Annual Pioneer Day Features Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour&nbsp;Interview Series: &nbsp;Announcing the Newly Formed Band, “Butch Creek”&nbsp;

Chris Farrell from Hill City shared that his introduction to music was in elementary school, 5th Grade, in Mr. Warren Stafford’s band class when he tried out to be a Drummer. &nbsp;That began his musical venture.&nbsp;

Chris was influenced by 80s music and like one of his music idols, Eddie Van Halen, he progressed from drums to guitar. &nbsp;He bought a Sears, Roebuck and Company guitar and amplifier and started playing music he was listening to on cassette tapes and the radio. &nbsp;

During high school Chris played in several "garage bands" with classmates and friends. &nbsp;His biggest performance and claim to fame is when he played drums in front of thousands and thousands of people at the Air Force Academy football stadium in Colorado Springs. &nbsp;A select number of Hill City High School marching band members was granted the opportunity to play and entertain at the Air Force Academy on Band Day during halftime at a football game.&nbsp;

During Chris’ 30 year stay in Denver, at times he played with a hole in the band that consisted of friends and co-workers. &nbsp;But primarily he played at open mic nights as a one man band in the Denver Metro area. &nbsp;Chris moved back to Hill City in 2022 and connected with Chris Gansel and the guys.&nbsp;

Chris said that he likes playing both drums and guitar equally but his instrument of choice is the guitar.

&nbsp;Currently Mr. Farrell is playing in the newly formed band, “Butch Creek”. &nbsp;The Butch Creek band gets its name in honoring Butch Owen. &nbsp;The band was put together based on the “Open Mic Night” at Mikkelson’s Tavern. &nbsp;The origination of the band came together by the guys who have been dedicated to helping setup, practice and play for open mic night. &nbsp;The band’s music style is Classic Rock, Country, Blues and Alternative. &nbsp;The “Butch Creek” band members are Chris Farrell, Chris Gansel, Fred Owen, Jeramy Owen, Eric "Dok" Nevins and Rex Striggow. &nbsp;Butch Creek is the “make shift house band” for Mikkelson’s Tavern “Open Mic Night” and they also play at other events.&nbsp;

Farrell became acquainted with the Nicodemus Bike Tour through Karla Bates-Adams. &nbsp;Both were participants of Leadership Graham County and serve on the Graham County Travel and Tourism Development Committee.&nbsp;Chris said this is a beautiful time of year to ride a bike in the quiet countryside, see wildlife, fall colors and appreciate our area. &nbsp;He added that this event will also provide the opportunity to reflect on the importance of community, what this area represents and what the founders of Nicodemus went through and found in this settlement.

Chris Gansel also from Hill City had an early introduction which formed his love of music. &nbsp;Chris' mother, Kathy played piano in a bar band in Idaho to help support herself while in college and prior to marrying and moving to Hill City. &nbsp;For a few times in the early 60s she played keyboard with a local band. &nbsp;

Chris learned a "little" piano from his mom but states his true love became the guitar. &nbsp;His older brother, Steve bought a guitar and took lessons. &nbsp;When he wasn’t playing it Chris would pick it up and mess around with it. &nbsp;

Chris said his instrument of choice is the guitar.&nbsp;After Chris’ junior year of high school, his brother Steve, Jody Pembleton and Tyce Bruton were trying to form a band and needed a bass player but couldn’t find one. &nbsp;Chris agreed to play bass and bought a $50.00 used bass guitar. &nbsp;In the summer 1979 the band Legend played four dances. &nbsp;Chris along with his brother played in several "garage bands" each summer until he was out of college. &nbsp;

During the summer they would form a band and then break up during the school year.&nbsp;In 1985 Chris and his brother moved to Nashville, TN with the thought of becoming song writers. &nbsp;They had three songs published but none made it onto a record. &nbsp;In Nashville they played in the bands Starwood and Souvenirs. &nbsp;Chris got married in 1987 and played until the early 90s when his daughter was born. &nbsp;His family then moved back to Hill City. &nbsp;

He started playing with a “folk” group in church twice a month. &nbsp;After meeting Todd Toman they put together the band “Country Highway” which played classic country &amp; rock, current country songs and some bluegrass music. &nbsp;In 2008 when Country Highway was just starting Chris and the band played for his parent’s (Kathy and Frank) 50th anniversary. 

Unfortunately, his brother Steve was not able to be there.

Now, Mr. Gansel is playing in the newly formed band, “Butch Creek”. &nbsp;Chris became aware of the Nicodemus Bike Tour through fellow band member Chris Farrell. Gansel said that promoting this event is a natural fit for him with his position as Director of Graham County Recreation Commission (GCRC). &nbsp;He added that the history of Nicodemus is a very important part of the history in our area. &nbsp;

He’s encouraging people to get out, get some fresh air and get acquainted or re-acquainted with a real important part of the history in this area.&nbsp;When asked for further comment regarding this event, Mr Gansel stated, "In our current political climate and the fact that it is an election year, we are being bombarded from all sides. &nbsp;Race is still a thing: &nbsp;you can't deny it. &nbsp;Much of the intensity and volume of injustice that you see elsewhere didn't seem to be as prevalent in our county, but the black community in our area had to feel some racial tension". &nbsp;

This event continues to break through all types of boundaries.”

In Chris’ final statement he said, this is a chance to get out in our area, enjoy nature, our surroundings and also be aware of what freedom is really worth.

Chris and the band members of Butch Creek host an open mic night at Mikkelson’s Tavern on the second Saturday of each month. &nbsp;Everyone who wants to sing and play music is welcome. &nbsp;

They are also playing during the Inaugural Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike tour taking place on this Saturday, October 12, 2024. &nbsp;

The band will start playing in the park around 11:30 AM.&nbsp;The Nicodemus Historical Society invites your entire family including the kids to bring your bikes and ride a FREE shorter route that will take you on a tour around the historic town of Nicodemus to various silhouettes, historic building sites and a few of the historic tour signs.

Starting at 8:00 AM come for the free pancake breakfast sponsored by Kansas Black Farmers Association. &nbsp;Share a day of community history, fun and delicious food by “RC RubGrub BBQ” of Glade. &nbsp;At 11:30 AM listen to live music performed by Graham County’s local band, Butch Creek. &nbsp;A free showing of the documentary which illustrates the first settlers arriving in Nicodemus, “Ellis Trail To Nicodemus" will be featured on the big screen at 2:30 PM in the Visitor's Center. &nbsp;The day is expected to be great fun.

Whether you participate in the bike tour or not everyone is welcome to discover the rich history and learn about one of the nation's most iconic African American national sites in the West, Nicodemus.

To learn more about the ride and our history follow us on Facebook. &nbsp;Interested riders should register via the Nicodemus Historical Society’s website at: &nbsp;nicodemushistoricalsociety.org.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728328616960.png" alt="Chris Farrell and Chris Gansel with their guitars are at the park gazebo and Visitor’s Center in Nicodemus. The Butch Creek band will play during the Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Chris Farrell and Chris Gansel with their guitars are at the park gazebo and Visitor’s Center in Nicodemus. The Butch Creek band will play during the Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Annual Pioneer Day Features Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour&nbsp;Interview Series: &nbsp;Announcing the Newly Formed Band, “Butch Creek”&nbsp;</h2>By ROBIN HARDMANChris Farrell from Hill City shared that his introduction to music was in elementary school, 5th Grade, in Mr. Warren Stafford’s band class when he tried out to be a Drummer. &nbsp;That began his musical venture.&nbsp;Chris was influenced by 80s music and like one of his music idols, Eddie Van Halen, he progressed from drums to guitar. &nbsp;He bought a Sears, Roebuck and Company guitar and amplifier and started playing music he was listening to on cassette tapes and the radio. &nbsp;During high school Chris played in several "garage bands" with classmates and friends. &nbsp;His biggest performance and claim to fame is when he played drums in front of thousands and thousands of people at the Air Force Academy football stadium in Colorado Springs. &nbsp;A select number of Hill City High School marching band members was granted the opportunity to play and entertain at the Air Force Academy on Band Day during halftime at a football game.&nbsp;During Chris’ 30 year stay in Denver, at times he played with a hole in the band that consisted of friends and co-workers. &nbsp;But primarily he played at open mic nights as a one man band in the Denver Metro area. &nbsp;Chris moved back to Hill City in 2022 and connected with Chris Gansel and the guys.&nbsp;Chris said that he likes playing both drums and guitar equally but his instrument of choice is the guitar.&nbsp;Currently Mr. Farrell is playing in the newly formed band, “Butch Creek”. &nbsp;The Butch Creek band gets its name in honoring Butch Owen. &nbsp;The band was put together based on the “Open Mic Night” at Mikkelson’s Tavern. &nbsp;The origination of the band came together by the guys who have been dedicated to helping setup, practice and play for open mic night. &nbsp;The band’s music style is Classic Rock, Country, Blues and Alternative. &nbsp;The “Butch Creek” band members are Chris Farrell, Chris Gansel, Fred Owen, Jeramy Owen, Eric "Dok" Nevins and Rex Striggow. &nbsp;Butch Creek is the “make shift house band” for Mikkelson’s Tavern “Open Mic Night” and they also play at other events.&nbsp;Farrell became acquainted with the Nicodemus Bike Tour through Karla Bates-Adams. &nbsp;Both were participants of Leadership Graham County and serve on the Graham County Travel and Tourism Development Committee.&nbsp;Chris said this is a beautiful time of year to ride a bike in the quiet countryside, see wildlife, fall colors and appreciate our area. &nbsp;He added that this event will also provide the opportunity to reflect on the importance of community, what this area represents and what the founders of Nicodemus went through and found in this settlement.Chris Gansel also from Hill City had an early introduction which formed his love of music. &nbsp;Chris' mother, Kathy played piano in a bar band in Idaho to help support herself while in college and prior to marrying and moving to Hill City. &nbsp;For a few times in the early 60s she played keyboard with a local band. &nbsp;Chris learned a "little" piano from his mom but states his true love became the guitar. &nbsp;His older brother, Steve bought a guitar and took lessons. &nbsp;When he wasn’t playing it Chris would pick it up and mess around with it. &nbsp;Chris said his instrument of choice is the guitar.&nbsp;After Chris’ junior year of high school, his brother Steve, Jody Pembleton and Tyce Bruton were trying to form a band and needed a bass player but couldn’t find one. &nbsp;Chris agreed to play bass and bought a $50.00 used bass guitar. &nbsp;In the summer 1979 the band Legend played four dances. &nbsp;Chris along with his brother played in several "garage bands" each summer until he was out of college. &nbsp;During the summer they would form a band and then break up during the school year.&nbsp;In 1985 Chris and his brother moved to Nashville, TN with the thought of becoming song writers. &nbsp;They had three songs published but none made it onto a record. &nbsp;In Nashville they played in the bands Starwood and Souvenirs. &nbsp;Chris got married in 1987 and played until the early 90s when his daughter was born. &nbsp;His family then moved back to Hill City. &nbsp;He started playing with a “folk” group in church twice a month. &nbsp;After meeting Todd Toman they put together the band “Country Highway” which played classic country &amp; rock, current country songs and some bluegrass music. &nbsp;In 2008 when Country Highway was just starting Chris and the band played for his parent’s (Kathy and Frank) 50th anniversary. Unfortunately, his brother Steve was not able to be there.Now, Mr. Gansel is playing in the newly formed band, “Butch Creek”. &nbsp;Chris became aware of the Nicodemus Bike Tour through fellow band member Chris Farrell. Gansel said that promoting this event is a natural fit for him with his position as Director of Graham County Recreation Commission (GCRC). &nbsp;He added that the history of Nicodemus is a very important part of the history in our area. &nbsp;He’s encouraging people to get out, get some fresh air and get acquainted or re-acquainted with a real important part of the history in this area.&nbsp;When asked for further comment regarding this event, Mr Gansel stated, "In our current political climate and the fact that it is an election year, we are being bombarded from all sides. &nbsp;Race is still a thing: &nbsp;you can't deny it. &nbsp;Much of the intensity and volume of injustice that you see elsewhere didn't seem to be as prevalent in our county, but the black community in our area had to feel some racial tension". &nbsp;This event continues to break through all types of boundaries.”In Chris’ final statement he said, this is a chance to get out in our area, enjoy nature, our surroundings and also be aware of what freedom is really worth.Chris and the band members of Butch Creek host an open mic night at Mikkelson’s Tavern on the second Saturday of each month. &nbsp;Everyone who wants to sing and play music is welcome. &nbsp;Come Join Us! &nbsp;They are also playing during the Inaugural Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike tour taking place on this Saturday, October 12, 2024. &nbsp;The band will start playing in the park around 11:30 AM.&nbsp;The Nicodemus Historical Society invites your entire family including the kids to bring your bikes and ride a FREE shorter route that will take you on a tour around the historic town of Nicodemus to various silhouettes, historic building sites and a few of the historic tour signs.Starting at 8:00 AM come for the free pancake breakfast sponsored by Kansas Black Farmers Association. &nbsp;Share a day of community history, fun and delicious food by “RC RubGrub BBQ” of Glade. &nbsp;At 11:30 AM listen to live music performed by Graham County’s local band, Butch Creek. &nbsp;A free showing of the documentary which illustrates the first settlers arriving in Nicodemus, “Ellis Trail To Nicodemus" will be featured on the big screen at 2:30 PM in the Visitor's Center. &nbsp;The day is expected to be great fun.Whether you participate in the bike tour or not everyone is welcome to discover the rich history and learn about one of the nation's most iconic African American national sites in the West, Nicodemus.To learn more about the ride and our history follow us on Facebook. &nbsp;Interested riders should register via the Nicodemus Historical Society’s website at: &nbsp;nicodemushistoricalsociety.org.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour Interview Series: 'Butch Creek'

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Musk thistle is one of 12 noxious weeds in Kansas, infesting over 420,000 acres. It has been reported in nearly every county in Kansas and is found primarily in pastures, rangeland, hay meadows, alfalfa, fallow, roadsides, and waste areas. Under the new Noxious Weed Law, musk thistle is considered a Category C weed. That means it is well established within the state and has an extensive population.&nbsp;

Control efforts should be aimed at reducing or eliminating new populations, and established stands should be managed with any accepted control method.&nbsp; These include mechanical, chemical, and biological approaches.&nbsp; Mechanical control involves removing the entire plant or just the reproductive parts to prevent the plants from producing flowers/seeds.&nbsp; 

Mowing, digging, and hoeing are common mechanical methods of controlling musk thistle. Several herbicides are labeled for musk thistle control and are discussed below.&nbsp; Biological control requires a permit and needs to be integrated with other methods.&nbsp; Head and crown weevils are found in the state but cannot be transported across state lines.&nbsp; A flower fly is a new candidate species for biological control of musk thistle.

Musk thistle is primarily a biennial or winter annual species. Biennials take two growing seasons to complete their life cycle. Thistles germinating in the spring will spend the entire summer as a rosette, live through the winter, and bolt the next year in May and June. Winter annual plants will germinate with moisture and warm temperatures in the fall, live through the winter, and bolt the following year.

Most people recognize musk thistle during the early summer when the plants are actively blooming. However, musk thistle control is easiest as a rosette.

Fall is an excellent time to spray musk thistle as all are in the rosette growth stage. Another advantage of treatment in the fall is reduced risk of off-target drift. Waiting until most deciduous trees have lost their leaves and most crops are harvested will greatly reduce the likelihood of damage from herbicide drift. A wider window of opportunity for treating musk thistle also exists in the fall. The spraying window in the fall probably extends until the ground is frozen, and the musk thistle plants have shut down activity until warmer temperatures in the spring. Freezing temperatures will start to damage musk thistle plants, with some yellowing and curling of leaves. However, the plants are susceptible to herbicides as long as green tissue exists.

Dry conditions in the fall can reduce control of musk thistle with certain herbicides. Still, studies in Kansas indicated that a fall application of 2,4-D LVE at 2 lbs per acre was more effective (80% control) than a similar rate of 2,4-D amine (49% control). Dicamba + 2,4-D amine at 0.25 + 0.75 lbs per acre and picloram at 0.125 lbs per acre were also effective (&gt;90% control) on musk thistle treated in the fall.&nbsp; Other herbicides that have proven effective include 3-5&nbsp; fl oz/acre aminopyralid (Milestone) and aminopyralid + metsulfuron (Chaparral at 1.5 oz/acre).&nbsp; Products containing picloram and aminopyralid will not only control rosettes treated in the fall but will have enough carryover to control emerging seedlings the following spring.

If you need to treat musk thistle this fall, select the proper herbicide for the job.&nbsp; If possible, select a warm, sunny day to spray. Scattered rosettes can be mechanically removed by digging below the crown. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictMusk thistle is one of 12 noxious weeds in Kansas, infesting over 420,000 acres. It has been reported in nearly every county in Kansas and is found primarily in pastures, rangeland, hay meadows, alfalfa, fallow, roadsides, and waste areas. Under the new Noxious Weed Law, musk thistle is considered a Category C weed. That means it is well established within the state and has an extensive population.&nbsp;Control efforts should be aimed at reducing or eliminating new populations, and established stands should be managed with any accepted control method.&nbsp; These include mechanical, chemical, and biological approaches.&nbsp; Mechanical control involves removing the entire plant or just the reproductive parts to prevent the plants from producing flowers/seeds.&nbsp; Mowing, digging, and hoeing are common mechanical methods of controlling musk thistle. Several herbicides are labeled for musk thistle control and are discussed below.&nbsp; Biological control requires a permit and needs to be integrated with other methods.&nbsp; Head and crown weevils are found in the state but cannot be transported across state lines.&nbsp; A flower fly is a new candidate species for biological control of musk thistle.Musk thistle is primarily a biennial or winter annual species. Biennials take two growing seasons to complete their life cycle. Thistles germinating in the spring will spend the entire summer as a rosette, live through the winter, and bolt the next year in May and June. Winter annual plants will germinate with moisture and warm temperatures in the fall, live through the winter, and bolt the following year.Most people recognize musk thistle during the early summer when the plants are actively blooming. However, musk thistle control is easiest as a rosette.Fall is an excellent time to spray musk thistle as all are in the rosette growth stage. Another advantage of treatment in the fall is reduced risk of off-target drift. Waiting until most deciduous trees have lost their leaves and most crops are harvested will greatly reduce the likelihood of damage from herbicide drift. A wider window of opportunity for treating musk thistle also exists in the fall. The spraying window in the fall probably extends until the ground is frozen, and the musk thistle plants have shut down activity until warmer temperatures in the spring. Freezing temperatures will start to damage musk thistle plants, with some yellowing and curling of leaves. However, the plants are susceptible to herbicides as long as green tissue exists.Dry conditions in the fall can reduce control of musk thistle with certain herbicides. Still, studies in Kansas indicated that a fall application of 2,4-D LVE at 2 lbs per acre was more effective (80% control) than a similar rate of 2,4-D amine (49% control). Dicamba + 2,4-D amine at 0.25 + 0.75 lbs per acre and picloram at 0.125 lbs per acre were also effective (&gt;90% control) on musk thistle treated in the fall.&nbsp; Other herbicides that have proven effective include 3-5&nbsp; fl oz/acre aminopyralid (Milestone) and aminopyralid + metsulfuron (Chaparral at 1.5 oz/acre).&nbsp; Products containing picloram and aminopyralid will not only control rosettes treated in the fall but will have enough carryover to control emerging seedlings the following spring.If you need to treat musk thistle this fall, select the proper herbicide for the job.&nbsp; If possible, select a warm, sunny day to spray. Scattered rosettes can be mechanically removed by digging below the crown. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Musk thistle control

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728327628867.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

LARNED—The grounds of the Santa Fe Trail Center Museum will soon be filled with the rumbling of the sounds of antique and vintage farm equipment.

Prepare for a carnival-like atmosphere, and join the crowd as everyone enjoys the weekend of farming, food and fun on October 12 and 13 for the 24th Annual Tired Iron Show.

This year’s event will highlight John Deere.

Upon arrival, visitors will enter through the Peddlers Market gateway to see the booths of various arts, crafts and collectibles. There will be several food concession trucks as well.

One of the many returning activities at this year’s event includes the ever-popular Anvil Shoot.

The Kansas Anvil Shooters will shoot the anvil three times each day.

On both Saturday and Sunday, there will be scheduled demonstrations of wheat threshing, corn shelling, and blacksmithing.There will also be a working miniature farm equipment display.The tractor pull will begin Sunday at 10:00 a.m.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/">A full schedule can be found on Facebook.</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/"></a>Those interested in either a booth for the Peddlers Market or for exhibiting an antique tractor, gas engine, antique or classic vehicle may call (620) 285-2054 for more information.

The Santa Fe Trail Center is located 2 miles west of Larned on K-156.To reduce traffic, the main entrance is reserved for general admission, and all oversized vehicles are asked to use the new west entrance.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696962033604.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LARNED—The grounds of the Santa Fe Trail Center Museum will soon be filled with the rumbling of the sounds of antique and vintage farm equipment.Prepare for a carnival-like atmosphere, and join the crowd as everyone enjoys the weekend of farming, food and fun on October 12 and 13 for the 24th Annual Tired Iron Show.This year’s event will highlight John Deere.Upon arrival, visitors will enter through the Peddlers Market gateway to see the booths of various arts, crafts and collectibles. There will be several food concession trucks as well.One of the many returning activities at this year’s event includes the ever-popular Anvil Shoot.The Kansas Anvil Shooters will shoot the anvil three times each day.On both Saturday and Sunday, there will be scheduled demonstrations of wheat threshing, corn shelling, and blacksmithing.There will also be a working miniature farm equipment display.The tractor pull will begin Sunday at 10:00 a.m.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/">A full schedule can be found on Facebook.</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/"></a>Those interested in either a booth for the Peddlers Market or for exhibiting an antique tractor, gas engine, antique or classic vehicle may call (620) 285-2054 for more information.The Santa Fe Trail Center is located 2 miles west of Larned on K-156.To reduce traffic, the main entrance is reserved for general admission, and all oversized vehicles are asked to use the new west entrance.

Ellis County Sheriff activity log, Oct. 1-7, 2024

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724699319635.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728337569572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728337585023.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728337596604.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

Ellis County Jail bookings, Oct. 1-7, 2024

The United Way of Ellis County will be having an information meeting regarding the CARE Council application process. 

The CARE Council is made up of 12 community volunteers who review the applications to determine funding for the United Way of Ellis County, City of Hays Social Service Funds and Alcohol Tax Funds, Ellis County Alcohol Tax Funds and now the addition of Ellis County Outside Funding.

This meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 8th at 10:30 at Brief Space. This meeting is for any 501(c)3 who will be or is interested in applying for funding from the above entities. 

This meeting will cover the online application process and timeline. 

For any questions or more information, contact Erica Berges, Executive Director of the United Way of Ellis County at 785-628-8281 or erica@liveunited.us.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600724680332.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe United Way of Ellis County will be having an information meeting regarding the CARE Council application process. The CARE Council is made up of 12 community volunteers who review the applications to determine funding for the United Way of Ellis County, City of Hays Social Service Funds and Alcohol Tax Funds, Ellis County Alcohol Tax Funds and now the addition of Ellis County Outside Funding.This meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 8th at 10:30 at Brief Space. This meeting is for any 501(c)3 who will be or is interested in applying for funding from the above entities. This meeting will cover the online application process and timeline. For any questions or more information, contact Erica Berges, Executive Director of the United Way of Ellis County at 785-628-8281 or erica@liveunited.us.

United Way of Ellis Co. to host informational meeting

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dobDNgOSMGA?si=lCBhPu7U5MDOzuTO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright

🎥🏈 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week HHS vs Junction City

🎥🏈 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week TMP vs Smith Center

A 16 year-old was killed in a rollover accident southwest of
Hays in the early morning hours Saturday.

In a press release Monday, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said that the accident was reported at approximately 12:30 a.m. near 230th
Ave. and Spring Hill Rd.

Braun said the teen was one of four teenagers in the car
that left the roadway and rolled.

The unidentified 16-year-old was not wearing a seatbelt and
was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Braun.

A second passenger was transported to the emergency room,
treated and has been released.

"Alcohol was suspected to be Involved, but deputies
will await lab reports before issuing any further details,” Braun said.

Braun added, "It is with a heavy heart that I share the
tragic news of losing a teenager from our community in a devastating accident.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

Hays PostA 16 year-old was killed in a rollover accident southwest of
Hays in the early morning hours Saturday.In a press release Monday, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said that the accident was reported at approximately 12:30 a.m. near 230th
Ave. and Spring Hill Rd.Braun said the teen was one of four teenagers in the car
that left the roadway and rolled.The unidentified 16-year-old was not wearing a seatbelt and
was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Braun.A second passenger was transported to the emergency room,
treated and has been released."Alcohol was suspected to be Involved, but deputies
will await lab reports before issuing any further details,” Braun said.Braun added, "It is with a heavy heart that I share the
tragic news of losing a teenager from our community in a devastating accident.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

Teen killed in Ellis County accident

Ellis Co. Fire Department plans fundraiser Oct. 19

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Tax filing season is still months away, but volunteers are now being sought in Hays for the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/get-involved/tax-aide/">AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chuck Henry, Kansas Foundation state coordinator in Manhattan, said Tax-Aide focuses on serving older adults with low to moderate incomes and helping them secure much-needed tax refunds.

The service is free. Although the focus is on elderly taxpayers, anyone is welcome to have their taxes prepared, and there are no income limitations.

Volunteers are being recruited in Hays to provide tax preparation and filing services and tech support. The site will be the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.&nbsp;

"Volunteers are trained, and classes are generally held in December or January," Henry said. "The amount of training required depends on the position."

Volunteers are IRS-certified every year, so they understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code. 

Several volunteer positions are available. They include an intake greeter who ensures the taxpayer's paperwork is in order. Another person prepares the tax return, which is then reviewed by a second, more knowledgeable volunteer to ensure its accuracy before it's filed.&nbsp;

At least three volunteers are needed at each site.&nbsp;

"Typically, an appointment at the AARP site will last an hour to 90 minutes," Henry said. "You'll get it prepared, reviewed, filed and a paper copy, and then you're on your way.

"Our Tax-Aide volunteers make sure they don't miss out on the credits and deductions they have earned and need."

Volunteers are able to prepare most federal and Kansas filing paperwork.

You don't necessarily need a financial background to be a Tax-Aide volunteer.&nbsp;

"All levels and types of experience are welcome," Henry said. "Volunteers come from a variety of job experiences and range from retirees to college students."

Anyone interested in volunteering should call Henry at 785-236-0382 or email him at dcchuck@yahoo.com.

Tax-Aide is funded by grants from the AARP Foundation and the IRS.&nbsp;

Last year, 27,771 volunteers at 3,600 sites across the country helped 1.7 million taxpayers receive $1.2 billion in tax refunds.&nbsp;

Since 1968, Tax-Aide has been the nation's largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727714340010.png" alt="AARP Foundation Tax Aide volunteers. Photo courtesy AARP" />
 <figcaption>AARP Foundation Tax Aide volunteers. Photo courtesy AARP</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostTax filing season is still months away, but volunteers are now being sought in Hays for the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/get-involved/tax-aide/">AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chuck Henry, Kansas Foundation state coordinator in Manhattan, said Tax-Aide focuses on serving older adults with low to moderate incomes and helping them secure much-needed tax refunds.The service is free. Although the focus is on elderly taxpayers, anyone is welcome to have their taxes prepared, and there are no income limitations.Volunteers are being recruited in Hays to provide tax preparation and filing services and tech support. The site will be the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.&nbsp;"Volunteers are trained, and classes are generally held in December or January," Henry said. "The amount of training required depends on the position."Volunteers are IRS-certified every year, so they understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code. Several volunteer positions are available. They include an intake greeter who ensures the taxpayer's paperwork is in order. Another person prepares the tax return, which is then reviewed by a second, more knowledgeable volunteer to ensure its accuracy before it's filed.&nbsp;At least three volunteers are needed at each site.&nbsp;"Typically, an appointment at the AARP site will last an hour to 90 minutes," Henry said. "You'll get it prepared, reviewed, filed and a paper copy, and then you're on your way."Our Tax-Aide volunteers make sure they don't miss out on the credits and deductions they have earned and need."Volunteers are able to prepare most federal and Kansas filing paperwork.You don't necessarily need a financial background to be a Tax-Aide volunteer.&nbsp;"All levels and types of experience are welcome," Henry said. "Volunteers come from a variety of job experiences and range from retirees to college students."Anyone interested in volunteering should call Henry at 785-236-0382 or email him at dcchuck@yahoo.com.Tax-Aide is funded by grants from the AARP Foundation and the IRS.&nbsp;Last year, 27,771 volunteers at 3,600 sites across the country helped 1.7 million taxpayers receive $1.2 billion in tax refunds.&nbsp;Since 1968, Tax-Aide has been the nation's largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program.

Local volunteers needed to help taxpayers for AARP program  

&nbsp;Catholic Charities invites the community to a Volunteer Roundup Meeting for those interested in joining its mission at their new facility located at 1011 Centennial in Hays. This new facility will house the Catholic Charities offices and a new thrift store onsite. The meeting will take place on October 29 at 11:00 AM at the current office location, downstairs at 122 E. 12th St., Hays, KS 67601 (please note, this is not the new Centennial location).

"Our team is eagerly anticipating the completion of our new facility this fall," said Megan Robl, executive director of Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas. "While we don't have an exact opening date yet due to ongoing construction, our contractors are working hard to get everything finished up within the next several weeks. We're confident and excited to welcome our wonderful community members who want to join us in this mission of serving Hays and the surrounding area."

The new thrift store will be open to the public, accepting donations of clothing, household items, and other miscellaneous goods. The organization anticipates being able to start accepting donations in late November or early December.

At this time, there is a need to fill the thrift store volunteer schedule. Volunteers will play a vital role in the operations of the thrift store, which includes running the register, receiving and sorting donations, and assisting on the sales floor.

Community members interested in volunteering at the new Catholic Charities facility are encouraged to attend this important meeting. Those unable to attend may contact Shannon Werth, Hays Thrift Store Manager, at swerth@ccnks.org or call 785-625-2644.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582085227559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted&nbsp;Catholic Charities invites the community to a Volunteer Roundup Meeting for those interested in joining its mission at their new facility located at 1011 Centennial in Hays. This new facility will house the Catholic Charities offices and a new thrift store onsite. The meeting will take place on October 29 at 11:00 AM at the current office location, downstairs at 122 E. 12th St., Hays, KS 67601 (please note, this is not the new Centennial location)."Our team is eagerly anticipating the completion of our new facility this fall," said Megan Robl, executive director of Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas. "While we don't have an exact opening date yet due to ongoing construction, our contractors are working hard to get everything finished up within the next several weeks. We're confident and excited to welcome our wonderful community members who want to join us in this mission of serving Hays and the surrounding area."The new thrift store will be open to the public, accepting donations of clothing, household items, and other miscellaneous goods. The organization anticipates being able to start accepting donations in late November or early December.At this time, there is a need to fill the thrift store volunteer schedule. Volunteers will play a vital role in the operations of the thrift store, which includes running the register, receiving and sorting donations, and assisting on the sales floor.Community members interested in volunteering at the new Catholic Charities facility are encouraged to attend this important meeting. Those unable to attend may contact Shannon Werth, Hays Thrift Store Manager, at swerth@ccnks.org or call 785-625-2644.

Catholic Charities invites community to Volunteer Roundup meeting on Oct. 29

Despite being surrounded by farmland, school districts in western Kansas struggle to source local food options to feed kids. But farm tours given by the state’s Child Nutrition and Wellness program can establish new pathways to keep kids healthy

&nbsp;By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hppr.org/people/calen-moore">CALEN MOORE</a> Kansas News Service

<a href="https://www.hppr.org/people/calen-moore"></a>GARDEN CITY&nbsp;—&nbsp;Deep into western Kansas, there’s an abundance of corn and cattle. But there aren’t as many juicy tomatoes, crisp apples or fresh squash.

That has left residents in vast pockets of the state&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-03-22/rural-grocery-stores-are-dying-off-heres-what-some-communities-are-doing-to-save-them" target="_blank">without access to nutritious foods</a>. For these communities, finding produce may be inconvenient at best, despite being surrounded by farms.

And schools are no exception in the search for healthy food. That’s why staff from the Kansas Department of Education are trying to find solutions by connecting school districts to local farms to benefit both parties.

As part of that effort, a busload of school district nutrition directors recently drove out to western Kansas farms so that schools could have more options to access local food.

But Eryn Davis, the state’s Farm to Plate program coordinator, said in this part of Kansas, finding food for humans rather than livestock is a challenge.

“From my research, it was limited on what I could find in western Kansas, both in Garden City, and even north in Colby,” Davis said.

Even though rural Kansas has direct access to agriculture, most farms in Kansas grow commodity crops such as soybeans, wheat and corn. That limits the access rural Kansans could have to other healthy foods.

The 2008 farm bill encouraged institutions operating&nbsp;<a href="https://cnw.ksde.org/f2p/program-overview" target="_blank">child nutrition programs</a>&nbsp;to purchase unprocessed locally grown and locally raised agricultural products.

This in theory would benefit the health of rural children and boost the ag economy of local farmers, lawmakers said.

As a result, the Farm to School program was established in Kansas to provide grants, materials and connections to local producers and gardening education for schools.

Davis said locally sourced food not only provides more nutrient-dense options, but it also has economic benefits.

“It’s supporting the economy of our Kansas communities that we have here, keeping our dollars. Repurchasing from Kansas producers is a big push for local foods,” Davis said.

Most school district leaders on the tour said they rely on trucking in their food from eastern Kansas, although they each had the same locally sourced foods in common: beef, dairy and tortillas.

But the need for vegetables and fruit in southwest Kansas remains.

The first stop on the tour was connecting districts from Dodge City, Garden City and Sublette to a poultry farm outside of Lakin.

As soon as everyone made their way off the bus, the chickens timidly surrounded the group of outsiders.

The Diamond W Farm and Ranch is a family operation specializing in egg production, owned by Samantha Williams with her husband and three sons.

“I started with 15 chicks, and I said, ‘It’s just as much work (with) 15 chicks as 100 chicks,’ so I got 100, then 200, and now we have anywhere from 300 to 500 chickens laying eggs at a given time,” Williams said.

The Williams family are one of the largest egg producers in southwest Kansas, and they deliver to nearby towns.

Williams initially got her egg license to provide eggs to the day care her boys attended. The operation grew so they could provide eggs to feed more children in the surrounding towns.

“I love getting up and seeing the chickens’ fluffy butts every morning; it's like my form of therapy,” Williams said.

After seeing what the Williams family could offer school districts, everyone filed back onto the bus and started brainstorming ways they would like to use local eggs.

The bus then traveled back to Garden City to the only produce farm in town, Prairie Wind Produce.

Steven Michel runs the produce farm with his wife. One thing about Michel – he’s passionate about produce.

“Me and the wife had a seniors meal the other day. It had two cherry tomatoes; they were mushy and had no flavor. People come try our tomatoes and they’re back three days later,” Michel said.

Standing in a greenhouse forest of tomatoes, school district leaders in Garden City said they hadn’t known about this produce farm in their own town. They passed around fruits and vegetables, marveling at each one.

The Michels are the exception rather than the rule in western Kansas. Michel serves as the vice president for the Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association.

“We are the only ones that grow more than two or three vegetables in at least a 60-mile radius – it’s just us,” Michel said.

That’s part of the limitation to a Farm to School program like the one in Kansas. For some school districts, there just is not a lot of local produce to source.

Michel said some of this is a lack of growers and education. Western Kansas no longer has horticulture expertise from Kansas State University, which Michel believes has discouraged the growth of gardens.

Most of the produce consumed by Kansans – 95% – is grown outside of the state. Schools are the only place for some kids to get nutritious meals from local sources.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/rural-kansas-food-deserts.html" target="_blank">Those living in the breadbasket</a>&nbsp;have significantly higher rates of diabetes, colon cancer and heart disease, according to the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Experts say for the Farm to School program to be successful in a place like western Kansas, there will need to be more produce growers.

But specialty crops aren’t covered as well by crop insurance that guarantees against drought or hail storms, which have become staples of western Kansas’ climate.

Plus, growing produce is labor intensive, Michel said. And rural Kansas has made its claim to fame being able to grow more with fewer workers thanks to technology advancements and large-scale grain.

But Davis, the coordinator of the Farm to Plate program, is optimistic that these farm tours help make the connections both farmers and school districts need. By giving producers a wholesale market, and schoolchildren fresh produce grown down the road, she thinks that this is a program that can chip away at both problems.

“It's a good way to bring nutritious local foods to the community, and that partnership with the producer is important, too, to support their business,” Davis said.

Calen Moore covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can email him at&nbsp;cmoore@hppr.org.

The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727471604150.png" alt="Kandy Michel, co-owner of Prairie Wind Produce in Garden City, holds up a fresh tomato to school district leaders in her farm’s greenhouse. The tour helped to show off the fruits grown in nearby towns that could be available for schools. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kandy Michel, co-owner of Prairie Wind Produce in Garden City, holds up a fresh tomato to school district leaders in her farm’s greenhouse. The tour helped to show off the fruits grown in nearby towns that could be available for schools. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Despite being surrounded by farmland, school districts in western Kansas struggle to source local food options to feed kids. But farm tours given by the state’s Child Nutrition and Wellness program can establish new pathways to keep kids healthy</h2>&nbsp;By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hppr.org/people/calen-moore">CALEN MOORE</a> Kansas News Service<a href="https://www.hppr.org/people/calen-moore"></a>GARDEN CITY&nbsp;—&nbsp;Deep into western Kansas, there’s an abundance of corn and cattle. But there aren’t as many juicy tomatoes, crisp apples or fresh squash.That has left residents in vast pockets of the state&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-03-22/rural-grocery-stores-are-dying-off-heres-what-some-communities-are-doing-to-save-them" target="_blank">without access to nutritious foods</a>. For these communities, finding produce may be inconvenient at best, despite being surrounded by farms.And schools are no exception in the search for healthy food. That’s why staff from the Kansas Department of Education are trying to find solutions by connecting school districts to local farms to benefit both parties.As part of that effort, a busload of school district nutrition directors recently drove out to western Kansas farms so that schools could have more options to access local food.But Eryn Davis, the state’s Farm to Plate program coordinator, said in this part of Kansas, finding food for humans rather than livestock is a challenge.“From my research, it was limited on what I could find in western Kansas, both in Garden City, and even north in Colby,” Davis said.Feeding kids locallyEven though rural Kansas has direct access to agriculture, most farms in Kansas grow commodity crops such as soybeans, wheat and corn. That limits the access rural Kansans could have to other healthy foods.The 2008 farm bill encouraged institutions operating&nbsp;<a href="https://cnw.ksde.org/f2p/program-overview" target="_blank">child nutrition programs</a>&nbsp;to purchase unprocessed locally grown and locally raised agricultural products.This in theory would benefit the health of rural children and boost the ag economy of local farmers, lawmakers said.As a result, the Farm to School program was established in Kansas to provide grants, materials and connections to local producers and gardening education for schools.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727471713234.png" alt="State employees and local school leaders from southwest Kansas squeeze by the mini jungle growing fresh produce at a local farm. The plants can grow as tall as 10 feet. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>State employees and local school leaders from southwest Kansas squeeze by the mini jungle growing fresh produce at a local farm. The plants can grow as tall as 10 feet. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis said locally sourced food not only provides more nutrient-dense options, but it also has economic benefits.“It’s supporting the economy of our Kansas communities that we have here, keeping our dollars. Repurchasing from Kansas producers is a big push for local foods,” Davis said.Most school district leaders on the tour said they rely on trucking in their food from eastern Kansas, although they each had the same locally sourced foods in common: beef, dairy and tortillas.But the need for vegetables and fruit in southwest Kansas remains.Connecting farms and schoolsThe first stop on the tour was connecting districts from Dodge City, Garden City and Sublette to a poultry farm outside of Lakin.As soon as everyone made their way off the bus, the chickens timidly surrounded the group of outsiders.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727471811162.png" alt="Hundreds of chickens roam freely at Diamond W Farm and Ranch. They surrounded the school leaders who were touring the operation as the farmers explained their egg washing process. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Hundreds of chickens roam freely at Diamond W Farm and Ranch. They surrounded the school leaders who were touring the operation as the farmers explained their egg washing process. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>The Diamond W Farm and Ranch is a family operation specializing in egg production, owned by Samantha Williams with her husband and three sons.“I started with 15 chicks, and I said, ‘It’s just as much work (with) 15 chicks as 100 chicks,’ so I got 100, then 200, and now we have anywhere from 300 to 500 chickens laying eggs at a given time,” Williams said.The Williams family are one of the largest egg producers in southwest Kansas, and they deliver to nearby towns.Williams initially got her egg license to provide eggs to the day care her boys attended. The operation grew so they could provide eggs to feed more children in the surrounding towns.“I love getting up and seeing the chickens’ fluffy butts every morning; it's like my form of therapy,” Williams said.After seeing what the Williams family could offer school districts, everyone filed back onto the bus and started brainstorming ways they would like to use local eggs.The bus then traveled back to Garden City to the only produce farm in town, Prairie Wind Produce.Steven Michel runs the produce farm with his wife. One thing about Michel – he’s passionate about produce.“Me and the wife had a seniors meal the other day. It had two cherry tomatoes; they were mushy and had no flavor. People come try our tomatoes and they’re back three days later,” Michel said.Standing in a greenhouse forest of tomatoes, school district leaders in Garden City said they hadn’t known about this produce farm in their own town. They passed around fruits and vegetables, marveling at each one.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727471913080.png" alt="Fresh produce sprawls in every direction in handmade greenhouses in north Garden City. It’s the only produce farm for miles in southwest Kansas. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Fresh produce sprawls in every direction in handmade greenhouses in north Garden City. It’s the only produce farm for miles in southwest Kansas. Photo by Calen Moore/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Limitations to local foodsThe Michels are the exception rather than the rule in western Kansas. Michel serves as the vice president for the Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association.“We are the only ones that grow more than two or three vegetables in at least a 60-mile radius – it’s just us,” Michel said.That’s part of the limitation to a Farm to School program like the one in Kansas. For some school districts, there just is not a lot of local produce to source.Michel said some of this is a lack of growers and education. Western Kansas no longer has horticulture expertise from Kansas State University, which Michel believes has discouraged the growth of gardens.Most of the produce consumed by Kansans – 95% – is grown outside of the state. Schools are the only place for some kids to get nutritious meals from local sources.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/about/news/news-archive/rural-kansas-food-deserts.html" target="_blank">Those living in the breadbasket</a>&nbsp;have significantly higher rates of diabetes, colon cancer and heart disease, according to the University of Kansas Medical Center.Experts say for the Farm to School program to be successful in a place like western Kansas, there will need to be more produce growers.But specialty crops aren’t covered as well by crop insurance that guarantees against drought or hail storms, which have become staples of western Kansas’ climate.Plus, growing produce is labor intensive, Michel said. And rural Kansas has made its claim to fame being able to grow more with fewer workers thanks to technology advancements and large-scale grain.But Davis, the coordinator of the Farm to Plate program, is optimistic that these farm tours help make the connections both farmers and school districts need. By giving producers a wholesale market, and schoolchildren fresh produce grown down the road, she thinks that this is a program that can chip away at both problems.“It's a good way to bring nutritious local foods to the community, and that partnership with the producer is important, too, to support their business,” Davis said.Calen Moore covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can email him at&nbsp;cmoore@hppr.org.The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

Western Kansas covered in farms but not growing enough local produce for school lunches

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Do you have a family member diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia? Maybe you work with dementia patients at your job? Would you like to learn more about this disease?

Twice a year, Cottonwood Extension District, A Different Mindset Association, and Clinkscales Elder Law come together to present an educational workshop aimed to support people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their family or caregivers.

In the spring and the fall, we hold a two-night workshop aimed at educating the public about dementia. The fall workshop will be held October 9th and 10th from 6-8pm at the Cottonwood Extension District office located at 601 Main St. The first night Monique will present on

Nourishing Brain Health: Recommendations for Combating Neurodegenerative Diseases. The second night, Jill Wechsler, Care Coordinator from Clinkscales Elder Law, will present on Dementia Behaviors along with a panel discussion with individuals from A Different Mindset Association. A Different Mindset Association is a non-profit organization from Ellis County that offer support and education to families experiencing dementia.

Please call the Extension office to sign up. We will also offer a zoom link if you cannot attend in person. You must provide a working email address to obtain the zoom link. The sessions will also be recorded for future use and training.

You are welcome to come one or both nights, whatever works best for you. Light refreshments will be served.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictDo you have a family member diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia? Maybe you work with dementia patients at your job? Would you like to learn more about this disease?Twice a year, Cottonwood Extension District, A Different Mindset Association, and Clinkscales Elder Law come together to present an educational workshop aimed to support people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their family or caregivers.In the spring and the fall, we hold a two-night workshop aimed at educating the public about dementia. The fall workshop will be held October 9th and 10th from 6-8pm at the Cottonwood Extension District office located at 601 Main St. The first night Monique will present onNourishing Brain Health: Recommendations for Combating Neurodegenerative Diseases. The second night, Jill Wechsler, Care Coordinator from Clinkscales Elder Law, will present on Dementia Behaviors along with a panel discussion with individuals from A Different Mindset Association. A Different Mindset Association is a non-profit organization from Ellis County that offer support and education to families experiencing dementia.Please call the Extension office to sign up. We will also offer a zoom link if you cannot attend in person. You must provide a working email address to obtain the zoom link. The sessions will also be recorded for future use and training.You are welcome to come one or both nights, whatever works best for you. Light refreshments will be served.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Dementia workshop

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728255975917.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

This week’s column is short on outdoor learnin’, but it seems to me we could all use some chuckles about now. So, if you can identify with any of the below, you probably should NOT be a fisherman.

When someone hollers “Quick, get the net,” and you dive for your smart phone to quickly pull up the internet, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.

If you worry more about whether your life jacket makes you look fat than whether it would save your life, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.

If you insist on scrubbing your hands like a surgeon each time you dip into your snack bag, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.

If you feel the need to read a eulogy for each night crawler you thread onto a hook, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.

If you think “trolling” has something to do with ugly, wart-covered creatures that live under bridges you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.

If a deep-seated concern for “night crawler rights” leads you to make midnight covert raids on fishermen’s cabins, emptying worm boxes and pillaging bait buckets you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.

And finally, if bending or stretching the truth even slightly makes you break into a cold sweat, stutter or lose control of your bodily functions, you DEFINEATLY should not be a fisherman!

And along those same lines, if you can relate to any of the conditions stated below, you probably should consider yourself AN OLD fisherman.

You’re probably an old fisherman if you still smell like Ben Gay even after you’ve cleaned your fish.

If, after reaching quickly under the boat seat for the dip net, you’ve found yourself holding your cane instead, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If you have ever started to hold the line between your teeth only to discover you’ve left your teeth at home at home, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If removing that occasional fishbone from your teeth can now be accomplished by removing your teeth and tapping them on the table, you just might be an old fisherman.

If you’re shore lunch during a fishing trip now includes a tall, cool thermos of Metamucil and a box of prunes, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If your fishing buddies are now more than happy to take you along to their secret “honey holes” because they are confident you’ll never remember where you were anyway, you’re probably an old fisherman.

You’re probably an old fisherman if your wife now begs to go fishing with you because she’s afraid you’ll forget your way back home (you should feel lucky she wants you back home).

You’re probably an old fisherman if you recently removed a seat from your boat to make room for your walker.

You just might be an old fisherman, if to you, the letters GPS mean Gotta’ Pee Soon

And finally, it’s easy for anyone to drive off with their coffee cup sitting on the roof or the bumper of the pickup, but if you have gotten to the lake and turned around to back your boat down the boat ramp only to discover the boat was still parked in the driveway at home, you’re an old fisherman.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsThis week’s column is short on outdoor learnin’, but it seems to me we could all use some chuckles about now. So, if you can identify with any of the below, you probably should NOT be a fisherman.When someone hollers “Quick, get the net,” and you dive for your smart phone to quickly pull up the internet, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.If you worry more about whether your life jacket makes you look fat than whether it would save your life, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.If you insist on scrubbing your hands like a surgeon each time you dip into your snack bag, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.If you feel the need to read a eulogy for each night crawler you thread onto a hook, you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.If you think “trolling” has something to do with ugly, wart-covered creatures that live under bridges you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.If a deep-seated concern for “night crawler rights” leads you to make midnight covert raids on fishermen’s cabins, emptying worm boxes and pillaging bait buckets you probably shouldn’t be a fisherman.And finally, if bending or stretching the truth even slightly makes you break into a cold sweat, stutter or lose control of your bodily functions, you DEFINEATLY should not be a fisherman!And along those same lines, if you can relate to any of the conditions stated below, you probably should consider yourself AN OLD fisherman.You’re probably an old fisherman if you still smell like Ben Gay even after you’ve cleaned your fish.If, after reaching quickly under the boat seat for the dip net, you’ve found yourself holding your cane instead, you’re probably an old fisherman.If you have ever started to hold the line between your teeth only to discover you’ve left your teeth at home at home, you’re probably an old fisherman.If removing that occasional fishbone from your teeth can now be accomplished by removing your teeth and tapping them on the table, you just might be an old fisherman.If you’re shore lunch during a fishing trip now includes a tall, cool thermos of Metamucil and a box of prunes, you’re probably an old fisherman.If your fishing buddies are now more than happy to take you along to their secret “honey holes” because they are confident you’ll never remember where you were anyway, you’re probably an old fisherman.You’re probably an old fisherman if your wife now begs to go fishing with you because she’s afraid you’ll forget your way back home (you should feel lucky she wants you back home).You’re probably an old fisherman if you recently removed a seat from your boat to make room for your walker.You just might be an old fisherman, if to you, the letters GPS mean Gotta’ Pee SoonAnd finally, it’s easy for anyone to drive off with their coffee cup sitting on the roof or the bumper of the pickup, but if you have gotten to the lake and turned around to back your boat down the boat ramp only to discover the boat was still parked in the driveway at home, you’re an old fisherman.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Fishing Proverbs

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Keren, the comfort dog, is visiting Fort Hays State University to comfort and relieve students' stress with her warm, fluffy hugs just before their midterm exams.

Keren visits FHSU three times each semester. She will offer emotional support on Monday at the Memorial Union.

Lutheran Church Charities Top Dog, Carol Kratzer, oversees Keren's ministry work and said students tend to perform better on their tests after Keren's visits.

"Many students talk about how much better they do after they pet her. They are more focused and are able to recall information in tests," Kratzer said.

"Keren's calm, attentive and loving deminer brings people in," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728068737349.jpeg" alt="Keren the comfort dog being hugged. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Keren the comfort dog being hugged. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostKeren, the comfort dog, is visiting Fort Hays State University to comfort and relieve students' stress with her warm, fluffy hugs just before their midterm exams.Keren visits FHSU three times each semester. She will offer emotional support on Monday at the Memorial Union.Lutheran Church Charities Top Dog, Carol Kratzer, oversees Keren's ministry work and said students tend to perform better on their tests after Keren's visits."Many students talk about how much better they do after they pet her. They are more focused and are able to recall information in tests," Kratzer said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728068808248.jpeg" alt="Keren the comfort dog at Great Bend. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Keren the comfort dog at Great Bend. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728068886762.jpeg" alt="Keren the comfort dog being pet. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Keren the comfort dog being pet. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"Keren's calm, attentive and loving deminer brings people in," she said.Keren is one of 130&nbsp;Lutheran Church Charities K-9 comfort dogs who support those in need across 27 states. She has been based at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth since 2021.Keren is a 5-year-old purebred Golden Retriever who started training at 8 weeks old and knows more than 35 commands for her role. In her free time, she loves playing with her ball.Kratzer said Keren can sense someone in emotional distress, even without the handler's awareness. On one occasion, Keren focused on an individual who revealed they had recently experienced a significant loss."Part of the reason [Lutheran Church Charities] chooses golden retrievers is their empathy. Keren has taken us to people who needed her that we didn't even know we would be visiting," she said.While Keren has three sisters, she is the only&nbsp;Lutheran Church Charities comfort dog in Kansas. She travels throughout the state, providing comfort in schools, hospitals, nursing homes and disaster areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728069153669.jpeg" alt="Keren the comfort dog accompanying a woman. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Keren the comfort dog accompanying a woman. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728069181353.jpeg" alt="Keren the comfort dog being hugged by a woman. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Keren the comfort dog being hugged by a woman. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>She has also provided support during personal tragedies, including the community of Independence, Missouri, after the death of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/JFh5eV2vx5TKdybL/">police officer Cody Allen</a> earlier this year."She has done a number of disaster responses here in the state. She has been to Natoma three times and was in Andover after the tornado," Kratzer said.In addition to Kansas communities, Keren also visited Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, following the 2022 shooting.Numerous&nbsp;Lutheran Church Charities comfort dogs from across the country <a href="https://vimeo.com/754464975/c1e5b1bf0d?fbclid=IwY2xjawFtAYZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHUnQXiPP6RYP_o6QpxzCPC_0BL8nVhnLa_GRlNvp5YP2CrcHNJ2Ls7MQOA_aem_9Qm1gazT_o6DtVcIhzdAqg">traveled to Uvalde</a> for five weeks to accompany children to class when they were afraid.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728069044403.jpeg" alt="Keren the comfort dog being pet by children. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Keren the comfort dog being pet by children. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"Our purpose of being there is just to listen. We're not there to necessarily solve any problem, just help them cope at that time," Kratzer said.Kratzer said there are misconceptions about Keren and her services due to her affiliation with a church."She belongs to a church organization, but we're not here to convert you. We're here to share mercy and compassion," she said.Lutheran Church Charities, established in 2008, provides services at no cost and relies on donor support. You can make donations <a href="https://www.lutheranchurchcharities.org/give-lcc-general.html">here</a>.Keren is scheduled to return to FHSU after her Monday visit for finals week.You can find more information on the Lutheran Church Charities <a href="https://www.lutheranchurchcharities.org/">website </a>and follow Keren, the comfort dog, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KerenComfortDog/">Facebook</a>.