Correction: A comma was left out of the quote below that made it appear that Bryan Brady was the CFO of HaysMed. Bryan Brady is the vice president of physician practice administration and ancillary services.&nbsp;Michelle M. Beckner is the CFO. <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/about-us/#/administrative-team">See a complete list of the administrative staff HERE</a>.

&nbsp;"I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said. By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Several current and former doctors have come forward with criticism of the HaysMed administration.

Former HaysMed Dr. Wallace Michael Curry started a string of social media comments from concerned employees and patients after he shared his criticism of the HaysMed administration and the board for retaining CEO Edward Herrman.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b9e56ce-abb6-46b3-b2de-6eb1ce011e7a">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed issues statement on financial losses.</a>

Other doctors and staff have joined the discord, saying the hospital is being mismanaged and that it does not have the staff needed to provide quality care.

Four doctors have recently left the hospital, including Dr. Wallace Michael Curry, longtime OBGYNs Drs. Lee Hodny and Joel Fort, and oncologist Dr. Anthony Acursso.

HaysMed has imposed noncompete contracts with its doctors, so if the doctors want to leave, for all intents and purposes, they have to leave the state. All four of the physicians above have left the state.

A physician who did not want his name published said he was considering leaving the hospital due to the lack of leadership from the administration and inadequate staffing.

He said HaysMed is a great hospital, but the current administration is putting making money over patient care and its staff. He said the entire executive staff needed to be fired.

The physician said the administration has slashed his staff in half despite increased cases.&nbsp;

Veteran nurses are leaving because of the poor treatment and pay, he said.

The hospital is staffing wards with caregivers who barely speak English or are right out of school, he said.

As doctors and other medical staff leave the hospital, the doctor said it may not close but will lose its ability to provide key services.

HaysMed is filling gaps with traveling nurses and locum&nbsp;tenens, which are temporary physicians.&nbsp;

He said those temporary staff don't have the same relationship with their patients.

"The HaysMed people who are still here care so much," he said. "This is the public outcry."

&nbsp;A second Hays physician, who did not want his name published, also expressed concern about the hospital's direction.

He said he is also considering leaving the hospital.

"My biggest concern is that we are concentrating on the financial aspects when the care of the patient is not even second. It's third, fourth or fifth, even further down the line," he said.

"I am concerned that they are expecting much more revenue with less and less resources every day," he said.

Treatment that once took a week to schedule is now taking two or three weeks because the hospital has not been able to retain the staff to provide that treatment.

"We are talking about doubling and tripling time they have to wait for very sick and anxious people," he said.

His nursing staff also has been slashed even though his department is seeing more patients. He said nurses with specialized training have been replaced with nurses who do not have that special certification.

"The problem that we are having is when you have a nurse who is not certified and doesn't know our system, they don't know when bad is bad," he said.

"What ends up happening is you hire a nurse from the outside that has half the ability and costs twice the rate," he said.

He said it causes low morale among the permanent certified nurses because they already have issues with their pay, and the hospital is hiring someone for more with half the skills.

After a consultant observed and made recommendations to the hospital, the physicians were reprimanded for referring patients outside HaysMed for procedures despite the delays in treatment in the HaysMed system.

The doctors were also told they had to cut their clinic appointments from 30 minutes to 15 minutes.

"As a physician, I'm not going to let the buzzer roll over and say I'm not going to talk about this," he said. "We are going to spend the time that we need, which is going to put us 30 or 45 minutes or an hour behind. [Patients] are reasonably frustrated because they had to wait an hour."

"This is a conversation I have had with multiple other physicians. I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said.

The doctor said he has been bringing similar concerns to the administration for years and has been disregarded.

He said he wants to see leadership that is responsive to the medical staff's concerns and will be strong leaders.

"I think if you take care of patients, the financial aspect will take care of its self."

He added, "I can't continue to do what I love and what I think I do best without significant resources, and those resources come in the way of people. It comes in the way of nurses, CNAs, everything—from the people who help shovel the snow on a bad day to our highest administrative sites. We are in really dire, dire circumstances right now."

Dr. Curry sent the following comments to the Hays Post from an outside hospital administrator, who he said summed up his concerns.

I just wonder about your CEO and his credentials because some of the policies and attitudes he apparently has strike me as the opposite of what an educated administrator would likely have.

Any administrator should have some knowledge in human relations and should share the attitude that employees are NOT replaceable at any level.

It should be obvious to anyone in rural medicine that physicians are not easy to replace! More than that, any quality employees at any level or position are hard to find, and when we do find them, it is important that we keep them.

Any good CEO and administration would implement a program to make sure that all employees feel valued. This, in turn, should help all employees make their patients feel valued.

This is the approach of an educated and intelligent CEO. Any administrator that tells employees that they can be replaced, should be the one replaced!

Hays Dr. Don Tillman is not employed by HaysMed but said he has been sending letters to the board expressing his concern about the hospital's leadership and direction. His letter can be read on the Hays Post <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0396c2ea-565d-482c-92f7-12bbb547acf7">HERE</a>.

Correction: A comma was left out of the quote below that made it appear that Bryan Brady was the CFO of HaysMed. Bryan Brady is the vice president of physician practice administration and ancillary services.&nbsp;Michelle M. Beckner is the CFO. <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/about-us/#/administrative-team">See a complete list of the administrative staff HERE</a>. &nbsp;"I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said. By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSeveral current and former doctors have come forward with criticism of the HaysMed administration.Former HaysMed Dr. Wallace Michael Curry started a string of social media comments from concerned employees and patients after he shared his criticism of the HaysMed administration and the board for retaining CEO Edward Herrman.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9b9e56ce-abb6-46b3-b2de-6eb1ce011e7a">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed issues statement on financial losses.</a>Other doctors and staff have joined the discord, saying the hospital is being mismanaged and that it does not have the staff needed to provide quality care.Four doctors have recently left the hospital, including Dr. Wallace Michael Curry, longtime OBGYNs Drs. Lee Hodny and Joel Fort, and oncologist Dr. Anthony Acursso.HaysMed has imposed noncompete contracts with its doctors, so if the doctors want to leave, for all intents and purposes, they have to leave the state. All four of the physicians above have left the state.A physician who did not want his name published said he was considering leaving the hospital due to the lack of leadership from the administration and inadequate staffing.He said HaysMed is a great hospital, but the current administration is putting making money over patient care and its staff. He said the entire executive staff needed to be fired.The physician said the administration has slashed his staff in half despite increased cases.&nbsp;Veteran nurses are leaving because of the poor treatment and pay, he said.The hospital is staffing wards with caregivers who barely speak English or are right out of school, he said.As doctors and other medical staff leave the hospital, the doctor said it may not close but will lose its ability to provide key services.HaysMed is filling gaps with traveling nurses and locum&nbsp;tenens, which are temporary physicians.&nbsp;He said those temporary staff don't have the same relationship with their patients."The HaysMed people who are still here care so much," he said. "This is the public outcry."&nbsp;A second Hays physician, who did not want his name published, also expressed concern about the hospital's direction.He said he is also considering leaving the hospital."My biggest concern is that we are concentrating on the financial aspects when the care of the patient is not even second. It's third, fourth or fifth, even further down the line," he said."I am concerned that they are expecting much more revenue with less and less resources every day," he said.Treatment that once took a week to schedule is now taking two or three weeks because the hospital has not been able to retain the staff to provide that treatment."We are talking about doubling and tripling time they have to wait for very sick and anxious people," he said.His nursing staff also has been slashed even though his department is seeing more patients. He said nurses with specialized training have been replaced with nurses who do not have that special certification."The problem that we are having is when you have a nurse who is not certified and doesn't know our system, they don't know when bad is bad," he said."What ends up happening is you hire a nurse from the outside that has half the ability and costs twice the rate," he said.He said it causes low morale among the permanent certified nurses because they already have issues with their pay, and the hospital is hiring someone for more with half the skills.After a consultant observed and made recommendations to the hospital, the physicians were reprimanded for referring patients outside HaysMed for procedures despite the delays in treatment in the HaysMed system.The doctors were also told they had to cut their clinic appointments from 30 minutes to 15 minutes."As a physician, I'm not going to let the buzzer roll over and say I'm not going to talk about this," he said. "We are going to spend the time that we need, which is going to put us 30 or 45 minutes or an hour behind. [Patients] are reasonably frustrated because they had to wait an hour.""This is a conversation I have had with multiple other physicians. I think, in my opinion, the overall consensus is that we need to eliminate the entire administrative hierarchy of the top five with the CFO, Bryan Brady, but at the top of that food chain is Eddie Herrman," he said.The doctor said he has been bringing similar concerns to the administration for years and has been disregarded.He said he wants to see leadership that is responsive to the medical staff's concerns and will be strong leaders."I think if you take care of patients, the financial aspect will take care of its self."He added, "I can't continue to do what I love and what I think I do best without significant resources, and those resources come in the way of people. It comes in the way of nurses, CNAs, everything—from the people who help shovel the snow on a bad day to our highest administrative sites. We are in really dire, dire circumstances right now."Dr. Curry sent the following comments to the Hays Post from an outside hospital administrator, who he said summed up his concerns.I just wonder about your CEO and his credentials because some of the policies and attitudes he apparently has strike me as the opposite of what an educated administrator would likely have.Any administrator should have some knowledge in human relations and should share the attitude that employees are NOT replaceable at any level.It should be obvious to anyone in rural medicine that physicians are not easy to replace! More than that, any quality employees at any level or position are hard to find, and when we do find them, it is important that we keep them.Any good CEO and administration would implement a program to make sure that all employees feel valued. This, in turn, should help all employees make their patients feel valued.This is the approach of an educated and intelligent CEO. Any administrator that tells employees that they can be replaced, should be the one replaced!Hays Dr. Don Tillman is not employed by HaysMed but said he has been sending letters to the board expressing his concern about the hospital's leadership and direction. His letter can be read on the Hays Post <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0396c2ea-565d-482c-92f7-12bbb547acf7">HERE</a>.

Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed

CLAY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol on Monday identified the man who died in an accident that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

According to the patrol, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by Hannah Marie&nbsp;Fahey, 25, Clay Center, was northbound on Kansas 15&nbsp;attempting to turn westbound on Kansas Highway 9.&nbsp; The driver&nbsp;turned in front of a southbound 2002 Harley Davidson Electra Glide driven by Daniel Eugene Barnhilld, 56, Washington, Kansas.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the SUV.

Barnhilld was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home. Fahey was not injured and had one juvenile in the Tahoe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barnhilld was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

CLAY COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

A vehicle was southbound on Kansas 15 one mile north of 30th road. The vehicle struck a northbound vehicle that turned in front of the southbound vehicle while making a westbound turn on Kansas 9 Highway.

Both vehicles came to rest on Kansas 15. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

CLAY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol on Monday identified the man who died in an accident that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.According to the patrol, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by Hannah Marie&nbsp;Fahey, 25, Clay Center, was northbound on Kansas 15&nbsp;attempting to turn westbound on Kansas Highway 9.&nbsp; The driver&nbsp;turned in front of a southbound 2002 Harley Davidson Electra Glide driven by Daniel Eugene Barnhilld, 56, Washington, Kansas.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the SUV.Barnhilld was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home. Fahey was not injured and had one juvenile in the Tahoe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barnhilld was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.-------------CLAY COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.A vehicle was southbound on Kansas 15 one mile north of 30th road. The vehicle struck a northbound vehicle that turned in front of the southbound vehicle while making a westbound turn on Kansas 9 Highway.Both vehicles came to rest on Kansas 15. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

KHP IDs Kansas man who died in SUV, motorcycle crash

Beatrice Joan (Wilson) (McCullough) Hilzer was born April 21, 1931 in WaKeeney, KS to the late Howard and Alvina (Tegtmeyer) Wilson. She passed away Thursday, August 1st, 2024 at the Logan County Hospital in Oakley, KS at the age of 93.

Joan was raised in WaKeeney, KS with all her siblings and graduated from Trego Community High School. After graduating high school she worked at the Trego County Courthouse and the WaKeeney Bank.

On March 11, 1950 Joan married James (Jim) McCullough in WaKeeney, KS. The couple moved to Grinnell not too long after where they made their home and raised their children Da’Nella Jo, Mikel James, and Sheryl Kay. Joan continued her love for banking, working at Peoples State Bank in Grinnell for many years. She was a member and very active in the Grinnell United Methodist Church, the Wheatland VFW Post #2864 Auxiliary and in the early years served as the President. She enjoyed being in the same Bridge Club for many years and Snappy Dozen Card Club. She was a Cub Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, and member of the Grinnell Pride Committee.

On September 1, 1984, Joan married Art Hilzer and she moved to Park, KS, where she and Art made their home and raised and trained greyhounds for the track. She was not a big dog lover, but she enjoyed the business side of things by doing all the bookkeeping and keeping track of all the paperwork for the greyhounds. The two enjoyed watching the races through the years. All the grandkids have special memories of Grandma Jo at the dog farm in Park. She was not one to knit, sew or crochet, but she was always first in line to give the grandkids a ride on the 4-wheeler or mule and let them drive the van back and forth to the kennel.

Survivors include one son, Mikel McCullough, Oakley, KS, two daughters, Da’Nella Anderson (Jeff) Topeka, KS, Sheryl Johnson (Steve) Oakley, KS, four grandchildren, Erin Richardson (Jared), Kyle Anderson, Brett Suter (Regina), Brook Plummer (Ethan), four step-grandchildren, Chad Lucas (Mary), Diane Nolan, Brandy Wixom, Michael Wixom, five great grandchildren and six step-great grandchildren, one sister, Beverly “Bev” Wedermeyer (Melvin), and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim McCullough (1983), husband Art Hilzer (2010), brothers Howard Adair Wilson, Billy LaVon Wilson, Vernon “Dick” Wilson, one sister Vera Virginia Webb, and step-daughters Leda Hilzer and Charlotte Lucas.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30 am on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, KS. 

Family will greet friends at 9:30 am until service time. A lunch will follow at the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley, KS. Everyone is invited to enjoy a meal together and visit with friends and family. 

Memorials are suggested to the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasia, Grinnell United Methodist Church, or Independent Living at Logan County Hospital and can be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beatrice Joan (Wilson) (McCullough) Hilzer was born April 21, 1931 in WaKeeney, KS to the late Howard and Alvina (Tegtmeyer) Wilson. She passed away Thursday, August 1st, 2024 at the Logan County Hospital in Oakley, KS at the age of 93.Joan was raised in WaKeeney, KS with all her siblings and graduated from Trego Community High School. After graduating high school she worked at the Trego County Courthouse and the WaKeeney Bank.On March 11, 1950 Joan married James (Jim) McCullough in WaKeeney, KS. The couple moved to Grinnell not too long after where they made their home and raised their children Da’Nella Jo, Mikel James, and Sheryl Kay. Joan continued her love for banking, working at Peoples State Bank in Grinnell for many years. She was a member and very active in the Grinnell United Methodist Church, the Wheatland VFW Post #2864 Auxiliary and in the early years served as the President. She enjoyed being in the same Bridge Club for many years and Snappy Dozen Card Club. She was a Cub Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, and member of the Grinnell Pride Committee.On September 1, 1984, Joan married Art Hilzer and she moved to Park, KS, where she and Art made their home and raised and trained greyhounds for the track. She was not a big dog lover, but she enjoyed the business side of things by doing all the bookkeeping and keeping track of all the paperwork for the greyhounds. The two enjoyed watching the races through the years. All the grandkids have special memories of Grandma Jo at the dog farm in Park. She was not one to knit, sew or crochet, but she was always first in line to give the grandkids a ride on the 4-wheeler or mule and let them drive the van back and forth to the kennel.Survivors include one son, Mikel McCullough, Oakley, KS, two daughters, Da’Nella Anderson (Jeff) Topeka, KS, Sheryl Johnson (Steve) Oakley, KS, four grandchildren, Erin Richardson (Jared), Kyle Anderson, Brett Suter (Regina), Brook Plummer (Ethan), four step-grandchildren, Chad Lucas (Mary), Diane Nolan, Brandy Wixom, Michael Wixom, five great grandchildren and six step-great grandchildren, one sister, Beverly “Bev” Wedermeyer (Melvin), and many nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim McCullough (1983), husband Art Hilzer (2010), brothers Howard Adair Wilson, Billy LaVon Wilson, Vernon “Dick” Wilson, one sister Vera Virginia Webb, and step-daughters Leda Hilzer and Charlotte Lucas.A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30 am on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, KS. Family will greet friends at 9:30 am until service time. A lunch will follow at the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley, KS. Everyone is invited to enjoy a meal together and visit with friends and family. Memorials are suggested to the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasia, Grinnell United Methodist Church, or Independent Living at Logan County Hospital and can be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beatrice Joan (Wilson) (McCullough) Hilzer

Hays, Kansas proudly announces its official designation as a Purple Heart City. 

This prestigious recognition honors the bravery and sacrifice of the sons and daughters of our community who were awarded the Purpose Heart Medal. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

A public ceremony to mark the occasion is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Hays Veterans Memorial Park located near 15th Street and Haney Drive, just off Canterbury Drive. 

City officials, Purple Heart Medal recipients, and veterans from the community will be present. The public is invited to attend.

The Purple Heart City designation was a combined effort of the Hays Veterans Service Organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Marine League, Vietnam Veterans Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and The Society of 40 Men and 8 Horses.

This Purple Heart City designation demonstrates our community’s commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the profound sacrifices made by our military heroes. 

Signs announcing the designation will be posted alongside six different roads entering Hays. 

By becoming a Purple Heart City, Hays joins a distinguished group of communities nationwide dedicated to honoring Purple Heart Medal recipients.

WHEREAS, the City of Hays, founded in 1867, was named after Fort Hays (originally named Fort Fletcher), which was in turn named for Alexander Hays, a Union General killed during the Civil War; and

WHEREAS, the City of Hays has a long military history and proud tradition of supporting the military and its veteran population; and

WHEREAS, the Purple Heart Medal was the first award made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded in combat or have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms being killed in action against a declared enemy of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, Hays has a large veteran population with many of its veterans being Purple Heart recipients; and

WHEREAS, we appreciate the sacrifices our Purple Heart recipients have made in defending our freedom and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the support they have earned;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SHAUN MUSIL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS, on behalf of the Hays City Commission, do hereby recognize Hays, Kansas, as a Purple Heart City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698788281705.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays, Kansas proudly announces its official designation as a Purple Heart City. This prestigious recognition honors the bravery and sacrifice of the sons and daughters of our community who were awarded the Purpose Heart Medal. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.A public ceremony to mark the occasion is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Hays Veterans Memorial Park located near 15th Street and Haney Drive, just off Canterbury Drive. City officials, Purple Heart Medal recipients, and veterans from the community will be present. The public is invited to attend.The Purple Heart City designation was a combined effort of the Hays Veterans Service Organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Marine League, Vietnam Veterans Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and The Society of 40 Men and 8 Horses.This Purple Heart City designation demonstrates our community’s commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the profound sacrifices made by our military heroes. Signs announcing the designation will be posted alongside six different roads entering Hays. By becoming a Purple Heart City, Hays joins a distinguished group of communities nationwide dedicated to honoring Purple Heart Medal recipients.PROCLAMATION:To the People of Hays, Greetings.WHEREAS, the City of Hays, founded in 1867, was named after Fort Hays (originally named Fort Fletcher), which was in turn named for Alexander Hays, a Union General killed during the Civil War; andWHEREAS, the City of Hays has a long military history and proud tradition of supporting the military and its veteran population; andWHEREAS, the Purple Heart Medal was the first award made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded in combat or have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms being killed in action against a declared enemy of the United States of America; andWHEREAS, Hays has a large veteran population with many of its veterans being Purple Heart recipients; andWHEREAS, we appreciate the sacrifices our Purple Heart recipients have made in defending our freedom and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the support they have earned;NOW, THEREFORE, I, SHAUN MUSIL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HAYS, KANSAS, on behalf of the Hays City Commission, do hereby recognize Hays, Kansas, as a Purple Heart City.

Public invited to Hays' 'Purple Heart City' designation ceremony Wednesday

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post

An adjustment this NFL season for fans, players and coaches alike will be to a new kickoff rule.

People got their first look at the rule during Thursday's Hall of Fame game between the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans.

Chiefs Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub says he was excited to see it in action in an actual game

"Couldn't wait to see it, I was like everybody else was I was the same way," Toub tells reporters after practice. "I thought there might've been a couple bigger returns, but they kept it kind of vanilla especially in this first game, but you've got a lot more games coming up here Thursday and Friday I guess."

Preseason will be the big evaluation period for how to play into the new kickoff rules.

Toub says kicker Harrison Butker has spent a lot of time preparing for the new kickoff

"In the afternoon we're inside, we're kicking off in there, we're working kickoffs inside," Toub says. "So, he wants to kick off all the time, so we've done a lot experimenting with that, and he's got a variety of kicks."

As the Chiefs special teams unit adjusts to a new kickoff rule, they also continue to search for who could be back returning kicks and punts.

One option is third year receiver Skyy Moore who has had his struggles producing for the Chiefs since being drafted two years ago.

Moore says that he sees more opportunities to make an impact in the return game with the new kickoff rules

"I see the benefit in putting that rule in, it's definitely going to make the game more exciting, more kickoff return opportunities, so I'm excited for that for sure," Moore says.

It was a lighter practice today for the Chiefs as they held a "10-10-10 practice. 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays, 10 minutes of special teams cycling, practicing for just under two hours.

The Chiefs return to the practice fields tomorrow at 9:15 for the first of three more practices this week ahead of Saturday's preseason game.

During a lighter practice on Sunday for the Chiefs there were no new additions to the injury report, but there were a handful of players that returned to practice.

Cornerback Jaylen Watson, who returned to practice on Friday in a yellow non-contact jersey, was back in his normal jersey as he hit the practice field. Also returning to practice was safety Deon Bush and receiver Justin Watson. Both had missed part of training camp with ankle injuries.

After leaving practice on Friday with a slight shoulder injury, offensive tackle Wanya Morris was also back at practice on Sunday.&nbsp; Cornerback Nahzee Johnson was also back at practice today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722794628807.jpeg" alt="Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub during the first official practice in St. Joseph/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub during the first official practice in St. Joseph/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostAn adjustment this NFL season for fans, players and coaches alike will be to a new kickoff rule.People got their first look at the rule during Thursday's Hall of Fame game between the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans.Chiefs Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub says he was excited to see it in action in an actual game"Couldn't wait to see it, I was like everybody else was I was the same way," Toub tells reporters after practice. "I thought there might've been a couple bigger returns, but they kept it kind of vanilla especially in this first game, but you've got a lot more games coming up here Thursday and Friday I guess."Preseason will be the big evaluation period for how to play into the new kickoff rules.Toub says kicker Harrison Butker has spent a lot of time preparing for the new kickoff"In the afternoon we're inside, we're kicking off in there, we're working kickoffs inside," Toub says. "So, he wants to kick off all the time, so we've done a lot experimenting with that, and he's got a variety of kicks."As the Chiefs special teams unit adjusts to a new kickoff rule, they also continue to search for who could be back returning kicks and punts.One option is third year receiver Skyy Moore who has had his struggles producing for the Chiefs since being drafted two years ago.Moore says that he sees more opportunities to make an impact in the return game with the new kickoff rules"I see the benefit in putting that rule in, it's definitely going to make the game more exciting, more kickoff return opportunities, so I'm excited for that for sure," Moore says.It was a lighter practice today for the Chiefs as they held a "10-10-10 practice. 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays, 10 minutes of special teams cycling, practicing for just under two hours.The Chiefs return to the practice fields tomorrow at 9:15 for the first of three more practices this week ahead of Saturday's preseason game.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722794736503.png" alt="Chiefs receiver Skyy Moore acknowledges fans as he heads to practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs receiver Skyy Moore acknowledges fans as he heads to practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>INJURY REPORTDuring a lighter practice on Sunday for the Chiefs there were no new additions to the injury report, but there were a handful of players that returned to practice.Cornerback Jaylen Watson, who returned to practice on Friday in a yellow non-contact jersey, was back in his normal jersey as he hit the practice field. Also returning to practice was safety Deon Bush and receiver Justin Watson. Both had missed part of training camp with ankle injuries.After leaving practice on Friday with a slight shoulder injury, offensive tackle Wanya Morris was also back at practice on Sunday.&nbsp; Cornerback Nahzee Johnson was also back at practice today.

🏈 Chiefs Training Camp gives special teams unit chance to adapt to new kickoff rules

HAMILTON COUNTY—Law enforcement across Kansas continue to&nbsp; see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit. Despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding. 

Last week, the Hamilton County Kansas Sheriff’s Office reported a traffic stop on Kansas 27 Highway where the driver was traveling 136 mph in a 65 mph zone.

As of July 22, 2024, KHP troopers have issued 1,501 citations for speeds greater than 100 mph, according to a social media report. Over the past four years the Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;issued over 12,000 tickets for drivers going over 100 miles per hour.

The Hamilton County Sheriff asked drivers to&nbsp;"Please slow down even if you’re late to work."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722480066970.png" alt="Photo Hamilton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Hamilton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>HAMILTON COUNTY—Law enforcement across Kansas continue to&nbsp; see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit. Despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding. Last week, the Hamilton County Kansas Sheriff’s Office reported a traffic stop on Kansas 27 Highway where the driver was traveling 136 mph in a 65 mph zone.As of July 22, 2024, KHP troopers have issued 1,501 citations for speeds greater than 100 mph, according to a social media report. Over the past four years the Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;issued over 12,000 tickets for drivers going over 100 miles per hour.The Hamilton County Sheriff asked drivers to&nbsp;"Please slow down even if you’re late to work."

Sheriff: Driver was traveling 71 mph over speed limit in Kansas

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

WICHITA – The Hays Larks entered Saturday’s NBC World Series title
game having never won a championship in six prior tries, but they finally broke
through, rallying from down three early to beat the defending champion Hutchinson Monarchs 7-3 Saturday at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

After a scoreless first inning, Hutchinson broke onto the
scoreboard first, scoring three runs in the bottom of the second inning for a
3-0 lead. 

But Larks starter Nolan Wilson was able to limit the damage
to just three runs in the inning, stranding two and then he worked out of trouble again
in the fourth before handing the ball to Aidn Schmidgall, the first of five relievers on the day
for Hays.

Schmidgall, Matt Sapakoff, Adrian Najar, Dalton Campbell and
Garrett Hicks combined for 5 2/3 innings of scoreless relief, allowing just two
hits, holding Hutchinson to just three total runs and allowing the Larks to
slowly chip away at the deficit.

Down 3-0 through two innings, the Larks scored a run in the
top of the third inning on a Kaleb Duncan sacrifice fly. Making it 3-1 Hutchinson.

The Larks scored another run in the fifth inning, when Duncan
singled home Trent Baker making it 3-2 Monarchs.

In the eighth inning Wilbert Espinal, who had struggled in
the tournament, broke out of a 5-for-23 slump with his first of two ground-rule
doubles tying the game at three and then the next hitter Tabor Stokes singled home Espinal putting Hays up 4-3.

After a 1-2-3 bottom of the eighth for Hutchinson the Larks took
advantage of three straight walks to start the ninth inning and scored a run on
a fielder’s choice and then Espinal doubled in two more putting Hays up 7-3.

Dalton Campbell earned the win, retiring the final out of
the seventh and the first man in the eighth inning.

He then turned the game over the Garrett Hicks who recorded
the five-out save and lifted the Larks to the 7-3 victory on the programs first
NBC World Series title.

Espinal drove in three runs for Hays. He, Baker and Gruell
each collected a pair of hits for the Larks.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnbcbaseball%2Fposts%2Fpfbid035ypnUVcLSiSCvwDorDxVyFgHaaeC7Yx17eZg3wqFUeCtFfSdAA88JU64Hd7TgPYul&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="634" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostWICHITA – The Hays Larks entered Saturday’s NBC World Series title
game having never won a championship in six prior tries, but they finally broke
through, rallying from down three early to beat the defending champion Hutchinson Monarchs 7-3 Saturday at Eck Stadium in Wichita.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1888864587&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/8-4-2024-frank-leo" title="8-4-2024 - Frank Leo" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">8-4-2024 - Frank Leo</a></div></div>After a scoreless first inning, Hutchinson broke onto the
scoreboard first, scoring three runs in the bottom of the second inning for a
3-0 lead. But Larks starter Nolan Wilson was able to limit the damage
to just three runs in the inning, stranding two and then he worked out of trouble again
in the fourth before handing the ball to Aidn Schmidgall, the first of five relievers on the day
for Hays.Schmidgall, Matt Sapakoff, Adrian Najar, Dalton Campbell and
Garrett Hicks combined for 5 2/3 innings of scoreless relief, allowing just two
hits, holding Hutchinson to just three total runs and allowing the Larks to
slowly chip away at the deficit.Down 3-0 through two innings, the Larks scored a run in the
top of the third inning on a Kaleb Duncan sacrifice fly. Making it 3-1 Hutchinson.The Larks scored another run in the fifth inning, when Duncan
singled home Trent Baker making it 3-2 Monarchs.In the eighth inning Wilbert Espinal, who had struggled in
the tournament, broke out of a 5-for-23 slump with his first of two ground-rule
doubles tying the game at three and then the next hitter Tabor Stokes singled home Espinal putting Hays up 4-3.After a 1-2-3 bottom of the eighth for Hutchinson the Larks took
advantage of three straight walks to start the ninth inning and scored a run on
a fielder’s choice and then Espinal doubled in two more putting Hays up 7-3.Dalton Campbell earned the win, retiring the final out of
the seventh and the first man in the eighth inning.He then turned the game over the Garrett Hicks who recorded
the five-out save and lifted the Larks to the 7-3 victory on the programs first
NBC World Series title.Espinal drove in three runs for Hays. He, Baker and Gruell
each collected a pair of hits for the Larks.Hays finishes the season 34-8.

⚾🎧Larks claim first NBC World Series championship with win over Hutchinson Monarchs

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Splash into Prevention Awareness, a youth event spotlighting substance use and mental health resources, will be at the Hays Aquatic Park Thursday.&nbsp;

Hosted by Living Independently in Northwest Kansas, eight facilities will be at Hays Aquatic Park, 300 Main St., to introduce local services and offer an evening of swimming, games, and prizes.

Alisha Hammerschmidt, lead substance abuse counselor at LINK, said a youth committee of various agencies was formed to address prevention efforts.

"All of them come to these quarterly meetings where we brainstorm ways to provide prevention in the area," she said. "We wanted to raise community awareness for Ellis County and educate everybody on substance use and mental health."

From 6:45 to 8:45 p.m., enjoy live music, food, and games such as booth blackout bingo. Attendees are encouraged to visit and learn about the following organizations at their tables.

"Those facilities will have tools from their programs, prevention materials and educational materials available,"&nbsp;Hammerschmidt said.

LINK will be the primary organization providing prevention materials, recognizing the need for substance abuse prevention at an earlier age. The nonprofit serves clients 13 years and older.

The event is free for anyone interested in learning about community resources, but raffle tickets are available for $5 for 10 tickets, $10 for 25 tickets and $20 for 55 tickets. Prizes include a speaker, TV, AirPods and gift baskets.

Other games and activities at Splash into Prevention will focus on teaching skills while ensuring a fun evening, complete with a DJ setup.

"We have a game geared around healthy communication because communication is important in preventing mental health and substance use. You have to be able to speak about what's going on inside,"&nbsp;Hammerschmidt said.

Another goal of Splash into Prevention Awareness is to show the community that fun can be had without drugs and alcohol.

LINK Chief Executive Officer Angie Zimmerman said the fun night includes various community members, including law enforcement.

"Police officers will be there showing that they can have fun, are approachable and are for the community," she said.

Zimmerman said booth information can be a valuable future resource, even if not immediately needed, as attendees can recall what they learned from their visit.

Splash into Prevention is the first of many events to raise awareness and gather feedback from the area.

"This is a kickoff, we are going to do more things and at this event, we want to get information on what the community would like to see," Zimmerman said.

LINK is a disability agency that assists people with basic at-home tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, organization and self-care, to live independently.

Additional services LINK provides include the Community Action Public Policy Change Agents and the Kansas Telecommunication Access Program.

You can make donations to LINK and its efforts by contacting Angie Zimmerman at&nbsp;angiez@linkinc.org.

You can find more information on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkinc.org/?fbclid=IwY2xjawEYoDFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVfwrd5ofkZyW3V15cKTxFfBtg-uOby8pzMbL467QuPRHrfurbh7p-HxxQ_aem_388fjk7JsNKH7Yh5R_XRug">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/linkincwesternks/">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629659486759.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostSplash into Prevention Awareness, a youth event spotlighting substance use and mental health resources, will be at the Hays Aquatic Park Thursday.&nbsp;Hosted by Living Independently in Northwest Kansas, eight facilities will be at Hays Aquatic Park, 300 Main St., to introduce local services and offer an evening of swimming, games, and prizes.Alisha Hammerschmidt, lead substance abuse counselor at LINK, said a youth committee of various agencies was formed to address prevention efforts."All of them come to these quarterly meetings where we brainstorm ways to provide prevention in the area," she said. "We wanted to raise community awareness for Ellis County and educate everybody on substance use and mental health."From 6:45 to 8:45 p.m., enjoy live music, food, and games such as booth blackout bingo. Attendees are encouraged to visit and learn about the following organizations at their tables.<ol>
 <li>LINK Inc.</li><li>Heartland RADAC</li><li>High Plains Mental Health</li><li>Fort Hays State University</li><li>Chamber Children's Mental Health</li><li>Smoky Hill Foundation</li><li>Counseling Connections</li><li>Oxford</li>
 </ol>"Those facilities will have tools from their programs, prevention materials and educational materials available,"&nbsp;Hammerschmidt said.LINK will be the primary organization providing prevention materials, recognizing the need for substance abuse prevention at an earlier age. The nonprofit serves clients 13 years and older.The event is free for anyone interested in learning about community resources, but raffle tickets are available for $5 for 10 tickets, $10 for 25 tickets and $20 for 55 tickets. Prizes include a speaker, TV, AirPods and gift baskets.Other games and activities at Splash into Prevention will focus on teaching skills while ensuring a fun evening, complete with a DJ setup."We have a game geared around healthy communication because communication is important in preventing mental health and substance use. You have to be able to speak about what's going on inside,"&nbsp;Hammerschmidt said.Another goal of Splash into Prevention Awareness is to show the community that fun can be had without drugs and alcohol.LINK Chief Executive Officer Angie Zimmerman said the fun night includes various community members, including law enforcement."Police officers will be there showing that they can have fun, are approachable and are for the community," she said.Zimmerman said booth information can be a valuable future resource, even if not immediately needed, as attendees can recall what they learned from their visit.Splash into Prevention is the first of many events to raise awareness and gather feedback from the area."This is a kickoff, we are going to do more things and at this event, we want to get information on what the community would like to see," Zimmerman said.LINK is a disability agency that assists people with basic at-home tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, organization and self-care, to live independently.Additional services LINK provides include the Community Action Public Policy Change Agents and the Kansas Telecommunication Access Program.You can make donations to LINK and its efforts by contacting Angie Zimmerman at&nbsp;angiez@linkinc.org.You can find more information on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkinc.org/?fbclid=IwY2xjawEYoDFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVfwrd5ofkZyW3V15cKTxFfBtg-uOby8pzMbL467QuPRHrfurbh7p-HxxQ_aem_388fjk7JsNKH7Yh5R_XRug">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/linkincwesternks/">Facebook</a>.

LINK to hosts Splash into Prevention Awareness for substance, health on Thursday in Hays

By KELSEY STREMEL K-State Research and Extension News Service

<a href="mailto:stremelk@ksu.edu" target="_blank"></a>Kansas State University researchers have found that grazing cover crops can improve soil health in no-till dryland cropping systems, addressing a key concern for producers in water-limited environments like the central Great Plains.

The study, conducted from 2018 to 2021 across three producer fields in central and western Kansas, found that grazing cover crops with beef cattle had no negative effects on soil’s physical or chemical properties compared to ungrazed cover crops. In fact, researchers observed increases in soil organic carbon stocks and potassium concentrations in grazed plots.

"These findings are significant for producers looking to integrate livestock into their cropping systems," said Logan Simon, an agronomist at the Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City. "Grazing cover crops at moderate stocking rates with adequate post-grazing regrowth can be a viable strategy for intensifying no-till dryland cropping systems while maintaining or improving soil health.”

Simon said a common concern among producers is the potential for soil compaction due to grazing. This research found no negative impacts on key soil physical properties when stocking rate and duration of cover crop grazing were managed. Soil bulk density, penetration resistance, water-stable aggregates, and wind-erodible fractions were comparable between grazed and ungrazed plots, he said.

Soil organic carbon stocks increased in grazed plots, attributed to manure deposition and retained plant residue, leading to improved soil structure and reduced erosion potential, highlighting broader soil health benefits.

"This research demonstrates that integrating livestock grazing with cover crops can be a win-win, supporting both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability," Simon said.

The study also found that cover crop biomass left as residue after grazing was similar to pre-grazing levels, with approximately 60% of ungrazed biomass retained due to regrowth after the grazing period. This level of residue retention aligns with Natural Resources Conservation Service recommendations and helps maintain soil protection while still providing valuable forage for livestock.

Sites were grazed over a 30-40-day period, allowing for approximately 40-50% removal of cover crop biomass and cover crop regrowth after the grazing rotation. Simon said it is important to note that results from similar studies are likely to vary based on grazing animal stocking rate, categories, duration of grazing, and available cover crop biomass for grazing.

In addition to Simon, collaborators on this study include Augustine Obour, K-State soil scientist, Hays; John Holman, Garden City, and Kraig Roozeboom, Manhattan, K-State cropping systems agronomists; and Sandy Johnson, Colby, K-State Research and Extension beef specialist.

The article,&nbsp;"Cover crop grazing effects on soil properties in no-tillage dryland cropping systems in the central Great Plains," published in the&nbsp;Journal&nbsp;of Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment, is available free through August 20 at&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3W5VXW4">https://bit.ly/3W5VXW4</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722458727203.jpeg" alt="Cattle grazing crops. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Cattle grazing crops. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KELSEY STREMEL K-State Research and Extension News Service<a href="mailto:stremelk@ksu.edu" target="_blank"></a>Kansas State University researchers have found that grazing cover crops can improve soil health in no-till dryland cropping systems, addressing a key concern for producers in water-limited environments like the central Great Plains.The study, conducted from 2018 to 2021 across three producer fields in central and western Kansas, found that grazing cover crops with beef cattle had no negative effects on soil’s physical or chemical properties compared to ungrazed cover crops. In fact, researchers observed increases in soil organic carbon stocks and potassium concentrations in grazed plots."These findings are significant for producers looking to integrate livestock into their cropping systems," said Logan Simon, an agronomist at the Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City. "Grazing cover crops at moderate stocking rates with adequate post-grazing regrowth can be a viable strategy for intensifying no-till dryland cropping systems while maintaining or improving soil health.”Simon said a common concern among producers is the potential for soil compaction due to grazing. This research found no negative impacts on key soil physical properties when stocking rate and duration of cover crop grazing were managed. Soil bulk density, penetration resistance, water-stable aggregates, and wind-erodible fractions were comparable between grazed and ungrazed plots, he said.Soil organic carbon stocks increased in grazed plots, attributed to manure deposition and retained plant residue, leading to improved soil structure and reduced erosion potential, highlighting broader soil health benefits."This research demonstrates that integrating livestock grazing with cover crops can be a win-win, supporting both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability," Simon said.The study also found that cover crop biomass left as residue after grazing was similar to pre-grazing levels, with approximately 60% of ungrazed biomass retained due to regrowth after the grazing period. This level of residue retention aligns with Natural Resources Conservation Service recommendations and helps maintain soil protection while still providing valuable forage for livestock.Sites were grazed over a 30-40-day period, allowing for approximately 40-50% removal of cover crop biomass and cover crop regrowth after the grazing rotation. Simon said it is important to note that results from similar studies are likely to vary based on grazing animal stocking rate, categories, duration of grazing, and available cover crop biomass for grazing.In addition to Simon, collaborators on this study include Augustine Obour, K-State soil scientist, Hays; John Holman, Garden City, and Kraig Roozeboom, Manhattan, K-State cropping systems agronomists; and Sandy Johnson, Colby, K-State Research and Extension beef specialist.The article,&nbsp;"Cover crop grazing effects on soil properties in no-tillage dryland cropping systems in the central Great Plains," published in the&nbsp;Journal&nbsp;of Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment, is available free through August 20 at&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3W5VXW4">https://bit.ly/3W5VXW4</a>.

K-State: Grazing cover crops benefits soil health in dryland systems, western KS

West Yellowstone, Montana—The National Park Service is working to get the attention of "all citizen scientists" following the geyser explosion last month.

 Yellowstone and Geological Survey are seeking information regarding the hydrothermal explosion event that took place in Biscuit Basin on July 23, 2024.


Who can help:
· People in Biscuit Basin or surrounding area who directly observed the even,&nbsp; people who have photos or videos of Black Diamond Pool, Black Opal Pool, or Wall Pool during the period of July 16-July 23.



If you are in either of these groups and would like to help, please contact the Yellowstone Geology Program: yell_geology@nps.gov



Hydrothermal explosions are common, but not often witnessed. By sharing your observations and media, you can directly contribute to important scientific research on this underappreciated geologic hazard. 



If you’re not in either of these groups, you can still help by liking and sharing this post on the Yellowstone facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721940347052.png" alt="Photo National Park Service" />
 <figcaption>Photo National Park Service</figcaption>
 </figure>West Yellowstone, Montana—The National Park Service is working to get the attention of "all citizen scientists" following the geyser explosion last month. Yellowstone and Geological Survey are seeking information regarding the hydrothermal explosion event that took place in Biscuit Basin on July 23, 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721765630612.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
Who can help:
· People in Biscuit Basin or surrounding area who directly observed the even,&nbsp; people who have photos or videos of Black Diamond Pool, Black Opal Pool, or Wall Pool during the period of July 16-July 23.

If you are in either of these groups and would like to help, please contact the Yellowstone Geology Program: yell_geology@nps.gov

Hydrothermal explosions are common, but not often witnessed. By sharing your observations and media, you can directly contribute to important scientific research on this underappreciated geologic hazard. 

If you’re not in either of these groups, you can still help by liking and sharing this post on the Yellowstone facebook page.-----------

Park Service asking public for info following Yellowstone geyser explosion 

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

More redevelopment and growth north of Interstate 70 is in the works for the city of Hays.

JTL Leasing (Lewis Auto Group) has purchased two tracts near the intersection of East 41st Street and Sherman Avenue.

Lewis plans to utilize the existing building at 655 E. 41st St., formerly&nbsp; Vernie’s Toys 4 Trux, for a mechanic/service shop and to build a structure in the vacant lot across the street to the west.

The properties are just outside the current city limits.

Requests have been submitted for annexation into the city and for rezoning of the two tracts from general commercial to light industrial.&nbsp;

Annexation would provide the city with more property and possibly&nbsp;sales tax, said Curtis Deines, planning and development superintendent, at Thursday's Hays City Commission work session.

&nbsp;"The rezoning request is compatible with the surrounding area according to the city's future land use map," he said.&nbsp;

The Hays Area Planning Commission has already approved the requests.

The properties have water and sewer available at each site. They are part of the Home Depot Addition built in 2003 to serve future development in the area.

Commissioners will vote on the requests at their August 9 meeting.

The draft 2025 budget was again reviewed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A project was added for HVAC upgrades at the Parks , Public Works, and city hall buildings. The systems are an average of 25 years old.

The $1.55 million dollar project will be funded through the Commission Capital Reserve account and will not impact the city's operational budget, said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.

Mayor Shaun Musil said he had received calls from some residents wanting to know why the city didn't lower its mill levy since assessed valuation went up 4.2%.

The mill levy is remaining at 25 mills, where it's been for several consecutive years.&nbsp;

"We do hear you. We do understand that you want us to lower it," Musil said. "But it's just not smart right now to do it.&nbsp; 

"In my opinion, if we lower the mill levy, yes, it saves this year, but in two years when everything goes up, we have to jack the mill levy up."&nbsp;

"I think Collin and the staff do a great job with the budget. ... We're taking care of our employees and it costs more to take care of them.&nbsp;

The budget contains a programmed 2% step and 3% cost of living increase for all city employees.

"Lowering the mill levy right now is not sustainable," said Toby Dougherty, city manager.

"You look at the capital improvement plan, the new police station and municipal court infrastructure investment you want to make, and then just the basic cost increases we have to absorb within those levy funds.&nbsp; Even short term, [a mill levy decrease] is not sustainable."

The <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/6549/2025-BUDGET-WORKBOOK-DRAFT">proposed 2025 budget </a>is available on the city's website.&nbsp;

Commissioner Alaina Cunningham attended the work session by phone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722635076313.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMore redevelopment and growth north of Interstate 70 is in the works for the city of Hays.JTL Leasing (Lewis Auto Group) has purchased two tracts near the intersection of East 41st Street and Sherman Avenue.Lewis plans to utilize the existing building at 655 E. 41st St., formerly&nbsp; Vernie’s Toys 4 Trux, for a mechanic/service shop and to build a structure in the vacant lot across the street to the west.The properties are just outside the current city limits.Requests have been submitted for annexation into the city and for rezoning of the two tracts from general commercial to light industrial.&nbsp;Annexation would provide the city with more property and possibly&nbsp;sales tax, said Curtis Deines, planning and development superintendent, at Thursday's Hays City Commission work session.&nbsp;"The rezoning request is compatible with the surrounding area according to the city's future land use map," he said.&nbsp;The Hays Area Planning Commission has already approved the requests.The properties have water and sewer available at each site. They are part of the Home Depot Addition built in 2003 to serve future development in the area.Commissioners will vote on the requests at their August 9 meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722634793013.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners update their 2025 draft budget workbooks Thursday. Photo by Becky Kiser." />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners update their 2025 draft budget workbooks Thursday. Photo by Becky Kiser.</figcaption>
 </figure>The draft 2025 budget was again reviewed.&nbsp;&nbsp;A project was added for HVAC upgrades at the Parks , Public Works, and city hall buildings. The systems are an average of 25 years old.The $1.55 million dollar project will be funded through the Commission Capital Reserve account and will not impact the city's operational budget, said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.Mayor Shaun Musil said he had received calls from some residents wanting to know why the city didn't lower its mill levy since assessed valuation went up 4.2%.The mill levy is remaining at 25 mills, where it's been for several consecutive years.&nbsp;"We do hear you. We do understand that you want us to lower it," Musil said. "But it's just not smart right now to do it.&nbsp; "In my opinion, if we lower the mill levy, yes, it saves this year, but in two years when everything goes up, we have to jack the mill levy up."&nbsp;"I think Collin and the staff do a great job with the budget. ... We're taking care of our employees and it costs more to take care of them.&nbsp;The budget contains a programmed 2% step and 3% cost of living increase for all city employees."Lowering the mill levy right now is not sustainable," said Toby Dougherty, city manager."You look at the capital improvement plan, the new police station and municipal court infrastructure investment you want to make, and then just the basic cost increases we have to absorb within those levy funds.&nbsp; Even short term, [a mill levy decrease] is not sustainable."The <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/6549/2025-BUDGET-WORKBOOK-DRAFT">proposed 2025 budget </a>is available on the city's website.&nbsp;Commissioner Alaina Cunningham attended the work session by phone.

Redevelopment, business growth north of I-70 planned by Hays auto dealer

August is National Breastfeeding Month, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064626344476">La Leche League of the Western Plains</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064626344476" target="_blank">,</a>&nbsp;along with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1586943164889168" target="_blank">Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition,</a>&nbsp;is inviting mothers, mothers-to-be and their supporters to a breastfeeding awareness event from&nbsp;10 to 11 a.m. on&nbsp;Aug. 14 in Massey Park, 17th and Allen, Hays.&nbsp;Refreshments will be served.

"Moms need lots of support, even experienced moms," said Monique Koerner, family and community wellness agent, Cottonwood Extension District and co-leader of the La Leche League of the Western Plains.&nbsp;

"I've worked with moms who have successfully breastfed three babies. But then there is the fourth one—something is different and more difficult with this baby."

Local La Leche League meetings are held at the Hays Public Library every second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m.

"To be able to sit next to another mom, along with experienced and trained leaders who've gone through it themselves, is very helpful," Koerner said.

Co-leader of the group is Natalie Oborny, Hays.&nbsp;

Breastfeeding information is an important part of prenatal education for pregnant women, Koerner said.

"We have a different informal topic at each meeting. If a mom comes in with a specific question, we start with that. La Leche League helps all moms," she said.

Often, the focus is on reminding moms to take care of themselves.

"It's a support group with mental health awareness and social-emotional benefits, all wrapped up together," Koerner said. La Leche League was started by a bunch of stay-at-home moms, and they've built it into a worldwide campaign for parents."&nbsp;

Thursday was the kickoff of World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly signed a proclamation on Monday for Kansans to observe breastfeeding month. The theme this year is "Nourish, Sustain, Thrive."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722346379715.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAugust is National Breastfeeding Month, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064626344476">La Leche League of the Western Plains</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064626344476" target="_blank">,</a>&nbsp;along with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1586943164889168" target="_blank">Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition,</a>&nbsp;is inviting mothers, mothers-to-be and their supporters to a breastfeeding awareness event from&nbsp;10 to 11 a.m. on&nbsp;Aug. 14 in Massey Park, 17th and Allen, Hays.&nbsp;Refreshments will be served."Moms need lots of support, even experienced moms," said Monique Koerner, family and community wellness agent, Cottonwood Extension District and co-leader of the La Leche League of the Western Plains.&nbsp;"I've worked with moms who have successfully breastfed three babies. But then there is the fourth one—something is different and more difficult with this baby."Local La Leche League meetings are held at the Hays Public Library every second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m."To be able to sit next to another mom, along with experienced and trained leaders who've gone through it themselves, is very helpful," Koerner said.Co-leader of the group is Natalie Oborny, Hays.&nbsp;Breastfeeding information is an important part of prenatal education for pregnant women, Koerner said."We have a different informal topic at each meeting. If a mom comes in with a specific question, we start with that. La Leche League helps all moms," she said.Often, the focus is on reminding moms to take care of themselves."It's a support group with mental health awareness and social-emotional benefits, all wrapped up together," Koerner said. La Leche League was started by a bunch of stay-at-home moms, and they've built it into a worldwide campaign for parents."&nbsp;Thursday was the kickoff of World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722629965157.jpeg" alt="Jeff Usher, Amanda Peterson, Heather Braum, Stephanne Rupnicki, Mandy Chapin, Gov. .Laura Kelly, Danica Pelzel, Trini Murguia, Amy Trollinger and Diana Lady. Photo courtesy Kansas Governor's Office" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Usher, Amanda Peterson, Heather Braum, Stephanne Rupnicki, Mandy Chapin, Gov. .Laura Kelly, Danica Pelzel, Trini Murguia, Amy Trollinger and Diana Lady. Photo courtesy Kansas Governor's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly signed a proclamation on Monday for Kansans to observe breastfeeding month. The theme this year is "Nourish, Sustain, Thrive."Breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. "They're less likely to get sick," Koerner said.There are also lots of positive health impacts for nursing mothers.Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Other studies show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke. &nbsp;Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially and the environment.&nbsp;Koerner said she benefitted greatly from the group when her children were young.&nbsp;"I wouldn't be the person I am today without it," she said.The Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NicmVhc3RmZWVkaW5nLm9yZy93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyNC8wNC9zdGF0ZW9mQkZpbktTMjAyMy1yZXZfT2N0LnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.ddSn_8Q9Q3bRmuUpOLFPVFlA1NqNRWurK1aYvgUgNYo/s/1305913623/br/246826442443-l">State of Breastfeeding in Kansas 2023 report</a>&nbsp;has the most recent breastfeeding rates for Kansas along with action items and resources for individuals, employers, child care providers, health care professionals and others to support breastfeeding.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information about breastfeeding is available online at:<a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a><a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a>&nbsp;