Three-day weather outlook

Those of you that know us at all are aware that Joyce and I absolutely hate the heat of summer. My dad was just the opposite; in weather like we’ve had the last week, he would have had windows open and MAYBE the ceiling fan going, but certainly not the AC. I keep thinking that as I get older, I’ll get more of his love for the heat. But nope, the older I get, the worse I hate it. I feel tired and drug-out by mid-morning, have absolutely zero energy and the only joy I get from days like this is the fact that my tomatoes are lovin’ it! The Kansas summer heat is the main reason we no longer have a boat. Once it got hot, the boat sat in the shed. We’d manage a couple fishing trips in the spring, from then on it merely took-up space. We’ve all heard the usual one-liners about how hot it is, but here are a few new ones I’ve come up with.

It’s so hot that I bought a cup of coffee at McDonalds and poured it over my lap to cool off.

It’s so hot that beer guts and big butts no longer keep people from wearing shorts.

It’s so hot that CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture.

&nbsp;it’s so hot that congress actually have to take their hands out of OUR pockets to fan themselves.

It’s so hot that cattlemen have learned that a seatbelt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.

I bought a dozen eggs at the store yesterday, and it was so hot that when I got home, I had a dozen chicks in the carton. &nbsp;

Its so hot that cows are giving evaporated milk.

There was a knock at the door the other day, and when I opened it there stood someone I’ve never met before asking if they could stick their head in our freezer for a couple minutes.

It’s so hot that the camels at the Sedgwick Co. Zoo want transferred to the Sahara Desert where it’s cooler.

It’s so hot that my niece’s pigs are complaining about sweating like fat humans.

I’m going to ask that the next time someone plans a pandemic, they wait till summer so I couldn’t care less about leavin’ the house anyway.

It’s so hot that the geese in the local park pond are now either “original recipe” or “extra crispy.”

And my personal favorite; It’s so hot that the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will be offering a new big game hunting license this year; it will be good for 1 camel, either sex! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Those of you that know us at all are aware that Joyce and I absolutely hate the heat of summer. My dad was just the opposite; in weather like we’ve had the last week, he would have had windows open and MAYBE the ceiling fan going, but certainly not the AC. I keep thinking that as I get older, I’ll get more of his love for the heat. But nope, the older I get, the worse I hate it. I feel tired and drug-out by mid-morning, have absolutely zero energy and the only joy I get from days like this is the fact that my tomatoes are lovin’ it! The Kansas summer heat is the main reason we no longer have a boat. Once it got hot, the boat sat in the shed. We’d manage a couple fishing trips in the spring, from then on it merely took-up space. We’ve all heard the usual one-liners about how hot it is, but here are a few new ones I’ve come up with.It’s so hot that I bought a cup of coffee at McDonalds and poured it over my lap to cool off.It’s so hot that beer guts and big butts no longer keep people from wearing shorts.It’s so hot that CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture.&nbsp;it’s so hot that congress actually have to take their hands out of OUR pockets to fan themselves.It’s so hot that cattlemen have learned that a seatbelt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.I bought a dozen eggs at the store yesterday, and it was so hot that when I got home, I had a dozen chicks in the carton. &nbsp;Its so hot that cows are giving evaporated milk.There was a knock at the door the other day, and when I opened it there stood someone I’ve never met before asking if they could stick their head in our freezer for a couple minutes.It’s so hot that the camels at the Sedgwick Co. Zoo want transferred to the Sahara Desert where it’s cooler.It’s so hot that my niece’s pigs are complaining about sweating like fat humans.I’m going to ask that the next time someone plans a pandemic, they wait till summer so I couldn’t care less about leavin’ the house anyway.It’s so hot that the geese in the local park pond are now either “original recipe” or “extra crispy.”And my personal favorite; It’s so hot that the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will be offering a new big game hunting license this year; it will be good for 1 camel, either sex! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: It’s so hot and dry that ….

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;The Finnup Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $20,000 to support the educational programming on Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;

Michael Quade, director of broadcasting for Smoky Hills PBS stated, “At a time where educational programming is so vital to the kids in our viewing area, the support of the Finnup Foundation has never been more important!&nbsp; The Finnup Foundation has been a long-time supporter of Smoky Hills PBS and their support has not only ensured kids are learning while on screens, but has provided educational programming for FREE to those children that may not have educational resources available to them. We want to thank them for ensuring that quality, educational resources are broadcast and available to EVERYONE within our viewing area!”

The Finnup Foundation Trust was established in 1977 by siblings Frederick Finnup and Isabel&nbsp;Finnup, who carried on the legacy of generosity that was modeled by their father, George Finnup, and their grandfather, Frederick Finnup. The Finnup family’s interest in families, youth,&nbsp;education and conservation are expressed through the gifts to many organizations in the community.

SHPTVBUNKER HILL –&nbsp;The Finnup Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $20,000 to support the educational programming on Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;Michael Quade, director of broadcasting for Smoky Hills PBS stated, “At a time where educational programming is so vital to the kids in our viewing area, the support of the Finnup Foundation has never been more important!&nbsp; The Finnup Foundation has been a long-time supporter of Smoky Hills PBS and their support has not only ensured kids are learning while on screens, but has provided educational programming for FREE to those children that may not have educational resources available to them. We want to thank them for ensuring that quality, educational resources are broadcast and available to EVERYONE within our viewing area!”The Finnup Foundation Trust was established in 1977 by siblings Frederick Finnup and Isabel&nbsp;Finnup, who carried on the legacy of generosity that was modeled by their father, George Finnup, and their grandfather, Frederick Finnup. The Finnup family’s interest in families, youth,&nbsp;education and conservation are expressed through the gifts to many organizations in the community.

Smoky Hills PBS is Awarded a Grant from the Finnup Foundation

The public is invited to the Cancer Council of Ellis County annual meeting at 5:30 p.m. June 23 at the Cancer Council office, 701 Riley, Hays.

Shelby Doty Sophia Sanders Tim Cossaart

Awards will be presented for Volunteer of the Year and the John Boalen Outstanding Service Award.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591377623834.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The public is invited to the Cancer Council of Ellis County annual meeting at 5:30 p.m. June 23 at the Cancer Council office, 701 Riley, Hays.Slate of board members:Shelby Doty Sophia Sanders Tim CossaartAwards will be presented for Volunteer of the Year and the John Boalen Outstanding Service Award.Submitted

Public invited to Cancer Council of Ellis County annual meeting

The Hays Police Department responded to 16 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Thu., June 4, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental Health Call--2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 12:44 AM

Civil Dispute--200 block Northridge Dr, Hays; 6:20 AM

Animal Cruelty/Neglect--500 block E 20th St, Hays; 8:33 AM

Animal Cruelty/Neglect--500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:46 AM

Mental Health Call--2500 block Vine St, Hays; 8 AM

Mental Health Call--2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 6/3 12 PM; 4 PM

Tethering Violation--400 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:47 PM

Water Use Violation--1700 block Henry Dr, Hays; 1:08 PM

Animal At Large--2700 block Woodrow Ct, Hays; 1:38 PM

Welfare Check--1700 block Fort St, Hays; 3:35 PM

MV Accident-Personal Injury--20th and Allen St, Hays; 4:08 PM

Animal At Large--1700 block Hall St, Hays; 4:28 PM

Create a Hazard--2700 block Elm St, Hays; 4:36 PM

Animal Cruelty/Neglect--3100 block Hall St, Hays; 4:58 PM

Lost Animals ONLY--500 block E 6th St, Hays; 6:31 PM

Welfare Check--4600 block Jefferson Dr, Hays; 7:01 PM

Aggravated Assault--1800 block Pine St, Hays; 8:16 PM

Found/Lost Property--300 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:33 PM

Welfare Check--3800 block Vine St, Hays; 9:47 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 16 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Thu., June 4, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental Health Call--2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 12:44 AMCivil Dispute--200 block Northridge Dr, Hays; 6:20 AMAnimal Cruelty/Neglect--500 block E 20th St, Hays; 8:33 AMAnimal Cruelty/Neglect--500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:46 AMMental Health Call--2500 block Vine St, Hays; 8 AMMental Health Call--2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 6/3 12 PM; 4 PMTethering Violation--400 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:47 PMWater Use Violation--1700 block Henry Dr, Hays; 1:08 PMAnimal At Large--2700 block Woodrow Ct, Hays; 1:38 PMWelfare Check--1700 block Fort St, Hays; 3:35 PMMV Accident-Personal Injury--20th and Allen St, Hays; 4:08 PMAnimal At Large--1700 block Hall St, Hays; 4:28 PMCreate a Hazard--2700 block Elm St, Hays; 4:36 PMAnimal Cruelty/Neglect--3100 block Hall St, Hays; 4:58 PMLost Animals ONLY--500 block E 6th St, Hays; 6:31 PMWelfare Check--4600 block Jefferson Dr, Hays; 7:01 PMAggravated Assault--1800 block Pine St, Hays; 8:16 PMFound/Lost Property--300 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:33 PMWelfare Check--3800 block Vine St, Hays; 9:47 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, June 4

The 2020 Kansas Legislature is now
complete, at least we assume that another special&nbsp;session will not be called. 

This past legislative session will go down in the history books as unfinished&nbsp;business. Oh, many will say a budget got passed so Kansas government can continue, but the impact of&nbsp;COVID-19 will have ramifications for years to come; physical, emotional, and financial.

Over the last several weeks, I have talked with several
constituents who had challenges navigating or simply communicating with the Department of Labor to get their unemployment issues resolved. I am&nbsp;pleased that Governor Kelly and her staff have worked in a non-partisan effort to help fellow Kansans during these trying times.

 If you are having issues getting answers from state government, please reach out to me: kenrahjes@gmail.com or my cell: (785) 302-8416, it is important that your issues are&nbsp;addressed.

SPECIAL SESSION: The legislature was called back into
special session on June 3rd for the sole purpose of crafting a new COVID-19 response package.

 Over the course of two days, HB 2016 became the state’s&nbsp;COVID-19 response legislation. On June 4th, the House and Senate both overwhelmingly passed that bill&nbsp;with support from both parties. On a bipartisan vote, it passed 107-17 in the House and similarly in the&nbsp;Senate and has been sent to the governor. 

The bill modernizes the state’s emergency disaster laws and&nbsp;places commonsense checks and balances. It aims to protect the people of Kansas while also protecting&nbsp;our jobs and the Kansas economy. COVID-19 has presented many challenges for us, and HB 2016 establishes a well-built framework to help move Kansas forward.&nbsp;

• Adds the legislature’s budget chairpersons to federal
stimulus oversight—changes the legislative&nbsp;oversight of the $1.25 billion in federal funds from the Legislative Coordinating Council to the State&nbsp;Finance Council.

• Prevents the governor from closing businesses or limiting
mass gatherings—through September 15,&nbsp;the governor shall not have the power or authority to close businesses or restrict gatherings of Kansans.

• Extends the current declaration to September 15—should the
governor wish to extend the emergency&nbsp;declaration beyond September 15, it would require six of eight legislative members on the State Finance&nbsp;Council must support such a measure.&nbsp;

• Includes the State Board of Education in school closure
decisions—Provides that the governor may&nbsp;not close schools without a majority vote from the State Board of Education.

• Preserves the integrity of the 2020 election—reiterates
that the governor does not have the authority&nbsp;to change the state’s election process.

• Adds additional local control to health orders—removes red
tape of having local county commissions&nbsp;ratify local health orders, and instead grants the commissioners the ability to review, amend, or revoke&nbsp;local health orders as needed. Commissioners may be less restrictive but must have findings to justify&nbsp;such measures.

• Limited liability protections for nursing homes—provides
restricted liability protections for nursing&nbsp;homes if they are required by the state to take or keep COVID-positive patients, and only if they are&nbsp;operating in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations as an affirmative defense.

• Enacts the COVID-19 Contact Tracing Privacy Act—prohibits
governmental entities from mandating&nbsp;contact tracing programs and using cellphone location data to identify or track the movement of&nbsp;persons. This is strictly voluntary.&nbsp;

As a reminder, the legislature previously passed HB 2054, which was subsequently vetoed. 

These key&nbsp;provisions from that bill were also included in the package presented to the governor:

• Extends unemployment benefits from 16 to 26 weeks and
waives the one-week waiting period for&nbsp;Kansans impacted by layoffs during the pandemic.

• Protects employers from large increases in unemployment
insurance premiums so they are not hit&nbsp;harder by the high rate of unemployment resulting from the pandemic.

• Preserves local control by giving local health officials
and county commissioners the flexibility to&nbsp;determine the right approach for their community. This prevents counties and businesses that are not&nbsp;seeing a significant impact from being bound by a one-size-fits-all approach.

• Implements certain liability protections for businesses,
including those that adapted their business&nbsp;model to assist during the pandemic with the production of hand sanitizer, masks, or other protective&nbsp;equipment that they would not normally produce.

• Implements liability protection for doctors, nurses, and
other first responders to help protect our&nbsp;frontline health care workers from COVID-related lawsuits while they are providing critical care during&nbsp;the pandemic.

• Requires that any governor’s use of executive power be
done within the bounds of the constitution&nbsp;and existing state law. These guardrails will allow governors to take swift action on an emergency&nbsp;response but does not allow a governor to violate Kansans’ constitutional rights or break the law while&nbsp;exercising the powers of the position.

• Provides oversight of federal stimulus funds. Modeled
after the state’s distribution of other federal&nbsp;stimulus funds, such as ARRA funds provided to the state in 2009, this plan allows a governor to propose&nbsp;a plan for those dollars and for members of the legislative branch to approve or amend that plan. This is&nbsp;the same process used in the budgeting and appropriation of other funds coming into the state and&nbsp;keeps the appropriation of these federal stimulus dollars consistent with that process.

• Protects Kansans from unfair criminal prosecution. The
state’s outdated law allowed certain&nbsp;violations of a governor’s executive orders to be punishable by up to a year in jail or a $2,500 fine. This&nbsp;bill converts violations of all executive orders from carrying a criminal penalty to instead carry a civil&nbsp;penalty. This means executive orders would still have teeth, but local law enforcement would have&nbsp;consistency in their ability to prevent violations, and Kansans would not face jail time over executive&nbsp;orders.

Although we are out of session, I am still here to represent
you.

 If you have questions, concerns, or ideas&nbsp;on how to make the state better please reach out to me. Call (785) 302-8416 or email:&nbsp;kenrahjes@gmail.com. I genuinely appreciate when constituents reach out and I can help.

I am running for re-election and currently unopposed.

 There
will be many new members in both the&nbsp;house and senate come January and the issues will continue to grow. 

Thank you for the opportunity to&nbsp;be your state representative.

Ken Rahjes (R-Agra)&nbsp; is the 110th District state representative.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581437228209.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes (R-Agra, 110th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes (R-Agra, 110th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hello from Agra! The 2020 Kansas Legislature is now
complete, at least we assume that another special&nbsp;session will not be called. This past legislative session will go down in the history books as unfinished&nbsp;business. Oh, many will say a budget got passed so Kansas government can continue, but the impact of&nbsp;COVID-19 will have ramifications for years to come; physical, emotional, and financial.Over the last several weeks, I have talked with several
constituents who had challenges navigating or simply communicating with the Department of Labor to get their unemployment issues resolved. I am&nbsp;pleased that Governor Kelly and her staff have worked in a non-partisan effort to help fellow Kansans during these trying times. If you are having issues getting answers from state government, please reach out to me: kenrahjes@gmail.com or my cell: (785) 302-8416, it is important that your issues are&nbsp;addressed.SPECIAL SESSION: The legislature was called back into
special session on June 3rd for the sole purpose of crafting a new COVID-19 response package. Over the course of two days, HB 2016 became the state’s&nbsp;COVID-19 response legislation. On June 4th, the House and Senate both overwhelmingly passed that bill&nbsp;with support from both parties. On a bipartisan vote, it passed 107-17 in the House and similarly in the&nbsp;Senate and has been sent to the governor. The bill modernizes the state’s emergency disaster laws and&nbsp;places commonsense checks and balances. It aims to protect the people of Kansas while also protecting&nbsp;our jobs and the Kansas economy. COVID-19 has presented many challenges for us, and HB 2016 establishes a well-built framework to help move Kansas forward.&nbsp;This bill achieves the following:• Adds the legislature’s budget chairpersons to federal
stimulus oversight—changes the legislative&nbsp;oversight of the $1.25 billion in federal funds from the Legislative Coordinating Council to the State&nbsp;Finance Council.• Prevents the governor from closing businesses or limiting
mass gatherings—through September 15,&nbsp;the governor shall not have the power or authority to close businesses or restrict gatherings of Kansans.• Extends the current declaration to September 15—should the
governor wish to extend the emergency&nbsp;declaration beyond September 15, it would require six of eight legislative members on the State Finance&nbsp;Council must support such a measure.&nbsp;• Includes the State Board of Education in school closure
decisions—Provides that the governor may&nbsp;not close schools without a majority vote from the State Board of Education.• Preserves the integrity of the 2020 election—reiterates
that the governor does not have the authority&nbsp;to change the state’s election process.• Adds additional local control to health orders—removes red
tape of having local county commissions&nbsp;ratify local health orders, and instead grants the commissioners the ability to review, amend, or revoke&nbsp;local health orders as needed. Commissioners may be less restrictive but must have findings to justify&nbsp;such measures.• Limited liability protections for nursing homes—provides
restricted liability protections for nursing&nbsp;homes if they are required by the state to take or keep COVID-positive patients, and only if they are&nbsp;operating in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations as an affirmative defense.• Enacts the COVID-19 Contact Tracing Privacy Act—prohibits
governmental entities from mandating&nbsp;contact tracing programs and using cellphone location data to identify or track the movement of&nbsp;persons. This is strictly voluntary.&nbsp;As a reminder, the legislature previously passed HB 2054, which was subsequently vetoed. These key&nbsp;provisions from that bill were also included in the package presented to the governor:• Extends unemployment benefits from 16 to 26 weeks and
waives the one-week waiting period for&nbsp;Kansans impacted by layoffs during the pandemic.• Protects employers from large increases in unemployment
insurance premiums so they are not hit&nbsp;harder by the high rate of unemployment resulting from the pandemic.• Preserves local control by giving local health officials
and county commissioners the flexibility to&nbsp;determine the right approach for their community. This prevents counties and businesses that are not&nbsp;seeing a significant impact from being bound by a one-size-fits-all approach.• Implements certain liability protections for businesses,
including those that adapted their business&nbsp;model to assist during the pandemic with the production of hand sanitizer, masks, or other protective&nbsp;equipment that they would not normally produce.• Implements liability protection for doctors, nurses, and
other first responders to help protect our&nbsp;frontline health care workers from COVID-related lawsuits while they are providing critical care during&nbsp;the pandemic.• Requires that any governor’s use of executive power be
done within the bounds of the constitution&nbsp;and existing state law. These guardrails will allow governors to take swift action on an emergency&nbsp;response but does not allow a governor to violate Kansans’ constitutional rights or break the law while&nbsp;exercising the powers of the position.• Provides oversight of federal stimulus funds. Modeled
after the state’s distribution of other federal&nbsp;stimulus funds, such as ARRA funds provided to the state in 2009, this plan allows a governor to propose&nbsp;a plan for those dollars and for members of the legislative branch to approve or amend that plan. This is&nbsp;the same process used in the budgeting and appropriation of other funds coming into the state and&nbsp;keeps the appropriation of these federal stimulus dollars consistent with that process.• Protects Kansans from unfair criminal prosecution. The
state’s outdated law allowed certain&nbsp;violations of a governor’s executive orders to be punishable by up to a year in jail or a $2,500 fine. This&nbsp;bill converts violations of all executive orders from carrying a criminal penalty to instead carry a civil&nbsp;penalty. This means executive orders would still have teeth, but local law enforcement would have&nbsp;consistency in their ability to prevent violations, and Kansans would not face jail time over executive&nbsp;orders.Although we are out of session, I am still here to represent
you. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas&nbsp;on how to make the state better please reach out to me. Call (785) 302-8416 or email:&nbsp;kenrahjes@gmail.com. I genuinely appreciate when constituents reach out and I can help.I am running for re-election and currently unopposed. There
will be many new members in both the&nbsp;house and senate come January and the issues will continue to grow. Thank you for the opportunity to&nbsp;be your state representative.Ken Rahjes (R-Agra)&nbsp; is the 110th District state representative.&nbsp;

RAHJES REPORT: June 9

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ecfbed2ebfb13423b265672">Four years ago, the first motorized fire truck purchased by the city of Hays returned to town, generating interest in bringing the 1921 REO Speedwagon back home for good.</a>

But the possibility of the truck returning to Hays permanently is now in question after attempts to raise funds to purchase the truck have only garnered a few thousand dollars and just a few have taken up the challenge of bringing it home.

Brad Corley, president of the Wichita Falls, Texas, fire museum, has owned the truck since 2012 and hopes to see the truck return to Hays.

"I haven't gotten anywhere with anybody (in Hays) about selling it locally," he said. "I would like to get it up to that area."

"I have had it in dry storage for three years waiting for them to get funds to get it," Corley said.

<a href="https://nwks.craigslist.org/cto/d/henrietta-1921-reo-speedwagon-hays-1st/7131168058.html">In an effort to generate public interest, Corley recently placed the truck for sale on Craigslist, with the hope someone local would have a way to purchase the truck and keep it in the area.</a>

"I can sell it, but I would just like for it to go there because 100 years is a big deal for a fire engine," Corley said.

He warned if it is sold to a private museum elsewhere it would likely never return to Hays.

And while Corley is not in a rush to sell the engine, maintenance and storage cost over the years have added up. While he said&nbsp;"it's a beautiful truck and it's a joy to have," after waiting patiently for something to happen in Hays to bring the truck home, expenses continue to mount.

"I can't keep on like this," he said. "It's like I told them two years ago. I am paying insurance on a $50,000 truck and I'm not taking it out. It is just sitting in a barn."

And there is no room for the truck in the museum in Wichita Falls.

"It's something that we have that we don't need here," Corley said. "We have 23 fire trucks."

Corely said if he could get the $28,500 he put into the truck by a private collector in the area, he would even donate $5,000 to the museum in memory of Richard&nbsp;Shubert,&nbsp;a retired member of the Hays Fire Department who spent 30 years searching for the truck.

While many would like to see the truck return, the effort to secure funds has been impacted by a lack of recent activity.

Tim Detrixhe, president of the Hays Firefighters Relief Association, said after a Hansen Foundation grant application for funding the purchase was rejected, interest from the group diminished.

"It just took a back-burner," he said. "It was one of those things, for us it would be really awesome to have it here, but ... we were putting a lot of hope that the grant would go through. But when it didn't, I think a lot of guys lost interest."

The grant application was submitted by the Ellis County Historical Society, the home of the Firefighter's Museum that houses the second and third motorized Hays firetrucks.&nbsp;

"They are the ones that have to submit the grant because of their not-for-profit designation," Detrixhe said.&nbsp;

The fire association has ownership of the equipment at the museum and the museum has the responsibility of maintaining the building in which the equipment is housed, said Brad Boyer, historical society president.

"We had nothing to do with the funding," Boyer said.

Boyer said the historical society was supposed to work with the FRA to prepare another grant request, but Boyer said the grant was not received.&nbsp;

And the society does not have the ability to buy the truck itself. "We don't have finances to purchase it," Boyer said.

Even if funding is secured to purchase the truck, finding a place to put it on display and ongoing costs associated with ownership would also need to be addressed.

"This isn't just a one-time purchase," Detrixhe said. "There is ongoing maintenance and things we would have to consider."

Expanding the museum would also carry a substantial cost.

"We went out a got bids for construction from three construction companies, and the low bid was still more than the truck was going to cost," Detrixhe said. "So now you are not raising $25,000, you are raising $50,000."

And without the grant, the work required to raise that amount of money is not something the FRA members want to take on.

"Other than trying to go out and do a full-blown fundraiser to get this thing, we are more or less out of options," Detrixhe said, noting the FRA members overwhelmingly voted down any fundraising action.

Despite the ongoing struggle to find the funds for the truck to return, Detrixhe said he would appreciate the truck coming back to Hays.

"It's a piece of Hays' history. It's a piece of the fire department's history. It was the first motorized truck the city ever bought, so it has historical value," he said.

Many others in the FRA, however, do not share the enthusiasm to bring the truck back to Hays.

"I think a lot of guys are happy to know it exists and it's in a safe place and, if it gets sold, we know where it is. If it gets sold to somebody other than us, I think a lot of guys are happy knowing it is out there," Detrixhe said.

Roger Rife, retired fire chief with the Hays Fire Department, said he is disappointed in the lack of effort to bring the truck home and is ready to take action on his own and supports Corely's efforts to see the truck return to Hays.

"Brad has been unbelievably super with this thing," Rife said. "He has been holding onto this thing forever."

After the Hansen Foundation grant to purchase the truck was denied, he said he saw much of the desire to purchase the truck dwindle.

"I thought surely I could find someone that would be willing to help," Rife said, but outside of $3,500 secured by Firefighters Relief Association, no efforts have been made to find other funding.

So now he is willing to strike out on his own in an effort to make it happen.

"Anything I can do to possibly get something going," Rife said.

And Detrixhe said he was receptive to the idea as well.

"If there is other interest and we are not going it alone, I think I could rally support," he said.

Anyone with interest in working to find the truck a permanent home in the area can contact Rife at 785-623-1852.

Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591408708563.jpeg" alt="Brady Corley drove the first motorized firetruck for a crowd in Hays during a visit in 2016." />
 <figcaption>Brady Corley drove the first motorized firetruck for a crowd in Hays during a visit in 2016.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ecfbed2ebfb13423b265672">Four years ago, the first motorized fire truck purchased by the city of Hays returned to town, generating interest in bringing the 1921 REO Speedwagon back home for good.</a>But the possibility of the truck returning to Hays permanently is now in question after attempts to raise funds to purchase the truck have only garnered a few thousand dollars and just a few have taken up the challenge of bringing it home.Brad Corley, president of the Wichita Falls, Texas, fire museum, has owned the truck since 2012 and hopes to see the truck return to Hays."I haven't gotten anywhere with anybody (in Hays) about selling it locally," he said. "I would like to get it up to that area.""I have had it in dry storage for three years waiting for them to get funds to get it," Corley said.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HOGKjgCmqj4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Video from the visit of the first motorized fire truck in Hays in 2016.</div><a href="https://nwks.craigslist.org/cto/d/henrietta-1921-reo-speedwagon-hays-1st/7131168058.html">In an effort to generate public interest, Corley recently placed the truck for sale on Craigslist, with the hope someone local would have a way to purchase the truck and keep it in the area.</a>"I can sell it, but I would just like for it to go there because 100 years is a big deal for a fire engine," Corley said.He warned if it is sold to a private museum elsewhere it would likely never return to Hays.And while Corley is not in a rush to sell the engine, maintenance and storage cost over the years have added up. While he said&nbsp;"it's a beautiful truck and it's a joy to have," after waiting patiently for something to happen in Hays to bring the truck home, expenses continue to mount."I can't keep on like this," he said. "It's like I told them two years ago. I am paying insurance on a $50,000 truck and I'm not taking it out. It is just sitting in a barn."And there is no room for the truck in the museum in Wichita Falls."It's something that we have that we don't need here," Corley said. "We have 23 fire trucks."Corely said if he could get the $28,500 he put into the truck by a private collector in the area, he would even donate $5,000 to the museum in memory of Richard&nbsp;Shubert,&nbsp;a retired member of the Hays Fire Department who spent 30 years searching for the truck.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591408514634.jpeg" alt="The first motorized firetruck in Hays, a 1921 REO was brought to Hays by Brad Corley in 2016 for display. Corley is now searching for a buyer in the area for the truck." />
 <figcaption>The first motorized firetruck in Hays, a 1921 REO was brought to Hays by Brad Corley in 2016 for display. Corley is now searching for a buyer in the area for the truck.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Lack of support</h2>While many would like to see the truck return, the effort to secure funds has been impacted by a lack of recent activity.Tim Detrixhe, president of the Hays Firefighters Relief Association, said after a Hansen Foundation grant application for funding the purchase was rejected, interest from the group diminished."It just took a back-burner," he said. "It was one of those things, for us it would be really awesome to have it here, but ... we were putting a lot of hope that the grant would go through. But when it didn't, I think a lot of guys lost interest."The grant application was submitted by the Ellis County Historical Society, the home of the Firefighter's Museum that houses the second and third motorized Hays firetrucks.&nbsp;"They are the ones that have to submit the grant because of their not-for-profit designation," Detrixhe said.&nbsp;The fire association has ownership of the equipment at the museum and the museum has the responsibility of maintaining the building in which the equipment is housed, said Brad Boyer, historical society president. "We had nothing to do with the funding," Boyer said.Boyer said the historical society was supposed to work with the FRA to prepare another grant request, but Boyer said the grant was not received.&nbsp;And the society does not have the ability to buy the truck itself. "We don't have finances to purchase it," Boyer said. Even if funding is secured to purchase the truck, finding a place to put it on display and ongoing costs associated with ownership would also need to be addressed."This isn't just a one-time purchase," Detrixhe said. "There is ongoing maintenance and things we would have to consider."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591408825241.jpeg" alt="Corley shows onlookers the engine of the 1921 REO Speedwagon during a visit in 2016." />
 <figcaption>Corley shows onlookers the engine of the 1921 REO Speedwagon during a visit in 2016.</figcaption>
 </figure>Expanding the museum would also carry a substantial cost."We went out a got bids for construction from three construction companies, and the low bid was still more than the truck was going to cost," Detrixhe said. "So now you are not raising $25,000, you are raising $50,000."And without the grant, the work required to raise that amount of money is not something the FRA members want to take on."Other than trying to go out and do a full-blown fundraiser to get this thing, we are more or less out of options," Detrixhe said, noting the FRA members overwhelmingly voted down any fundraising action.Despite the ongoing struggle to find the funds for the truck to return, Detrixhe said he would appreciate the truck coming back to Hays."It's a piece of Hays' history. It's a piece of the fire department's history. It was the first motorized truck the city ever bought, so it has historical value," he said.Many others in the FRA, however, do not share the enthusiasm to bring the truck back to Hays."I think a lot of guys are happy to know it exists and it's in a safe place and, if it gets sold, we know where it is. If it gets sold to somebody other than us, I think a lot of guys are happy knowing it is out there," Detrixhe said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591408921088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Hope remains</h2>But some are not so quick to let it go.Roger Rife, retired fire chief with the Hays Fire Department, said he is disappointed in the lack of effort to bring the truck home and is ready to take action on his own and supports Corely's efforts to see the truck return to Hays."Brad has been unbelievably super with this thing," Rife said. "He has been holding onto this thing forever."After the Hansen Foundation grant to purchase the truck was denied, he said he saw much of the desire to purchase the truck dwindle."I thought surely I could find someone that would be willing to help," Rife said, but outside of $3,500 secured by Firefighters Relief Association, no efforts have been made to find other funding.So now he is willing to strike out on his own in an effort to make it happen."Anything I can do to possibly get something going," Rife said.And Detrixhe said he was receptive to the idea as well."If there is other interest and we are not going it alone, I think I could rally support," he said.Anyone with interest in working to find the truck a permanent home in the area can contact Rife at 785-623-1852.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney contributed to this story.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591408958279.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays' first motorized firetruck for sale, but its fate is uncertain

After one more hot June day, forecasters are warning of a dramatic shift in the weather starting Tuesday.

After the mercury reaches the mid- to upper-90s again Monday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting a cold front will rush through western Kansas starting Tuesday morning.

The high Tuesday is only expected to reach 68 degrees, with strong winds of up to 50 mph out of the northwest.

Isolated thunderstorms and rain showers could accompany the front, forecasters said. As of mid-afternoon Monday, the chance of rain in the Hays area was 40 percent. The overnight low Tuesday will drop to the low-50s.

Farther west, the NWS in Goodland is predicting the front and potential storms to reach its coverage area Monday night, with the St. Francis and Oberlin areas now under a severe weather outlook.

Skies will clear Wednesday, and the winds are expected to subside by Thursday, when the temperature again is expected to reach 90.

Check Hays Post and stay tuned to your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on cancellations and severe weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591642912145.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After one more hot June day, forecasters are warning of a dramatic shift in the weather starting Tuesday.After the mercury reaches the mid- to upper-90s again Monday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting a cold front will rush through western Kansas starting Tuesday morning.The high Tuesday is only expected to reach 68 degrees, with strong winds of up to 50 mph out of the northwest.Isolated thunderstorms and rain showers could accompany the front, forecasters said. As of mid-afternoon Monday, the chance of rain in the Hays area was 40 percent. The overnight low Tuesday will drop to the low-50s.Farther west, the NWS in Goodland is predicting the front and potential storms to reach its coverage area Monday night, with the St. Francis and Oberlin areas now under a severe weather outlook.Skies will clear Wednesday, and the winds are expected to subside by Thursday, when the temperature again is expected to reach 90.Check Hays Post and stay tuned to your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on cancellations and severe weather.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591643425596.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Warm weather will be blown away by fast-moving cold front

For the 10th straight year, NCK Tech's automotive program and RPM Speedway have joined forces to give away bicycles at the RPM racetrack. This year’s event will be June 13 and 14 at RPM Speedway.&nbsp;

Normally, the automotive students put together the bicycles, but due to COVID-19 and the students off campus, Richard Cox, automotive department chair, called on NCK Tech alumni to help put together the 80 bicycles. Cox, along with retired instructor Mark Rathbun and several alumni, gathered to complete the project.

Angie Habiger, who runs the concessions and operations at RPM Speedway, oversees the bicycle giveaway. The goal is 100 bicycles, and anyone can donate money or a new bike to the cause.&nbsp;

If interested in this project, contact Cox at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rcox@ncktc.edu">rcox@ncktc.edu</a> or Angie Habiger at RPM Speedway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591639279674.jpeg" alt="Bikes.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Bikes.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechFor the 10th straight year, NCK Tech's automotive program and RPM Speedway have joined forces to give away bicycles at the RPM racetrack. This year’s event will be June 13 and 14 at RPM Speedway.&nbsp;Normally, the automotive students put together the bicycles, but due to COVID-19 and the students off campus, Richard Cox, automotive department chair, called on NCK Tech alumni to help put together the 80 bicycles. Cox, along with retired instructor Mark Rathbun and several alumni, gathered to complete the project.Angie Habiger, who runs the concessions and operations at RPM Speedway, oversees the bicycle giveaway. The goal is 100 bicycles, and anyone can donate money or a new bike to the cause.&nbsp;If interested in this project, contact Cox at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rcox@ncktc.edu">rcox@ncktc.edu</a> or Angie Habiger at RPM Speedway.

NCK Tech, RPM Speedway team up for 10th annual bike giveaway

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division has announced a
bridge repair project will take place in the 1400 block of 310th Avenue — between Airbase Road and Vineyard Road. 

This one-mile stretch
of road will be closed to through traffic beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday and will remain closed until the project is completed. The expected completion
date is Thursday, pending weather conditions. Motorists traveling in
the affected closure area should use alternate routes of travel until the project
is complete.


For more information, call 785-628-9455.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578921333301.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division has announced a
bridge repair project will take place in the 1400 block of 310th Avenue — between Airbase Road and Vineyard Road. This one-mile stretch
of road will be closed to through traffic beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday and will remain closed until the project is completed. The expected completion
date is Thursday, pending weather conditions. Motorists traveling in
the affected closure area should use alternate routes of travel until the project
is complete.
For more information, call 785-628-9455.&nbsp;

Bridge repair project will close stretch of Ellis County road

In 1915, Midland Marketing was founded by a few progressive farmers. 

Still to this day, progressive farmers are present in the leadership of the board and the general manager, Kevin Royer. 

As times change, the board and Kevin found that it is time to expand. Midland Marketing would like to announce the expansion of its cooperative to Hill City.

Midland Marketing has purchased a building in Hill City that will be an agronomy location. Midland Marketing plans to start remodeling the building to become a state-of-the-art agronomy facility. 

Along with the new facility, Midland is bringing veteran agronomy staff Leonard Long and Kelly Waugh. Midland Marketing Hill City location will carry Winfield United products. 

"Midland is excited to be a part of the Hill City community, and we look forward to serving our current and new customers in this location," the company said in a news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591213892515.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedIn 1915, Midland Marketing was founded by a few progressive farmers. Still to this day, progressive farmers are present in the leadership of the board and the general manager, Kevin Royer. As times change, the board and Kevin found that it is time to expand. Midland Marketing would like to announce the expansion of its cooperative to Hill City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591213913557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midland Marketing has purchased a building in Hill City that will be an agronomy location. Midland Marketing plans to start remodeling the building to become a state-of-the-art agronomy facility. Along with the new facility, Midland is bringing veteran agronomy staff Leonard Long and Kelly Waugh. Midland Marketing Hill City location will carry Winfield United products. "Midland is excited to be a part of the Hill City community, and we look forward to serving our current and new customers in this location," the company said in a news release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591213931838.jpeg" alt="Leonard Long and Kelly Waugh" />
 <figcaption>Leonard Long and Kelly Waugh</figcaption>
 </figure>

Midland Marketing expands to Hill City

Dear FHSU students, staff and faculty: The past 100 days have brought to light the current climate based on systematic and institutional discrimination. The hate, dissension, and violence experienced by Blacks/African Americans leaves people wondering when will the change shift to antiracist views and practices. Being able to reimagine a world where racism is no longer a concern, is a dream many have.&nbsp; People of color have been reimagining their lives, too. Reimagining an America without institutionalized racism has been the condition for Blacks/African Americans for hundreds of years. The recent death of Mr. George Floyd reminds the marginalized students, faculty, and staff of our community that the fundamental injustice of institutionalized racism has not changed.&nbsp; Change. Change is necessary to breakdown the injustices of the American Dream. For many, that dream has been destroyed by the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. &nbsp;By the harassment of Travis Miller while working as a delivery driver. And by the shameful confrontation experienced by Christian Cooper, while bird watching in New York City’s Central Park.&nbsp; So, what are&nbsp;you&nbsp;doing to confront institutional racism and rebuild a system that is anti-racist? What you are doing to make a difference?&nbsp; You are not expected to make a difference alone. Our university’s leadership acknowledges that “we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong” necessitates that we dedicate ourselves to do the work that prompts the change. Those with the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion in their titles&nbsp;must&nbsp;have your help to breakdown institutional racism.&nbsp; Become an accomplice for change. &nbsp;An accomplice takes action against injustices. Acknowledge and embrace that change must take place and then ask&nbsp;how you can help.We can start right here on our campus. You can start in the community where you live and help your neighbors navigate these troubling times. Reach out. Talk to others. Be kind. For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed and need support, talk with a trusted colleague, faculty/staff, friend, or family member. &nbsp;And know I am here for you, too, as are the professional counselors at the Kelly Center.&nbsp; This call for change is not an indictment of law enforcement. We recognize there are racist views in all professions, that is the very definition of institutionalized racism. &nbsp;We are grateful to those who protect and serve our communities. And for those who are advocates, allies, and accomplices for anti-racism, thank you, too.&nbsp; What now? Acknowledge the need to address institutional racism. Engage in meaningful conversations with others about discrimination. Get involved with diversity and equity programs and commit to continued education. Bring microaggression training to your classroom. Have staff participate in Safe Zone training. Attend the Tunnel of Oppression. Join in Novels for Hope. To move forward and create change, we must work in concert so the thread of diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into the fabric of the university by everyone who teaches, leads, advises, encourages, and interacts with every student, alum, faculty, and staff.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Dr. Teresa L. Clounch&nbsp; Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs | Senior Diversity Officer | Title IX Coordinator | NASPA IV-West Regional Director (2020-2022)&nbsp; Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591558659046.jpeg" alt="Teresa Clounch" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Clounch</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear FHSU students, staff and faculty: The past 100 days have brought to light the current climate based on systematic and institutional discrimination. The hate, dissension, and violence experienced by Blacks/African Americans leaves people wondering when will the change shift to antiracist views and practices. Being able to reimagine a world where racism is no longer a concern, is a dream many have.&nbsp; People of color have been reimagining their lives, too. Reimagining an America without institutionalized racism has been the condition for Blacks/African Americans for hundreds of years. The recent death of Mr. George Floyd reminds the marginalized students, faculty, and staff of our community that the fundamental injustice of institutionalized racism has not changed.&nbsp; Change. Change is necessary to breakdown the injustices of the American Dream. For many, that dream has been destroyed by the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. &nbsp;By the harassment of Travis Miller while working as a delivery driver. And by the shameful confrontation experienced by Christian Cooper, while bird watching in New York City’s Central Park.&nbsp; So, what are&nbsp;you&nbsp;doing to confront institutional racism and rebuild a system that is anti-racist? What you are doing to make a difference?&nbsp; You are not expected to make a difference alone. Our university’s leadership acknowledges that “we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong” necessitates that we dedicate ourselves to do the work that prompts the change. Those with the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion in their titles&nbsp;must&nbsp;have your help to breakdown institutional racism.&nbsp; Become an accomplice for change. &nbsp;An accomplice takes action against injustices. Acknowledge and embrace that change must take place and then ask&nbsp;how you can help.We can start right here on our campus. You can start in the community where you live and help your neighbors navigate these troubling times. Reach out. Talk to others. Be kind. For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed and need support, talk with a trusted colleague, faculty/staff, friend, or family member. &nbsp;And know I am here for you, too, as are the professional counselors at the Kelly Center.&nbsp; This call for change is not an indictment of law enforcement. We recognize there are racist views in all professions, that is the very definition of institutionalized racism. &nbsp;We are grateful to those who protect and serve our communities. And for those who are advocates, allies, and accomplices for anti-racism, thank you, too.&nbsp; What now? Acknowledge the need to address institutional racism. Engage in meaningful conversations with others about discrimination. Get involved with diversity and equity programs and commit to continued education. Bring microaggression training to your classroom. Have staff participate in Safe Zone training. Attend the Tunnel of Oppression. Join in Novels for Hope. To move forward and create change, we must work in concert so the thread of diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into the fabric of the university by everyone who teaches, leads, advises, encourages, and interacts with every student, alum, faculty, and staff.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Dr. Teresa L. Clounch&nbsp; Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs | Senior Diversity Officer | Title IX Coordinator | NASPA IV-West Regional Director (2020-2022)&nbsp; Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

FHSU diversity officer: Our role in the world moving forward

By ALICIA BOOR K-State Research &amp; Extension

Some exciting news was announced to K-State Research and Extension last week! K-State Athletics will host our first “Celebrate Agriculture Day” with K-State Football this fall. While we have always known how important farming and agriculture are to everyone, the past couple of months have highlighted this to the world. Our history as Kansas State Agriculture College is something we recognize and celebrate. 
 
Our designated “Celebrate Agriculture” game is November 7 against Texas Tech, and we are excited to&nbsp;honor one Willie’s Farm Family from each county!

To help us at Extension decide who we will send from our counties, we need your help! We are asking for nominations of a family who farms that you feel deserves to be highlighted on November 7th. To enter a deserving family’s name, submit a short summary of 350 words or less on why you feel that they should win. Nominations are due to our offices by June 23rd with the announcement of the winners on June 30th. For a Barton County nomination, either send your submission in by mail to 1800 12th street in Great Bend or email Brenda at <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> For an Ellis County nomination, mail it to 601 Main Street in Hays or email to Theresa a <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

The selected farm family from each county will receive two complimentary tickets to the game with the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets and be recognized with all county representatives during the game. The nominated family will receive more information on this program in a follow-up email in July.

Farming and the families that support agriculture are integral to everyone’s life. Please help us at KSRE and KSU honor a family from our community and show football fans why farmers are the best!

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591218629362.jpeg" alt="Courtesy&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR K-State Research &amp; ExtensionSome exciting news was announced to K-State Research and Extension last week! K-State Athletics will host our first “Celebrate Agriculture Day” with K-State Football this fall. While we have always known how important farming and agriculture are to everyone, the past couple of months have highlighted this to the world. Our history as Kansas State Agriculture College is something we recognize and celebrate. 
 
Our designated “Celebrate Agriculture” game is November 7 against Texas Tech, and we are excited to&nbsp;honor one Willie’s Farm Family from each county!To help us at Extension decide who we will send from our counties, we need your help! We are asking for nominations of a family who farms that you feel deserves to be highlighted on November 7th. To enter a deserving family’s name, submit a short summary of 350 words or less on why you feel that they should win. Nominations are due to our offices by June 23rd with the announcement of the winners on June 30th. For a Barton County nomination, either send your submission in by mail to 1800 12th street in Great Bend or email Brenda at <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> For an Ellis County nomination, mail it to 601 Main Street in Hays or email to Theresa a <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;The selected farm family from each county will receive two complimentary tickets to the game with the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets and be recognized with all county representatives during the game. The nominated family will receive more information on this program in a follow-up email in July.Farming and the families that support agriculture are integral to everyone’s life. Please help us at KSRE and KSU honor a family from our community and show football fans why farmers are the best!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Celebrate agriculture with K-State football

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QUIZ: How well do you know Hays?

ANDOVER —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">NetWork Kansas</a> launched an impactful initiative to support the immediate needs of local businesses due to the COVID-19 crisis. Restart Kansas will provide low interest loans up to $20,000 to businesses located in participating counties seeking emergency assistance to maintain or restart their business due to a disaster. These loans will have terms of two percent interest for 48 months with four months of deferred payments.

“The last few months have illustrated the need for local cities and counties to think outside-the-box and create new resources to assist their small businesses,” said Erik Pedersen, NetWork Kansas vice president of entrepreneurship. “Administering the HIRE (Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency) Fund for the state was important but we wanted to continue and seek the help of our partners to do more. We are very thankful for the long-standing relationship with Western Kansas.” 

Nearly $1.5 million has been raised across the state by utilizing the existing Entrepreneurship Tax Credit, which provides donors a 75% state tax credit up to $100,000 in credits. Because a key component of this fund is to keep the dollars local, sixty percent of all donations utilizing the tax credit will be dedicated to the participating county. Additional funds may also be raised through charitable donations. Thanks to recent legislation, banks and savings and loans can now utilize the tax credit. 

Western Kansas has many progressive banks, businesses and individuals. Together the below listed have contributed $430,000 resulting in $258,000 Restart Kansas funds designated specifically for western Kansas. 

 Farmers Bank &amp; Trust- Great Bend, KS 

 Farmers &amp; Merchants Bank of Colby- Colby, KS 

First National Bank &amp; Trust- Phillipsburg, KS 

Woofter Construction and Irrigation- Colby Kansas 

As an entrepreneurial and philanthropic business, Woofter Construction and Irrigation president, Chris Koerperich stated, “Learning of the opportunity to reinvest locally and benefit our fellow businesses made this a very easy decision.”  Shan Hanes, president of Heartland Tri-State Bank states, “This is a great opportunity to help businesses re-open quickly while assuring the funds donated stay within your local community.”  

Joann Knight, board president of the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (wKREDA) speaks deeper into what this means for Western Kansas specifically; “Assisting our local businesses is critical at this time, and Restart Kansas gives you the opportunity to show your support. By investing in tax credits, you help give back to Western Kansas small businesses.”  

To support as many businesses as possible throughout the state, it is important for local counties, communities, banks and other donors to come together to fully utilize the Entrepreneurship Tax Credit. If you want to join the list of progressive and influential banks, businesses and individuals and participate in this tax credit program you can call 877.526.8600 and ask for Steve Radley or Erik Pedersen to make a commitment or to learn more.  

Restart Kansas loan applicants must reside in one of the participating counties, complete a Restart Kansas application, receive approval by the local leadership team, complete all necessary paperwork and provide supporting documentation. NetWork Kansas currently works with more than 40 administrative support organizations, and 64 Entrepreneurship (E-) Communities throughout the state. 

NetWork Kansas was established as a component of the Kansas Economic Growth Act of 2004 to further entrepreneurship and small business growth as a priority for economic and community development in the state of Kansas. Backed by more than 500 partners statewide, the NetWork Kansas service promotes an entrepreneurial environment by connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with the expertise, education and economic resources they need in order to succeed.  

NetWork Kansas facilitates the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem within participating communities through the E-Community Partnership. Contributing factors to successful development include availability of financial capital, support by local leadership and development of educational resources. All of these factors combine to increase entrepreneurial activity in participating towns, leading to increased startup activity, business expansion, job creation and more.  

For more information about the Entrepreneurship (E-) Community Partnership, visit <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities">www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities</a>, or call 877.521.8600.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591375122611.png" alt="NetWork Kansas E-communities" />
 <figcaption>NetWork Kansas E-communities</figcaption>
 </figure>ANDOVER —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">NetWork Kansas</a> launched an impactful initiative to support the immediate needs of local businesses due to the COVID-19 crisis. Restart Kansas will provide low interest loans up to $20,000 to businesses located in participating counties seeking emergency assistance to maintain or restart their business due to a disaster. These loans will have terms of two percent interest for 48 months with four months of deferred payments. “The last few months have illustrated the need for local cities and counties to think outside-the-box and create new resources to assist their small businesses,” said Erik Pedersen, NetWork Kansas vice president of entrepreneurship. “Administering the HIRE (Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency) Fund for the state was important but we wanted to continue and seek the help of our partners to do more. We are very thankful for the long-standing relationship with Western Kansas.” Nearly $1.5 million has been raised across the state by utilizing the existing Entrepreneurship Tax Credit, which provides donors a 75% state tax credit up to $100,000 in credits. Because a key component of this fund is to keep the dollars local, sixty percent of all donations utilizing the tax credit will be dedicated to the participating county. Additional funds may also be raised through charitable donations. Thanks to recent legislation, banks and savings and loans can now utilize the tax credit. Western Kansas has many progressive banks, businesses and individuals. Together the below listed have contributed $430,000 resulting in $258,000 Restart Kansas funds designated specifically for western Kansas. Adams Bank &amp; Trust- Colby, KS Bank of Hays- Hays, KS Heartland Tri-State Bank- Elkhart, KS Farmers Bank &amp; Trust- Great Bend, KS Farmers &amp; Merchants Bank of Colby- Colby, KS First National Bank &amp; Trust- Phillipsburg, KS Woofter Construction and Irrigation- Colby Kansas As an entrepreneurial and philanthropic business, Woofter Construction and Irrigation president, Chris Koerperich stated, “Learning of the opportunity to reinvest locally and benefit our fellow businesses made this a very easy decision.” Shan Hanes, president of Heartland Tri-State Bank states, “This is a great opportunity to help businesses re-open quickly while assuring the funds donated stay within your local community.” Joann Knight, board president of the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (wKREDA) speaks deeper into what this means for Western Kansas specifically; “Assisting our local businesses is critical at this time, and Restart Kansas gives you the opportunity to show your support. By investing in tax credits, you help give back to Western Kansas small businesses.” To support as many businesses as possible throughout the state, it is important for local counties, communities, banks and other donors to come together to fully utilize the Entrepreneurship Tax Credit. If you want to join the list of progressive and influential banks, businesses and individuals and participate in this tax credit program you can call 877.526.8600 and ask for Steve Radley or Erik Pedersen to make a commitment or to learn more. Restart Kansas loan applicants must reside in one of the participating counties, complete a Restart Kansas application, receive approval by the local leadership team, complete all necessary paperwork and provide supporting documentation. NetWork Kansas currently works with more than 40 administrative support organizations, and 64 Entrepreneurship (E-) Communities throughout the state. About NetWork Kansas: NetWork Kansas was established as a component of the Kansas Economic Growth Act of 2004 to further entrepreneurship and small business growth as a priority for economic and community development in the state of Kansas. Backed by more than 500 partners statewide, the NetWork Kansas service promotes an entrepreneurial environment by connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with the expertise, education and economic resources they need in order to succeed. NetWork Kansas facilitates the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem within participating communities through the E-Community Partnership. Contributing factors to successful development include availability of financial capital, support by local leadership and development of educational resources. All of these factors combine to increase entrepreneurial activity in participating towns, leading to increased startup activity, business expansion, job creation and more. For more information about the Entrepreneurship (E-) Community Partnership, visit <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities">www.networkkansas.com/ecommunities</a>, or call 877.521.8600. News release

NetWork Kansas brings Restart Kansas loans to area businesses

RUSSELL COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Sunday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Harley Davidson driven by Terry L. Millett, 62, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Balta Road.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the motorcycle when it blew a tire and entered the median.

EMS transported&nbsp;Millett and a passenger Reatha Colleen&nbsp;McGraw-Millett, 62, Salina, to the hospital in Russell.

The were both wearing helmets and eye protection, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Sunday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Harley Davidson driven by Terry L. Millett, 62, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Balta Road.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the motorcycle when it blew a tire and entered the median.EMS transported&nbsp;Millett and a passenger Reatha Colleen&nbsp;McGraw-Millett, 62, Salina, to the hospital in Russell.The were both wearing helmets and eye protection, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after motorcycle blows tire on I-70

🎤Post Podcast: Ellis County misses out on CBDG COVID grants

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Dennis and&nbsp; Margarita Schleder don't sell ice cream, they sell smiles.&nbsp;

The Catharine couple have brought back the ice cream truck to Hays and surrounding communities.

The sing-song music of the ice cream truck brings kids running or pedaling bikes, just as they did when Margarita was a kid growing up in San Antonio.

"So many little kids have not seen it unless it is on a cartoon," Dennis said. "Of course, a lot of the adults haven't seen one in 30 years. I think some of the adults are more excited than the kids. It brings back memories, they say."

"Chasing [the ice cream truck] down, that was one of my favorite things," Margarita said. "It is exciting to have your little change and listen for the ice cream truck and, if you don't see it, you have to chase it down.

"With all my brothers and sisters, we would be running after it."

Margarita said she enjoys seeing the smiles on children's faces.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591384187763.jpeg" alt="Margarita Schleder, co-owner of Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress, with her children Marshall, 4, Charlotte, 5, and Dalton, 10. The children call themselves the "ice cream kids."" />
 <figcaption>Margarita Schleder, co-owner of Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress, with her children Marshall, 4, Charlotte, 5, and Dalton, 10. The children call themselves the "ice cream kids."</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDennis and&nbsp; Margarita Schleder don't sell ice cream, they sell smiles.&nbsp;The Catharine couple have brought back the ice cream truck to Hays and surrounding communities.The sing-song music of the ice cream truck brings kids running or pedaling bikes, just as they did when Margarita was a kid growing up in San Antonio."So many little kids have not seen it unless it is on a cartoon," Dennis said. "Of course, a lot of the adults haven't seen one in 30 years. I think some of the adults are more excited than the kids. It brings back memories, they say."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591386907957.jpeg" alt="Children gather around Mijom Ice Cream Xpress. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Children gather around Mijom Ice Cream Xpress. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"Chasing [the ice cream truck] down, that was one of my favorite things," Margarita said. "It is exciting to have your little change and listen for the ice cream truck and, if you don't see it, you have to chase it down."With all my brothers and sisters, we would be running after it."Margarita said she enjoys seeing the smiles on children's faces."It's so cute," she said. "You see them all excited, dancing and excited about their ice cream. Then you see all the older people excited too since they haven't seen one since they were small."Mijom's carries some classic ice cream treats, including Bomb Pops, Drumsticks and ice cream sandwiches, as well as treats with a new twists such as&nbsp; Ninja Turtles, Mickey Mouse or Minions-themed desserts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591387008361.jpeg" alt="Young and old have enjoyed buying treats from the new Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress truck, which is run by the Schleders of Catherine. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Young and old have enjoyed buying treats from the new Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress truck, which is run by the Schleders of Catherine. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Schleders said they are trying to keep their prices low — $1.50 to $2.75 per treat — despite urgings from their distributors to charge higher prices.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Schleders dreamed of owning an ice cream truck, but thought they would take on the project in their retirement. Margarita, who had worked in family services in San Antonio, was having difficulty finding work, a situation made worse by the COVID-19 outbreak."After six years of being home with the babies," she said, "I wanted to go out and find something to do."Dennis' work in insulation has also been slow since the outbreak."We asked ourselves, 'Why wait? Why not now?' " Dennis said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591387071786.jpeg" alt="The Mijom ice cream truck plays 37 songs to attract ice cream lovers of all ages. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Mijom ice cream truck plays 37 songs to attract ice cream lovers of all ages. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The couple dubbed the ice cream truck Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress after Margarita's children's nickname for their mother. She said the kids — 4, 5 and 10 — were excited about their parents' project and now call themselves the "ice cream kids."Margarita said she thinks the communities have been appreciative of their business. She said she wanted to thank customers for their support. In this time of COVID-19, she said the ice cream truck is a positive."Ice cream makes everything better," she said.The couple originally intended to keep the truck in Hays. It takes the couple about three days to hit all the neighborhoods in the city. However, the truck has been so popular, they have branched out to surrounding communities, including Ransom, Ness City and Ellis.&nbsp;They have also visited some area lakes including Webster and Cedar Bluffs."With the coronavirus, everybody has been stuck at home. We figured we wanted to bring cheer to everybody, not just Hays," Margarita said. "We try to spread ourselves to give a little bit of cheer here and a little bit of cheer there. We believe everyone deserves to be a little bit happy in these times when all this bad stuff is happening."The couple is considering adding a second truck next summer with one truck focusing on Hays and another on the surrounding communities.They also plan to have the truck at some local events, including the Ellis County Fair and the Bunker Hill Mud Run.You can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mijoms-Ice-Cream-Xpress-105904364471059/">Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress</a> on Facebook. They regularly post on social media where the truck will be in coming days.

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