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

<div><iframe title="Downtown Hays events ongoing, with changes" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/qdhy5-e49229?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Hays events ongoing, with changes

<div><iframe title="Ellis Co. rolls out EllisCARES" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/5yqps-e45cb4?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis Co. rolls out EllisCARES

<div><iframe title="Even without Art Walks HAC has lots to offer" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/7d5zq-e3e330?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=1&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Even without Art Walks, HAC has lots to offer

<div><iframe title="Summer offers ample opportunities to explore fresh vegetables" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/4fycs-e3b632?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Summer offers ample opportunities to explore fresh vegetables

The annual ACE auction for Hays Catholic Schools is set to kick off Friday, after moving online for the first time in 46 years.

During the auction, over 800 items will be sold along with raffles to support operations at both Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary.

"What it has grown into is a major component of our operating budget each year for our Hays Catholic schools," said Troy Ruda, advancement director. "It's an integral part of making sure we have our operational funds to pay great teachers and create wonderful opportunities for students."

Originally planned for April, the auction date was moved due to COVID-19 concerns, but as cases continued to rise in the area, the decision was made to shift the auction online.

"We started to say, 'What are our motives here?' " Ruda said. "Are our motives fundraising. Are our motives at all costs? Or are our motives to keep supporting the school while keeping people safe?"

The decision to shift online has been generally well-received, Ruda said.

"The response so far from having done that is overwhelmingly positive and supportive," he said.

And having the auction online opens the event to many more people than ever before.

"The advantages of the online platform are truly going to be great for us," Ruda said.

In previous years, the only people that purchased tickets for the event could bid on items, but with the online format it is open to anyone anywhere in the world, he said.

"This is actually going to have great advantages that we haven't expected," Ruda said.

<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/">The online format will open at 9 a.m. Friday on the TMP-M website and will run through 9 p.m. Saturday.</a>

Having never done an online auction before, Ruda said they reached out to HaysMed and the HaysMed Foundation to assist in setting it up through the online auction platform, ClickBid.

"They stepped up greatly to help us get this online in a short amount of time," Ruda said.

Once logging in, the user will have access to bid on all of the items throughout the auction.

"Its a very standard (online) auction," Ruda said.

And he said staff at the school alumni office are also ready and willing to assist participants to place bids for those who might not be comfortable with the online format.

"We will be your proxy bidder for you," Ruda said.

While planning for the online auction, a major concern was the platform so Ruda said they took the extra effort to ensure the auction vendor was reputable and safe.

"Because of the amount of others in our community using ClickBids we feel comfortable with it and we trust it," he said.

The auction will feature over 800 items to bid on, donated from the community.

"It's a testament to our community support for TMP and Holy Family," Ruda said.

Every item on the auction will have a description and a photo for participants who want to see details.

For those who want a hands-on look at the items, an open house will be hosted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday in the Al Billinger  Field House on the TMP-M campus.

But Ruda said the open house is not the same as the preview event that is typically hosted during the regular ACE auction.

Another feature of the auction — Item No. 60 — the "item-less item,"&nbsp; will again be available to bid on as a way for participants to donate to school operations.

"This item this year is the most important one we have ever had in that our Catholic schools do not get taxpayer funding," Ruda said. "This year's 'item-less item' is going to make sure we can attract and retain excellent teachers, provide the best opportunities for students and if there is anything left to continue to maintain our historical facilities."

And the Leo J. and Albina Dreiling Trust will once again be matching up to $200,000 raised for that item.

"They do this traditionally and their generosity has no bounds," Ruda said.

Raffles will also be available for interested parties during the auction.

"We are going to have a live raffle drawing on Friday evening at 8 p.m.," Ruda said. "We are going to have two $500 raffle drawings."&nbsp;

Another raffle for a donated car is also set to take place Saturday.

Winning bidders will be able to purchase their items at the Fieldhouse on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or if needed, arrangements can be made for a later pickup.

All of the details and access to the online auction and live raffle stream will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/" target="_blank">https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/</a>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594990751128.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="ACE auction moves online for 2020" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ffga4-e37998?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The annual ACE auction for Hays Catholic Schools is set to kick off Friday, after moving online for the first time in 46 years.</p><p>During the auction, over 800 items will be sold along with raffles to support operations at both Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary.</p><p>"What it has grown into is a major component of our operating budget each year for our Hays Catholic schools," said Troy Ruda, advancement director. "It's an integral part of making sure we have our operational funds to pay great teachers and create wonderful opportunities for students."</p><p>Originally planned for April, the auction date was moved due to COVID-19 concerns, but as cases continued to rise in the area, the decision was made to shift the auction online.</p><p>"We started to say, 'What are our motives here?' " Ruda said. "Are our motives fundraising. Are our motives at all costs? Or are our motives to keep supporting the school while keeping people safe?"</p><p>The decision to shift online has been generally well-received, Ruda said.</p><p>"The response so far from having done that is overwhelmingly positive and supportive," he said.</p><p>And having the auction online opens the event to many more people than ever before.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594990826765.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>"The advantages of the online platform are truly going to be great for us," Ruda said.</p><p>In previous years, the only people that purchased tickets for the event could bid on items, but with the online format it is open to anyone anywhere in the world, he said.</p><p>"This is actually going to have great advantages that we haven't expected," Ruda said.</p><p><a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/">The online format will open at 9 a.m. Friday on the TMP-M website and will run through 9 p.m. Saturday.</a></p><p>Having never done an online auction before, Ruda said they reached out to HaysMed and the HaysMed Foundation to assist in setting it up through the online auction platform, ClickBid.</p><p>"They stepped up greatly to help us get this online in a short amount of time," Ruda said.</p><p>Once logging in, the user will have access to bid on all of the items throughout the auction.</p><p>"Its a very standard (online) auction," Ruda said.</p><p>And he said staff at the school alumni office are also ready and willing to assist participants to place bids for those who might not be comfortable with the online format.</p><p>"We will be your proxy bidder for you," Ruda said.</p><p>While planning for the online auction, a major concern was the platform so Ruda said they took the extra effort to ensure the auction vendor was reputable and safe.</p><p>"Because of the amount of others in our community using ClickBids we feel comfortable with it and we trust it," he said.</p><p>The auction will feature over 800 items to bid on, donated from the community.</p><p>"It's a testament to our community support for TMP and Holy Family," Ruda said.</p><p>Every item on the auction will have a description and a photo for participants who want to see details.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594947130783.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>For those who want a hands-on look at the items, an open house will be hosted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday in the Al Billinger  Field House on the TMP-M campus.</p><p>But Ruda said the open house is not the same as the preview event that is typically hosted during the regular ACE auction.</p><p>Another feature of the auction — Item No. 60 — the "item-less item,"&nbsp; will again be available to bid on as a way for participants to donate to school operations.</p><p>"This item this year is the most important one we have ever had in that our Catholic schools do not get taxpayer funding," Ruda said. "This year's 'item-less item' is going to make sure we can attract and retain excellent teachers, provide the best opportunities for students and if there is anything left to continue to maintain our historical facilities."</p><p>And the Leo J. and Albina Dreiling Trust will once again be matching up to $200,000 raised for that item.</p><p>"They do this traditionally and their generosity has no bounds," Ruda said.</p><p>Raffles will also be available for interested parties during the auction.</p><p>"We are going to have a live raffle drawing on Friday evening at 8 p.m.," Ruda said. "We are going to have two $500 raffle drawings."&nbsp;</p><p>Another raffle for a donated car is also set to take place Saturday.</p><p>Winning bidders will be able to purchase their items at the Fieldhouse on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or if needed, arrangements can be made for a later pickup.</p><p>All of the details and access to the online auction and live raffle stream will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/" target="_blank">https://www.tmp-m.org/ace-2020-ace-in-the-wild/</a></p>

🎙 2020 ACE Auction to kick off online Friday

<div><iframe title="Business development is happening around Hays" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/yatmb-e316c0?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Business development is happening throughout Hays

Crops like wheat, corn and sorghum remain the perennial favorites for ag producers across Kansas, but recent studies by the Kansas State Agricultural Research Station suggest adding a forage crop into a crop rotation can be beneficial to producers and the land in western Kansas.

Forage crops are already a large part of agriculture in Kansas, according to&nbsp;Bob Gillen, K-State Agriculture Research Center department head, but outside factors are generating interest into expanded use.

"Forage production is really important in Kansas,"&nbsp;Gillen said. "Kansas ranks sixth in the United States in total hay production."

Almost 2 million acres of Kansas farmland is used each year in forage production, he said, ranking it fifth in acres used by crop type in the state.

"You think about corn, wheat, sorghum, grain sorghum, but then right behind that are our annual forages," Gillen said. "So they are really important to Kansas agriculture."

Despite a large amount of forage crop production, research often focuses on the more well-known grain crops, Gillen said, but the availability of water for irrigation is pushing research into forage crops.

"We felt like there was a need there and we are trying to meet that," Gillen said.

"Forage production is important for the western Kansas region’s livestock and dairy industries and has become increasingly important as irrigation-well capacity declines," <a href="https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol5/iss7/5/">according to a study published last fall.</a>

"That's been a big focus we have been working on for six or seven years," Gillen said.

"Forages are actually a more resilient crop than grain production," he said, due to the ability to grow with less water — a common condition of Kansas fields.

"With forages, we almost always have enough precipitation to grow that stock and leaves," Gillen said.&nbsp;

Outside of water concerns, the goal of recent studies into forage production is to give producers more options, especially as grain prices have remained low and beef production continues to increase.

The recent studies looked at how forage production fits into crop rotations or how it can replace a regular rotation with all forage.

And it may be a better financial option for producers.

While historically grain crops have been "king" in Kansas due to their higher value, Gillen said, in recent years producers have been in a slump where grain crops are not as valuable.

"It allows us diversification where a producer can feed in a different kind of crop," Gillen said.

The research also found by adding a forage crop into a field rotation soil health can be improved.

Crop diversification can also give more flexibility to herbicide and weed management, Gillen said.&nbsp;

With that in mind, variety testing has also been an important part of recent research. Last year, 77 hay varieties were tested and 87 silage varieties, Gillen said.

"That gives the producers a neutral party look," he said.

"It gives another avenue, it gives another possibility," Gillen said. "That's what we are about, trying to give producers as many different options as we can to try to meet the variable weather in western Kansas and the variable marketing conditions."

<a href="https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol5/iss7/">The most recent studies published by the center can be found by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

<div><iframe title="Adding forage crops found to be beneficial to area ag producers" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ysknd-e2aab9?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Crops like wheat, corn and sorghum remain the perennial favorites for ag producers across Kansas, but recent studies by the Kansas State Agricultural Research Station suggest adding a forage crop into a crop rotation can be beneficial to producers and the land in western Kansas.</p><p>Forage crops are already a large part of agriculture in Kansas, according to&nbsp;Bob Gillen, K-State Agriculture Research Center department head, but outside factors are generating interest into expanded use.</p><p>"Forage production is really important in Kansas,"&nbsp;Gillen said. "Kansas ranks sixth in the United States in total hay production."</p><p>Almost 2 million acres of Kansas farmland is used each year in forage production, he said, ranking it fifth in acres used by crop type in the state.</p><p>"You think about corn, wheat, sorghum, grain sorghum, but then right behind that are our annual forages," Gillen said. "So they are really important to Kansas agriculture."</p><p>Despite a large amount of forage crop production, research often focuses on the more well-known grain crops, Gillen said, but the availability of water for irrigation is pushing research into forage crops.</p><p>"We felt like there was a need there and we are trying to meet that," Gillen said.</p><p>"Forage production is important for the western Kansas region’s livestock and dairy industries and has become increasingly important as irrigation-well capacity declines," <a href="https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol5/iss7/5/">according to a study published last fall.</a></p><p>"That's been a big focus we have been working on for six or seven years," Gillen said.</p><p>"Forages are actually a more resilient crop than grain production," he said, due to the ability to grow with less water — a common condition of Kansas fields.</p><p>"With forages, we almost always have enough precipitation to grow that stock and leaves," Gillen said.&nbsp;</p><p>Outside of water concerns, the goal of recent studies into forage production is to give producers more options, especially as grain prices have remained low and beef production continues to increase.</p><p>The recent studies looked at how forage production fits into crop rotations or how it can replace a regular rotation with all forage.</p><p>And it may be a better financial option for producers.</p><p>While historically grain crops have been "king" in Kansas due to their higher value, Gillen said, in recent years producers have been in a slump where grain crops are not as valuable.</p><p>"It allows us diversification where a producer can feed in a different kind of crop," Gillen said.</p><p>The research also found by adding a forage crop into a field rotation soil health can be improved.</p><p>Crop diversification can also give more flexibility to herbicide and weed management, Gillen said.&nbsp;</p><p>With that in mind, variety testing has also been an important part of recent research. Last year, 77 hay varieties were tested and 87 silage varieties, Gillen said.</p><p>"That gives the producers a neutral party look," he said.</p><p>"It gives another avenue, it gives another possibility," Gillen said. "That's what we are about, trying to give producers as many different options as we can to try to meet the variable weather in western Kansas and the variable marketing conditions."</p><p><a href="https://newprairiepress.org/kaesrr/vol5/iss7/">The most recent studies published by the center can be found by clicking here.&nbsp;</a></p>

KSU Ag Research Center shows benefits of a forage-crop rotation

Just shy of a year after it was announced, the Hays Public Library's bookmobile is providing services in Hays.

"People have hopefully seen it," said Callie Kolacny, Hays Public Library communications coordinator. "It's been a couple of weeks now its been out and about."

The bookmobile will operate on a regular schedule, but as the service develops, some changes to the route might be made.

"Each week, it changes a little bit," Kolacny said. "We are making some adjustments as we figure things out."

<a href="https://hayslibrary.org/bookmobile/">The schedule is available on the HPL website and will be updated as changes are made.</a>

In addition to carrying books, the vehicle carries many of the same multimedia materials available at the HPL.

"The bookmobile is amazing, and there is so much stuff on it," Kolacny said. "It's a mobile library, literally."

Books, videos and audiobooks for all ages are stocked in the vehicle, with services like library card requests and access to the library database available.

"It's a very good selection," Kolacny said. "It provides a lot of the same services as what you can get at the actual library."

And patrons can request additional items for the bookmobile that will be included the next time it is at the location.

"I can't believe all of the stuff that they put in it," Kolacny said. "It's really cool."

The Hays Chamber will host a ribbon-cutting for the bookmobile at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, in the HPL parking lot.

"We invite the community to come out and hang out with us during the ribbon-cutting and get a chance to tour the bookmobile," Kolacny said.

At that time, library officials will also announce information about an upcoming remodel at the HPL facility.

"Hopefully early August, we are going to start this fairly large remodeling project, and we have some exciting announcements that we will be making," Kolacny said.

No major services will be removed, she said, noting the remodel will focus on repurposing some of the spaces in the facility to make them more functional.

"We are moving closer to being in that construction phase," Kolacny said.

The plans were made after community input was solicited last year.

"We used all of that input to decide what needed to happen, and the architects came up with some great plans," Kolacny said. "We are really excited about how things are going to look when they are done."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593904619193.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Library's bookmobile making the rounds" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/87knv-e24bcd?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Just shy of a year after it was announced, the Hays Public Library's bookmobile is providing services in Hays.</p><p>"People have hopefully seen it," said Callie Kolacny, Hays Public Library communications coordinator. "It's been a couple of weeks now its been out and about."</p><p>The bookmobile will operate on a regular schedule, but as the service develops, some changes to the route might be made.</p><p>"Each week, it changes a little bit," Kolacny said. "We are making some adjustments as we figure things out."</p><p><a href="https://hayslibrary.org/bookmobile/">The schedule is available on the HPL website and will be updated as changes are made.</a></p><p>In addition to carrying books, the vehicle carries many of the same multimedia materials available at the HPL.</p><p>"The bookmobile is amazing, and there is so much stuff on it," Kolacny said. "It's a mobile library, literally."</p><p>Books, videos and audiobooks for all ages are stocked in the vehicle, with services like library card requests and access to the library database available.</p><p>It is also a mobile hotspot.</p><p>"It's a very good selection," Kolacny said. "It provides a lot of the same services as what you can get at the actual library."</p><p>And patrons can request additional items for the bookmobile that will be included the next time it is at the location.</p><p>"I can't believe all of the stuff that they put in it," Kolacny said. "It's really cool."</p><p>The Hays Chamber will host a ribbon-cutting for the bookmobile at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, in the HPL parking lot.</p><p>"We invite the community to come out and hang out with us during the ribbon-cutting and get a chance to tour the bookmobile," Kolacny said.</p><h2>A major remodel is on the way at the HPL</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578606002336.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>At that time, library officials will also announce information about an upcoming remodel at the HPL facility.</p><p>"Hopefully early August, we are going to start this fairly large remodeling project, and we have some exciting announcements that we will be making," Kolacny said.</p><p>No major services will be removed, she said, noting the remodel will focus on repurposing some of the spaces in the facility to make them more functional.</p><p>"We are moving closer to being in that construction phase," Kolacny said.</p><p>The plans were made after community input was solicited last year.</p><p>"We used all of that input to decide what needed to happen, and the architects came up with some great plans," Kolacny said. "We are really excited about how things are going to look when they are done."</p>

🎙 As HPL prepares for improvements, new bookmobile making the rounds

<div><iframe title="Enjoy the holiday and stay safe with these tips from HFD Chief Hagans" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/rdmxc-e1eb19?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Enjoy the holiday and stay safe with these tips from HFD Chief Hagans

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b53f2286-d48a-4a61-814c-3afe46f93553">EDITORS NOTE: After the completion of this interview the decision was made to cancel the beer garden for safety reasons.&nbsp;</a>

<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/avhf3-e1cbfa?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><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b53f2286-d48a-4a61-814c-3afe46f93553">EDITORS NOTE: After the completion of this interview the decision was made to cancel the beer garden for safety reasons.&nbsp;</a></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: WWF and DHDC to host Fourth of July events in Hays

<div><iframe title="RHID passes hurdle; development on track" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/7vz8n-e1aa62?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: RHID passes hurdle; development on track

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/aef7255b-3499-4657-9753-08ddfc1bac9b">To read about the details click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Extension district sponsors wheat contest at Ellis Co. Fair" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/as876-e1207e?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/aef7255b-3499-4657-9753-08ddfc1bac9b">To read about the details click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Extension district sponsors wheat contest at Ellis Co. Fair

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f97cbc6d-c9e2-4194-b5bd-7e74ec14c203">To read details of the plan, click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="FHSU plans for Fall Semester reopening" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/isrjg-e0fe63?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f97cbc6d-c9e2-4194-b5bd-7e74ec14c203">To read details of the plan, click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU plans for Fall Semester reopening

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5389c076-171c-49fe-b8b9-0f77a8e2eb60">To read more about the new VP of Membership, click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber introduces new VP of Membership" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/i93pu-e0e3fd?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5389c076-171c-49fe-b8b9-0f77a8e2eb60">To read more about the new VP of Membership, click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber introduces new VP of Membership

<i>Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</i>

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><p><i>Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</i></p><p>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. </p><p><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></p><p>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.</p><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><p><b>Friday, July 3</b></p><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><p><b>Saturday, July 4</b></p><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><p>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. </p><p>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.</p><p>Friday night’s concert in Municipal Park will be free, with an option for a free-will donation to benefit the Wild West Festival. </p><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><p>Sponsors are welcome. </p><p>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.</p><p><a href="http://www.HeartlandTiming.com">Race participants can register for the Wild West Festival 5K at www.HeartlandTiming.com.</a>&nbsp;</p><p>The cost is $20, but the price will increase after June 29. </p><p>The race will begin at 8 a.m.</p><p>The parade will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4 on Main Street. </p><p>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;</p><p>With this year’s theme being “Hometown Heroes,” our healthcare workers, fire department, police department, EMS personnel, teachers, etc. are especially welcome.</p><p>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.</p><p>The free Fireworks Spectacular is made possible by a sponsorship by the City of Hays. </p><p>Fireworks will be visible from Downtown Hays and the Hwy 183 Bypass. </p><p><a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Tune in to Mix 103.3 FM for accompanying patriotic music.</a></p><p>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></p><p>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.</p>

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

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Fort Hays State University's Glen McNeil shares picnic safety tips on International Picnic Day.

<div><iframe title="Keep your picnics safe with these tips" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/3y7ca-e04fe0?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Fort Hays State University's Glen McNeil shares picnic safety tips on International Picnic Day.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Keep your picnics safe with these tips

After being closed to visitors since March 24, the Humane Society of the High Plains has reopened to the public and has big upgrades planned for the summer.

"We were doing appointments for a couple of months, in the beginning, we weren't allowing any visitors, and then by appointment, but now we are fully open our regular hours," Betty Hansen, manager of the Virginia Miller Animal Shelter.

The shelter's regular hours are Tuesday through Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Since reopening, the shelter has been busy, leaving only one dog currently up for adoption.

"We have had a lot of people visit now that we are open," Hansen said. "We've had some great adoptions in this past seven to 10 days."

With the adoptions, the shelter has space for dogs, but remain full for cats.

"If you are needing to place a dog this is probably the best time to do it," Hansen said.

They have a waiting list to surrender cats and kittens, even though they have had some adoptions.

Visitors to the shelter will not see any special precautions inside the shelter, but she said they are conscious of how many people are in the building and disinfecting the facility regularly.

"They have been coming in small groups, so it's all been working out pretty well,"&nbsp;Hasen said.

While the society settles back into the normal routine, it is also preparing for big changes on the grounds.

"We are going to put in a full play yard in the back for the dogs," Hansen said. "We have always had trouble since this building was built keeping grass in the back because the dogs are always on it."

They researched options for the grass and decided a turf-like artificial grass designed for dogs would work best.

"That will be covering the whole back yard," Hansen said. "It's very easy to clean and should last a long time."

They will also construct a large shade structure, some baby pools and large dog playset.

"It's something to maybe give them a little more exercise and something to do when they are out in the yard," Hansen said.

Construction is set to begin after the Fourth of July holiday.

"We are really looking forward to that," Hansen said.

<a href="https://hshponline.org/">For more about the Humane Society of the High Plains, including animals currently up to adoption, visit&nbsp;hshponline.org.</a>

<div><iframe title="Humane Society of the High Plains reopens; facility upgrades planned" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/k5ebh-e00e36?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><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>After being closed to visitors since March 24, the Humane Society of the High Plains has reopened to the public and has big upgrades planned for the summer.</p><p>"We were doing appointments for a couple of months, in the beginning, we weren't allowing any visitors, and then by appointment, but now we are fully open our regular hours," Betty Hansen, manager of the Virginia Miller Animal Shelter.</p><p>The shelter's regular hours are Tuesday through Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.</p><p>Since reopening, the shelter has been busy, leaving only one dog currently up for adoption.</p><p>"We have had a lot of people visit now that we are open," Hansen said. "We've had some great adoptions in this past seven to 10 days."</p><p>With the adoptions, the shelter has space for dogs, but remain full for cats.</p><p>"If you are needing to place a dog this is probably the best time to do it," Hansen said.</p><p>They have a waiting list to surrender cats and kittens, even though they have had some adoptions.</p><p>Visitors to the shelter will not see any special precautions inside the shelter, but she said they are conscious of how many people are in the building and disinfecting the facility regularly.</p><p>"They have been coming in small groups, so it's all been working out pretty well,"&nbsp;Hasen said.</p><p>While the society settles back into the normal routine, it is also preparing for big changes on the grounds.</p><p>"We are going to put in a full play yard in the back for the dogs," Hansen said. "We have always had trouble since this building was built keeping grass in the back because the dogs are always on it."</p><p>They researched options for the grass and decided a turf-like artificial grass designed for dogs would work best.</p><p>"That will be covering the whole back yard," Hansen said. "It's very easy to clean and should last a long time."</p><p>They will also construct a large shade structure, some baby pools and large dog playset.</p><p>"It's something to maybe give them a little more exercise and something to do when they are out in the yard," Hansen said.</p><p>Construction is set to begin after the Fourth of July holiday.</p><p>"We are really looking forward to that," Hansen said.</p><p><a href="https://hshponline.org/">For more about the Humane Society of the High Plains, including animals currently up to adoption, visit&nbsp;hshponline.org.</a></p>

🎤Humane Society of the High Plains reopens; facility upgrades planned

<div><iframe title="Area housing market remains strong" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/4v8ij-e02b21?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Area housing market remains strong

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber to announce new VP of Membership soon" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ybztt-e00bd9?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber to announce new VP of Membership soon

As western Kansas settles into the typically dry and warm summer months, the lack of moisture in the spring is beginning to impact ag producers across the board.

"Right now, pretty much all of western Kansas is in some stage of a drought," said Bob Gillen,&nbsp;K-State Agriculture Research Center department head. "Some would be moderate drought, ranging all the way up to extreme drought."

While the area is now heading into the warmest months of the year, he said the amount of precipitation in the area can vary widely year to year.

"The whole history of western Kansas is drought, then a wetter period, then headed into the next drought," Gillen said. "So in that sense, it's not unusual."

Some areas though are in what he described as a once-in-a-decade drought.

"We have some areas right now, starting in southwestern Ellis County then goes to the southwest corner of the state that is in a drought that we would only see about one year out of 10," Gillen said. "So in that sense, it is getting into the extreme end."

While last year above-average precipitation fell in the area, both 2015 and 2012 were dryer than normal in Hays.

If you take the last seven years and average them together, we have had 4 inches more rain per year than the overall average," Gillen said.

But that doesn't mean that the drought might not continue — or get worse.

While the amount of precipitation in the area for the next few months is anybody's guess, looking at the long-term trends, Gillen said, we expect things to get drier.

"Right now, about 20 percent of western Kansas is in that one out of a 10-year drought,"

In the Hays area, the drought is not as pervasive.

"We are about in a two out of 10-year drought in Hays," Gillen said.

The 2 inches of rain that fell in the area over the Memorial Day weekend helped soften the overall drought around Hays, but the drought becomes more extreme further south.

"If you start from Hays and go down towards southwest Kansas it gets drier and drier," Gillen said. "And if you get all the way down toward Lakin and Syracuse, they are actually in what we call an extreme drought, which is a one-out-of-20-year drought."

Weather predictions indicate little or no relief will come through June, but conditions may improve by the end of the summer, but may not be enough to pull the hardest-hit areas in southwest Kansas out of drought conditions.

So far, the drought conditions have not impacted the wheat crop around Hays significantly.

"It's going to be an average year," Gillen said. "Maybe not too bad."

But producers to the west may not be so lucky.

"The research station that I oversee in Garden City, we are talking about 20-bushel yields," Gillen said, "if we do that well."

While the wheat crop will be affected by the dry conditions, corn and soybean crops could take a harder hit.

"The corn and soybeans, particularly if we stay in this dry trend through the month of June, I think they are going to be under some pretty substantial stress," Gillen said. "Grain sorghum possibly, as well."

Grass growth for cattle production is also not immune to the drought conditions. And with producers already struggling with COVID-19-related issues and falling market prices, the drought is compounding concerns.

"There is not too much good news out there for ag producers right now," Gillen said. "Economic conditions are quite poor, particularly for beef producers, and a little more than for the grain producers."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591993458650.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Regional drought affecting crops throughout western Kansas" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/hntef-df4ba4?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>As western Kansas settles into the typically dry and warm summer months, the lack of moisture in the spring is beginning to impact ag producers across the board.</p><p>"Right now, pretty much all of western Kansas is in some stage of a drought," said Bob Gillen,&nbsp;K-State Agriculture Research Center department head. "Some would be moderate drought, ranging all the way up to extreme drought."</p><p>While the area is now heading into the warmest months of the year, he said the amount of precipitation in the area can vary widely year to year.</p><p>"The whole history of western Kansas is drought, then a wetter period, then headed into the next drought," Gillen said. "So in that sense, it's not unusual."</p><p>Some areas though are in what he described as a once-in-a-decade drought.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591993981787.jpeg" alt="Drought map, June 11, 2020. Image courtesy of The National Drought Mitigation&nbsp;Center University of Nebraska-Lincoln." />
                        <figcaption>Drought map, June 11, 2020. Image courtesy of The National Drought Mitigation&nbsp;Center University of Nebraska-Lincoln.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>"We have some areas right now, starting in southwestern Ellis County then goes to the southwest corner of the state that is in a drought that we would only see about one year out of 10," Gillen said. "So in that sense, it is getting into the extreme end."</p><p>While last year above-average precipitation fell in the area, both 2015 and 2012 were dryer than normal in Hays.</p><p>If you take the last seven years and average them together, we have had 4 inches more rain per year than the overall average," Gillen said.</p><p>But that doesn't mean that the drought might not continue — or get worse.</p><p>While the amount of precipitation in the area for the next few months is anybody's guess, looking at the long-term trends, Gillen said, we expect things to get drier.</p><p>"Right now, about 20 percent of western Kansas is in that one out of a 10-year drought,"</p><p>In the Hays area, the drought is not as pervasive.</p><p>"We are about in a two out of 10-year drought in Hays," Gillen said.</p><p>The 2 inches of rain that fell in the area over the Memorial Day weekend helped soften the overall drought around Hays, but the drought becomes more extreme further south.</p><p>"If you start from Hays and go down towards southwest Kansas it gets drier and drier," Gillen said. "And if you get all the way down toward Lakin and Syracuse, they are actually in what we call an extreme drought, which is a one-out-of-20-year drought."</p><p>Weather predictions indicate little or no relief will come through June, but conditions may improve by the end of the summer, but may not be enough to pull the hardest-hit areas in southwest Kansas out of drought conditions.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591993514762.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>What about the crops?</h2><p>So far, the drought conditions have not impacted the wheat crop around Hays significantly.</p><p>"It's going to be an average year," Gillen said. "Maybe not too bad."</p><p>But producers to the west may not be so lucky.</p><p>"The research station that I oversee in Garden City, we are talking about 20-bushel yields," Gillen said, "if we do that well."</p><p>While the wheat crop will be affected by the dry conditions, corn and soybean crops could take a harder hit.</p><p>"The corn and soybeans, particularly if we stay in this dry trend through the month of June, I think they are going to be under some pretty substantial stress," Gillen said. "Grain sorghum possibly, as well."</p><p>Grass growth for cattle production is also not immune to the drought conditions. And with producers already struggling with COVID-19-related issues and falling market prices, the drought is compounding concerns.</p><p>"There is not too much good news out there for ag producers right now," Gillen said. "Economic conditions are quite poor, particularly for beef producers, and a little more than for the grain producers."</p>

🎤 Regional drought affecting ag production

<div><iframe title="Water restriction enforcement starts in Hays" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/iyv98-df87fb?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Water restriction enforcement starts in Hays

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

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber begins interviews for VP of membership; begin search for administrative assistant" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/k9v2i-df4b7e?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber begins interviews for VP of membership

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

After the sudden departure of students from Fort Hays State University during the onset of COVID-19 precautions in the spring semester, the university is preparing plans for students to return in the fall.

But while they are optimistic students may return to campus, plans are being made that will ensure university operations and classes continue in one form or another.

"The business of the university is to delivery globally engaged citizens and that comes through relationships and academic challenge,"&nbsp;said Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer."So we are focused on being back in full force in the fall, in whatever shape or form we can to continue that mission."

Cason said the school is looking at multiple options, contingencies and planning based on what happens with COVID-19 and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Ellis County Health Department.

"About two weeks ago, President Mason produced a plan that is called 'The phased plan for FHSU employee return and university reopening,' " Cason said. "It's a complicated title, but it really speaks to the complexity of the plan."

Phase one of the plan began June 1 with select staff members returning to campus that work in positions that could not be completed remotely, like university police and maintenance staff, he said.

"People like that are all pretty much back at work if they can only do their job on-campus," Cason said.

The second phase is anticipated to begin on July 1.

"It really will be driven by the successful implementation of phase one," Cason said. "If things go well in phase one, we can move into phase two."

That phase will bring more people on campus and aligns with Gov. Laura Kelly's Ad Astra reopening plan and the transition scheduled for June 22.<br>

<div><iframe title="FHSU plans for fall Semester" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/jbprz-decb54?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>After the sudden departure of students from Fort Hays State University during the onset of COVID-19 precautions in the spring semester, the university is preparing plans for students to return in the fall.</p><p>But while they are optimistic students may return to campus, plans are being made that will ensure university operations and classes continue in one form or another.</p><p>"The business of the university is to delivery globally engaged citizens and that comes through relationships and academic challenge,"&nbsp;said Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer."So we are focused on being back in full force in the fall, in whatever shape or form we can to continue that mission."</p><p>Cason said the school is looking at multiple options, contingencies and planning based on what happens with COVID-19 and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Ellis County Health Department.</p><p>"About two weeks ago, President Mason produced a plan that is called 'The phased plan for FHSU employee return and university reopening,' " Cason said. "It's a complicated title, but it really speaks to the complexity of the plan."</p><p>Phase one of the plan began June 1 with select staff members returning to campus that work in positions that could not be completed remotely, like university police and maintenance staff, he said.</p><p>"People like that are all pretty much back at work if they can only do their job on-campus," Cason said.</p><p>The second phase is anticipated to begin on July 1.</p><p>"It really will be driven by the successful implementation of phase one," Cason said. "If things go well in phase one, we can move into phase two."</p><p>That phase will bring more people on campus and aligns with Gov. Laura Kelly's Ad Astra reopening plan and the transition scheduled for June 22.<br></p><p>"We will make decisions on the transition between phase one to two on June 24," Cason said.</p><p>The third phase is then set to begin on Aug. 1.</p><p>"Phase three is what we are all looking forward to," Cason said.</p><p>In that phase, the university will look at all current information and decide if students will return to campus, but other options like hybrid delivery are being considered if needed for the safety of the campus community.</p><p>"It's a complex set of plans that are going on right now, but it's all geared toward that Aug. 1 reopening of campus," Cason said.</p><p>A part of the plan includes safety precautions for students that will implement measures including educating students and staff in distancing practices, handwashing and mask use.</p><p>"This plan has to ensure the health and safety of all of our faculty, staff, students and visitors," he said. "We don't want to mess up on that — that's the most important guiding principle in our plan."</p>