HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An agricultural tax law professor from Washburn University doesn't see a whole lot of positives in the government expansion bill euphemized as the inflation reduction act.

"This is an example of government picking winners and losers,"&nbsp;said Roger McEowen, the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. "If you're in a certain type of industry, if you're into renewables, so called green energy, you are being favored. If you're in the oil and gas industry, if you are a major manufacturer of the old style economic system of production in this country, you are disfavored."

McEowen sees the economics behind the legislation as detached from reality.

"This whole bill is based on&nbsp;Modern Monetary Theory, which, in essence, is just simply warmed over Keynesianism from 90 years ago," McEowen said. "It didn't prove true then. It won't prove true now. What that theory means is, we can spend, the government can spend as much money as it wants and has no impact on inflation. That's again, trying to redefine the laws of economics. It doesn't work."

He goes further to say that renewable energy is parasitic in nature, feeding the urban needs at the cost of rural America.

"This is cost shifting problems from the urban areas to you," McEowen said. "They don't have space to put up wind farms in urban areas. They find space out here. They use your land. They scar the aesthetics of the countryside and then they ship that electricity back to them."

The non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation also says that average tax rates will increase for nearly every income category in 2023.

According to McEowen's&nbsp;<a href="https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/agriculturallaw/2022/09/declaring-inflation-reduced-and-being-forgiving-recent-developments-in-tax-and-law.html">blog post</a>, the JCT says that taxes will rise by $16.7 billion in 2023 on those earning less than $200,000 annually and those making between $200,000 and $500,000 will pay $14.1 billion more. The JCT also concluded that 61 percent of taxpayers making between $40,000 and $50,000 will see a tax increase, and that 91 percent of taxpayers making between $100,000 and $200,000 will see higher taxes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584977157818.jpeg" alt="Roger McEowen is the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. " />
 <figcaption>Roger McEowen is the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. </figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — An agricultural tax law professor from Washburn University doesn't see a whole lot of positives in the government expansion bill euphemized as the inflation reduction act."This is an example of government picking winners and losers,"&nbsp;said Roger McEowen, the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. "If you're in a certain type of industry, if you're into renewables, so called green energy, you are being favored. If you're in the oil and gas industry, if you are a major manufacturer of the old style economic system of production in this country, you are disfavored."McEowen sees the economics behind the legislation as detached from reality."This whole bill is based on&nbsp;Modern Monetary Theory, which, in essence, is just simply warmed over Keynesianism from 90 years ago," McEowen said. "It didn't prove true then. It won't prove true now. What that theory means is, we can spend, the government can spend as much money as it wants and has no impact on inflation. That's again, trying to redefine the laws of economics. It doesn't work."He goes further to say that renewable energy is parasitic in nature, feeding the urban needs at the cost of rural America."This is cost shifting problems from the urban areas to you," McEowen said. "They don't have space to put up wind farms in urban areas. They find space out here. They use your land. They scar the aesthetics of the countryside and then they ship that electricity back to them."The non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation also says that average tax rates will increase for nearly every income category in 2023.According to McEowen's&nbsp;<a href="https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/agriculturallaw/2022/09/declaring-inflation-reduced-and-being-forgiving-recent-developments-in-tax-and-law.html">blog post</a>, the JCT says that taxes will rise by $16.7 billion in 2023 on those earning less than $200,000 annually and those making between $200,000 and $500,000 will pay $14.1 billion more. The JCT also concluded that 61 percent of taxpayers making between $40,000 and $50,000 will see a tax increase, and that 91 percent of taxpayers making between $100,000 and $200,000 will see higher taxes.&nbsp;

Washburn professor critical of Biden's Inflation Reduction Act 

HUTCHINSON — 
Jade Piros de Carvalho, director of the Office of Broadband Development 
for the Kansas Department of Commerce, said that the large<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/1905c590-62b4-4e3c-a055-a27193f292dd"> FCC award to NextLink that includes many Kansas communities</a>
 will have an effect on a state program her office administers through 
the Treasury Department that is also federal pass through dollars.

"If
 you have an area that's already covered by another federal grant, then 
you can't receive this federal grant," Piros de Carvalho said. "The 
problem is, the Treasury award, they're part of the American Rescue Plan
 Act."

That law requires funds be expended in around two 
years, and preferential treatment is given to in-ground broadband like 
fiber and cable. The NextLink service in Kansas, as Piros de Carvalho 
understands it now, is based on wireless, and the RDOF funds have an 
eight-year build out horizon.

"I just need to reach out to NextLink," Piros de Carvalho said. "I've
 been texting them. I need to call with them. I'd like to see what their
 build out schedule for Kansas is. They got RDOF in a lot of states."

The expansion of broadband by all possible methods is the goal, but connectivity is always better sooner than later.

Public
 comments are being accepted for the submitted applications for the 
state administered Capital Projects Fund-Infrastructure Program until 
September 9. To the degree that this narrows the number of eligible 
applications, it may help some non-Nextlink connected areas to qualify.

"It's
 helpful in that we know that those NextLink awarded areas will be 
considered served, so we can knock them out of our program's 
consideration."

The service providers’ funding requests for the 
CPF program total almost $600 million for the available $83.5 million in
 funding provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury under the American 
Rescue Plan Act.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662136805159.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON — 
Jade Piros de Carvalho, director of the Office of Broadband Development 
for the Kansas Department of Commerce, said that the large<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/1905c590-62b4-4e3c-a055-a27193f292dd"> FCC award to NextLink that includes many Kansas communities</a>
 will have an effect on a state program her office administers through 
the Treasury Department that is also federal pass through dollars."If
 you have an area that's already covered by another federal grant, then 
you can't receive this federal grant," Piros de Carvalho said. "The 
problem is, the Treasury award, they're part of the American Rescue Plan
 Act."That law requires funds be expended in around two 
years, and preferential treatment is given to in-ground broadband like 
fiber and cable. The NextLink service in Kansas, as Piros de Carvalho 
understands it now, is based on wireless, and the RDOF funds have an 
eight-year build out horizon."I just need to reach out to NextLink," Piros de Carvalho said. "I've
 been texting them. I need to call with them. I'd like to see what their
 build out schedule for Kansas is. They got RDOF in a lot of states."The expansion of broadband by all possible methods is the goal, but connectivity is always better sooner than later.Public
 comments are being accepted for the submitted applications for the 
state administered Capital Projects Fund-Infrastructure Program until 
September 9. To the degree that this narrows the number of eligible 
applications, it may help some non-Nextlink connected areas to qualify."It's
 helpful in that we know that those NextLink awarded areas will be 
considered served, so we can knock them out of our program's 
consideration."The service providers’ funding requests for the 
CPF program total almost $600 million for the available $83.5 million in
 funding provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury under the American 
Rescue Plan Act.

FCC award to broadband provider could help other small Kansas providers

RENO COUNTY — The Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer Vaccine was updated on August 31, by the FDA, so that means no boosters can be given to ages 12 or over in Kansas for a little while.

"The CDC has recently approved the administration of a bivalent," said Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols. "The new making of this new vaccine is a bivalent, meaning two versions of the vaccine, the original COVID strain and then there's another one for the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron subvariants. It's like a two variant strain, so it's going to cover better."

But, until they get the new one in, they aren't allowed to give the old one as boosters, but only as primary and secondary doses to those who have never had the COVID-19 vaccine before.

"The ACIP has not met yet and authorized the same thing that the FDA did," Nichols said. "The ACIP is meeting today for that authorization. For us, in the state of Kansas, KDHE cannot authorize the distribution of that bivalent yet, because the ACIP has not met yet."

Nichols anticipates that they will be able to order the new vaccine and get it shortly after the holiday.

"People that want their booster dose, we're not able to give that to them," Nichols said. "The good thing is, probably around Sept. 12, we should be getting a bivalent that's going to cover better for that booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine."

When the new dose comes in, you will only have had to have the original two doses to get the third one, once it is approved and available.

NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostRENO COUNTY — The Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer Vaccine was updated on August 31, by the FDA, so that means no boosters can be given to ages 12 or over in Kansas for a little while."The CDC has recently approved the administration of a bivalent," said Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols. "The new making of this new vaccine is a bivalent, meaning two versions of the vaccine, the original COVID strain and then there's another one for the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron subvariants. It's like a two variant strain, so it's going to cover better."But, until they get the new one in, they aren't allowed to give the old one as boosters, but only as primary and secondary doses to those who have never had the COVID-19 vaccine before."The ACIP has not met yet and authorized the same thing that the FDA did," Nichols said. "The ACIP is meeting today for that authorization. For us, in the state of Kansas, KDHE cannot authorize the distribution of that bivalent yet, because the ACIP has not met yet."Nichols anticipates that they will be able to order the new vaccine and get it shortly after the holiday."People that want their booster dose, we're not able to give that to them," Nichols said. "The good thing is, probably around Sept. 12, we should be getting a bivalent that's going to cover better for that booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine."When the new dose comes in, you will only have had to have the original two doses to get the third one, once it is approved and available.

Health Department: No COVID boosters until new vaccine arrives

ARGONIA, Kan. — It's not NASA or Space-X, but if you want to see some of the best amateur rocketry in the nation, Argonia is the place to be this Labor Day weekend.

The 28th annual AIRFest will bring flyers from all over the nation to test their rocket-building skills. These are not your typical Estes rockets. Some of these rockets are 15-feet tall or more and fly to 50,000 feet. The Argonia launch facility has been host to LDRS, which is the largest amateur rocket event in the country, and has been featured on the Discovery Channel.

If you are going out, there are a few things you need to know. The launch area is located on 80th Street, about six miles south of Argonia. It is a little remote because of the large rockets launched. The road is a little dirt strip going to the east for about two miles. You’ll want a lawn chair, sunscreen and maybe an umbrella for shade.&nbsp;

There are portable toilets and usually some good food for sale, but you might want to bring your own. There is a convenience store in Argonia where you can get gas, and buy food and drinks.

The flight range opens around 9 a.m. and rockets are flown as long as cloud and wind conditions are favorable, which should be the case this weekend. There is no set schedule, so there will be bursts of activity and then maybe some down time, but usually there is something launching every few minutes. If you have a son or daughter under 18 and they fly smaller model rockets, they are welcome to come down and use the small launch pads and shoot off their rockets too. Launches begin Friday and run through Monday. Argonia is located 50 miles southwest of Wichita.

If you want more information on AIRFest, go to <a href="http://Kloudbusters.org">Kloudbusters.org</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661977539892.jpeg" alt="A high-powered rocket launched during AIRFest in 2015 by Hutch Post's Rod Zook. The rocket hit a respectable 9,000 feet. Photo courtesy of Debbie Zook." />
 <figcaption>A high-powered rocket launched during AIRFest in 2015 by Hutch Post's Rod Zook. The rocket hit a respectable 9,000 feet. Photo courtesy of Debbie Zook.</figcaption>
 </figure>ARGONIA, Kan. — It's not NASA or Space-X, but if you want to see some of the best amateur rocketry in the nation, Argonia is the place to be this Labor Day weekend.The 28th annual AIRFest will bring flyers from all over the nation to test their rocket-building skills. These are not your typical Estes rockets. Some of these rockets are 15-feet tall or more and fly to 50,000 feet. The Argonia launch facility has been host to LDRS, which is the largest amateur rocket event in the country, and has been featured on the Discovery Channel.If you are going out, there are a few things you need to know. The launch area is located on 80th Street, about six miles south of Argonia. It is a little remote because of the large rockets launched. The road is a little dirt strip going to the east for about two miles. You’ll want a lawn chair, sunscreen and maybe an umbrella for shade.&nbsp;There are portable toilets and usually some good food for sale, but you might want to bring your own. There is a convenience store in Argonia where you can get gas, and buy food and drinks.The flight range opens around 9 a.m. and rockets are flown as long as cloud and wind conditions are favorable, which should be the case this weekend. There is no set schedule, so there will be bursts of activity and then maybe some down time, but usually there is something launching every few minutes. If you have a son or daughter under 18 and they fly smaller model rockets, they are welcome to come down and use the small launch pads and shoot off their rockets too. Launches begin Friday and run through Monday. Argonia is located 50 miles southwest of Wichita.If you want more information on AIRFest, go to <a href="http://Kloudbusters.org">Kloudbusters.org</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AIRFest amateur rocket festival this weekend

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt wants to bring everyone together on special education funding in the next session of the Legislature, if he is elected governor in November.

"I think special ed funding is the next area," Schmidt said. "We have to bring policy makers, educators, families together and say, what are we going to do? I would much rather we do that through leadership from the governor and the legislature than wait around, not do it and wind up in the next lawsuit and end up having to deal with that in court. I do think it's critical to step up."

Schmidt admits that it isn't just the state level that has dropped the ball on special education funding.

"Congress has never fulfilled its obligation on the federal funding side," Schmidt said. "The federal promise has been to fund special education at 40%. I don't think they've ever gotten over about 15 or maybe the high teens, somewhere in that range. That, of course, is the elephant in the room. If Congress would only do half of what it promised, this problem would largely evaporate in states like Kansas, but it hasn't and so, as a result, the state has stepped in and also has really struggled to fill that gap."

Because of the unfunded federal mandates regarding special education, every underfunded dollar is being taken out of the general fund for everybody and shifted to special education, so, theoretically speaking at least, if the Kansas Supreme Court wanted to, they could weigh in on the issue through telling the legislature that they haven't really fulfilled Gannon until they stop this dollar shift from happening, since they have retained jurisdiction, though politically that isn't very likely.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt wants to bring everyone together on special education funding in the next session of the Legislature, if he is elected governor in November."I think special ed funding is the next area," Schmidt said. "We have to bring policy makers, educators, families together and say, what are we going to do? I would much rather we do that through leadership from the governor and the legislature than wait around, not do it and wind up in the next lawsuit and end up having to deal with that in court. I do think it's critical to step up."Schmidt admits that it isn't just the state level that has dropped the ball on special education funding."Congress has never fulfilled its obligation on the federal funding side," Schmidt said. "The federal promise has been to fund special education at 40%. I don't think they've ever gotten over about 15 or maybe the high teens, somewhere in that range. That, of course, is the elephant in the room. If Congress would only do half of what it promised, this problem would largely evaporate in states like Kansas, but it hasn't and so, as a result, the state has stepped in and also has really struggled to fill that gap."Because of the unfunded federal mandates regarding special education, every underfunded dollar is being taken out of the general fund for everybody and shifted to special education, so, theoretically speaking at least, if the Kansas Supreme Court wanted to, they could weigh in on the issue through telling the legislature that they haven't really fulfilled Gannon until they stop this dollar shift from happening, since they have retained jurisdiction, though politically that isn't very likely.

Schmidt: Leaders need to 'step up' on special education

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss believes that the student loan forgiveness plan from the Biden administration will have an impact on inflation.

"The expected $300 billion, which would now be, instead of the individuals paying off their loans to the government or other lending institutions, they will be buying other things, going out to restaurants or whatever," Goss said. "It will increase demand for those products and will add to inflation. Now, the impact is still up in the air, but it certainly will contribute to inflation."

Goss also can see how that might delay the return of some borrowers to the workforce.

"It certainly could have an impact on what we economists call the participation rate," Goss said. "We've already seen other programs, stimulus programs that had that same impact, encouraging individuals to engage in what we say, leisure, instead of working. The gap between what you get paid for leisure and not working and what you get paid for working is just too small."

Goss admits that higher education, including the school he works for, is complicit in the student loan debt problem.

"In my judgment, it's a real transfer of income, at least to universities," Goss said. "Universities have huge endowments and they continue, we continue, I'm part of that group, we continue our tuition. If you raise the lending to students, we tend to raise our tuition."

If the student loan forgiveness contributes to inflation as Goss expects, then it will likely take further work from the Federal Reserve in raising interest rates to get the economy to continue to cool down.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622642233344.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss believes that the student loan forgiveness plan from the Biden administration will have an impact on inflation."The expected $300 billion, which would now be, instead of the individuals paying off their loans to the government or other lending institutions, they will be buying other things, going out to restaurants or whatever," Goss said. "It will increase demand for those products and will add to inflation. Now, the impact is still up in the air, but it certainly will contribute to inflation."Goss also can see how that might delay the return of some borrowers to the workforce."It certainly could have an impact on what we economists call the participation rate," Goss said. "We've already seen other programs, stimulus programs that had that same impact, encouraging individuals to engage in what we say, leisure, instead of working. The gap between what you get paid for leisure and not working and what you get paid for working is just too small."Goss admits that higher education, including the school he works for, is complicit in the student loan debt problem."In my judgment, it's a real transfer of income, at least to universities," Goss said. "Universities have huge endowments and they continue, we continue, I'm part of that group, we continue our tuition. If you raise the lending to students, we tend to raise our tuition."If the student loan forgiveness contributes to inflation as Goss expects, then it will likely take further work from the Federal Reserve in raising interest rates to get the economy to continue to cool down.

Goss: Student loan forgiveness could have inflation, employment impact

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards reminds us that the school finance situation is finally stabilized in Kansas.

"The sixth year of the Gannon phase in is the first year of what might be called presumed constitutionality," Tallman said. "Anything can be challenged, but at this point, I think the court would say to the legislature, you did what you said you were going to do and what we said had to be done to get back to those standards that were really agreed upon over a decade ago."

There's a whole graduating class of students that haven't had consitutional funding yet. For those who started as kindergarteners in 2010, they really haven't had a fully funded non phase-in year. They are seniors.

"It's important to remember, those assumptions were based on state education goals and legislatively commissioned studies on what it would take to reach those goals and then inflationary adjustments since that time."

Test scores are going down, as well, though there are outside factors that could contribute to that.

"We basically had flat or slightly declining test scores from 2015 through 2019, which was the year before COVID," Tallman said. "We didn't test in 2020. Last year, tests were down pretty much across the board, public and private schools, both, which many people attribute to the loss of learning and other factors associated with COVID."

Legislators are going to ask, now that the money is there, why test scores aren't coming back up. It remains to be seen how much of a political football that becomes next year, as any inflation adjustment would have to be significant, and there will be a new crop of legislators taking a look at the situation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards reminds us that the school finance situation is finally stabilized in Kansas."The sixth year of the Gannon phase in is the first year of what might be called presumed constitutionality," Tallman said. "Anything can be challenged, but at this point, I think the court would say to the legislature, you did what you said you were going to do and what we said had to be done to get back to those standards that were really agreed upon over a decade ago."There's a whole graduating class of students that haven't had consitutional funding yet. For those who started as kindergarteners in 2010, they really haven't had a fully funded non phase-in year. They are seniors."It's important to remember, those assumptions were based on state education goals and legislatively commissioned studies on what it would take to reach those goals and then inflationary adjustments since that time."Test scores are going down, as well, though there are outside factors that could contribute to that."We basically had flat or slightly declining test scores from 2015 through 2019, which was the year before COVID," Tallman said. "We didn't test in 2020. Last year, tests were down pretty much across the board, public and private schools, both, which many people attribute to the loss of learning and other factors associated with COVID."Legislators are going to ask, now that the money is there, why test scores aren't coming back up. It remains to be seen how much of a political football that becomes next year, as any inflation adjustment would have to be significant, and there will be a new crop of legislators taking a look at the situation.

Tallman on school funding and test scores

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson toured Cosmosphere Friday morning.

"You could see a number of the exhibits were emotional for him," Moran said. "Particularly words of other astronauts. This clearly was a very personal visit. It's nice to have the administrator of NASA feel this place. What I always hope is that the Cosmosphere provides inspiration. Today, I saw where it provides respect for those who preceded us in space exploration."

One part that appeared to touch the administrator, judging by his reaction, is the fact that both the Soviet and American sides of the space race are prominently featured. Nelson appeared to have interest in letting newly appointed Roscosmos chief Yuri Borisov see what the Cosmosphere offers, if relations can eventually improve.

"What I thought walking through here is, he would never have a clue," Nelson said. "If we can get over the Ukraine thing, which, eventually, I think Ukraine will prevail, and we're back at some semblance of lessened tensions between our two countries. If I brought him here, he'd be amazed that in America, you would show this program, the Soviet program."

Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar knows that the story of space is far from finished, and he wants to find places for more of that to be told here in Hutchinson.

"We're getting close to being fairly landlocked, running out of square footage," Remar said. "We're starting to carefully look at potentially doing some expansions, that would allow us to expand our education programming, but more importantly, allow us to increase exhibit space, to showcase the present and future of space exploration."

Nelson and Moran were part of a breakfast hosted by the Hutchinson Chamber prior to their Friday morning tour.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660922428670.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson toured Cosmosphere Friday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660925858212.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Mimi Meredith" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Mimi Meredith</figcaption>
 </figure>"You could see a number of the exhibits were emotional for him," Moran said. "Particularly words of other astronauts. This clearly was a very personal visit. It's nice to have the administrator of NASA feel this place. What I always hope is that the Cosmosphere provides inspiration. Today, I saw where it provides respect for those who preceded us in space exploration."One part that appeared to touch the administrator, judging by his reaction, is the fact that both the Soviet and American sides of the space race are prominently featured. Nelson appeared to have interest in letting newly appointed Roscosmos chief Yuri Borisov see what the Cosmosphere offers, if relations can eventually improve."What I thought walking through here is, he would never have a clue," Nelson said. "If we can get over the Ukraine thing, which, eventually, I think Ukraine will prevail, and we're back at some semblance of lessened tensions between our two countries. If I brought him here, he'd be amazed that in America, you would show this program, the Soviet program."Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar knows that the story of space is far from finished, and he wants to find places for more of that to be told here in Hutchinson."We're getting close to being fairly landlocked, running out of square footage," Remar said. "We're starting to carefully look at potentially doing some expansions, that would allow us to expand our education programming, but more importantly, allow us to increase exhibit space, to showcase the present and future of space exploration."Nelson and Moran were part of a breakfast hosted by the Hutchinson Chamber prior to their Friday morning tour.

NASA Administrator wowed during tour of Kan. Cosmosphere 

<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — Many years ago, Hutchinson had the annual Pow Wow 
celebration. The celebration was so popular that more than 125,000 
people would come celebrate. It included a mile-long meal and party.&nbsp;

That
 tradition is back Thursday evening with the city's sesquicentennial 
celebration. Thursday evening, Hutchinson will relive the mile-long 
celebration in a different way with food, games and other activities 
held in each block, stretching one mile from Avenue C through 9th 
Avenue.

If you want to be a part of the 150th birthday photo, you 
need to be in front of Crow &amp; Co. around 5:30 p.m. The photo-op 
starts around 5:45. If you participate in the photo, you will receive a 
raffle ticket for the Grand Prize 150th Celebration Gift Basket. Main 
will be closed from 10th Avenue to Avenue C starting at 4 p.m.

Eagle Media (<a href="https://www.khmyfm.com/">My 93-1</a> and <a href="https://www.country1029.com/">Country 102.9</a>)
 will be broadcasting live from the 800 block of Main. And for a look back on Hutchinson’s 
history, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/the-decades">CLICK HERE</a> to enjoy our feature, The Decades, all over again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660842400855.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — Many years ago, Hutchinson had the annual Pow Wow 
celebration. The celebration was so popular that more than 125,000 
people would come celebrate. It included a mile-long meal and party.&nbsp;That
 tradition is back Thursday evening with the city's sesquicentennial 
celebration. Thursday evening, Hutchinson will relive the mile-long 
celebration in a different way with food, games and other activities 
held in each block, stretching one mile from Avenue C through 9th 
Avenue.If you want to be a part of the 150th birthday photo, you 
need to be in front of Crow &amp; Co. around 5:30 p.m. The photo-op 
starts around 5:45. If you participate in the photo, you will receive a 
raffle ticket for the Grand Prize 150th Celebration Gift Basket. Main 
will be closed from 10th Avenue to Avenue C starting at 4 p.m.Eagle Media (<a href="https://www.khmyfm.com/">My 93-1</a> and <a href="https://www.country1029.com/">Country 102.9</a>)
 will be broadcasting live from the 800 block of Main. And for a look back on Hutchinson’s 
history, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/the-decades">CLICK HERE</a> to enjoy our feature, The Decades, all over again.

Hutchinson celebrates 150 years by bringing back mile-long party

This is a special edition of A Day in the Life. With the start of the school year and recent events involving shootings at schools, we thought this would be a chance for you to see, and know, that local law enforcement is working to help protect students if such an event occurred. While it is unfortunate that such training is necessary, we wanted you to see what is being done in Hutchinson and Reno County to keep schools safe. This edition does contain video of law enforcement using live rounds with soft bullets to simulate real-life situations. Please note this is a real simulation and the video does contain simulated victims and real-life situations, some of which are graphic. Parts of the exercise are being left out intentionally to avoid disclosing tactical information that keeps officers safe.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Area law enforcement, Reno County EMS and&nbsp; Hutchinson Fire take time each year to conduct active shooter training in area schools. The exercise, done each year at various locations, helps officers prepare for such an event by putting them through various scenarios. The Hutchinson Fire Department was brought in to help train them on responding to numerous injuries and to triage such events.

The training starts out with a briefing for all personnel. At that briefing, all parties talk about how to respond to an active shooter, what the appropriate techniques are going to be, how to set up a triage area for injuries, and how victims can be rescued and removed from the building. The goal is to have a full picture of what will take pace if such a situation arises.&nbsp;

After that briefing, the individual units go into a breakout session to discuss their specific component of the exercise. For law enforcement, that includes single and team movement drills. Changes in how law enforcement reacts to active shooter situations has led law enforcement to evolve into a single-man response to an active shooter. That change came about from the shooting at Excel Industries in Hesston.

Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper says law enforcement used to wait and call in a SWAT team or form a multi-officer pattern before entering a building. Now, any officer, even if it’s just one, will enter the building and, if possible, diffuse the situation. It's a change brought on by the need to stop the shooter as quickly as possible. Simulated ammunition is used in the training.

As law enforcement works to secure areas of the building, the fire department works on extraction of victims. Law enforcement will walk around such injuries in an effort to get to the shooter as quickly as possible, but still make sure the fire department can extract a victim safely. It is a delicate balance of moving quickly, but ensuring that everyone is secured.

The action taken by law enforcement can change moment-to-moment if actual gunfire is taking place or begins. Once shooting starts, officers know there is a particular threat in that area and will move as quickly as possible.&nbsp;

The exercise also goes over how to deal with what are, understandably, upset parents or guardians of students. Chief Hooper wanted to stress that he can surely understand how parents would react to such a situation. He stresses that parents or guardians should not try to rescue their children. With the high-charged situation going on, it is likely that a parent in the building could be mistaken for a suspect and not a victim. The practice is for parents or guardians to gather at a designated rally point so they and their children can be accounted.&nbsp;

While this exercise was all about the schools, law enforcement will also provide such training and situational awareness to any business, church or manufacturer that wants it. Hooper wanted to stress that they are doing everything they can to keep schools safe from any type of threat.

We would like to offer our sincere thanks to the Hutchinson Police Department, the Reno County Sheriff's Department, EMS and Hutchinson Fire for letting us be a part of this exercise. We hope you can see this edition of A Day in the Life as informative in knowing that law enforcement is training for such situations.&nbsp;

If your business would like to be a part of A Day in the Life, just contact Rod Zook at 620-259-7396 or email him at <a href="mailto:rod.zook@eagleradio.net">rod.zook@eagleradio.net</a>.

A Day in the Life is brought to you by: <a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://kincaidseedresearch.com/">Kincaid Manufacturing</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jwmachineks">JW Machine</a> <a href="https://havensteel.com/">Haven Steel</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660328677092.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660248292334.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is a special edition of A Day in the Life. With the start of the school year and recent events involving shootings at schools, we thought this would be a chance for you to see, and know, that local law enforcement is working to help protect students if such an event occurred. While it is unfortunate that such training is necessary, we wanted you to see what is being done in Hutchinson and Reno County to keep schools safe. This edition does contain video of law enforcement using live rounds with soft bullets to simulate real-life situations. Please note this is a real simulation and the video does contain simulated victims and real-life situations, some of which are graphic. Parts of the exercise are being left out intentionally to avoid disclosing tactical information that keeps officers safe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660144580110.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Area law enforcement, Reno County EMS and&nbsp; Hutchinson Fire take time each year to conduct active shooter training in area schools. The exercise, done each year at various locations, helps officers prepare for such an event by putting them through various scenarios. The Hutchinson Fire Department was brought in to help train them on responding to numerous injuries and to triage such events.The training starts out with a briefing for all personnel. At that briefing, all parties talk about how to respond to an active shooter, what the appropriate techniques are going to be, how to set up a triage area for injuries, and how victims can be rescued and removed from the building. The goal is to have a full picture of what will take pace if such a situation arises.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660229187456.jpeg" alt="Law enforcement, firefighters and EMS all meet before the exercise to get an overall look at what they want to accomplish during the drill. Breakout sessions are then held to allow each unit to do drills before the actual event starts." />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement, firefighters and EMS all meet before the exercise to get an overall look at what they want to accomplish during the drill. Breakout sessions are then held to allow each unit to do drills before the actual event starts.</figcaption>
 </figure>After that briefing, the individual units go into a breakout session to discuss their specific component of the exercise. For law enforcement, that includes single and team movement drills. Changes in how law enforcement reacts to active shooter situations has led law enforcement to evolve into a single-man response to an active shooter. That change came about from the shooting at Excel Industries in Hesston.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660229403293.jpeg" alt="Over the years, tactics have changed in how law enforcement reacts to an active shooter in order to shorten the amount of time they can engage the suspect." />
 <figcaption>Over the years, tactics have changed in how law enforcement reacts to an active shooter in order to shorten the amount of time they can engage the suspect.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper says law enforcement used to wait and call in a SWAT team or form a multi-officer pattern before entering a building. Now, any officer, even if it’s just one, will enter the building and, if possible, diffuse the situation. It's a change brought on by the need to stop the shooter as quickly as possible. Simulated ammunition is used in the training.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660229313254.jpeg" alt="The&nbsp; drill includes simulated ammunition, which still packs a pretty good punch and is as loud as the real thing." />
 <figcaption>The&nbsp; drill includes simulated ammunition, which still packs a pretty good punch and is as loud as the real thing.</figcaption>
 </figure>As law enforcement works to secure areas of the building, the fire department works on extraction of victims. Law enforcement will walk around such injuries in an effort to get to the shooter as quickly as possible, but still make sure the fire department can extract a victim safely. It is a delicate balance of moving quickly, but ensuring that everyone is secured.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660229344022.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660229353094.jpeg" alt="Once an area is secured by law enforcement, first responders move in to extract the victims, or any other students, to safety. Law enforcement will also work to keep moving through the building as quickly as possible while making sure firefighters are safe." />
 <figcaption>Once an area is secured by law enforcement, first responders move in to extract the victims, or any other students, to safety. Law enforcement will also work to keep moving through the building as quickly as possible while making sure firefighters are safe.</figcaption>
 </figure>The action taken by law enforcement can change moment-to-moment if actual gunfire is taking place or begins. Once shooting starts, officers know there is a particular threat in that area and will move as quickly as possible.&nbsp;<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Thu Aug 04 2022 10:22:50 GMT-0500 (CDT)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Hutchinson Police - Aditl"/><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/tRC0Zcij-720.jpg"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/tRC0Zcij-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Hutchinson Police - Aditl" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>The exercise also goes over how to deal with what are, understandably, upset parents or guardians of students. Chief Hooper wanted to stress that he can surely understand how parents would react to such a situation. He stresses that parents or guardians should not try to rescue their children. With the high-charged situation going on, it is likely that a parent in the building could be mistaken for a suspect and not a victim. The practice is for parents or guardians to gather at a designated rally point so they and their children can be accounted.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660229432004.jpeg" alt="Officers have been trained to move in teams of two or more, and solo as well. The need for quick action has changed the way officers respond to a shooter. The idea is to engage the shooter as quickly as possible." />
 <figcaption>Officers have been trained to move in teams of two or more, and solo as well. The need for quick action has changed the way officers respond to a shooter. The idea is to engage the shooter as quickly as possible.</figcaption>
 </figure>While this exercise was all about the schools, law enforcement will also provide such training and situational awareness to any business, church or manufacturer that wants it. Hooper wanted to stress that they are doing everything they can to keep schools safe from any type of threat.We would like to offer our sincere thanks to the Hutchinson Police Department, the Reno County Sheriff's Department, EMS and Hutchinson Fire for letting us be a part of this exercise. We hope you can see this edition of A Day in the Life as informative in knowing that law enforcement is training for such situations.&nbsp;If your business would like to be a part of A Day in the Life, just contact Rod Zook at 620-259-7396 or email him at <a href="mailto:rod.zook@eagleradio.net">rod.zook@eagleradio.net</a>.A Day in the Life is brought to you by: <a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://kincaidseedresearch.com/">Kincaid Manufacturing</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jwmachineks">JW Machine</a> <a href="https://havensteel.com/">Haven Steel</a>

🎥A Day in the Life: Active shooter training 

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran said the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 was signed into law this week and that the legislation was really years in the making.

"It's been a topic that we've worked on, in a sense, piecemeal," Moran said. "With the signing of the PACT Act into law this week, it really does take a major step. It's the most significant toxic exposure legislation that's passed Congress in our country's history."

the SFC Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 will: 

Expand VA health care eligibility to Post-9/11 combat veterans, which includes more than 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans;

Create a framework for the establishment of future presumptions of service connection related to toxic exposure;

Add 23 burn pit and toxic exposure-related conditions to VA’s list of service presumptions;

Expand presumptions related to Agent Orange exposure;

The bill includes Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Guam, American Samoa, and Johnston Atoll as locations for Agent Orange exposure;

The bill will strengthen federal research on toxic exposure;

The bill will improve VA’s resources for toxic-exposed veterans and training for VA health care and benefits professionals;

It also is designed to let VA and veterans up for success by investing in:

VA claims processing; VA’s workforce; and VA health care facilities.

Moran notes that just because it is now law doesn't mean everything is fixed yet.

"There's not ribbons to be cut and whistles and bells to be sounded," Moran said. "The practical reality is the department of veterans affairs struggles to implement major pieces of legislation and to do it in a way that really cares, that takes care of our veterans. From a what's next perspective for me it's to make sure that, most recently, the PACT Act is not just words on a piece of paper, but actually makes a difference in the lives of veterans."

Senator Moran spoke back in 2014 at the Vietnam Veterans of America National Leadership Conference in Wichita and heard from Kansas veterans and their families about the effects of Agent Orange and those conversations helped inform a series of pieces of legislation that culminated in the PACT Act.

NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran said the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 was signed into law this week and that the legislation was really years in the making."It's been a topic that we've worked on, in a sense, piecemeal," Moran said. "With the signing of the PACT Act into law this week, it really does take a major step. It's the most significant toxic exposure legislation that's passed Congress in our country's history."the SFC Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 will: Expand VA health care eligibility to Post-9/11 combat veterans, which includes more than 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans;Create a framework for the establishment of future presumptions of service connection related to toxic exposure;Add 23 burn pit and toxic exposure-related conditions to VA’s list of service presumptions;Expand presumptions related to Agent Orange exposure;The bill includes Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Guam, American Samoa, and Johnston Atoll as locations for Agent Orange exposure;The bill will strengthen federal research on toxic exposure;The bill will improve VA’s resources for toxic-exposed veterans and training for VA health care and benefits professionals;It also is designed to let VA and veterans up for success by investing in:VA claims processing; VA’s workforce; and VA health care facilities.Moran notes that just because it is now law doesn't mean everything is fixed yet."There's not ribbons to be cut and whistles and bells to be sounded," Moran said. "The practical reality is the department of veterans affairs struggles to implement major pieces of legislation and to do it in a way that really cares, that takes care of our veterans. From a what's next perspective for me it's to make sure that, most recently, the PACT Act is not just words on a piece of paper, but actually makes a difference in the lives of veterans."Senator Moran spoke back in 2014 at the Vietnam Veterans of America National Leadership Conference in Wichita and heard from Kansas veterans and their families about the effects of Agent Orange and those conversations helped inform a series of pieces of legislation that culminated in the PACT Act.

Moran: PACT Act will help toxic exposed veterans get medical care

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There is a wide spread between gas price averages in central Kansas, depending on where you go to fill up.

"Reno County is $3.65, Harvey County $3.28, that's a big difference between neighboring counties, Sedgwick County $3.42, Rice County $3.61 and Kingman County $3.71."

In McPherson and Newton, prices are already below $3 a gallon. The best way to figure out if it's worth your time to drive to fill up is to know your car's gas mileage.

"Newer cars can give you at least some reasonable estimate of what your gas mileage is on the dashboard readout," Steward said. "Older cars, you obviously have to do that calculation on your own. Keeping your car in good working shape is important."

If you're already headed to an area with less expensive gas, topping off the tank can help some, but generally, it's not cost effective to travel out of your way solely to buy fuel. Also, the fundamentals behind the prices are dropping, so it appears more relief is coming.

"Back in June, we were looking at $130 a barrel crude oil prices," Steward said. "Today, we're in the mid 90s per barrel, so that significant drop has translated to falling prices at the pumps."

Before the pandemic, the fall would traditionally be a time of lower gasoline demand and therefore lower pump prices overall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657123077767.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — There is a wide spread between gas price averages in central Kansas, depending on where you go to fill up."Reno County is $3.65, Harvey County $3.28, that's a big difference between neighboring counties, Sedgwick County $3.42, Rice County $3.61 and Kingman County $3.71."In McPherson and Newton, prices are already below $3 a gallon. The best way to figure out if it's worth your time to drive to fill up is to know your car's gas mileage."Newer cars can give you at least some reasonable estimate of what your gas mileage is on the dashboard readout," Steward said. "Older cars, you obviously have to do that calculation on your own. Keeping your car in good working shape is important."If you're already headed to an area with less expensive gas, topping off the tank can help some, but generally, it's not cost effective to travel out of your way solely to buy fuel. Also, the fundamentals behind the prices are dropping, so it appears more relief is coming."Back in June, we were looking at $130 a barrel crude oil prices," Steward said. "Today, we're in the mid 90s per barrel, so that significant drop has translated to falling prices at the pumps."Before the pandemic, the fall would traditionally be a time of lower gasoline demand and therefore lower pump prices overall.

AAA: Gas prices vary wildly, but are likely headed down

NICKERSON, Kan. — Fundraisers continue for the family of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e7a209e9-dd88-4d0b-9c63-874ad774c4b1">Nickerson High School coach Trey Jones</a>.

Amy
 Jones continues to be watched closely by doctors on her injured legs. 
According to social media posts, she has undergone another operation to 
care for what were critical injuries to both legs. Ava continues to 
rehab and a short video can be seen of her using a walker to regain 
strength in her legs.

One other note, the University of Iowa 
Women’s basketball program announced it will honor Ava's scholarship 
regardless if she is ever able to play for the Hawkeyes. Jones had just 
committed to Iowa when she was injured.

A volleyball 
tournament held by the Buhler High School volleyball program served as a
 fundraiser. The tournament raised a total of $3,945 for the Jones 
Family Fund.

Louisville TV station WDRB has been working with Hutch Post in covering 
this story and recently conducted an interview with both Ava and Amy. It
 can be viewed on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/571075041124363">Jones Family Updates Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660227797588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>NICKERSON, Kan. — Fundraisers continue for the family of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e7a209e9-dd88-4d0b-9c63-874ad774c4b1">Nickerson High School coach Trey Jones</a>.Amy
 Jones continues to be watched closely by doctors on her injured legs. 
According to social media posts, she has undergone another operation to 
care for what were critical injuries to both legs. Ava continues to 
rehab and a short video can be seen of her using a walker to regain 
strength in her legs.One other note, the University of Iowa 
Women’s basketball program announced it will honor Ava's scholarship 
regardless if she is ever able to play for the Hawkeyes. Jones had just 
committed to Iowa when she was injured.A volleyball 
tournament held by the Buhler High School volleyball program served as a
 fundraiser. The tournament raised a total of $3,945 for the Jones 
Family Fund.Louisville TV station WDRB has been working with Hutch Post in covering 
this story and recently conducted an interview with both Ava and Amy. It
 can be viewed on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/571075041124363">Jones Family Updates Facebook page</a>.

Jones family continues road to recovery after tragedy in Kentucky

HUTCHINSON — Cosmosphere has been recognized by Tripadvisor as a
 2022 Travelers’ Choice&nbsp;award winner for being in&nbsp;the top 10% of 
attractions worldwide.&nbsp;The award celebrates businesses that have 
received great reviews from travelers around the globe on Tripadvisor 
over the last 12 months. Cosmosphere stood out by consistently 
delivering positive experiences to visitors.

“This 2022 
recognition comes as Cosmosphere celebrates 60 years of space and 
science education,” Jim Remar, President and Chief Executive Officer at 
the Cosmosphere said. “Our visitors have been wonderfully engaged over 
those years, and we appreciate every single one of them. We look forward
 to lighting that spark of interest in science education and the history
 of space exploration for years to come.”

“Congratulations to the 
2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Winners,” Kanika Soni, Chief 
Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor said. “The Travelers’ Choice Awards 
recognize the best in tourism and hospitality, according to those who 
matter most: your guests. Ranking among the Travelers’ Choice winners is
 always tough — but never more so than this year as we emerge from the 
pandemic. Whether it's using new technology, implementing safety 
measures, or hiring outstanding staff, I’m impressed by the steps you've
 taken to meet travelers' new demands."

Cosmosphere 
emerged from the pandemic with a new look in the hall of science museum 
and reintroduced its summer camps. The center also expanded its virtual 
platform and expanded its ability to reach students and instructors with
 online and virtual classrooms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659980696282.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — Cosmosphere has been recognized by Tripadvisor as a
 2022 Travelers’ Choice&nbsp;award winner for being in&nbsp;the top 10% of 
attractions worldwide.&nbsp;The award celebrates businesses that have 
received great reviews from travelers around the globe on Tripadvisor 
over the last 12 months. Cosmosphere stood out by consistently 
delivering positive experiences to visitors.“This 2022 
recognition comes as Cosmosphere celebrates 60 years of space and 
science education,” Jim Remar, President and Chief Executive Officer at 
the Cosmosphere said. “Our visitors have been wonderfully engaged over 
those years, and we appreciate every single one of them. We look forward
 to lighting that spark of interest in science education and the history
 of space exploration for years to come.”“Congratulations to the 
2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Winners,” Kanika Soni, Chief 
Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor said. “The Travelers’ Choice Awards 
recognize the best in tourism and hospitality, according to those who 
matter most: your guests. Ranking among the Travelers’ Choice winners is
 always tough — but never more so than this year as we emerge from the 
pandemic. Whether it's using new technology, implementing safety 
measures, or hiring outstanding staff, I’m impressed by the steps you've
 taken to meet travelers' new demands."Cosmosphere 
emerged from the pandemic with a new look in the hall of science museum 
and reintroduced its summer camps. The center also expanded its virtual 
platform and expanded its ability to reach students and instructors with
 online and virtual classrooms.

Tripadvisor: Kansas attraction in top 10% worldwide

By NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After the defeat of the abortion regulation amendment on Tuesday, it's important to note that there is an election for a majority of the justices that have been tasked by Kansas voters with interpreting the Kansas Constitution in this area. 

The terms of six of the seven Kansas Supreme Court justices will expire on January 9, 2023. The six seats are up for retention election on November 8, 2022.

The six justices that are up for a vote include Daniel Biles, Marla Luckert, Evelyn Z. Wilson, Caleb Stegall, Keynen Wall and Melissa Standridge. 

Five of the six, all but Stegall, voted in the majority in the Hodes &amp; Nauser v. Derek Schmidt case that established a right to bodily autonomy and therefore a right to abortion in the Kansas Constitution.

For the Kansans who created record primary turnout that voted to continue to give the decision making power to those justices, it is important to come out again to vote in November for two reasons. First, to decide if the justices that made that decision stay on and also to vote in the governor's race, because should they not be retained, it would be the next governor's job to nominate a slate of replacements.

Six years ago in 2016, the fight to retain four justices on the Kansas Supreme Court was contentious, with the Kansas Republican Party committing to an attempt to oust Carol Beier, Biles and Luckert, along with then Chief Justice Lawton Nuss.

Justices are not allowed to campaign for their own retention, so the question follows, will the same forces that assisted in get out the vote efforts for the amendment question continue to mobilize their volunteers and get them once again energized? 

Wilson, Wall and Standridge have all been appointed by current Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. Biles and Luckert were appointed by Democrat Kathleen Sebelius. Stegall was appointed by Republican Gov. Sam Brownback.

For those who want to keep the status quo, it now changes from a No vote for the amendment to a Yes vote for the justices. For those who want to change abortion policy, it's now about changing the cast at the Kansas Supreme Court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576879254086.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — After the defeat of the abortion regulation amendment on Tuesday, it's important to note that there is an election for a majority of the justices that have been tasked by Kansas voters with interpreting the Kansas Constitution in this area. The terms of six of the seven Kansas Supreme Court justices will expire on January 9, 2023. The six seats are up for retention election on November 8, 2022.The six justices that are up for a vote include Daniel Biles, Marla Luckert, Evelyn Z. Wilson, Caleb Stegall, Keynen Wall and Melissa Standridge. Five of the six, all but Stegall, voted in the majority in the Hodes &amp; Nauser v. Derek Schmidt case that established a right to bodily autonomy and therefore a right to abortion in the Kansas Constitution.For the Kansans who created record primary turnout that voted to continue to give the decision making power to those justices, it is important to come out again to vote in November for two reasons. First, to decide if the justices that made that decision stay on and also to vote in the governor's race, because should they not be retained, it would be the next governor's job to nominate a slate of replacements.Six years ago in 2016, the fight to retain four justices on the Kansas Supreme Court was contentious, with the Kansas Republican Party committing to an attempt to oust Carol Beier, Biles and Luckert, along with then Chief Justice Lawton Nuss.Justices are not allowed to campaign for their own retention, so the question follows, will the same forces that assisted in get out the vote efforts for the amendment question continue to mobilize their volunteers and get them once again energized? Wilson, Wall and Standridge have all been appointed by current Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. Biles and Luckert were appointed by Democrat Kathleen Sebelius. Stegall was appointed by Republican Gov. Sam Brownback.For those who want to keep the status quo, it now changes from a No vote for the amendment to a Yes vote for the justices. For those who want to change abortion policy, it's now about changing the cast at the Kansas Supreme Court.

ANALYSIS: Justice retention is next abortion fight in Kansas

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
If you're headed to Wichita on Monday, here's a chance to save some money at the pump.

"Americans for Prosperity is working along with JumpStart stores, because we do want to bring relief to high gas prices," said economist Michael Austin. "For 90 minutes at the JumpStart at 790 North Broadway, this Monday at 2 p.m., we will lower unleaded gas price to $2.38 a gallon. We want to show that Washington and coastal elites can't solve the problems we face. We the people are the solution."

"That was the national average of unleaded gasoline when President Joe Biden took office," Austin said. "Though, of course in recent weeks, we've been seeing that number trend down, it is still roughly twice as high as where it was 18 months ago, depending on where you look. That means, it's still difficult for families to make ends meet."

There are just a couple of restrictions on the event.

"That's from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.," Austin said. "We will lower the price of unleaded gasoline to $2.38 a gallon. The only rule that we have is no RVs and no gas cans. Just come to fill up your tank."

The JumpStart location was just purchased earlier this year. Before that, it was a QuikTrip.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659633687960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
If you're headed to Wichita on Monday, here's a chance to save some money at the pump."Americans for Prosperity is working along with JumpStart stores, because we do want to bring relief to high gas prices," said economist Michael Austin. "For 90 minutes at the JumpStart at 790 North Broadway, this Monday at 2 p.m., we will lower unleaded gas price to $2.38 a gallon. We want to show that Washington and coastal elites can't solve the problems we face. We the people are the solution."Why $2.38? They're making a point."That was the national average of unleaded gasoline when President Joe Biden took office," Austin said. "Though, of course in recent weeks, we've been seeing that number trend down, it is still roughly twice as high as where it was 18 months ago, depending on where you look. That means, it's still difficult for families to make ends meet."There are just a couple of restrictions on the event."That's from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.," Austin said. "We will lower the price of unleaded gasoline to $2.38 a gallon. The only rule that we have is no RVs and no gas cans. Just come to fill up your tank."The JumpStart location was just purchased earlier this year. Before that, it was a QuikTrip.

Gas discount event Monday in Wichita

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A federal lawsuit has been filed against a Salina and Hutchinson restaurant owner for not paying some of their employees the minimum wage, among other violations.

Documents were filed last week by the U.S. Department of Labor against the owners of Dimaru in Salina and Mr. Cao in Hutchinson, demanding $783,000 alleging that defendants failed to pay two Daimaru employees according to law and including liquidated damages.

The allegations are for actions that are said to have taken place between 2018 and 2020. They are also accused of not paying time and a half for overtime hours and not maintaining correct records of hours worked.

The department also alleges that similar violations occurred in 2015 and that Diamaru agreed to comply going forward in 2016, but that they did not change their practices.

The department also alleges that a couple who both worked in Salina contracted COVID-19 and that Diamaru did not pay proper sick leave during that period.

The lawsuit lists 39 employees at Hutchinson and 52 at Salina. 

NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A federal lawsuit has been filed against a Salina and Hutchinson restaurant owner for not paying some of their employees the minimum wage, among other violations.Documents were filed last week by the U.S. Department of Labor against the owners of Dimaru in Salina and Mr. Cao in Hutchinson, demanding $783,000 alleging that defendants failed to pay two Daimaru employees according to law and including liquidated damages.The allegations are for actions that are said to have taken place between 2018 and 2020. They are also accused of not paying time and a half for overtime hours and not maintaining correct records of hours worked.The department also alleges that similar violations occurred in 2015 and that Diamaru agreed to comply going forward in 2016, but that they did not change their practices.The department also alleges that a couple who both worked in Salina contracted COVID-19 and that Diamaru did not pay proper sick leave during that period.The lawsuit lists 39 employees at Hutchinson and 52 at Salina.

Federal lawsuit filed against Hutchinson, Salina restaurant owner

Eagle Radio operates&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a>&nbsp;in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.

Here is a sampling of stories from last week:

<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/47bfcabf-afa7-4c3b-94e5-afff2ed581fd">202 pints of blood donated during 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive in MHK</a> From Little Apple Post

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/518365f3-5540-4182-81a8-87fafd6e53d9#//">Farm economy faces obstacles, says Missouri Agriculture Director</a> From St. Joseph Post

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/21dda4a8-df38-4c4f-9eb5-4928d4a64113">🎥 A Day in the Life: Reno County 911</a> From Hutch Post

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/80726806-85fd-46a3-a28f-b9ceccfce8e0">North Platte resident returns home to find couple rummaging through fridge</a> From North Platte Post

<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/90c5767a-c60d-48db-b868-aa81ef0413ec">Authorities report arrest in Enfinnity Hayes Lawson homicide case</a> From JC Post

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bee5c059-bff3-4521-a6d4-0a311d20bb79">Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff</a> From Panhandle Post

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5d2b0b9e-9302-43c5-a90c-9032ac895f72">Hoisington residents using new pool to beat summer heat wave</a> From Great Bend Post

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e153a0fc-fe06-4de4-b5c7-d6f0d57fa59b">Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban</a> From Hays Post

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8eb22de0-0264-4ac0-87bd-4407f223638c">Pursuit through west, south Salina includes bags of weed being tossed</a> From Salina Post

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio operates&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a>&nbsp;in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.Here is a sampling of stories from last week:<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/47bfcabf-afa7-4c3b-94e5-afff2ed581fd">202 pints of blood donated during 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive in MHK</a> From Little Apple Post<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/518365f3-5540-4182-81a8-87fafd6e53d9#//">Farm economy faces obstacles, says Missouri Agriculture Director</a> From St. Joseph Post<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/21dda4a8-df38-4c4f-9eb5-4928d4a64113">🎥 A Day in the Life: Reno County 911</a> From Hutch Post<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/80726806-85fd-46a3-a28f-b9ceccfce8e0">North Platte resident returns home to find couple rummaging through fridge</a> From North Platte Post<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/90c5767a-c60d-48db-b868-aa81ef0413ec">Authorities report arrest in Enfinnity Hayes Lawson homicide case</a> From JC Post<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bee5c059-bff3-4521-a6d4-0a311d20bb79">Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff</a> From Panhandle Post<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5d2b0b9e-9302-43c5-a90c-9032ac895f72">Hoisington residents using new pool to beat summer heat wave</a> From Great Bend Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e153a0fc-fe06-4de4-b5c7-d6f0d57fa59b">Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban</a> From Hays Post<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8eb22de0-0264-4ac0-87bd-4407f223638c">Pursuit through west, south Salina includes bags of weed being tossed</a> From Salina Post

News From Around the Post News Network

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said the task for his successor could be difficult if the abortion regulation amendment on the ballot August 2 does not pass.

"If think if Value Them Both were to not pass, it is likely that we will see additional legal challenges brought against existing Kansas law that governs the provision of abortion in the state," Schmidt said. "There already are at least two pending lawsuits, one challenging what is often colloquially called dismemberment abortion, a particular procedure often performed in the second trimester. There's another lawsuit pending that challenges certain health and safety standards for clinics that are currently in Kansas law. I suspect that we'll see more of those challenges in the event Value Them Both were not to pass. That's why supporters, they are able to say, I believe accurately, what is at risk here is the preservation of existing laws related to abortion."

Schmidt, of course, in his official capacity, was the attorney of record for the state of Kansas in the Hodes case whose decision currently holds regarding abortion regulation in the state.

"I think the voters of Kansas are going to show us the path forward on this subject by how they decide the Value Them Both question on August 2nd," Schmidt said. "I think, the right thing to do for anybody in a public policy role is to watch what happens with the voters and then listen very carefully to the message that they send. There are obviously people with very strongly held views on all sides of this issue. One thing that I think is certain, is that, in this post-Roe world, it's going to be necessary for people to work in good faith with each other to try to find whatever the right balance is, state by state, in terms of regulation of the abortion industry."

The squeezing out of moderate Republicans from the legislature since the beginning of Gov. Sam Brownback's tenure to now and the dominance of the Republican party overall legislatively in Kansas would seem to indicate that the good faith balance may not be easy to reach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said the task for his successor could be difficult if the abortion regulation amendment on the ballot August 2 does not pass."If think if Value Them Both were to not pass, it is likely that we will see additional legal challenges brought against existing Kansas law that governs the provision of abortion in the state," Schmidt said. "There already are at least two pending lawsuits, one challenging what is often colloquially called dismemberment abortion, a particular procedure often performed in the second trimester. There's another lawsuit pending that challenges certain health and safety standards for clinics that are currently in Kansas law. I suspect that we'll see more of those challenges in the event Value Them Both were not to pass. That's why supporters, they are able to say, I believe accurately, what is at risk here is the preservation of existing laws related to abortion."Schmidt, of course, in his official capacity, was the attorney of record for the state of Kansas in the Hodes case whose decision currently holds regarding abortion regulation in the state."I think the voters of Kansas are going to show us the path forward on this subject by how they decide the Value Them Both question on August 2nd," Schmidt said. "I think, the right thing to do for anybody in a public policy role is to watch what happens with the voters and then listen very carefully to the message that they send. There are obviously people with very strongly held views on all sides of this issue. One thing that I think is certain, is that, in this post-Roe world, it's going to be necessary for people to work in good faith with each other to try to find whatever the right balance is, state by state, in terms of regulation of the abortion industry."The squeezing out of moderate Republicans from the legislature since the beginning of Gov. Sam Brownback's tenure to now and the dominance of the Republican party overall legislatively in Kansas would seem to indicate that the good faith balance may not be easy to reach.

Schmidt: Next AG may have defense to play if Value Them Both fails

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards noted in his <a href="https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=110322">latest blog post</a> that the underfunding of special education is not just a state issue, it also is supposed to include money under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

"One thing that has never happened is that the federal government has not provided the level of funding that they indicated would be done when that law was passed," Tallman said. "The law says that the federal government is supposed to contribute 40 percent of the excess cost of special education, which is basically a calculation of how much more it costs to students to have additional services. That has not been done. The calculation that we have seen is that equals a shortfall of about $223 million to Kansas school districts. In other words, if the federal government were providing that, we would be receiving that much more dollars."

Combine that with the under resourcing at the state level, and it is significant.

"That is also about the shortfall of the fact that the state has not kept its commitment to fund 92 percent of the excess cost, after federal aid is taken into account," Tallman said. "In other words, the federal law is basically saying, calculate excess cost, we'll pay 40%, but they are not. State law basically says, calculate excess cost, see how much the federal government is providing in federal aid. The difference, the state legislature said, we'll pay 92 percent. They're not doing that. The shortfall there again is over $200 million."

Why should this matter to non special education parents? Because that money is backfilled from a school district's general fund. However, recent action by the State Board of Ed may be at least somewhat encouraging.

"They are going to endorse a five-year plan to try to get the state back to 92 percent," Tallman said. "Instead of adding two hundred some million all at once, their proposal is, you do it over five years. Now, they factor in inflation, so the total amount will be more than that. The idea is to kind of phase it in. The challenges with those is, sometimes it's very hard, at a governmental body level, to keep to a path like that. There's always other issues coming up."

One of those issues will be a new crop of legislators coming in after the 2022 elections and new leadership on the House side specifically and where their budget priorities lie.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards noted in his <a href="https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=110322">latest blog post</a> that the underfunding of special education is not just a state issue, it also is supposed to include money under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act."One thing that has never happened is that the federal government has not provided the level of funding that they indicated would be done when that law was passed," Tallman said. "The law says that the federal government is supposed to contribute 40 percent of the excess cost of special education, which is basically a calculation of how much more it costs to students to have additional services. That has not been done. The calculation that we have seen is that equals a shortfall of about $223 million to Kansas school districts. In other words, if the federal government were providing that, we would be receiving that much more dollars."Combine that with the under resourcing at the state level, and it is significant."That is also about the shortfall of the fact that the state has not kept its commitment to fund 92 percent of the excess cost, after federal aid is taken into account," Tallman said. "In other words, the federal law is basically saying, calculate excess cost, we'll pay 40%, but they are not. State law basically says, calculate excess cost, see how much the federal government is providing in federal aid. The difference, the state legislature said, we'll pay 92 percent. They're not doing that. The shortfall there again is over $200 million."Why should this matter to non special education parents? Because that money is backfilled from a school district's general fund. However, recent action by the State Board of Ed may be at least somewhat encouraging."They are going to endorse a five-year plan to try to get the state back to 92 percent," Tallman said. "Instead of adding two hundred some million all at once, their proposal is, you do it over five years. Now, they factor in inflation, so the total amount will be more than that. The idea is to kind of phase it in. The challenges with those is, sometimes it's very hard, at a governmental body level, to keep to a path like that. There's always other issues coming up."One of those issues will be a new crop of legislators coming in after the 2022 elections and new leadership on the House side specifically and where their budget priorities lie.

Tallman: Special ed underfunding is not just state issue

Eagle Radio operates <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a> in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.

<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/c6b40452-04cf-43f9-9543-51f0dc203a79">🎥: Kansas-native plays Country Stampede for 10th time</a> From Little Apple Post

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/406c2e91-d9da-4b84-9332-990b9cc7fb74#//">It's not too late to seek a new career, Missouri Western can help</a> From St. Joseph Post

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63c386cd-e851-43c7-b628-073b8f2d09bf">NAMI brings mental health support to jails, prisons</a> From Hays Post

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/e2a29261-117a-4410-a9ac-44d9ca43da85">A-Town Zesto continues burger legacy in Alliance</a> From Panhandle Post

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a9425a02-e0c5-4309-95ef-4cc50c2acd9e">$60,000 customized car missing from Salina dealership</a> From Salina Post

<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/e942541b-d464-490b-b88d-8cc5d6ef7a67">Concrete grandstand at Al Simpler Stadium is taken down</a> From JC Post

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/257df2ac-df7b-496b-9643-3eefc15df397">Edward's Street Brew &amp; Bites cuts ribbon in Larned</a> From Great Bend Post

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/ca578a56-f6d6-4f47-9ebc-f854801e657f">Communities That Care data shows kids in Reno County need help</a> From Hutch Post

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/9e9ec18a-adf5-45ab-a8e0-80c7991fdf01">Eagle Radio employee-owner, Schmidt Foundation make donation to North Platte Habitat for Humanity</a> From North Platte Post

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio operates <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a> in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.Here is a sampling of stories from last week:<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/c6b40452-04cf-43f9-9543-51f0dc203a79">🎥: Kansas-native plays Country Stampede for 10th time</a> From Little Apple Post<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/406c2e91-d9da-4b84-9332-990b9cc7fb74#//">It's not too late to seek a new career, Missouri Western can help</a> From St. Joseph Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63c386cd-e851-43c7-b628-073b8f2d09bf">NAMI brings mental health support to jails, prisons</a> From Hays Post<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/e2a29261-117a-4410-a9ac-44d9ca43da85">A-Town Zesto continues burger legacy in Alliance</a> From Panhandle Post<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a9425a02-e0c5-4309-95ef-4cc50c2acd9e">$60,000 customized car missing from Salina dealership</a> From Salina Post<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/e942541b-d464-490b-b88d-8cc5d6ef7a67">Concrete grandstand at Al Simpler Stadium is taken down</a> From JC Post<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/257df2ac-df7b-496b-9643-3eefc15df397">Edward's Street Brew &amp; Bites cuts ribbon in Larned</a> From Great Bend Post<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/ca578a56-f6d6-4f47-9ebc-f854801e657f">Communities That Care data shows kids in Reno County need help</a> From Hutch Post<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/9e9ec18a-adf5-45ab-a8e0-80c7991fdf01">Eagle Radio employee-owner, Schmidt Foundation make donation to North Platte Habitat for Humanity</a> From North Platte Post

By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657825179700.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — 
Hutchinson veterinarian Jon Austin, DVM notes that if your air 
conditioning can't keep up, it's important to take care of your indoor 
pets until it can get fixed."I had that last week," Austin said. 
"The couple I had, the air conditioner went out on Sunday and we talked 
that evening, it was already 8:00 and so the sun had already started to 
cool off and they were going to get through that night, but they dropped
 the dogs off with us on Monday morning and we had them through 
Wednesday. They have two kind of large, longer haired black lab mix dogs
 and their air conditioner didn't get fixed until Wednesday. The dogs 
spent three days with me at the animal hospital boarding, because they 
were not able to be safe at home."Austin only does 
boarding for his veterinary clients, but other boarding kennels should 
have space, as long as it is in the middle of the week. Also, if you are
 going to leave for the day, whether inside or outside, be sure your 
pets have plenty of water."If you have one of those unattended 
animals and you don't have anybody who can come and check on it and take
 care of it for you, you sure need to make provisions to ensure that 
animal will have water," Austin said. "Typically, those kind of animals 
who have those behaviors will have a water bowl or bucket that's either 
too big and too heavy for them to disturb or the owners will literally 
attach it to the kennel wall with wire. That way, it stays in place."For dogs who need to be active, you may need to move that activity to earlier in the day."If
 you have a dog that you exercise, if they do anything that requires 
exertion, you should do it really early, even before the sun comes up," 
Austin said. "Some mornings, you wake up, it's already 80 before it's 
even light. You just have to be aware of the humidity, of the heat and 
then make changes as best you can. There may be days where you just 
don't get to do it, if it's too hot."It's also important not to 
walk or run your dogs on areas that are black like asphalt during the 
heat of the day, as you can burn the dog's pads of their feet that way. 
If you have any questions, contact your veterinarian for more 
information.