hays. 

Fireworks will be visible from Downtown Hays and the Hwy 183 Bypass. 

<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Tune in to Mix 103.3 FM for accompanying patriotic music.</a>

Find more information on Fourth of July on the Bricks events at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wildwestfestival.com/" target="_blank">www.WildWestFestival.com</a>&nbsp;or <a href="http://www.DowntownHays.com.">www.DowntownHays.com.</a>

The Wild West Festival is a 501(c)4 nonprofit corporation organized for the purpose of providing an annual community festival celebrating the customs and traditions of Hays.

<div><iframe title="WWF and DHDC plan Fourth of July events" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/bmsh3-e06991?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>Hays Convention and Visitors BureauWith many COVID-related restrictions lifted in Ellis County, the <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival committee</a> is working with local officials to put on a free concert Friday, July 3 and Main Street parade on Saturday, July 4 to accompany the holiday weekend’s fireworks show. <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hays/WildWest5K">In addition, the Wild West Festival 5K is planned for the morning of July 4.</a>The event committee has partnered with the <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/">Downtown Hays Development Corporation</a> for two days of activities, “Fourth of July on the Bricks.” All events have ample opportunities for social distancing so participants can feel comfortable and stay safe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580993352.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Fourth of July on the Bricks schedule of events:</h2>Friday, July 3<ul>
 <li>8 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; Pickleball Tournament registration, Municipal Park</li><li>9&nbsp;a.m &nbsp; Pickleball Tournament begins, Municipal Park</li><li>12 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bach’s Lunch on the Bricks, Downtown Pavilion</li><li>6:30 p.m. Wild West Festival Concert in the Park, Municipal Park</li>
 </ul>Saturday, July 4<ul>
 <li>7:30 a.m Downtown Hays Market, Downtown Pavilion</li><li>8&nbsp;a.m &nbsp; &nbsp; Wild West Festival 5K, Hays Aquatic Park</li><li>10&nbsp;a.m &nbsp; Wild West Festival Parade: “Hometown Heroes,” Main Street</li><li>11&nbsp;a.m &nbsp; Block Party on the Bricks, Downtown Pavilion</li><li>10 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;Wild West Festival Fireworks Show, Downtown Hays &amp; US 183 Bypass. <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Tune in to Mix 103.3 for music.</a></li>
 </ul>Friday afternoon’s activities will include a free concert at noon in the Downtown Pavilion as part of the Bach’s Lunch summer concert series with a performance by Miles on End. Box lunches by Augustine’s Bakery can be reserved ahead of time for $10 by calling the DHDC office at 621- 4171 or patrons are welcome to bring their own lunch.Friday night’s concert in Municipal Park will be free, with an option for a free-will donation to benefit the Wild West Festival. <h2>Musical acts include:</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MilesOnEnd.Hays/">Miles on End 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.</a></li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li><a href="https://lucasmaddy.com/">Lucas Maddy &amp; the Kansas Cartel 8:00 – 9:00 p.m.</a></li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Frank Werth &amp; the Vibrations 9:30 – 10:30 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Sponsors are welcome. Interested businesses can contact Sandi Maier at 785-639-3365 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@wildwestfestival.com" target="_blank">info@wildwestfestival.com</a>&nbsp;for sponsorship opportunities.<a href="http://www.HeartlandTiming.com">Race participants can register for the Wild West Festival 5K at www.HeartlandTiming.com.</a>&nbsp;The cost is $20, but the price will increase after June 29. The race will begin at 8 a.m.The parade will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4 on Main Street. Local organizations or businesses may sign up to be in the parade by filling out the entry form at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wildwestfestival.com/" target="_blank">www.WildWestFestival.com</a>.&nbsp;With this year’s theme being “Hometown Heroes,” our healthcare workers, fire department, police department, EMS personnel, teachers, etc. are especially welcome.The parade will be followed by a Block Party at the Downtown Pavilion at 10th&nbsp;and Main Street with hot dogs, live music by DoC, and family games.The free Fireworks Spectacular is made possible by a sponsorship by the City of Hays. Fireworks will be visible from Downtown Hays and the Hwy 183 Bypass. <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Tune in to Mix 103.3 FM for accompanying patriotic music.</a>Find more information on Fourth of July on the Bricks events at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wildwestfestival.com/" target="_blank">www.WildWestFestival.com</a>&nbsp;or <a href="http://www.DowntownHays.com.">www.DowntownHays.com.</a>The Wild West Festival is a 501(c)4 nonprofit corporation organized for the purpose of providing an annual community festival celebrating the customs and traditions of Hays.

🎤 Wild West Festival plans free concert, parade, 5K

This spring, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland launched a new program to deliver Girl Scout cookies to essential workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Now the professionals at Hays Medical Center have something sweet thanks to generous Kansans. This week, Girl Scout cookies donated through Cookies for Courage were delivered to Hays Medical Center to enjoy.

Through this initiative, Kansans have purchased packages of Girl Scout cookies to donate to health care providers, grocery store clerks, and others who have been required to work amidst the pandemic. “Cookies for Courage has offered Kansans an opportunity to thank those keeping our communities strong,” Liz Workman, CEO of Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland. “Kansans are known for helping others in need, and this new option has delivered a sweet treat to our essential community members on the front lines.” Girl Scout cookie season was set to run through March 22, but due to COVID-19, in-person sales were suspended.

Cookies for Courage has offered generous Kansans the option to give individual Girl Scouts or entire troops credit for these donations. This has helped girls continue to reach their goals and power amazing experiences throughout the Girl Scout year. Kansans can learn more about the Cookies for Courage program at&nbsp;<a href="http://click.email.girlscouts.org/?qs=2934dcce47e170409d8c40e0843493169d97bbcb2b50c65e713d901e01b8858f431fec0b630e59fa6dad2b4edc36cbd2" target="_blank">kansasgirlscouts.org/cookiesforcourage</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592434454359.jpeg" alt="Girl Scout cookies donated to Hays Medical Center&nbsp;through Cookies for Courage.&nbsp; Lisa Cech, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland product sales manager (left) with Nikki Mihm, HaysMed volunteer and associates director (right)" />
 <figcaption>Girl Scout cookies donated to Hays Medical Center&nbsp;through Cookies for Courage.&nbsp; Lisa Cech, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland product sales manager (left) with Nikki Mihm, HaysMed volunteer and associates director (right)</figcaption>
 </figure>GSKH This spring, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland launched a new program to deliver Girl Scout cookies to essential workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak. Now the professionals at Hays Medical Center have something sweet thanks to generous Kansans. This week, Girl Scout cookies donated through Cookies for Courage were delivered to Hays Medical Center to enjoy. Through this initiative, Kansans have purchased packages of Girl Scout cookies to donate to health care providers, grocery store clerks, and others who have been required to work amidst the pandemic. “Cookies for Courage has offered Kansans an opportunity to thank those keeping our communities strong,” Liz Workman, CEO of Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland. “Kansans are known for helping others in need, and this new option has delivered a sweet treat to our essential community members on the front lines.” Girl Scout cookie season was set to run through March 22, but due to COVID-19, in-person sales were suspended. Cookies for Courage has offered generous Kansans the option to give individual Girl Scouts or entire troops credit for these donations. This has helped girls continue to reach their goals and power amazing experiences throughout the Girl Scout year. Kansans can learn more about the Cookies for Courage program at&nbsp;<a href="http://click.email.girlscouts.org/?qs=2934dcce47e170409d8c40e0843493169d97bbcb2b50c65e713d901e01b8858f431fec0b630e59fa6dad2b4edc36cbd2" target="_blank">kansasgirlscouts.org/cookiesforcourage</a>.

HaysMed receives donated Girl Scout 'Cookies for Courage'

Beginning Monday, Canal Boulevard in Hays will be restricted to one-way southbound between 23rd and 27th streets for the reconstruction of pavement in that area.

Also, 24th Street will be closed at Canal.&nbsp;

Construction is expected to last two weeks. 

For more information, call City of Hays Project Management at 785 628-7350 or J Corp at 785 628-8101.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591740299581.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Monday, Canal Boulevard in Hays will be restricted to one-way southbound between 23rd and 27th streets for the reconstruction of pavement in that area.Also, 24th Street will be closed at Canal.&nbsp;Construction is expected to last two weeks. For more information, call City of Hays Project Management at 785 628-7350 or J Corp at 785 628-8101.

Reconstruction to restrict traffic on Canal Boulevard

The little barley is a diploid annual grass native to the United States, which arrived via multiple long-distance dispersals of a southern South American species of Hordeum about one million years ago.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k4f547Q33vc"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The little barley is a diploid annual grass native to the United States, which arrived via multiple long-distance dispersals of a southern South American species of Hordeum about one million years ago.

🎥 Green & Growing: Little barley

In a news release Friday, the Hays Larks announced its season opener will be at 6 p.m. Saturday with a&nbsp;doubleheader against the Colorado Pirates.

The game — and the serious — were in doubt after a Larks player tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month.

"In consultation with the Ellis County Health Department, Larks Board 
of Directors and following all applicable KDHE guidelines, the Larks’ 
season will continue," the organization said in a news release. "Larks staff, coaches and players are taking 
measures to maintain a safe and healthy environment and encourage all 
fans to do the same.

"Please maintain social distancing and basic 
hygiene practices while in the park," the organization said in a news 
release. "Please do not attend games if you are ill or feeling ill.&nbsp; We 
look forward to a great season and appreciate the outpouring of support 
from our community and fans."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592593932425.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In a news release Friday, the Hays Larks announced its season opener will be at 6 p.m. Saturday with a&nbsp;doubleheader against the Colorado Pirates.The game — and the serious — were in doubt after a Larks player tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month."In consultation with the Ellis County Health Department, Larks Board 
of Directors and following all applicable KDHE guidelines, the Larks’ 
season will continue," the organization said in a news release. "Larks staff, coaches and players are taking 
measures to maintain a safe and healthy environment and encourage all 
fans to do the same."Please maintain social distancing and basic 
hygiene practices while in the park," the organization said in a news 
release. "Please do not attend games if you are ill or feeling ill.&nbsp; We 
look forward to a great season and appreciate the outpouring of support 
from our community and fans."&nbsp;

Hays Larks: Season opener this weekend is a go

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced a new positive case of COVID-19 in Ellis County.

The department said the new case was identified through contact tracing from another state, and said contacts will be notified. The individual has mild symptoms, is in home isolation and is a contact of a known positive case from outside Ellis County.

The release noted the individual is not associated with the Hays Larks baseball program.

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday announced a new positive case of COVID-19 in Ellis County.The department said the new case was identified through contact tracing from another state, and said contacts will be notified. The individual has mild symptoms, is in home isolation and is a contact of a known positive case from outside Ellis County.The release noted the individual is not associated with the Hays Larks baseball program.Read the entire release below:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592587845060.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

New case of coronavirus identified in Ellis County

Juneteenth
Jam,&nbsp; an educational event, will take place&nbsp;from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 19&nbsp; at the Hays Municipal Park (located south of the Hays Aquatic Park). 

It will feature speakers discussing the importance of June 19,
the 13th
amendment, Black Wall Street, and personal accounts of battling discrimination and injustice.&nbsp;

The event is set to move forward as planned, but organizers are watching the weather.

This free public event is open to all ages. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.

A
voter registration table will be set up, and volunteers will be available to assist with registration. Petitions and educational materials will also be available.&nbsp;

The
organizers of the event request that individuals wear face masks and practice physical distancing to protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19. Disposable masks and hand sanitizer will be available. 

Speakers
will include: Raeanna Peacock, Vanessa
Dinkel, Danzel
Major, Charles Law, Nick
Eiden, Joshua Allen, Ray
Morris, Courtney Moye, and special guests the Second Baptist Church Dancers from Russell.

Find more information at the Facebook event.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592585155162.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedJuneteenth
Jam,&nbsp; an educational event, will take place&nbsp;from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 19&nbsp; at the Hays Municipal Park (located south of the Hays Aquatic Park). It will feature speakers discussing the importance of June 19,
the 13th
amendment, Black Wall Street, and personal accounts of battling discrimination and injustice.&nbsp;The event is set to move forward as planned, but organizers are watching the weather.This free public event is open to all ages. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.A
voter registration table will be set up, and volunteers will be available to assist with registration. Petitions and educational materials will also be available.&nbsp;The
organizers of the event request that individuals wear face masks and practice physical distancing to protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19. Disposable masks and hand sanitizer will be available. Speakers
will include: Raeanna Peacock, Vanessa
Dinkel, Danzel
Major, Charles Law, Nick
Eiden, Joshua Allen, Ray
Morris, Courtney Moye, and special guests the Second Baptist Church Dancers from Russell.Find more information at the Facebook event.&nbsp;

Juneteenth Jam set in Hays

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 10 percent in May. This was a decrease from 11.9 percent in April and an increase from 3.1 percent in May 2019.

“During Governor Kelly's response to stop the spread of COVID-19, preliminary estimates show Kansas took a step in the right direction in May,” said Secretary Delía García. “The unemployment rate in Kansas fell nearly two percentage points from 11.9 percent in April to 10.0 percent in May and the state gained over 24,000 jobs compared to last month. This follows historic job losses seen across the nation in March and April due to COVID-19.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592577545360.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 10 percent in May. This was a decrease from 11.9 percent in April and an increase from 3.1 percent in May 2019.“During Governor Kelly's response to stop the spread of COVID-19, preliminary estimates show Kansas took a step in the right direction in May,” said Secretary Delía García. “The unemployment rate in Kansas fell nearly two percentage points from 11.9 percent in April to 10.0 percent in May and the state gained over 24,000 jobs compared to last month. This follows historic job losses seen across the nation in March and April due to COVID-19.”The jobless rate in Ellis County fell from 7.1 percent in April to 5.8 percent in May — still remarkably high for western Kansas, which is also dealing with a downturn in the regional oil economy.Compared to April, the unemployment rate across northwest Kansas fell in nearly every county. Graham, Russell and Barton counties still had jobless rates over 6 percent in May.Urban and eastern Kansas counties continued to record double-digit unemployment, with Sedgwick, Geary and several Kansas City-area counties posting jobless rates above 10 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 24,200 from April. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 29,500 from the previous month, while government decreased by 5,300 jobs.“Preliminary May estimates released today show Kansas gained back 17 percent of the jobs lost in March and April due to efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19,” said Senior Labor Economist, Tyler Tenbrink. “The reference period for the payroll survey was the pay period including the 12th of May, during this time Kansas was in Phase One of Governor Kelly's reopening plan.”Since May 2019, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 110,100. This change is due to a decrease of 94,900 private sector jobs and 15,200 government jobs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592577575780.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>