WASHINGTON (AP) — Meta CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mark-zuckerberg">Mark Zuckerberg</a>&nbsp;says senior Biden administration officials pressured Facebook to “censor” some COVID-19 content during the pandemic and vowed that the social media giant would push back if it faced such demands again.

In a letter to Rep. Jim Jordan, the Republican chair of the House Judiciary Committee, Zuckerberg alleges that the officials, including those from the White House, “repeatedly pressured” Facebook for months to take down “certain COVID-19 content including humor and satire.”

The officials “expressed a lot of frustration” when the company didn't agree, he said in the letter.

“I believe the government pressure was wrong and I regret that we were not more outspoken about it,” Zuckerberg wrote in the letter dated Aug. 26 and posted on the committee's Facebook page and to its account on X.

The letter is the latest repudiation by Zuckerberg of efforts to target misinformation around the coronavirus pandemic during and after the 2020 presidential election, particularly as allegations have emerged that some posts were deleted or restricted wrongly.

“I also think we made some choices that, with the benefit of hindsight and new information, we wouldn’t make today,” he said, without elaborating. “We’re ready to push back if something like this happens again.”

In response, the White House said in a statement that, “When confronted with a deadly pandemic, this Administration encouraged responsible actions to protect public health and safety. Our position has been clear and consistent: we believe tech companies and other private actors should take into account the effects their actions have on the American people, while making independent choices about the information they present.”

Experts warn this year's U.S. election&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2024-misinformation-ai-social-media-trump-6119ee6f498db10603b3664e9ad3e87e">could be swamped by misinformation</a>&nbsp;on social media with the proliferation of artificial intelligence and other tools to produce false news stories and content that could mislead voters.

Facebook in early 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-misinformation-coronavirus-pandemic-mark-zuckerberg-55583cb7cee4e6966f49f8604d76a081">appended</a>&nbsp;what Zuckerberg called labels with “credible information” to posts about COVID-19 vaccines. That’s after it moved in April 2020 — just as the virus had led to global shutdowns and radical changes in everyday life — to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-348d772c8a5e305fb8006aae0a8cab84">warn users</a>&nbsp;who shared misinformation about COVID-19.

Conservatives have long derided Facebook and other major tech companies as favoring liberal priorities and accused them of censorship.

Zuckerberg has tried to change the company’s perception on the right, going on podcaster Joe Rogan’s show in 2022 and complimenting Republican nominee Donald Trump’s response to an assassination attempt as “badass.” He sent Monday’s letter to the House Judiciary Committee, whose chairman, Jordan, is a longtime Trump ally.

Zuckerberg also said he would no longer donate money to widen election access for voters through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the company that runs the philanthropy for him and his wife, Priscilla Chan.

The couple previously&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-election-2020-technology-local-elections-elections-c2dcfde7fc750b7dd64243b0cf7fbb69">donated $400 million</a>&nbsp;to help local election offices prepare for voters in the 2020 presidential election, with funds used for protective equipment to prevent the spread of the coronavirus at polling sites, drive-thru voting locations and equipment to process mail ballots.

“I know that some people believe this work benefited one party over the other” despite analyses showing otherwise, he said. “My goal is to be neutral and not play a role one way or another - or to even appear to be playing a role. So I don’t plan on making a similar contribution this cycle.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706714628260.png" alt="Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified before Congress in January-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified before Congress in January-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Meta CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mark-zuckerberg">Mark Zuckerberg</a>&nbsp;says senior Biden administration officials pressured Facebook to “censor” some COVID-19 content during the pandemic and vowed that the social media giant would push back if it faced such demands again.In a letter to Rep. Jim Jordan, the Republican chair of the House Judiciary Committee, Zuckerberg alleges that the officials, including those from the White House, “repeatedly pressured” Facebook for months to take down “certain COVID-19 content including humor and satire.”The officials “expressed a lot of frustration” when the company didn't agree, he said in the letter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724719285559.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724719317083.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“I believe the government pressure was wrong and I regret that we were not more outspoken about it,” Zuckerberg wrote in the letter dated Aug. 26 and posted on the committee's Facebook page and to its account on X.The letter is the latest repudiation by Zuckerberg of efforts to target misinformation around the coronavirus pandemic during and after the 2020 presidential election, particularly as allegations have emerged that some posts were deleted or restricted wrongly.“I also think we made some choices that, with the benefit of hindsight and new information, we wouldn’t make today,” he said, without elaborating. “We’re ready to push back if something like this happens again.”In response, the White House said in a statement that, “When confronted with a deadly pandemic, this Administration encouraged responsible actions to protect public health and safety. Our position has been clear and consistent: we believe tech companies and other private actors should take into account the effects their actions have on the American people, while making independent choices about the information they present.”Experts warn this year's U.S. election&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2024-misinformation-ai-social-media-trump-6119ee6f498db10603b3664e9ad3e87e">could be swamped by misinformation</a>&nbsp;on social media with the proliferation of artificial intelligence and other tools to produce false news stories and content that could mislead voters.Facebook in early 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-misinformation-coronavirus-pandemic-mark-zuckerberg-55583cb7cee4e6966f49f8604d76a081">appended</a>&nbsp;what Zuckerberg called labels with “credible information” to posts about COVID-19 vaccines. That’s after it moved in April 2020 — just as the virus had led to global shutdowns and radical changes in everyday life — to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-348d772c8a5e305fb8006aae0a8cab84">warn users</a>&nbsp;who shared misinformation about COVID-19.Conservatives have long derided Facebook and other major tech companies as favoring liberal priorities and accused them of censorship.Zuckerberg has tried to change the company’s perception on the right, going on podcaster Joe Rogan’s show in 2022 and complimenting Republican nominee Donald Trump’s response to an assassination attempt as “badass.” He sent Monday’s letter to the House Judiciary Committee, whose chairman, Jordan, is a longtime Trump ally.Zuckerberg also said he would no longer donate money to widen election access for voters through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the company that runs the philanthropy for him and his wife, Priscilla Chan.The couple previously&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-election-2020-technology-local-elections-elections-c2dcfde7fc750b7dd64243b0cf7fbb69">donated $400 million</a>&nbsp;to help local election offices prepare for voters in the 2020 presidential election, with funds used for protective equipment to prevent the spread of the coronavirus at polling sites, drive-thru voting locations and equipment to process mail ballots.“I know that some people believe this work benefited one party over the other” despite analyses showing otherwise, he said. “My goal is to be neutral and not play a role one way or another - or to even appear to be playing a role. So I don’t plan on making a similar contribution this cycle.”

Read Zuckerberg's letter: White House pressured Facebook to 'censor' content

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Employment Connections program is a service at Hays-based Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas dedicated to creating meaningful job opportunities for individuals ages 18 and older across the 18 counties of northwest Kansas.

The popular program has been in place for more than 50 years, said LaVonne Giess, DSNWK employment services manager.

"We help individuals with all types of disabilities with the opportunity to work," she said.&nbsp; "If they want to work, and that is their goal, then we are going to make that happen."

Work services is a group of individuals with a working supervisor who goes to the job site, where they complete a set amount of work.

"We have a lawn crew. We have a snow removal crew. We clean the [Hays Regional] airport Monday through Friday. We've been doing that for over 20 years," Giess said.&nbsp;

"We clean the respirators at Enersys and put them back in their lockers. We've been there for more than 20 years."

DSNWK crews also perform janitorial work and help move households.&nbsp;

Giess is proud that her crews never call in sick.

"A lot of the workforce struggles with that. We don't have that problem with work services. We always have people that are subs that can go in and cover for someone else, or staff steps in and covers."

Employment Connections also offers community employment for individuals.

From job assessment and development to training and long-term support, Employment Connections' mission is to help individuals gain the necessary skills and secure competitive employment.

"We look at what kind of job they want to do, what are their skill sets, and what they need help with," Giess said.

Employment Connections staff members work closely with local businesses to match clients with roles that fit their skills and goals and meet the hiring needs of northwest Kansas communities.

"We go with our clients to help them fill out applications and go through the job interview,"&nbsp;Giess said.

Once a client is hired, staff provide job coaching and training on-site.&nbsp;

"We'll do a task analysis," Giess said. "Maybe one of our clients needs a picture board if they struggle with reading, things like that, whatever adaptations might be needed."

DSNWK individuals have worked for many Hays businesses, including Xibit Customs, Bright Minds Academy, Walmart, Good Samaritan Society, Cross Manufacturing, Master Cleaners and McDonalds, for a long time.

The jobs, mostly part-time, include dishwashing, food preparation, child care, car detailing, shelf stocking, assembly, cashier and laundry.

"Just a wide, wide range of opportunity. We're all over this community, " she said.

DSNWK participants in Employee Connections have bills to pay just like we all do, Giess said.

"Many of them live in their own apartments," Giess said. "They've got to pay that rent. They like to go out to eat. They like to go to activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They're a very, very important part of our community."

Businesses interested in hiring people in northwest Kansas through Employment Connections can get more information on the DSNWK website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2oWW_ovrkXFLDU2j59t7DrDf8mzH98FTchDGkwF1PGiDxgc-4IddzwnB8_aem_zWB2hP8UQX-_ivzJIYEWqQ" target="_blank">https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724341420571.jpeg" alt="A DSNWK work services client cleans the Hays Regional Airport. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A DSNWK work services client cleans the Hays Regional Airport. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Chamber, DSNWK discuss workforce development" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=h64s3-16b2d09-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Employment Connections program is a service at Hays-based Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas dedicated to creating meaningful job opportunities for individuals ages 18 and older across the 18 counties of northwest Kansas.The popular program has been in place for more than 50 years, said LaVonne Giess, DSNWK employment services manager."We help individuals with all types of disabilities with the opportunity to work," she said.&nbsp; "If they want to work, and that is their goal, then we are going to make that happen."There are two types of services offered.Work services is a group of individuals with a working supervisor who goes to the job site, where they complete a set amount of work."We have a lawn crew. We have a snow removal crew. We clean the [Hays Regional] airport Monday through Friday. We've been doing that for over 20 years," Giess said.&nbsp;"We clean the respirators at Enersys and put them back in their lockers. We've been there for more than 20 years."DSNWK crews also perform janitorial work and help move households.&nbsp;Giess is proud that her crews never call in sick."A lot of the workforce struggles with that. We don't have that problem with work services. We always have people that are subs that can go in and cover for someone else, or staff steps in and covers."Employment Connections also offers community employment for individuals.From job assessment and development to training and long-term support, Employment Connections' mission is to help individuals gain the necessary skills and secure competitive employment."We look at what kind of job they want to do, what are their skill sets, and what they need help with," Giess said.Employment Connections staff members work closely with local businesses to match clients with roles that fit their skills and goals and meet the hiring needs of northwest Kansas communities."We go with our clients to help them fill out applications and go through the job interview,"&nbsp;Giess said.Once a client is hired, staff provide job coaching and training on-site.&nbsp;"We'll do a task analysis," Giess said. "Maybe one of our clients needs a picture board if they struggle with reading, things like that, whatever adaptations might be needed."DSNWK individuals have worked for many Hays businesses, including Xibit Customs, Bright Minds Academy, Walmart, Good Samaritan Society, Cross Manufacturing, Master Cleaners and McDonalds, for a long time.The jobs, mostly part-time, include dishwashing, food preparation, child care, car detailing, shelf stocking, assembly, cashier and laundry."Just a wide, wide range of opportunity. We're all over this community, " she said.DSNWK participants in Employee Connections have bills to pay just like we all do, Giess said."Many of them live in their own apartments," Giess said. "They've got to pay that rent. They like to go out to eat. They like to go to activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;"They're a very, very important part of our community."Businesses interested in hiring people in northwest Kansas through Employment Connections can get more information on the DSNWK website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2oWW_ovrkXFLDU2j59t7DrDf8mzH98FTchDGkwF1PGiDxgc-4IddzwnB8_aem_zWB2hP8UQX-_ivzJIYEWqQ" target="_blank">https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections</a>.

🎙DSNWK Employment Connections offers all individuals opportunity to work

McALLEN, Texas (AP) — A federal judge in Texas on Monday paused a Biden administration policy that would give spouses of U.S. citizens legal status without having to first leave the country, dealing at least a temporary setback to one of the biggest presidential actions to ease a path to citizenship in years.

The administrative stay issued by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker comes just days after Kansas, Missouri and 14 others states, led by Republican attorneys general, challenged the program that could benefit an estimated 500,000 immigrants in the country, plus about 50,000 of their children.

One of the states leading the challenge is Texas, which in the lawsuit claimed the state has had to pay tens of millions of dollars annually from health care to law enforcement because of immigrants living in the state without legal status.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden announced the program in June. The court order, which lasts for two weeks but could be extended, comes one week after the Department of Homeland Security began accepting applications.

"The claims are substantial and warrant closer consideration than the court has been able to afford to date," Barker wrote.

The judge laid out a timetable that could produce a decision shortly before the presidential election Nov. 5 or before a newly elected president takes office in January. Barker gave both sides until Oct. 10 to file briefs in the case.

The policy offers spouses of U.S. citizens without legal status, who meet certain criteria, a path to citizenship by applying for a green card and staying in the U.S. while undergoing the process. Traditionally, the process could include a years-long wait outside of the U.S., causing what advocates equate to "family separation."

The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately return an email seeking comment on the order.

Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton cheered the order.

“This is just the first step. We are going to keep fighting for Texas, our country, and the rule of law,” Paxton posted on the social media platform X.

Several families were notified of the receipt of their applications, according to attorneys advocating for eligible families who filed a motion to intervene earlier Monday.

“Texas should not be able to decide the fate of hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens and their immigrant spouses without confronting their reality,” Karen Tumlin, the founder and director of Justice Action Center, said during the press conference before the order was issued.

The coalition of states accused the administration of bypassing Congress for “blatant political purposes.”

The program has been particularly contentious in an election year where immigration is one of the biggest issues, with many Republicans attacking the policy and contending it is essentially a form of amnesty for people who broke the law.

To be eligible for the program, immigrants must have lived continuously in the U.S. for at least 10 years, not pose a security threat or have a disqualifying criminal history, and have been married to a citizen by June 17 — the day before the program was announced.

They must pay a $580 fee to apply and fill out a lengthy application, including an explanation of why they deserve humanitarian parole and a long list of supporting documents proving how long they have been in the country.

If approved, applicants have three years to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-immigration-border-immigrants-11486c86ba620a04ae9dc66a3d44f346">seek permanent residency</a>. During that period, they can get work authorization.

Before this program, it was complicated for people who were in the U.S. illegally to get a green card after marrying an American citizen. They can be required to return to their home country — often for years — and they always face the risk they may not be allowed back in.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724510077030.png" alt="President Biden during the announcement in June-White House image" />
 <figcaption>President Biden during the announcement in June-White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>McALLEN, Texas (AP) — A federal judge in Texas on Monday paused a Biden administration policy that would give spouses of U.S. citizens legal status without having to first leave the country, dealing at least a temporary setback to one of the biggest presidential actions to ease a path to citizenship in years.The administrative stay issued by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker comes just days after Kansas, Missouri and 14 others states, led by Republican attorneys general, challenged the program that could benefit an estimated 500,000 immigrants in the country, plus about 50,000 of their children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707343988873.png" alt=" Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach photo by Rachel Mipro" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach photo by Rachel Mipro</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the states leading the challenge is Texas, which in the lawsuit claimed the state has had to pay tens of millions of dollars annually from health care to law enforcement because of immigrants living in the state without legal status.&nbsp;President Joe Biden announced the program in June. The court order, which lasts for two weeks but could be extended, comes one week after the Department of Homeland Security began accepting applications."The claims are substantial and warrant closer consideration than the court has been able to afford to date," Barker wrote.The judge laid out a timetable that could produce a decision shortly before the presidential election Nov. 5 or before a newly elected president takes office in January. Barker gave both sides until Oct. 10 to file briefs in the case.The policy offers spouses of U.S. citizens without legal status, who meet certain criteria, a path to citizenship by applying for a green card and staying in the U.S. while undergoing the process. Traditionally, the process could include a years-long wait outside of the U.S., causing what advocates equate to "family separation."The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately return an email seeking comment on the order.Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton cheered the order.“This is just the first step. We are going to keep fighting for Texas, our country, and the rule of law,” Paxton posted on the social media platform X.Several families were notified of the receipt of their applications, according to attorneys advocating for eligible families who filed a motion to intervene earlier Monday.“Texas should not be able to decide the fate of hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens and their immigrant spouses without confronting their reality,” Karen Tumlin, the founder and director of Justice Action Center, said during the press conference before the order was issued.The coalition of states accused the administration of bypassing Congress for “blatant political purposes.”The program has been particularly contentious in an election year where immigration is one of the biggest issues, with many Republicans attacking the policy and contending it is essentially a form of amnesty for people who broke the law.To be eligible for the program, immigrants must have lived continuously in the U.S. for at least 10 years, not pose a security threat or have a disqualifying criminal history, and have been married to a citizen by June 17 — the day before the program was announced.They must pay a $580 fee to apply and fill out a lengthy application, including an explanation of why they deserve humanitarian parole and a long list of supporting documents proving how long they have been in the country.If approved, applicants have three years to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-immigration-border-immigrants-11486c86ba620a04ae9dc66a3d44f346">seek permanent residency</a>. During that period, they can get work authorization.Before this program, it was complicated for people who were in the U.S. illegally to get a green card after marrying an American citizen. They can be required to return to their home country — often for years — and they always face the risk they may not be allowed back in.

Kan. lawsuit: Judge pauses Biden plan to offer ‘amnesty’ to 500K illegals married to US citizens

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Handwashing might seem like a routine activity in today’s world, especially after COVID, but that wasn’t always the case. Have you ever wondered where we got this idea? I learned about it in graduate school and was fascinated by how it came about. It wasn’t until the 19th century that handwashing was actually researched and the birth of modern handwashing came about. And the physician that pioneered this work was ridiculed!

Ignaz Semmelweis (1840s) was Hungarian physician that discovered handwashing with chlorinated lime solutions dramatically reduced the incidence of puerperal fever (childbed fever) in his obstetric wards. Despite his findings, his ideas were initially met with skepticism. In the 1800’s the understanding of disease transmission and germ theory were rudimentary. Semmelweis noticed that there was a stark difference in mortality rates between two maternity wards at the Vienna General Hospital. The ward attended by medical students had a much higher mortality rate compared to the ward run by midwives.

With further investigation he found that medical students moved between the dissection room and the maternity ward which we know now that they carried infectious material from the cadavers to the women in labor causing the high mortality rates. In 1847, Semmelweis introduced a policy requiring medical students and doctors to wash their hands with a chlorinated lime solution before examining patients. Handwashing lowered rates of puerperal fever and mortality rates in the maternity ward. However, he faced professional isolation and resistance from his colleagues.

Semmelweis’s methods were dismissed and ridiculed by the medical community and his findings were not accepted until later with the work of Joseph Lister (1860s) and Louis Pasteur that furthered microbiology and germ theory that Semmelweis’s work was accepted. Joseph Lister was a British surgeon who built on Semmelweis’s work by promoting antiseptic techniques in surgery. Lister’s use of carbolic acid (phenol) as an antiseptic led to a significant decrease in post-surgical infections.

Moving forward to the 20th century commercialization of antiseptic agents and soap improved hand hygiene practices, especially in the medical field but then later would move to the general public with Handwashing Campaigns in the 1970s-1980s. Handwashing became a public health issue.

Today handwashing is recognized as one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness.

Extension agents promote handwashing often whether it’s cooking in the kitchen, outdoor parties, or in the classroom or workplace.

Hands pick up bacteria during daily routines, including gardening, taking out the trash, driving, playing with pets and many other activities.

It only takes 20 seconds with soap and warm water or about the time it takes to sing the alphabet. Be sure to scrub your hands…because the bubbles really do pick up the dirt and take it away.

A fun way we teach this to kids (and adults) is through our Glo-Germ Handwashing program that uses a black light to show the germs on your hands before washing and how they are gone after handwashing. We can also teach high speed handwashing that helps students learn to wash hands quickly and efficiently to save water! Call or email Monique today if you would like to introduce or remind your students how to properly wash their hands to keep everyone as healthy as possible this school year!

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictHandwashing might seem like a routine activity in today’s world, especially after COVID, but that wasn’t always the case. Have you ever wondered where we got this idea? I learned about it in graduate school and was fascinated by how it came about. It wasn’t until the 19th century that handwashing was actually researched and the birth of modern handwashing came about. And the physician that pioneered this work was ridiculed!Ignaz Semmelweis (1840s) was Hungarian physician that discovered handwashing with chlorinated lime solutions dramatically reduced the incidence of puerperal fever (childbed fever) in his obstetric wards. Despite his findings, his ideas were initially met with skepticism. In the 1800’s the understanding of disease transmission and germ theory were rudimentary. Semmelweis noticed that there was a stark difference in mortality rates between two maternity wards at the Vienna General Hospital. The ward attended by medical students had a much higher mortality rate compared to the ward run by midwives.With further investigation he found that medical students moved between the dissection room and the maternity ward which we know now that they carried infectious material from the cadavers to the women in labor causing the high mortality rates. In 1847, Semmelweis introduced a policy requiring medical students and doctors to wash their hands with a chlorinated lime solution before examining patients. Handwashing lowered rates of puerperal fever and mortality rates in the maternity ward. However, he faced professional isolation and resistance from his colleagues.Semmelweis’s methods were dismissed and ridiculed by the medical community and his findings were not accepted until later with the work of Joseph Lister (1860s) and Louis Pasteur that furthered microbiology and germ theory that Semmelweis’s work was accepted. Joseph Lister was a British surgeon who built on Semmelweis’s work by promoting antiseptic techniques in surgery. Lister’s use of carbolic acid (phenol) as an antiseptic led to a significant decrease in post-surgical infections.Moving forward to the 20th century commercialization of antiseptic agents and soap improved hand hygiene practices, especially in the medical field but then later would move to the general public with Handwashing Campaigns in the 1970s-1980s. Handwashing became a public health issue.Today handwashing is recognized as one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness.Extension agents promote handwashing often whether it’s cooking in the kitchen, outdoor parties, or in the classroom or workplace.Hands pick up bacteria during daily routines, including gardening, taking out the trash, driving, playing with pets and many other activities.It only takes 20 seconds with soap and warm water or about the time it takes to sing the alphabet. Be sure to scrub your hands…because the bubbles really do pick up the dirt and take it away.A fun way we teach this to kids (and adults) is through our Glo-Germ Handwashing program that uses a black light to show the germs on your hands before washing and how they are gone after handwashing. We can also teach high speed handwashing that helps students learn to wash hands quickly and efficiently to save water! Call or email Monique today if you would like to introduce or remind your students how to properly wash their hands to keep everyone as healthy as possible this school year!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Handwashing

CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 on Monday night to pull within one game of first in the AL Central.

The Royals won the day game 4-3 as Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning.

In Game 2, Perez hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning — after nearly striking out — and then connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth off Pedro Avila.

The nine-time All-Star catcher has 17 career multi-homer games, tying him with Hall of Famer George Brett for the most in Kansas City history.

Kansas City was nine games back in early July, but the Royals have chipped away at Cleveland's lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the break.

The Guardians, who have led the division since April 14, dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season.

Leading 5-4 in the sixth, the Royals loaded the bases and had a runner forced at the plate before Perez drove his 25th homer 457 feet into the bleachers. Perez's shot tied him with Frank White for the most slams in Royals history.

José Ramírez had three doubles, giving Cleveland's star third baseman two or more extra-base hits in 109 games to tie him with Tris Speaker for second in club history behind Earl Averill (135). Ramírez has also reached 30 homers, 30 doubles and 30 steals in a season for the second time.

Perez's homer in the fifth came one pitch after he caught a break.

He fouled back a 3-2 pitch that catcher Bo Naylor appeared to snare before it hit the ground. But plate umpire John Tumpane looked into Naylor's glove and noticed dirt on the ball, giving Perez new life.

With another chance, he pulled his 24th homer into the bleachers to give Kansas City a 5-4 lead.

Tumpane made the same call in the sixth, and this time Guardians pitching coach Carl Willis was ejected for arguing on behalf of reliever Pedro Avila.

Rookie Daniel Schneemann homered in the second game for Cleveland.

In the opener, Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers.

The All-Star shortstop came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.

It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt.

“He's always present,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “He doesn't care what he's done prior or what he's going to do tomorrow. He's going to be in that box and trying to beat you right there. Bobby's a special player.”

MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals in Game 1.

John Schreiber (4-3) worked 1 2/3 innings and Lucas Erceg put the tying run on with a walk in the ninth before getting his fifth save since coming to Kansas City in a July 30 trade from Oakland.

Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland in the opener. The right-hander hadn't started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.

Royals: LHP Will Smith (back spasms) was placed on the 15-day injured list, one day after he allowed five runs in one inning against Philadelphia. Quatraro said Smith's back issue has “been lingering for a while.”

Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) didn't have any problems while throwing a bullpen session Sunday. He's scheduled to throw live batting practice Tuesday. Cobb was acquired at the trade deadline from San Francisco.

Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (2-6, 5.13 ERA) starts Tuesday against Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-6, 3.47), who threw seven scoreless innings in his most recent outing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724722422214.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 on Monday night to pull within one game of first in the AL Central.The Royals won the day game 4-3 as Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning.In Game 2, Perez hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning — after nearly striking out — and then connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth off Pedro Avila.The nine-time All-Star catcher has 17 career multi-homer games, tying him with Hall of Famer George Brett for the most in Kansas City history.Kansas City was nine games back in early July, but the Royals have chipped away at Cleveland's lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the break.The Guardians, who have led the division since April 14, dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season.Leading 5-4 in the sixth, the Royals loaded the bases and had a runner forced at the plate before Perez drove his 25th homer 457 feet into the bleachers. Perez's shot tied him with Frank White for the most slams in Royals history.José Ramírez had three doubles, giving Cleveland's star third baseman two or more extra-base hits in 109 games to tie him with Tris Speaker for second in club history behind Earl Averill (135). Ramírez has also reached 30 homers, 30 doubles and 30 steals in a season for the second time.Perez's homer in the fifth came one pitch after he caught a break.He fouled back a 3-2 pitch that catcher Bo Naylor appeared to snare before it hit the ground. But plate umpire John Tumpane looked into Naylor's glove and noticed dirt on the ball, giving Perez new life.With another chance, he pulled his 24th homer into the bleachers to give Kansas City a 5-4 lead.Tumpane made the same call in the sixth, and this time Guardians pitching coach Carl Willis was ejected for arguing on behalf of reliever Pedro Avila.Rookie Daniel Schneemann homered in the second game for Cleveland.In the opener, Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers.The All-Star shortstop came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt.“He's always present,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “He doesn't care what he's done prior or what he's going to do tomorrow. He's going to be in that box and trying to beat you right there. Bobby's a special player.”MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals in Game 1.John Schreiber (4-3) worked 1 2/3 innings and Lucas Erceg put the tying run on with a walk in the ninth before getting his fifth save since coming to Kansas City in a July 30 trade from Oakland.Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland in the opener. The right-hander hadn't started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: LHP Will Smith (back spasms) was placed on the 15-day injured list, one day after he allowed five runs in one inning against Philadelphia. Quatraro said Smith's back issue has “been lingering for a while.”Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) didn't have any problems while throwing a bullpen session Sunday. He's scheduled to throw live batting practice Tuesday. Cobb was acquired at the trade deadline from San Francisco.UP NEXTGuardians RHP Gavin Williams (2-6, 5.13 ERA) starts Tuesday against Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-6, 3.47), who threw seven scoreless innings in his most recent outing.

⚾ Salvador Perez hits grand slam as Royals sweep Guardians

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

HAYS – Fort Hays State
head football coach Chris Brown was mum Monday when asked who will start at
quarterback when the Tigers open the 2024 season Thursday night at home against
No. 24 Angelo State.

“You’ll see QB one on
snap one and uh you’ll probably see the other one come in as well.”

Brown made the comments
at his <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/856c892e-7be5-4fed-b5e6-7a2040ffd1b5">first weekly news conference</a> of the season.

“There’s a good chance
we kind of know who it is but we don’t want to throw it out there yest because
they’re both pretty darn good and they’re both still competing for that job.”

Jack Dawson started all
11 games last season as a redshirt sophomore and was named All-MIAA Third Team
after passing for 2,832 yards which ranked 17th in Division II and was the
sixth most passing yards in a season at FHSU.

Dawson has been pushed
by redshirt sophomore Caleb Heavner who appeared in three games last season.

Brown hinted that both
could play on Thursday.

“It just kind of depends
on how the game is going but we’ll figure out snap one and that will be our
guy.” Brown said. “We still got a lot of competition going on there right now.”

The Tigers and Rams
kickoff Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Lewis Field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724756219036.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State quarterback Jack Dawson attempts a pass last season (FHSU Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State quarterback Jack Dawson attempts a pass last season (FHSU Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays PostHAYS – Fort Hays State
head football coach Chris Brown was mum Monday when asked who will start at
quarterback when the Tigers open the 2024 season Thursday night at home against
No. 24 Angelo State.“You’ll see QB one on
snap one and uh you’ll probably see the other one come in as well.”Brown made the comments
at his <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/856c892e-7be5-4fed-b5e6-7a2040ffd1b5">first weekly news conference</a> of the season.“There’s a good chance
we kind of know who it is but we don’t want to throw it out there yest because
they’re both pretty darn good and they’re both still competing for that job.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724756296244.png" alt="Fort Hays State quarterback Caleb Heaver looks to pass the ball vs. Northeastern State Thursday, August 31, 2023 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. (FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State quarterback Caleb Heaver looks to pass the ball vs. Northeastern State Thursday, August 31, 2023 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. (FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid)</figcaption>
 </figure>Jack Dawson started all
11 games last season as a redshirt sophomore and was named All-MIAA Third Team
after passing for 2,832 yards which ranked 17th in Division II and was the
sixth most passing yards in a season at FHSU.Dawson has been pushed
by redshirt sophomore Caleb Heavner who appeared in three games last season.Brown hinted that both
could play on Thursday.“It just kind of depends
on how the game is going but we’ll figure out snap one and that will be our
guy.” Brown said. “We still got a lot of competition going on there right now.”The Tigers and Rams
kickoff Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Lewis Field.

🏈 Brown quiet on starting QB vs. Angelo State

Fort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, wide receiver Trevor Watts and linebacker John Johnson spoke to the media Monday before the Tigers kick off the 2024 season Thursday against Angelo State.

Hays PostFort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, wide receiver Trevor Watts and linebacker John Johnson spoke to the media Monday before the Tigers kick off the 2024 season Thursday against Angelo State.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hUz1u_Xdg0U?si=YinfEIU07xWH2R1d" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BBaypFJU1fY?si=Js6AUEqDvpw147Of" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ekgoPGWNbZQ?si=YFZ6GX7TN_AyUfH8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏈📹 FHSU weekly press conference 

Daryl Walter Hartzog, 93, passed away on August 21, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Daryl was born on October 3, 1930 to Harold Clifton Hartzog and Dena Kroeze Hartzog in Long Island, Kansas. Following Harold’s death in 1936, Dena married George Gillespie in 1940 and the family moved to a farm south of Jennings where Daryl and his siblings grew to adulthood. Daryl was drafted during the Korean War and joined the Army in 1952, later completing 10 weeks of basic training at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He served the remainder of his tour of duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was honorably discharged in 1954.

After discharge from the US Army at the rank of Corporal, Daryl resumed working on the family farm and raised wheat, corn and milo in addition to managing a cattle and hog operation. Daryl married Marjorie Shimmick on October 25, 1959 in Jennings and they had four sons; Scott, Steve, Stann and Stacy. Daryl eventually turned over primary operation of the farm to Stann but never ceased to be involved in the farming operation. He drove the tractor and worked in the field as recently as two months prior to his death. With the exception of the most recent wheat harvest and

time spent in the Army, Daryl was involved with around 80 summer harvests, starting when he was 14.

Daryl was a 70 year member of the American Legion, and was very active in supporting and promoting Legion events and participating in the Honor Guard and firing squad at Memorial Day ceremonies and funerals. He was a strong supporter of veteran causes and was the inspiration for the re-establishment of a Sons of The American Legion squadron in Jennings. He was instrumental in working with the American Legion to promote the creation of the SAL in Jennings, and proud of his sons’ participation in the Sons of the American Legion. Daryl had a lifelong hobby of collecting coins, especially silver dollars. In later years, he gave out many valuable dollar coins as Christmas gifts. He also had a passion for collecting Winchester rifles and other rare guns. He collected small farm toys and was passionate about antique cars and pickups. Daryl was an avid sports fan, especially of all Kansas teams. Some of the more recent highlights of his life included a family trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, an Honor Flight to Washington, DC, a trip to Angel Fire, NM to help his sons lay a brick in his name at the Veterans Memorial Brick Walkway, and the realization of a lifelong desire to visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona, along with a visit to White Sands, NM on the return trip home.

One of the brightest parts of Daryl’s life was his only grandchild, Allison Hartzog. They enjoyed running the combine together, as well as taking rides on the 4 wheeler and the John Deere Gator, where he helped her learn how to drive.

Daryl is survived by his wife Marjorie Hartzog, sons Scott Hartzog and wife Tracey, Norcatur, KS, Steve Hartzog, Garland, TX, Stann Hartzog, Jennings, KS, Stacy Hartzog and wife Jocelyn, and granddaughter Allison Hartzog of Olathe, KS. Daryl was preceded in death by his father Harold Hartzog, his mother Dena Kroeze Hartzog Gillespie, step-father George Gillespie, brother Earl Hartzog, sister Darlene LaRue, brother in law Martin LaRue, and sisters in law, Patty Hartzog, Joyce Hartzog, and Erma Gillespie.

Viewing and visitation with family and friends will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 27 at the Jennings United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on August 28, 2024 at the Jennings United Methodist Church at 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Jennings Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jennings American Legion, Post #351. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Daryl Walter Hartzog, 93, passed away on August 21, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Daryl was born on October 3, 1930 to Harold Clifton Hartzog and Dena Kroeze Hartzog in Long Island, Kansas. Following Harold’s death in 1936, Dena married George Gillespie in 1940 and the family moved to a farm south of Jennings where Daryl and his siblings grew to adulthood. Daryl was drafted during the Korean War and joined the Army in 1952, later completing 10 weeks of basic training at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He served the remainder of his tour of duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was honorably discharged in 1954.After discharge from the US Army at the rank of Corporal, Daryl resumed working on the family farm and raised wheat, corn and milo in addition to managing a cattle and hog operation. Daryl married Marjorie Shimmick on October 25, 1959 in Jennings and they had four sons; Scott, Steve, Stann and Stacy. Daryl eventually turned over primary operation of the farm to Stann but never ceased to be involved in the farming operation. He drove the tractor and worked in the field as recently as two months prior to his death. With the exception of the most recent wheat harvest andtime spent in the Army, Daryl was involved with around 80 summer harvests, starting when he was 14.Daryl was a 70 year member of the American Legion, and was very active in supporting and promoting Legion events and participating in the Honor Guard and firing squad at Memorial Day ceremonies and funerals. He was a strong supporter of veteran causes and was the inspiration for the re-establishment of a Sons of The American Legion squadron in Jennings. He was instrumental in working with the American Legion to promote the creation of the SAL in Jennings, and proud of his sons’ participation in the Sons of the American Legion. Daryl had a lifelong hobby of collecting coins, especially silver dollars. In later years, he gave out many valuable dollar coins as Christmas gifts. He also had a passion for collecting Winchester rifles and other rare guns. He collected small farm toys and was passionate about antique cars and pickups. Daryl was an avid sports fan, especially of all Kansas teams. Some of the more recent highlights of his life included a family trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, an Honor Flight to Washington, DC, a trip to Angel Fire, NM to help his sons lay a brick in his name at the Veterans Memorial Brick Walkway, and the realization of a lifelong desire to visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona, along with a visit to White Sands, NM on the return trip home.One of the brightest parts of Daryl’s life was his only grandchild, Allison Hartzog. They enjoyed running the combine together, as well as taking rides on the 4 wheeler and the John Deere Gator, where he helped her learn how to drive.Daryl is survived by his wife Marjorie Hartzog, sons Scott Hartzog and wife Tracey, Norcatur, KS, Steve Hartzog, Garland, TX, Stann Hartzog, Jennings, KS, Stacy Hartzog and wife Jocelyn, and granddaughter Allison Hartzog of Olathe, KS. Daryl was preceded in death by his father Harold Hartzog, his mother Dena Kroeze Hartzog Gillespie, step-father George Gillespie, brother Earl Hartzog, sister Darlene LaRue, brother in law Martin LaRue, and sisters in law, Patty Hartzog, Joyce Hartzog, and Erma Gillespie.Viewing and visitation with family and friends will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 27 at the Jennings United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on August 28, 2024 at the Jennings United Methodist Church at 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Jennings Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jennings American Legion, Post #351. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Daryl Walter Hartzog

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 will host an afternoon of free bingo during the annual Labor Day Celebration, Monday, September 2, in Natoma. Following the annual parade, the American Legion Hall will be open 2:45 PM-5:00 pm for a “fun, free, family” bingo hour with mystery prizes and refreshments in the cool airconditioned Hall atmosphere. 

The community is invited to join in a veterans’ program by donating items for the Fort Dodge Soldiers’ Home Christmas Store, 3 PM-5 PM. A list of needed items can be found posted throughout the town and by checking the Natoma Face Book page. 

Collection boxes will be available. Members continue to provide 22 annual projects through their volunteer efforts. For information in joining the volunteer auxiliary, or in helping veterans in the Fort Dodge Soldiers’ Home project contact Jenjer Murphy, president.

Storyline by Laah Tucker, American Legion Auxiliary, 785-885-8125

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724704403995.jpeg" alt="American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109, Natoma, Kansas, will be collecting items for the Ft. Dodge Soldiers Home during “free, fun, family” bingo on Labor Day. (L-R): Marge Kertz, Sharon MacConnell, Sheri Beisner, Jenjer Murphy, Cindy Elliot, Shawna Dunlap, Arielle McLarty, Mary Workman, and Laah Tucker. (Not pictured: Linda Crawford and Sonya Robinson) Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109, Natoma, Kansas, will be collecting items for the Ft. Dodge Soldiers Home during “free, fun, family” bingo on Labor Day. (L-R): Marge Kertz, Sharon MacConnell, Sheri Beisner, Jenjer Murphy, Cindy Elliot, Shawna Dunlap, Arielle McLarty, Mary Workman, and Laah Tucker. (Not pictured: Linda Crawford and Sonya Robinson) Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAmerican Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 will host an afternoon of free bingo during the annual Labor Day Celebration, Monday, September 2, in Natoma. Following the annual parade, the American Legion Hall will be open 2:45 PM-5:00 pm for a “fun, free, family” bingo hour with mystery prizes and refreshments in the cool airconditioned Hall atmosphere. The community is invited to join in a veterans’ program by donating items for the Fort Dodge Soldiers’ Home Christmas Store, 3 PM-5 PM. A list of needed items can be found posted throughout the town and by checking the Natoma Face Book page. Collection boxes will be available. Members continue to provide 22 annual projects through their volunteer efforts. For information in joining the volunteer auxiliary, or in helping veterans in the Fort Dodge Soldiers’ Home project contact Jenjer Murphy, president.Storyline by Laah Tucker, American Legion Auxiliary, 785-885-8125

American Legion to host free bingo

NEW YORK (AP) —The campaigns of Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;are arguing in advance of their high-stakes Sept. 10 debate over whether microphones should be muted except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.

While it's common for campaigns to quibble beforehand over debate mechanics, both Harris and Trump are under pressure to deliver a strong performance next month in Philadelphia. The first debate during this campaign led to President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;departure from the race.

Trump on Sunday night raised the possibility that he might not show up on ABC, posting on his Truth Social network that he had watched the network's Sunday show with a “so-called Panel of Trump Haters” and posited, “why would I do the Debate against Kamala Harris on that network?” and urging followers to “Stay tuned!!”

The current dispute centers on the muting of microphones when a candidate isn't speaking, a condition both Biden and Trump accepted for their June debate hosted by CNN. Both sides are accusing the other of gaming the system to protect their candidate.

Biden’s campaign team made microphone muting a condition of its decision to accept any debates this year, and some aides now regret the decision, saying voters were shielded from hearing Trump’s outbursts during the debate. That move likely would not have helped the incumbent Democrat’s disastrous performance.

The Harris campaign now wants microphones to be live all the time, according to Harris spokesman Brian Fallon, who issued a statement needling Trump.

“Trump’s handlers prefer the muted microphone because they don’t think their candidate can act presidential for 90 minutes on his own,” Fallon said. Harris “is ready to deal with Trump’s constant lies and interruptions in real time. Trump should stop hiding behind the mute button.”

Trump spokesman Jason Miller retorted that the Republican nominee had “accepted the ABC debate under the exact same terms as the CNN debate." He alleged Harris’ representatives sought “a seated debate, with notes, and opening statements.”

Miller then took a shot at Harris not sitting for an interview or holding a news conference since Biden ended his reelection and endorsed her, arguing her campaign now wants “to give her a cheat sheet for the debate.”

The Harris campaign denied Miller's claim that she wanted notes or to be seated during the debate.

“I’d rather have it probably on,” Trump said Monday during a stop in the Washington area, when asked if he wanted microphones muted. “I didn't like it the last time, but it worked out fine,” he added, in terms of the policy during his debate with Biden.

“We agreed to the same rules — same rules, same specifications,” Trump noted, for his Sept. 10 debate with Harris. "And I think that’s probably what it should be.”

Asked how he was preparing for the debate, Trump responded, “I’m not. ... I think my whole life I’ve been preparing for a debate.”

Complicating the negotiations this year is that debates are being orchestrated on an ad hoc basis by host networks, as opposed to the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, through which debate rules were negotiated privately.

Microphones have been unmuted for both candidates for most of televised presidential debate history. The debate commission announced that its October 2020 debate would have microphones muted when candidates were not recognized to speak after the first Biden-Trump contest descended into a shouting match. The second 2020 debate with the microphone muting rules was widely celebrated for being more substantive than the earlier matchup.

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Colleen Long in Washington, and Jill Colvin in New York contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721587521577.png" alt="Photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>Photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —The campaigns of Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;are arguing in advance of their high-stakes Sept. 10 debate over whether microphones should be muted except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.While it's common for campaigns to quibble beforehand over debate mechanics, both Harris and Trump are under pressure to deliver a strong performance next month in Philadelphia. The first debate during this campaign led to President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;departure from the race.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump on Sept. 10 ABC News debate: &quot;We&#39;re thinking about it. They also want to change the rules. You know, the deal was we keep the same rules. Now, all of a sudden they want to make a change in the rules because she can&#39;t answer questions.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/YxaJE6kV3o">pic.twitter.com/YxaJE6kV3o</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1828168021283688868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump on Sunday night raised the possibility that he might not show up on ABC, posting on his Truth Social network that he had watched the network's Sunday show with a “so-called Panel of Trump Haters” and posited, “why would I do the Debate against Kamala Harris on that network?” and urging followers to “Stay tuned!!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724695187260.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The current dispute centers on the muting of microphones when a candidate isn't speaking, a condition both Biden and Trump accepted for their June debate hosted by CNN. Both sides are accusing the other of gaming the system to protect their candidate.Biden’s campaign team made microphone muting a condition of its decision to accept any debates this year, and some aides now regret the decision, saying voters were shielded from hearing Trump’s outbursts during the debate. That move likely would not have helped the incumbent Democrat’s disastrous performance.The Harris campaign now wants microphones to be live all the time, according to Harris spokesman Brian Fallon, who issued a statement needling Trump.“Trump’s handlers prefer the muted microphone because they don’t think their candidate can act presidential for 90 minutes on his own,” Fallon said. Harris “is ready to deal with Trump’s constant lies and interruptions in real time. Trump should stop hiding behind the mute button.”Trump spokesman Jason Miller retorted that the Republican nominee had “accepted the ABC debate under the exact same terms as the CNN debate." He alleged Harris’ representatives sought “a seated debate, with notes, and opening statements.”Miller then took a shot at Harris not sitting for an interview or holding a news conference since Biden ended his reelection and endorsed her, arguing her campaign now wants “to give her a cheat sheet for the debate.”The Harris campaign denied Miller's claim that she wanted notes or to be seated during the debate.“I’d rather have it probably on,” Trump said Monday during a stop in the Washington area, when asked if he wanted microphones muted. “I didn't like it the last time, but it worked out fine,” he added, in terms of the policy during his debate with Biden.“We agreed to the same rules — same rules, same specifications,” Trump noted, for his Sept. 10 debate with Harris. "And I think that’s probably what it should be.”Asked how he was preparing for the debate, Trump responded, “I’m not. ... I think my whole life I’ve been preparing for a debate.”Complicating the negotiations this year is that debates are being orchestrated on an ad hoc basis by host networks, as opposed to the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, through which debate rules were negotiated privately.Microphones have been unmuted for both candidates for most of televised presidential debate history. The debate commission announced that its October 2020 debate would have microphones muted when candidates were not recognized to speak after the first Biden-Trump contest descended into a shouting match. The second 2020 debate with the microphone muting rules was widely celebrated for being more substantive than the earlier matchup.___Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Colleen Long in Washington, and Jill Colvin in New York contributed to this report.___

🎥Harris and Trump squabble over rules for upcoming debate

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Meet Jesse Vincent, the new principal at Ellis Junior-Senior High School, focused on building strong connections and bringing fresh perspectives.

After spending the last several years working in central Kansas, Vincent returns to western Kansas to lead future generations of students and be closer to his family.

"I've always felt that Ellis was a prestigious institution, educationally and athletically, and was excited to put my name in the hat," he said.

Vincent graduated from Abilene High School in 1996 and earned his bachelor's degree in physical education and health from Sterling College.

He continued his studies at Fort Hays State University, earning a master's degree in building leadership in 2017.

Inspired by his physical education teacher, Tom Schwartz, Vincent served as his teacher's aide before stepping into Schwartz's role as the PE teacher, his first job in education.

Schwartz currently serves as the principal of Abilene High School.

"That's where I got my start and desire," Vincent said. "Years down the road, I decided that I wanted to continue and move up into the administration role."

Vincent returns to the area after teaching in the Grinnell School District and serving as the principal at Canton-Galva Junior-Senior High School.

Vincent said Ellis High is in a pristine state and doesn't need significant changes, but is eager to work with staff and teachers.

"I'm excited about the veteran staff that I have," he said. "There's a couple of new teachers that I think are going to be strong and good for us as well."

Vincent's daughter teaches fourth grade in Grinnell and is beginning a master's program to become a principal, with Vincent offering his guidance.

Vincent also has two sons attending Colorado State University, both of whom are on the football team. With his sons out of state, Vincent decided to relocate closer to his parents when the opportunity to lead Ellis High arose.

"I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to this role," Vincent said. "I'm anxious to build relationships with everyone, share my views for the district, and where we're going to go and how we're getting there."

The Ellis USD 388 school district announced Vincent as the new principal in a <a href="https://www.usd388.com/o/ehs/article/1705509">post</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724099158677.png" alt="Ellis Junior-Senior High School Principal Jesse Vincent. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellis Junior-Senior High School Principal Jesse Vincent. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostMeet Jesse Vincent, the new principal at Ellis Junior-Senior High School, focused on building strong connections and bringing fresh perspectives.After spending the last several years working in central Kansas, Vincent returns to western Kansas to lead future generations of students and be closer to his family."I've always felt that Ellis was a prestigious institution, educationally and athletically, and was excited to put my name in the hat," he said.Vincent graduated from Abilene High School in 1996 and earned his bachelor's degree in physical education and health from Sterling College.He continued his studies at Fort Hays State University, earning a master's degree in building leadership in 2017.Inspired by his physical education teacher, Tom Schwartz, Vincent served as his teacher's aide before stepping into Schwartz's role as the PE teacher, his first job in education.Schwartz currently serves as the principal of Abilene High School."That's where I got my start and desire," Vincent said. "Years down the road, I decided that I wanted to continue and move up into the administration role."Vincent returns to the area after teaching in the Grinnell School District and serving as the principal at Canton-Galva Junior-Senior High School.Vincent said Ellis High is in a pristine state and doesn't need significant changes, but is eager to work with staff and teachers."I'm excited about the veteran staff that I have," he said. "There's a couple of new teachers that I think are going to be strong and good for us as well."Vincent's daughter teaches fourth grade in Grinnell and is beginning a master's program to become a principal, with Vincent offering his guidance.Vincent also has two sons attending Colorado State University, both of whom are on the football team. With his sons out of state, Vincent decided to relocate closer to his parents when the opportunity to lead Ellis High arose."I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to this role," Vincent said. "I'm anxious to build relationships with everyone, share my views for the district, and where we're going to go and how we're getting there."The Ellis USD 388 school district announced Vincent as the new principal in a <a href="https://www.usd388.com/o/ehs/article/1705509">post</a>.

Ellis welcomes Jesse Vincent as new high school principal 

Bob was born June 29, 1925 on the land his Grandpa Joe McClelland homesteaded, in the house his Grandpa had built about 1898. His parents were Charles and Emma (Williams) McClelland. He had an older sister, Beth (Bryant) and older brother Kenneth. &nbsp;The McClelland family moved to a farm ½ mile south of Long Island when Bob was a young child. &nbsp;Bob started school there and went there almost the end of third grade. Then they moved back to the family homestead 8 ½ miles northwest of Almena. &nbsp;Bob finished grade school at the Star Country School 1 ½ miles from the farm. &nbsp;Bob attended High School in Almena, graduating in 1943. &nbsp;He helped his Dad on the farm until he was drafted in 1944.

Bob was drafted and sworn into the Army August 4, 1944 at Fort Leavenworth. 26 guys from Norton County were drafted at the same time. &nbsp;From Fort Leavenworth he was sent to Fort Hood Texas for basic training. &nbsp;From there to Fort Lawton, Seattle WA and on to Hawaii on the USS Pickaway. &nbsp;The next stop was to Saipan for more training, then on to Okinawa. &nbsp;The army was deployed by lowering them in a cargo net and slept on the ground the first night.

There were 4 Divisions on the front line in Okinawa. &nbsp;Bob was with the 27th Infantry Division. The invasion began on April 1, 1945. &nbsp;Bob’s unit fought on the front lines until there were only 56 men out of 250 left and on April 29, 1945, the army took those 56 soldiers off the front line, and replaced with a whole other unit of 250 men. &nbsp;April 29th is significant in that it was Hirohito’s (124th Emperor of Japan) birthday. &nbsp;On Hirohito’s birthday the Japanese called for an all-out Banzai attack (which is a mass attack, all-out, usually desperate attack). &nbsp;This attack that night drove our (#250 men) U.S. soldiers back ½ mile North…so badly that the Japanese recovered Moshinawa (Machinato) Air Field. &nbsp;It took the U.S. soldiers 2-3 weeks to regain the ground. &nbsp;Had Bob’s unit of #56 men not been replaced by the #250…those 56 men would have pretty certainly been killed. &nbsp;

Bob’s unit was getting ready to train for invasion when the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. &nbsp;3 days later, August 9th, United States military dropped a second bomb on Nagasaki. &nbsp;Japanese leaders then began steps toward surrender. &nbsp;Injuries and death toll from the bombs dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki estimated at 130,000. &nbsp; Had the US military carried out the invasion that Bob was getting ready to train for, the estimated loss of life and injuries would have been 500,000…not counting injuries and loss of life for the Japanese army and civilians. &nbsp;

The group stayed in Japan for 11 months. &nbsp;Bob returned to the US on the USS Stetson Victory ship back to Seattle. &nbsp;He received his discharge on August 29, 1945. &nbsp;Bob remembered he rode on the old train arriving back in Norton at 3 am.

After his discharge, he farmed with his Dad and worked other jobs as well.

Donna Schilowsky became the love of Bob’s life. &nbsp;She was a sophomore in high school in Almena when they first got glimpses of each other. &nbsp;He finally met her at a party and they started dating. &nbsp;They were married May 29, 1949 and moved to the farm where Bob was born. &nbsp;They spent all their married life there.

They welcomed 2 children into this union, Janice Kay in 1952 and Dennis Jay in 1958. &nbsp;Then they welcomed grandchildren and great grandchildren through the years. &nbsp;They both enjoyed spending time with the family and friends.

Bob never knew a stranger…he loved to visit and loved to be around people. &nbsp;He loved to drive, loved the mountains, loved to read and could remember names of people like none other! &nbsp;He was quite a history buff too.

In 2006, Bob and Donna were contemplating moving into Almena and started looking at houses. &nbsp;Their love story took a sad turn in 2006 when Donna had a massive cerebral hemorrhage and died. &nbsp;Bob moved into the Wheatridge apartments in Almena. &nbsp;The following year his son, Dennis suddenly died of a stroke as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bob was a member of the Almena Congregational Church and Almena Bible Church. &nbsp;He knew the Lord Jesus. &nbsp;He believed Christ died for him and paid the penalty for his sins. &nbsp;He loved the Lord and wanted to obey Him. &nbsp;

Bob was able to spend 98 ½ years of his life living independently. &nbsp;Then his health started digressing and he moved to the Phillips County Retirement Center in Phillipsburg where he died. Bob was ready to go home and be with his Lord and Savior.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Donna McClelland, parents Charles and Emma McClelland, son Dennis McClelland, brother Kenneth McClelland, and sister Beth Bryant.

Survivors include his daughter Jan Long and husband Tom of Phillipsburg, Kansas, daughter-in-law Carla Bruning of Glade, Kansas, grandchildren Tana Christensen and husband Nicholas of Orleans, Nebraska, Kelly Leonard and husband Rustin of Salina, Kansas, Brooke Shikhman and husband Arthur of Brooklyn, New York, Jake McClelland of Phillipsburg, Kansas, and Lori Schiefen of Overland Park, Kansas.

A funeral service for Bob McClelland will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, with Harold Rivera officiating. Burial will follow at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Almena, Kansas, with military honors conducted by the Norton American Legion Harmonson-Redd Post 63, and the Fort Riley Honor Guard.

Bob will lie in-state on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a visitation on Monday evening from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County Retirement Center or the Almena City Library.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724622055704.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bob was born June 29, 1925 on the land his Grandpa Joe McClelland homesteaded, in the house his Grandpa had built about 1898. His parents were Charles and Emma (Williams) McClelland. He had an older sister, Beth (Bryant) and older brother Kenneth. &nbsp;The McClelland family moved to a farm ½ mile south of Long Island when Bob was a young child. &nbsp;Bob started school there and went there almost the end of third grade. Then they moved back to the family homestead 8 ½ miles northwest of Almena. &nbsp;Bob finished grade school at the Star Country School 1 ½ miles from the farm. &nbsp;Bob attended High School in Almena, graduating in 1943. &nbsp;He helped his Dad on the farm until he was drafted in 1944.Bob was drafted and sworn into the Army August 4, 1944 at Fort Leavenworth. 26 guys from Norton County were drafted at the same time. &nbsp;From Fort Leavenworth he was sent to Fort Hood Texas for basic training. &nbsp;From there to Fort Lawton, Seattle WA and on to Hawaii on the USS Pickaway. &nbsp;The next stop was to Saipan for more training, then on to Okinawa. &nbsp;The army was deployed by lowering them in a cargo net and slept on the ground the first night.There were 4 Divisions on the front line in Okinawa. &nbsp;Bob was with the 27th Infantry Division. The invasion began on April 1, 1945. &nbsp;Bob’s unit fought on the front lines until there were only 56 men out of 250 left and on April 29, 1945, the army took those 56 soldiers off the front line, and replaced with a whole other unit of 250 men. &nbsp;April 29th is significant in that it was Hirohito’s (124th Emperor of Japan) birthday. &nbsp;On Hirohito’s birthday the Japanese called for an all-out Banzai attack (which is a mass attack, all-out, usually desperate attack). &nbsp;This attack that night drove our (#250 men) U.S. soldiers back ½ mile North…so badly that the Japanese recovered Moshinawa (Machinato) Air Field. &nbsp;It took the U.S. soldiers 2-3 weeks to regain the ground. &nbsp;Had Bob’s unit of #56 men not been replaced by the #250…those 56 men would have pretty certainly been killed. &nbsp;Bob’s unit was getting ready to train for invasion when the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. &nbsp;3 days later, August 9th, United States military dropped a second bomb on Nagasaki. &nbsp;Japanese leaders then began steps toward surrender. &nbsp;Injuries and death toll from the bombs dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki estimated at 130,000. &nbsp; Had the US military carried out the invasion that Bob was getting ready to train for, the estimated loss of life and injuries would have been 500,000…not counting injuries and loss of life for the Japanese army and civilians. &nbsp;The group stayed in Japan for 11 months. &nbsp;Bob returned to the US on the USS Stetson Victory ship back to Seattle. &nbsp;He received his discharge on August 29, 1945. &nbsp;Bob remembered he rode on the old train arriving back in Norton at 3 am.After his discharge, he farmed with his Dad and worked other jobs as well.Donna Schilowsky became the love of Bob’s life. &nbsp;She was a sophomore in high school in Almena when they first got glimpses of each other. &nbsp;He finally met her at a party and they started dating. &nbsp;They were married May 29, 1949 and moved to the farm where Bob was born. &nbsp;They spent all their married life there.They welcomed 2 children into this union, Janice Kay in 1952 and Dennis Jay in 1958. &nbsp;Then they welcomed grandchildren and great grandchildren through the years. &nbsp;They both enjoyed spending time with the family and friends.Bob never knew a stranger…he loved to visit and loved to be around people. &nbsp;He loved to drive, loved the mountains, loved to read and could remember names of people like none other! &nbsp;He was quite a history buff too.In 2006, Bob and Donna were contemplating moving into Almena and started looking at houses. &nbsp;Their love story took a sad turn in 2006 when Donna had a massive cerebral hemorrhage and died. &nbsp;Bob moved into the Wheatridge apartments in Almena. &nbsp;The following year his son, Dennis suddenly died of a stroke as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;Bob was a member of the Almena Congregational Church and Almena Bible Church. &nbsp;He knew the Lord Jesus. &nbsp;He believed Christ died for him and paid the penalty for his sins. &nbsp;He loved the Lord and wanted to obey Him. &nbsp;Bob was able to spend 98 ½ years of his life living independently. &nbsp;Then his health started digressing and he moved to the Phillips County Retirement Center in Phillipsburg where he died. Bob was ready to go home and be with his Lord and Savior.He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Donna McClelland, parents Charles and Emma McClelland, son Dennis McClelland, brother Kenneth McClelland, and sister Beth Bryant.Survivors include his daughter Jan Long and husband Tom of Phillipsburg, Kansas, daughter-in-law Carla Bruning of Glade, Kansas, grandchildren Tana Christensen and husband Nicholas of Orleans, Nebraska, Kelly Leonard and husband Rustin of Salina, Kansas, Brooke Shikhman and husband Arthur of Brooklyn, New York, Jake McClelland of Phillipsburg, Kansas, and Lori Schiefen of Overland Park, Kansas.A funeral service for Bob McClelland will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, with Harold Rivera officiating. Burial will follow at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Almena, Kansas, with military honors conducted by the Norton American Legion Harmonson-Redd Post 63, and the Fort Riley Honor Guard.Bob will lie in-state on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a visitation on Monday evening from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, Kansas.Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County Retirement Center or the Almena City Library.

Robert Richard McClelland

The annual Dog Swim was hosted over the weekend at the Hays Aquatic Park. 

Take a look at this annual tradition that wraps up the summer swimming season in Hays below.

Hays Post The annual Dog Swim was hosted over the weekend at the Hays Aquatic Park. Take a look at this annual tradition that wraps up the summer swimming season in Hays below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523620057.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523890806.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523747204.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523838489.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523861497.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523766744.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523757457.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523828269.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523777852.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523787826.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523848453.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523875527.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523817323.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523901502.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523910549.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523920177.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Stop, Sit, Swim: A look at Hays Aquatic Park's annual dog swim

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement across Kansas continue to  see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit, despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding.

Kansas Highway Trooper Rice was in Salina for specialized training at the KHP Academy this week. On his way back east, heading towards his home county, he encountered a vehicle traveling 112 mph in a 75 mph zone on Interstate 70 in Dickinson County, according to a social media report.

Later Saturday, KHP Trooper Fraser ticketed a driver for going 100 mph in a 75 mph zone on Interstate 135 in McPherson County.

"One of the many benefits of being part of the Kansas Highway Patrol is our statewide jurisdiction. Unlike local agencies restricted by city limits or county lines, our enforcement abilities span across the entire state. While we each have specific roles, the most foundational responsibility we all share as troopers is ensuring the safety of our roadways," Trooper Ben Gardner wrote on his social media account.

"Whether it’s our pilots, truck-checking troopers, training instructors, supervisors, K-9 handlers, bomb technicians, or administrative lieutenants—we all work the road. Service comes whenever we’re out driving, committed to keeping you and others safe."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724518531319.png" alt="Photos KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photos KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement across Kansas continue to see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit, despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding.Kansas Highway Trooper Rice was in Salina for specialized training at the KHP Academy this week. On his way back east, heading towards his home county, he encountered a vehicle traveling 112 mph in a 75 mph zone on Interstate 70 in Dickinson County, according to a social media report.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724585586787.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Later Saturday, KHP Trooper Fraser ticketed a driver for going 100 mph in a 75 mph zone on Interstate 135 in McPherson County."One of the many benefits of being part of the Kansas Highway Patrol is our statewide jurisdiction. Unlike local agencies restricted by city limits or county lines, our enforcement abilities span across the entire state. While we each have specific roles, the most foundational responsibility we all share as troopers is ensuring the safety of our roadways," Trooper Ben Gardner wrote on his social media account."Whether it’s our pilots, truck-checking troopers, training instructors, supervisors, K-9 handlers, bomb technicians, or administrative lieutenants—we all work the road. Service comes whenever we’re out driving, committed to keeping you and others safe."

Driver ticketed for traveling 112mph on Interstate 70

WASHINGTON (AP) —Kansas, Missouri and 14 other Republican-led states are suing to end a federal program that could potentially give nearly half a million immigrants without legal status who are married to U.S. citizens a path to citizenship.

The coalition&nbsp; filed suit Friday to halt the program launched by President Joe Biden in June, saying in court filings that the administration bypassed Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for “blatant political purposes.”

“This action incentivizes illegal immigration and will irreparably harm the Plaintiff states,” the suit filed in federal court in Tyler, Texas, says.

Under the policy, which started&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-biden-spouses-citizenship-registration-da37d9cbdb45a4baca837f6dc2a09aba">taking applications Monday</a>, many spouses without legal status can apply for something called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-parole-trump-biden-latin-america-hungary-vietnam-cuba-venezuela-6deab463a9cc596b2cd1adc6443da787">“parole in place,”</a>&nbsp;offering permission to stay in the U.S., apply for a green card and eventually get on a path to citizenship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724510077030.png" alt="President Biden during the announcement in June-White House image" />
 <figcaption>President Biden during the announcement in June-White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Kansas, Missouri and 14 other Republican-led states are suing to end a federal program that could potentially give nearly half a million immigrants without legal status who are married to U.S. citizens a path to citizenship.The coalition&nbsp; filed suit Friday to halt the program launched by President Joe Biden in June, saying in court filings that the administration bypassed Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for “blatant political purposes.”“This action incentivizes illegal immigration and will irreparably harm the Plaintiff states,” the suit filed in federal court in Tyler, Texas, says.Under the policy, which started&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-biden-spouses-citizenship-registration-da37d9cbdb45a4baca837f6dc2a09aba">taking applications Monday</a>, many spouses without legal status can apply for something called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-parole-trump-biden-latin-america-hungary-vietnam-cuba-venezuela-6deab463a9cc596b2cd1adc6443da787">“parole in place,”</a>&nbsp;offering permission to stay in the U.S., apply for a green card and eventually get on a path to citizenship.But the program has been particularly contentious in an election year where immigration is one of the biggest issues, with many Republicans attacking the policy and contending it is essentially a form of amnesty for people who broke the law.Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a statement Friday that the plan "violates the Constitution and actively worsens the illegal immigration disaster that is hurting Texas and our country.”The suit filed against the Department of Homeland Security, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and other Biden administration officials accuses the agency of attempting to parole spouses “en masse,” which the states contend is an abuse of power. The states also filed a motion asking for the program to be put on hold while the lawsuit proceeds.In a post on X, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody said her state is challenging the parole in place policy because she believes the Biden administration “is illegally using ‘parole’ in a systematic way to advance their open-borders agenda.”The conservative nonprofit America First Legal, which is headed by Stephen Miller, a former adviser to President Donald Trump, is serving as co-counsel in the lawsuit.Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Mayra Alejandra said the agency will defend the Keeping Families Together program in court and continues to process already submitted applications as well as accept new applications.“Keeping Families Together is grounded in well-established legal authority, and its purpose — enabling the families of U.S. Citizens to live without fear of separation — is consistent with fundamental American values,” Alejandra said.White House spokesperson Angelo Fernández Hernández fired back against Republicans “playing politics” and characterized the lawsuit as another form of family separation.“This lawsuit is seeking to force U.S. citizens and their families, people who have lived in the United States for more than ten years, to continue to live in the shadows,” Fernandez said in a statement.The bipartisan immigration and criminal justice organization FWD.us said the program is in compliance with the law and noted the timing of the lawsuit — as Vice President Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic nomination for president.“The only motivation behind this lawsuit is the cruelty of tearing families apart and the crass politics of hoping a judge might do the bidding of the anti-immigrant movement,” the organization said in a statement.Karen Tumlin, founder and director of the Justice Action Center, called the legal challenge “unsurprising yet extremely disappointing and cruel.”“However, it’s important to emphasize that nothing changes for now, and the process is still open and accepting applications,” she said.To be eligible for the program, immigrants must have lived continuously in the U.S. for at least 10 years, not pose a security threat or have a disqualifying criminal history, and have been married to a citizen by June 17 — the day before the program was announced.They must pay a $580 fee to apply and fill out a lengthy application, including an explanation of why they deserve humanitarian parole and a long list of supporting documents proving how long they have been in the country.If approved, applicants have three years to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-immigration-border-immigrants-11486c86ba620a04ae9dc66a3d44f346">seek permanent residency</a>. During that period, they can get work authorization. The administration estimates about 500,000 people could be eligible, plus about 50,000 of their children.Before this program, it was complicated for people who were in the U.S. illegally to get a green card after marrying an American citizen. They can be required to return to their home country — often for years — and they always face the risk they may not be allowed back in.The lawsuit contends that states will bear the burden of additional immigrants staying in the country.Texas, the suit says, spends tens of millions of dollars each year on a program that provides health insurance for children, including those in the country illegally. It says that the state also spends millions each year “for increased law enforcement as its citizens suffer increased crime, unemployment, environmental harm, and social disorder due to illegal immigration.”Because the program beneficiaries will be entitled to work authorization, those additional workers “will drive down the wages of Texas residents, directly harming the State and its citizens,” the lawsuit says.Evelyn Wiese, an immigration attorney at Americans for Immigrant Justice, described the lawsuit as an “attack” on mixed status families who have spent years contributing to their communities in the United States.“Trying to rip apart these families and prevent them from accessing a lawful pathway to status in the U.S. is cruel and reflective of anti-immigrant extremism,” she said.