<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/2024/9/1727031054144.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

First Care Clinic, Inc. is proud to announce that for the fifth consecutive year, the clinic was recognized as a Health Center Quality Leader, ranking among the top 10 percent of health centers in the nation for best overall clinical performance. These Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) badges are awarded each year to health centers that have made notable quality improvement achievements in the most recent Uniform Data System (UDS) reporting period.

“We have very dedicated and caring staff who take pride in giving excellent care to our patients” states Eric Flax, First Care Clinic CEO. “To be recognized by HRSA, once again, for providing the highest quality of care as well as being one of the national leaders in cancer screening and heart health, really validates what our patients have come to expect – at First Care Clinic, you will receive first class care!”

First Care Clinic was also awarded National Quality Leader in heart health for the fourth year. This distinction is given to the top 1 to 2 percent of all health centers that reach goals in heart attack and stroke prevention in patients. These goals include the use of aspirin when appropriate, blood pressure control, cholesterol management, smoking cessation and prevalence reduction, and reductions in daily sodium use and physical inactivity.

Additionally, First Care Clinic received the National Quality Leader award in cancer screening. This award highlights the health center’s role in providing potentially life-saving access to breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings. HRSA first awarded this badge in 2023, making this the second consecutive year for First Care Clinic to receive it. Of the nearly 1,400 HRSA-supported health centers in the nation, only fourteen were awarded this badge alongside First Care Clinic.

“I am so proud of our patients and staff” said Dr. Christine Fisher, Medical Director. “Great preventative care is the hallmark of high-quality care. Helping to prevent cancer and heart disease enables our patients to live longer, healthier lives, and that is our goal.”

First Care Clinic also earned awards for Health Disparities Reducer and Access Enhancer.

For more information visit <a href="http://www.firstcareclinic.com">www.firstcareclinic.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726606446711.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Care Clinic, Inc. is proud to announce that for the fifth consecutive year, the clinic was recognized as a Health Center Quality Leader, ranking among the top 10 percent of health centers in the nation for best overall clinical performance. These Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) badges are awarded each year to health centers that have made notable quality improvement achievements in the most recent Uniform Data System (UDS) reporting period.“We have very dedicated and caring staff who take pride in giving excellent care to our patients” states Eric Flax, First Care Clinic CEO. “To be recognized by HRSA, once again, for providing the highest quality of care as well as being one of the national leaders in cancer screening and heart health, really validates what our patients have come to expect – at First Care Clinic, you will receive first class care!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726606362494.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First Care Clinic was also awarded National Quality Leader in heart health for the fourth year. This distinction is given to the top 1 to 2 percent of all health centers that reach goals in heart attack and stroke prevention in patients. These goals include the use of aspirin when appropriate, blood pressure control, cholesterol management, smoking cessation and prevalence reduction, and reductions in daily sodium use and physical inactivity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726606380912.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, First Care Clinic received the National Quality Leader award in cancer screening. This award highlights the health center’s role in providing potentially life-saving access to breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings. HRSA first awarded this badge in 2023, making this the second consecutive year for First Care Clinic to receive it. Of the nearly 1,400 HRSA-supported health centers in the nation, only fourteen were awarded this badge alongside First Care Clinic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726606430220.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“I am so proud of our patients and staff” said Dr. Christine Fisher, Medical Director. “Great preventative care is the hallmark of high-quality care. Helping to prevent cancer and heart disease enables our patients to live longer, healthier lives, and that is our goal.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726606413493.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First Care Clinic also earned awards for Health Disparities Reducer and Access Enhancer.For more information visit <a href="http://www.firstcareclinic.com">www.firstcareclinic.com</a>.

WPAA to present 'Street Corner Symphony'

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

Two of the best-known phrases in modern history are “Gentlemen Start Your Engines,” and “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble,” both of which precede the start of popular sporting events. Maybe if we hunters had a catchy phrase to remind us, we would do a better job of preparing our gear for the upcoming plethora of hunting seasons. On a recent TV hunting show, the host was interviewing several professional hunting guides, asking each of them the question “What is the biggest mistake you see you clients make?” Without hesitation, the first guide answered “The biggest mistake I see clients make year after year is coming to camp unfamiliar with and unsure of their equipment.” He said “For example, they think that just because the sights on their bows or the scopes on their rifles were “spot-on” when they put them away last year or when they loaded them for the trip, they must still be spot-on when they arrive. I offer them the chance to sight them in before we go to the woods, but they decline. So, I take them to the woods and they blow a shot at a once-in-a-lifetime buck because their sights were indeed off.”

Let’s discuss some things we should all do in preparation of hunting season. First check your licenses and tags. Decide what all you plan to hunt this year and be sure you possess all the different stamps and tags to legally do so. If you’re not sure what you need, by all means contact your local conservation officer or the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks. You will have to purchase specific tags for deer and turkeys, which will be good only for this season, but general (fishing) and hunting licenses and fur-harvesting permits are now good for one full year from the date you purchase them.

Along with licenses, make sure you also have permission to hunt all your “honey holes.” Many land owners grant permission on a first- come, first- serve basis. We are most blessed to be able to hunt and trap on land owned by my sister and her family, but privately owned land available for hunting, fishing and trapping gets harder to find each year, so don’t put-off a trip to the landowners home to ask their permission in person.

Now check your clothing. As we all know, shirts and pants have a bad habit of shrinking over the years. Replace them, have your wife let them out a little to fit, or better yet, shrink yourself a little. Clothing does honestly wear out sometimes, and now is a good time to find fall and winter hunting apparel on sale. If you have your eye on some of the new camo patterns or some of the new scent-blocker clothing for instance, start shopping now. This includes footwear as well. There’s nothing worse than sore &amp; blistered or cold feet. Venues like trapping and upland bird hunting are strenuous exercise and there’s no time like the present to begin some sort of fitness program to get you in better physical shape. Start walking or bicycling in the evenings or any other cardio workout to increase your stamina.

Do a thorough inspection on your weapons of choice. Test sights on bows and scopes on rifles &amp; crossbows, and readjust if necessary. Make certain all mechanisms are lightly oiled and lubed. Put a few shells through your deer rifle just to familiarize yourself again with its feel and recoil. Shoot your bow to again become confident of your holding point and be certain the release is functional. Check for frayed or nicked strings and bad fletching on arrows. In short, be certain every part of every weapon is in good repair and functioning correctly. Also stock up on ammunition. Supplies have fluctuated greatly the last couple years, so get what you need early. For those of us who don’t keep deer feeders full or cameras

out year-round, other equipment and supply needs may include batteries for cameras and corn for feeders.

Hopefully you trappers cleaned and neatly packed away all your equipment after last season, but now is the time to pull everything out and see what you need in the way of additional equipment, scents and lures. The annual Kansas Fur Harvesters Assn. rendezvous is October 4 &amp; 5 at McPherson, KS, and is a great place to get everything you need, as there will be numerous supply vendors present, plus lots of “tail gaters” with good used equipment to sell. The event also boasts a full weekend of demonstrations by experienced Kansas trappers, and is an opportune place and time for new trappers to gain a wealth of knowledge.

Well, that’s it in a nutshell; probably nothing here you didn’t already know, but maybe reading this will spur you in to action. The beastly hot, dry summer in my part of Kansas will no doubt have some impact on this year’s hunting and trapping opportunities; I really don’t know what to expect. What I do know is that if I do my part by having all my equipment ready, there won’t be any unwelcome surprises in that category!

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 OutdoorsTwo of the best-known phrases in modern history are “Gentlemen Start Your Engines,” and “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble,” both of which precede the start of popular sporting events. Maybe if we hunters had a catchy phrase to remind us, we would do a better job of preparing our gear for the upcoming plethora of hunting seasons. On a recent TV hunting show, the host was interviewing several professional hunting guides, asking each of them the question “What is the biggest mistake you see you clients make?” Without hesitation, the first guide answered “The biggest mistake I see clients make year after year is coming to camp unfamiliar with and unsure of their equipment.” He said “For example, they think that just because the sights on their bows or the scopes on their rifles were “spot-on” when they put them away last year or when they loaded them for the trip, they must still be spot-on when they arrive. I offer them the chance to sight them in before we go to the woods, but they decline. So, I take them to the woods and they blow a shot at a once-in-a-lifetime buck because their sights were indeed off.”Let’s discuss some things we should all do in preparation of hunting season. First check your licenses and tags. Decide what all you plan to hunt this year and be sure you possess all the different stamps and tags to legally do so. If you’re not sure what you need, by all means contact your local conservation officer or the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks. You will have to purchase specific tags for deer and turkeys, which will be good only for this season, but general (fishing) and hunting licenses and fur-harvesting permits are now good for one full year from the date you purchase them.Along with licenses, make sure you also have permission to hunt all your “honey holes.” Many land owners grant permission on a first- come, first- serve basis. We are most blessed to be able to hunt and trap on land owned by my sister and her family, but privately owned land available for hunting, fishing and trapping gets harder to find each year, so don’t put-off a trip to the landowners home to ask their permission in person.Now check your clothing. As we all know, shirts and pants have a bad habit of shrinking over the years. Replace them, have your wife let them out a little to fit, or better yet, shrink yourself a little. Clothing does honestly wear out sometimes, and now is a good time to find fall and winter hunting apparel on sale. If you have your eye on some of the new camo patterns or some of the new scent-blocker clothing for instance, start shopping now. This includes footwear as well. There’s nothing worse than sore &amp; blistered or cold feet. Venues like trapping and upland bird hunting are strenuous exercise and there’s no time like the present to begin some sort of fitness program to get you in better physical shape. Start walking or bicycling in the evenings or any other cardio workout to increase your stamina.Do a thorough inspection on your weapons of choice. Test sights on bows and scopes on rifles &amp; crossbows, and readjust if necessary. Make certain all mechanisms are lightly oiled and lubed. Put a few shells through your deer rifle just to familiarize yourself again with its feel and recoil. Shoot your bow to again become confident of your holding point and be certain the release is functional. Check for frayed or nicked strings and bad fletching on arrows. In short, be certain every part of every weapon is in good repair and functioning correctly. Also stock up on ammunition. Supplies have fluctuated greatly the last couple years, so get what you need early. For those of us who don’t keep deer feeders full or camerasout year-round, other equipment and supply needs may include batteries for cameras and corn for feeders.Hopefully you trappers cleaned and neatly packed away all your equipment after last season, but now is the time to pull everything out and see what you need in the way of additional equipment, scents and lures. The annual Kansas Fur Harvesters Assn. rendezvous is October 4 &amp; 5 at McPherson, KS, and is a great place to get everything you need, as there will be numerous supply vendors present, plus lots of “tail gaters” with good used equipment to sell. The event also boasts a full weekend of demonstrations by experienced Kansas trappers, and is an opportune place and time for new trappers to gain a wealth of knowledge.Well, that’s it in a nutshell; probably nothing here you didn’t already know, but maybe reading this will spur you in to action. The beastly hot, dry summer in my part of Kansas will no doubt have some impact on this year’s hunting and trapping opportunities; I really don’t know what to expect. What I do know is that if I do my part by having all my equipment ready, there won’t be any unwelcome surprises in that category!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Tis’ the Season

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Fifty percent of all elderly caregiving in the United States is for someone living with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia, according to the American Alzheimer's Association.

<a href="https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/">A Different Mindset Association</a> is a Hays-based nonprofit group offering community support for people with dementia and their families.

The group offers community educational workshops, caregiver support groups in-person and online, and non-medical respite activities.&nbsp;

Up to 30 percent of caregivers are 65 or older and often care for an aging parent and at least one child. The caregivers' mental and physical health is also important, said Micki Armstrong, president of A Different Mindset.

"We want to make sure that those people are healthy, too," Armstrong said. "Statistics show that those people can get frustrated and have their own medical issues if they don't have some kind of relief."

The group has just started two programs in cooperation with the Hays Senior Center to socially engage persons with dementia and provide some respite from the demands on their caregivers.

On the first Tuesday of each month, participants who are in the early to moderate stages of dementia will enjoy lunch and then a field trip to various spots, such as the Triple 8 Equine Center, Sternberg Museum of Natural History and St. Vincent Church to see the creche and Bethlehem scene. There will be indoor and outdoor experiences and opportunities for community service.

"Every person with dementia must first be assessed. We do those assessments in their home with the caregiver there," Armstrong said.&nbsp;

"We have some simple criteria. They must be ambulatory to go up and down the bus steps, have some level of communication, and be able to toilet themselves."

The social engagement day program will be on the third Tuesday of each month at the Hays Senior Center.

Participants will enjoy lunch, art, drama, music, intergenerational activities, animal interactions, and community service. They will also engage in cognitive and physical exercises. 

Because the four-and-a-half-hour social engagement programs are non-medical, no medications will be distributed during those times.

A Different Mindset is based on a similar program in Leavenworth, The Deeper Window Association.&nbsp;

"When we saw it, we knew this is what we want to do," Armstrong said.

"These types of programs are needed all across our country as the dementia rates continue to rise," said one member of Different Mindset.&nbsp;

A core group of seven to eight local volunteers has organized Different Mindset and more volunteers are welcome.&nbsp;

Monique Koerner, family and community wellness agent for K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Hays, is one of the volunteers.&nbsp;

"One of the main focuses of Different Mindset is to not only support the caregiver but we're also supporting the dementia patient through those activities, engaging their mind and their body in experiences that will help those connections in their brain," Koerner said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She will present a public workshop about brain health and dementia from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 9 in the extension office, 601 Main.

Koerner will talk about combating neurodegenerative diseases and good brain health.&nbsp;

The next evening, Oct. 10, Jill Wechsler, care coordinator at Clinkscales Elder Law Practice and a member of Different Mindset, will discuss the best approaches for behaviors related to dementia with a panel of experienced caregivers.

The session will also be from 6 to 8 p.m. in the extension office. A Zoom link will be provided for an online option. Call Koerner at 785-628-9430 to RSVP for either or both sessions.

"The hardest thing about this disease [Alzheimer's] is you lose your loved one twice. They fade away before they physically die," said a caregiver.

Although there's currently no cure for Alzheimer's, there is abundant research underway and some early success in slowing the progress of the disease and other dementias.

Some new research considers Alzheimer's "Type 3 diabetes."

"It has to do with inflammation of the brain and the build-up of toxins," Koerner said. "We already know too much sugar is not necessarily good for our bodies. They're researching its effect on the brain."

Information about A Different Mindset is available on the website <a href="https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/">www.adiffmindsetassoc.org</a>, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/adiffmindsetassoc">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;or by calling 785-269-1928.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726843239157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostFifty percent of all elderly caregiving in the United States is for someone living with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia, according to the American Alzheimer's Association.<a href="https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/">A Different Mindset Association</a> is a Hays-based nonprofit group offering community support for people with dementia and their families.The group offers community educational workshops, caregiver support groups in-person and online, and non-medical respite activities.&nbsp;Up to 30 percent of caregivers are 65 or older and often care for an aging parent and at least one child. The caregivers' mental and physical health is also important, said Micki Armstrong, president of A Different Mindset."We want to make sure that those people are healthy, too," Armstrong said. "Statistics show that those people can get frustrated and have their own medical issues if they don't have some kind of relief."The group has just started two programs in cooperation with the Hays Senior Center to socially engage persons with dementia and provide some respite from the demands on their caregivers.On the first Tuesday of each month, participants who are in the early to moderate stages of dementia will enjoy lunch and then a field trip to various spots, such as the Triple 8 Equine Center, Sternberg Museum of Natural History and St. Vincent Church to see the creche and Bethlehem scene. There will be indoor and outdoor experiences and opportunities for community service."Every person with dementia must first be assessed. We do those assessments in their home with the caregiver there," Armstrong said.&nbsp;"We have some simple criteria. They must be ambulatory to go up and down the bus steps, have some level of communication, and be able to toilet themselves."The social engagement day program will be on the third Tuesday of each month at the Hays Senior Center.Participants will enjoy lunch, art, drama, music, intergenerational activities, animal interactions, and community service. They will also engage in cognitive and physical exercises. Because the four-and-a-half-hour social engagement programs are non-medical, no medications will be distributed during those times.A Different Mindset is based on a similar program in Leavenworth, The Deeper Window Association.&nbsp;"When we saw it, we knew this is what we want to do," Armstrong said."These types of programs are needed all across our country as the dementia rates continue to rise," said one member of Different Mindset.&nbsp;A core group of seven to eight local volunteers has organized Different Mindset and more volunteers are welcome.&nbsp;Monique Koerner, family and community wellness agent for K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Hays, is one of the volunteers.&nbsp;"One of the main focuses of Different Mindset is to not only support the caregiver but we're also supporting the dementia patient through those activities, engaging their mind and their body in experiences that will help those connections in their brain," Koerner said.&nbsp;&nbsp;She will present a public workshop about brain health and dementia from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 9 in the extension office, 601 Main.Koerner will talk about combating neurodegenerative diseases and good brain health.&nbsp;The next evening, Oct. 10, Jill Wechsler, care coordinator at Clinkscales Elder Law Practice and a member of Different Mindset, will discuss the best approaches for behaviors related to dementia with a panel of experienced caregivers.The session will also be from 6 to 8 p.m. in the extension office. A Zoom link will be provided for an online option. Call Koerner at 785-628-9430 to RSVP for either or both sessions."The hardest thing about this disease [Alzheimer's] is you lose your loved one twice. They fade away before they physically die," said a caregiver.Although there's currently no cure for Alzheimer's, there is abundant research underway and some early success in slowing the progress of the disease and other dementias.Some new research considers Alzheimer's "Type 3 diabetes.""It has to do with inflammation of the brain and the build-up of toxins," Koerner said. "We already know too much sugar is not necessarily good for our bodies. They're researching its effect on the brain."Information about A Different Mindset is available on the website <a href="https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/">www.adiffmindsetassoc.org</a>, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/adiffmindsetassoc">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;or by calling 785-269-1928.

A Different Mindset supports area Alzheimer's patients, caregivers

The Fort Hays State University rodeo team began the season with big wins in their initial competitions, first in Manhattan and then in Colby.

Leading the way for the Tiger Rodeo Team was FHSU freshman Hailey Witte from Crookston, Neb. Witte is the most recent State High School Barrel Racing Champion from her home state and continued with her championship ways in Manhattan. She posted a sizzling 15.61 seconds to take an early lead in the first go-round and ended up placing third.&nbsp;

Witte came back for the Sunday Short-Go Championship Round, nearly tying her first run with a time of 15.64. Her overall performance in the aggregate placed her first overall for the weekend.&nbsp;

“For a freshman to raise up to the collegiate level and win in her debut performance is incredible,” said Coach Guy Forell. “I knew we were going to be well represented in the barrel racing this year. We had three barrel racers make it into the Top 12 Short Go at Manhattan, and I believe we’re going to see that with some regularity this year.”

Another freshman with a top performance at K-State was Abagail Olson from Sheridan, Wyo. Olson shook the whole battery of barrel racers in the first round with a smoking 15.52 run, easily winning round number one.

A knocked-over barrel in the short round took her out of the average at K-State but put everyone on notice that she will be a real threat this year. Olson is the Reserve National High School Champion and a two-time state champion and competes in the three events of goat tying, breakaway roping, and the barrels.

“I am just so eager to see how this team performs this year. With the new freshmen and transfers, we are getting noticed, and this year will be an exciting time,” Forell said.

Senior Prairie Robbins from Brookville also made the Top 12 Short Go in the barrel racing, posting a time of 15.97 in the Long Go and a 16.45 in the Short Go, finishing with a&nbsp;ninth place finish overall out of 155 competitors. Two other FHSU competitors, Lexi Wooten from Udall and Kagan Davis from Purcell, Okla., were just out of the top 12.

In the steer wrestling event, former FHSU football player turned rodeo athlete from Devers, Tex., J.T. Jones hit a time of 4.8 seconds to win the first go-round of the big man’s event. The 6-foot 3-inch, 230-pound Jones is primarily a tie-down calf roper but uses his size and athleticism to wrestle steers as his second event.&nbsp;

“This guy is a beast, has no fear, and just attacks the steers like he did on the gridiron, and it makes for some great watching,” said Assistant Coach Trevor Meier. Jones was long in the Short Go with a time of 19.1 and finished tenth overall.

In the breakaway roping, Katherine Walker, a Dodge City Community College transfer student from Erie, Ill., clocked a time of 2.9 seconds in the first go, was 3.4 in the Short Go, and finished a strong fifth place overall out of 162 contestants entered in the breakaway event.

Following their initial rodeo, the team traveled to Colby this past weekend, Sept. 12-14, and continued their successful start to the season. Once again, Hailey Witte placed first in barrel racing, and J.T. Jones took first in tie-down roping.

The FHSU Rodeo Team competes in the Central Plains College Rodeo Circuit, and after the first two rodeos of the season, the FHSU men are in ninth place out of fifteen competing teams, and the women are in fourth out of eleven.

Their next competition will be Sept. 26-28 at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, Okla.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726693218470.jpeg" alt="FHSU freshman Hailey Witte competes in Barrel Race in season opening rodeo at K-State. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU freshman Hailey Witte competes in Barrel Race in season opening rodeo at K-State. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe Fort Hays State University rodeo team began the season with big wins in their initial competitions, first in Manhattan and then in Colby.Leading the way for the Tiger Rodeo Team was FHSU freshman Hailey Witte from Crookston, Neb. Witte is the most recent State High School Barrel Racing Champion from her home state and continued with her championship ways in Manhattan. She posted a sizzling 15.61 seconds to take an early lead in the first go-round and ended up placing third.&nbsp;Witte came back for the Sunday Short-Go Championship Round, nearly tying her first run with a time of 15.64. Her overall performance in the aggregate placed her first overall for the weekend.&nbsp;“For a freshman to raise up to the collegiate level and win in her debut performance is incredible,” said Coach Guy Forell. “I knew we were going to be well represented in the barrel racing this year. We had three barrel racers make it into the Top 12 Short Go at Manhattan, and I believe we’re going to see that with some regularity this year.”Another freshman with a top performance at K-State was Abagail Olson from Sheridan, Wyo. Olson shook the whole battery of barrel racers in the first round with a smoking 15.52 run, easily winning round number one.A knocked-over barrel in the short round took her out of the average at K-State but put everyone on notice that she will be a real threat this year. Olson is the Reserve National High School Champion and a two-time state champion and competes in the three events of goat tying, breakaway roping, and the barrels.“I am just so eager to see how this team performs this year. With the new freshmen and transfers, we are getting noticed, and this year will be an exciting time,” Forell said.Senior Prairie Robbins from Brookville also made the Top 12 Short Go in the barrel racing, posting a time of 15.97 in the Long Go and a 16.45 in the Short Go, finishing with a&nbsp;ninth place finish overall out of 155 competitors. Two other FHSU competitors, Lexi Wooten from Udall and Kagan Davis from Purcell, Okla., were just out of the top 12.In the steer wrestling event, former FHSU football player turned rodeo athlete from Devers, Tex., J.T. Jones hit a time of 4.8 seconds to win the first go-round of the big man’s event. The 6-foot 3-inch, 230-pound Jones is primarily a tie-down calf roper but uses his size and athleticism to wrestle steers as his second event.&nbsp;“This guy is a beast, has no fear, and just attacks the steers like he did on the gridiron, and it makes for some great watching,” said Assistant Coach Trevor Meier. Jones was long in the Short Go with a time of 19.1 and finished tenth overall.In the breakaway roping, Katherine Walker, a Dodge City Community College transfer student from Erie, Ill., clocked a time of 2.9 seconds in the first go, was 3.4 in the Short Go, and finished a strong fifth place overall out of 162 contestants entered in the breakaway event.Following their initial rodeo, the team traveled to Colby this past weekend, Sept. 12-14, and continued their successful start to the season. Once again, Hailey Witte placed first in barrel racing, and J.T. Jones took first in tie-down roping.The FHSU Rodeo Team competes in the Central Plains College Rodeo Circuit, and after the first two rodeos of the season, the FHSU men are in ninth place out of fifteen competing teams, and the women are in fourth out of eleven.Their next competition will be Sept. 26-28 at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, Okla.

FHSU rodeo barrel racers light up the scoreboard at Kansas State University

(Evanston, Illinois) -- Officials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of more than 16,000 Semifinalists in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit scholarships worth nearly 26 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. 

Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test (PSAT/NMSQT), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. 

Caleb is the son of Dennis and Kim King. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726859022868.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted(Evanston, Illinois) -- Officials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of more than 16,000 Semifinalists in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit scholarships worth nearly 26 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test (PSAT/NMSQT), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. Caleb is the son of Dennis and Kim King.

Hays High School senior named National Merit Scholarship semifinalist

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

With a coveted Taylor Swift endorsement
rolling out earlier this month, everyone seems to be talking about the
engagement of young voters this election cycle.

Young people — typically, this is measured by
those under the age of 35 — are often touted as apathetic and not caring about
politics.

But political science research suggests this
assertion couldn’t be further from the truth. Young people are very interested
in political issues, they’re just less willing to engage in mainstream forms of
political participation like voting and joining political parties.

They’ve replaced these traditional forms of
democratic participation with alternative approaches like social movements,
rallies, protests, and consumer boycotts.

The 2022 election cycle in Kansas shows us,
perhaps even more than previous generations, that young people are issue
voters. They’re less mobilized by candidates and parties but they are mobilized
strongly by salient political issues. 

In 2022, the issue was the fall of Roe v. Wade and Kansas’ constitutional
amendment on abortion access.

The week following the Supreme Court decision
to overturn Roe v. Wade, the average
age of new voter registrations was 25. During that same week in 2020, the
average age of new registrants was 36.

This increase in voter registration among
young people led to their higher than normal turnout in the primary election
that year.

37.4% of registered voters under the age of 40
cast a ballot in the 2022 primary election.

However, if we compare turnout to the 2024
presidential primary in March of this year, young voter turnout drops
significantly. Only 1.5% of all registrants under the age of 40 cast a ballot. 

In total, only 7.1% of registered voters
turned out in this election, but the age disparities are stark. For comparison,
17.4% of registered voters aged 65 and older turned out.

Even among registered Democrats and
Republicans, turnout was 20.1% for those 65 and older and only 2.3% for those
under 40.

This suggests that young voters are not
necessarily translating strong issue preferences into partisan vote choice, but
when issues are directly on the ballot they turn out in droves.

Whichever candidate or party can overcome this
youthful rejection of traditional political participation by finding ways to
connect themselves directly with specific policy issues will have the potential
to sway every election. 

Academic scholarship on civic engagement
points to four factors that increase political participation: trust (in
government and others), resources (time, money, knowledge), engagement
(psychological engagement, attitudes, efficacy), and invitations (from
activists, elected officials, parties, candidates).

Historically, young people have had the lowest
levels on all of these indicators. 

But the tide seems to be turning. Nationally,
young people had higher than average turnout in the 2018 and 2020 elections.
Here in Kansas, they had higher than average turnout in 2022.

These higher turnout levels were in direct
response to candidates and parties targeting young voters and their policy
preferences.

Young people represent a significant portion
of the electorate and as they become a larger share of eligible voters, their
influence on elections and policy decisions only grows.

Their engagement has the potential to shift
political priorities and electoral outcomes.

Don’t count out Kansas’ young voters.

Note: All Kansas voter registration data is
from <a href="https://www.ike-lab.com/index.html">IKE
Lab</a>, a project affiliated with Wichita State University focused on
data and analysis about Kansas elections.

Alexandra
Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science
Department at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasWith a coveted Taylor Swift endorsement
rolling out earlier this month, everyone seems to be talking about the
engagement of young voters this election cycle.Young people — typically, this is measured by
those under the age of 35 — are often touted as apathetic and not caring about
politics.But political science research suggests this
assertion couldn’t be further from the truth. Young people are very interested
in political issues, they’re just less willing to engage in mainstream forms of
political participation like voting and joining political parties.They’ve replaced these traditional forms of
democratic participation with alternative approaches like social movements,
rallies, protests, and consumer boycotts.The 2022 election cycle in Kansas shows us,
perhaps even more than previous generations, that young people are issue
voters. They’re less mobilized by candidates and parties but they are mobilized
strongly by salient political issues. In 2022, the issue was the fall of Roe v. Wade and Kansas’ constitutional
amendment on abortion access.The week following the Supreme Court decision
to overturn Roe v. Wade, the average
age of new voter registrations was 25. During that same week in 2020, the
average age of new registrants was 36.This increase in voter registration among
young people led to their higher than normal turnout in the primary election
that year.37.4% of registered voters under the age of 40
cast a ballot in the 2022 primary election.However, if we compare turnout to the 2024
presidential primary in March of this year, young voter turnout drops
significantly. Only 1.5% of all registrants under the age of 40 cast a ballot. In total, only 7.1% of registered voters
turned out in this election, but the age disparities are stark. For comparison,
17.4% of registered voters aged 65 and older turned out.Even among registered Democrats and
Republicans, turnout was 20.1% for those 65 and older and only 2.3% for those
under 40.This suggests that young voters are not
necessarily translating strong issue preferences into partisan vote choice, but
when issues are directly on the ballot they turn out in droves.Whichever candidate or party can overcome this
youthful rejection of traditional political participation by finding ways to
connect themselves directly with specific policy issues will have the potential
to sway every election. Academic scholarship on civic engagement
points to four factors that increase political participation: trust (in
government and others), resources (time, money, knowledge), engagement
(psychological engagement, attitudes, efficacy), and invitations (from
activists, elected officials, parties, candidates).Historically, young people have had the lowest
levels on all of these indicators. But the tide seems to be turning. Nationally,
young people had higher than average turnout in the 2018 and 2020 elections.
Here in Kansas, they had higher than average turnout in 2022.These higher turnout levels were in direct
response to candidates and parties targeting young voters and their policy
preferences.Young people represent a significant portion
of the electorate and as they become a larger share of eligible voters, their
influence on elections and policy decisions only grows.Their engagement has the potential to shift
political priorities and electoral outcomes.Don’t count out Kansas’ young voters.Note: All Kansas voter registration data is
from <a href="https://www.ike-lab.com/index.html">IKE
Lab</a>, a project affiliated with Wichita State University focused on
data and analysis about Kansas elections.Alexandra
Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science
Department at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Don't count out Kansas' young voters

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726959035158.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>

Smoky Hills PBS is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of&nbsp;Cottonwood Connections&nbsp;for its fifth season, premiering this Sunday at 6 PM.&nbsp;

The locally-produced series continues its mission of highlighting the stories, people, and heritage of rural Kansas.

“As we dig into the topics for each new season, it is always compelling to realize how many more stories there are to tell. We have such a complex and interesting history on the Plains that encapsulates so much of what shaped our country,”&nbsp;said Ed Lowry, Cottonwood Connections Creator.&nbsp;“It is a privilege to tell those stories and to introduce a broader audience to the great folks who work so hard to expand our understanding of our own history.”

Since its debut,&nbsp;Cottonwood Connections&nbsp;has become a staple in our programming lineup, showcasing the unique and diverse experiences of Kansans. Season 5 promises to build on that tradition, featuring these episodes:

9/22&nbsp;- Kansas Fossils and a New Generation&nbsp;

9/29&nbsp;- Battle of the Buffalo Soldiers

10/6&nbsp;- K-18 baseball series in Lucas, KS

10/20&nbsp;- Bird City Tri-State Antique Engine and Thresher Museum

10/27&nbsp;- Art and the Native Experience

Cottonwood Connections, Season 5Premieres every SUNDAY at 6 PM CST, starting SEPT 22Rebroadcasts of each episode will air on FRIDAYS at 1:30 PM and SATURDAYS at 6 PM

Seasons one, two, three, and four, and the documentary The Legacy of Cottonwood Ranch are available to stream anytime on<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/passport/learn-more/">&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS Passport</a>.

The series is hosted by Don Rowlison and presented by The Friends of Cottonwood Ranch, an organization that supports the work of the Cottonwood Ranch Historic site and has the mission of encouraging historical education about the plains.

To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream/">&nbsp;LLS Channel</a>, DirecTV, Dish Network, the LocalNow app, YouTube TV, and HULU+LIVE TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. For more information, visit<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">&nbsp;SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or call 1-800-337-4788.&nbsp;

Cottonwood Connections is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;United, Scott County Historical Society, Vap Construction, Kansas Wesleyan University, and the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.&nbsp;

SubmittedSmoky Hills PBS is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of&nbsp;Cottonwood Connections&nbsp;for its fifth season, premiering this Sunday at 6 PM.&nbsp;The locally-produced series continues its mission of highlighting the stories, people, and heritage of rural Kansas.“As we dig into the topics for each new season, it is always compelling to realize how many more stories there are to tell. We have such a complex and interesting history on the Plains that encapsulates so much of what shaped our country,”&nbsp;said Ed Lowry, Cottonwood Connections Creator.&nbsp;“It is a privilege to tell those stories and to introduce a broader audience to the great folks who work so hard to expand our understanding of our own history.”Since its debut,&nbsp;Cottonwood Connections&nbsp;has become a staple in our programming lineup, showcasing the unique and diverse experiences of Kansans. Season 5 promises to build on that tradition, featuring these episodes:9/22&nbsp;- Kansas Fossils and a New Generation&nbsp;9/29&nbsp;- Battle of the Buffalo Soldiers10/6&nbsp;- K-18 baseball series in Lucas, KS10/13&nbsp;- Legacy in Stone10/20&nbsp;- Bird City Tri-State Antique Engine and Thresher Museum10/27&nbsp;- Art and the Native Experience11/3&nbsp;- Cattle Industry11/10&nbsp;- They Call the Thing Rodeo11/17&nbsp;- The Spark of Pawnee Fork11/24&nbsp;- Dane G. Hansen12/1&nbsp;- Antiquing12/8&nbsp;- A High Plains HolidayTune In:Cottonwood Connections, Season 5Premieres every SUNDAY at 6 PM CST, starting SEPT 22Rebroadcasts of each episode will air on FRIDAYS at 1:30 PM and SATURDAYS at 6 PMSeasons one, two, three, and four, and the documentary The Legacy of Cottonwood Ranch are available to stream anytime on<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/passport/learn-more/">&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS Passport</a>.About the Show:The series is hosted by Don Rowlison and presented by The Friends of Cottonwood Ranch, an organization that supports the work of the Cottonwood Ranch Historic site and has the mission of encouraging historical education about the plains.Ways to Watch:To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream/">&nbsp;LLS Channel</a>, DirecTV, Dish Network, the LocalNow app, YouTube TV, and HULU+LIVE TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. For more information, visit<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">&nbsp;SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or call 1-800-337-4788.&nbsp;Cottonwood Connections is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;United, Scott County Historical Society, Vap Construction, Kansas Wesleyan University, and the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.&nbsp;

Smoky Hills PBS Announces the Premiere of Season 5 of Cottonwood Connections

The Ellis County Historical Society (ECHS) is deeply grateful to the Heartland Foundation for their generous $5,000 grant, which will cover architect drawing fees for our Victoria site. This vital support empowers us to preserve and celebrate our local history for future generations.

We are fully committed to the Victoria project and recognize the powerful impact of collaboration with donors like the Heartland Foundation. Their investment fuels our success and strengthens our vision.

This funding enabled us to engage skilled architects and move forward with our plan to ensure that this important site will be a valuable resource for our community and visitors alike. 

Our new center will celebrate our rich heritage, highlighting Volga German roots, immigrant stories, local churches, Walker Army Airfield, Angus cattle ranching, the oil industry, and Western Kansas agriculture.

For more information about our initiatives, please visit Local History | Ellis County Historical Society | Hays (echshays.org)or contact us at 785-628-2624.

Thank you, Heartland Foundation, for believing in ECHS!

SubmittedThe Ellis County Historical Society (ECHS) is deeply grateful to the Heartland Foundation for their generous $5,000 grant, which will cover architect drawing fees for our Victoria site. This vital support empowers us to preserve and celebrate our local history for future generations.We are fully committed to the Victoria project and recognize the powerful impact of collaboration with donors like the Heartland Foundation. Their investment fuels our success and strengthens our vision.This funding enabled us to engage skilled architects and move forward with our plan to ensure that this important site will be a valuable resource for our community and visitors alike. Our new center will celebrate our rich heritage, highlighting Volga German roots, immigrant stories, local churches, Walker Army Airfield, Angus cattle ranching, the oil industry, and Western Kansas agriculture.For more information about our initiatives, please visit Local History | Ellis County Historical Society | Hays (echshays.org)or contact us at 785-628-2624.Thank you, Heartland Foundation, for believing in ECHS!

Historical Society thanks Heartland Foundation

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays Arts Council announced Friday a $3-million capital campaign to renovate its downtown space.

The council owns the current gallery at 112 E. 11th St., the connected Madd Matter storefront and the Hays Arts Center Annex at 1010 Main St.

The project seeks to connect all three spaces—8,300 square feet—to expand gallery space and make the annex more accessible as an educational space.

The Hays Arts Council is the oldest community arts organization in the state. Since 1977, the council has owned the main gallery building, which used to house the Hays Daily News. The annex was purchased in 2007.

The Madd Matter is about 3 feet in elevation different than the annex building. The renovation will include stairs and a ramp to connect the buildings.

The renovation will also include adding a kitchen and conference room.

"We're just trying to envision what we need 50 years from now. What does this space look like in 50 years? Because that is what we are planning for in our building, which is to have this available in the future for the generations that follow,"&nbsp;said Jo Ann Jennings, Hays Arts Council board vice president.

The fundraising campaign for the project began in February with staff, board members and members of the project steering committee. One hundred percent of those stakeholders have pledged money to the capital campaign. That portion of the campaign raised $345,000.

Volunteers then conducted a silent campaign, raising funds from area philanthropists. The silent campaign raised more than $365,000.

On Monday, the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation announced a $1 million donation to the project.

Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation, said Pat Schmidt was a champion of the arts in Hays and a Hays Arts Council volunteer.

The Schmidt Foundation donation brings the total raised to $1.7 million, Jennings said.

"This thriving community called Hays, Kansas, isn't built by one person, one business or one organization or even one foundation," Jennings said.

"It's built through partnerships with all of the community members, businesses, foundations and nonprofits like the Hays Arts Council. That's what makes Hays such a wonderful place to live."

The council is now asking the community to donate to the campaign.

Donations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays">https://haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays</a>. Donations can also be made via cash or check at the Hays Arts Center.

The fundraising will be a three-year pledge project.

The Hays Arts Center is selling Heart of Hays campaign T-shirts for $25. You can order them at the center by paying by cash or check only.

Brittney Squire, Hays Arts Council board vice president, said the campaign steering committee plans other events to raise funds for the project in the coming months, including a booth at Oktoberfest. More details on those events will be released at a later date.

Toby Flores, FHSU sculpture professor, created a large iron heart that will be displayed in the window of the arts center annex and will show the progress toward the council's capital campaign goal.

The council board hopes to break ground on the renovation by the end of 2025. Construction will take an estimated 12 to 18 months. Completion could be in 2027.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726862822831.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of what the renovated Hays Arts Center will look like. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of what the renovated Hays Arts Center will look like. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Arts Council announced Friday a $3-million capital campaign to renovate its downtown space.The council owns the current gallery at 112 E. 11th St., the connected Madd Matter storefront and the Hays Arts Center Annex at 1010 Main St.The project seeks to connect all three spaces—8,300 square feet—to expand gallery space and make the annex more accessible as an educational space.The Hays Arts Council is the oldest community arts organization in the state. Since 1977, the council has owned the main gallery building, which used to house the Hays Daily News. The annex was purchased in 2007.The Madd Matter is about 3 feet in elevation different than the annex building. The renovation will include stairs and a ramp to connect the buildings.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726864285582.png" alt="Conceptual drawings of the renovated Hays Arts Center main gallery. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawings of the renovated Hays Arts Center main gallery. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726862918630.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of what the education wing, which will be in the current annex, would look like. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of what the education wing, which will be in the current annex, would look like. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The renovation will also include adding a kitchen and conference room."We're just trying to envision what we need 50 years from now. What does this space look like in 50 years? Because that is what we are planning for in our building, which is to have this available in the future for the generations that follow,"&nbsp;said Jo Ann Jennings, Hays Arts Council board vice president.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726864171668.jpeg" alt="Leigh Purdy, The Chamber in Hays vice president of membership (left), speaking with Brittney Squire, Hays Arts Council president (middle), and Jo Ann Jennings, council vice president (right), at a Friday Chamber Chat as they discuss the new art piece that will show the progress of the council's capital campaign." />
 <figcaption>Leigh Purdy, The Chamber in Hays vice president of membership (left), speaking with Brittney Squire, Hays Arts Council president (middle), and Jo Ann Jennings, council vice president (right), at a Friday Chamber Chat as they discuss the new art piece that will show the progress of the council's capital campaign.</figcaption>
 </figure>The fundraising campaign for the project began in February with staff, board members and members of the project steering committee. One hundred percent of those stakeholders have pledged money to the capital campaign. That portion of the campaign raised $345,000.Volunteers then conducted a silent campaign, raising funds from area philanthropists. The silent campaign raised more than $365,000.On Monday, the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation announced a $1 million donation to the project.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726863372323.jpeg" alt="Gary Shorman, president of the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation, and Randy Walker, trustee, unveil a $1 million check for the Hays Arts Center capital campaign from the foundation at a ceremony Monday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Gary Shorman, president of the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation, and Randy Walker, trustee, unveil a $1 million check for the Hays Arts Center capital campaign from the foundation at a ceremony Monday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation, said Pat Schmidt was a champion of the arts in Hays and a Hays Arts Council volunteer.The Schmidt Foundation donation brings the total raised to $1.7 million, Jennings said."This thriving community called Hays, Kansas, isn't built by one person, one business or one organization or even one foundation," Jennings said."It's built through partnerships with all of the community members, businesses, foundations and nonprofits like the Hays Arts Council. That's what makes Hays such a wonderful place to live."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726864226298.jpeg" alt="Floor plan for the renovated Hays Art Center. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Floor plan for the renovated Hays Art Center. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The council is now asking the community to donate to the campaign.Donations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays">https://haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays</a>. Donations can also be made via cash or check at the Hays Arts Center.The fundraising will be a three-year pledge project.The Hays Arts Center is selling Heart of Hays campaign T-shirts for $25. You can order them at the center by paying by cash or check only.Brittney Squire, Hays Arts Council board vice president, said the campaign steering committee plans other events to raise funds for the project in the coming months, including a booth at Oktoberfest. More details on those events will be released at a later date.Toby Flores, FHSU sculpture professor, created a large iron heart that will be displayed in the window of the arts center annex and will show the progress toward the council's capital campaign goal.The council board hopes to break ground on the renovation by the end of 2025. Construction will take an estimated 12 to 18 months. Completion could be in 2027.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726864433284.jpeg" alt="Community members gathered for the Hays Arts Center Chamber in Hays chat on Friday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Community members gathered for the Hays Arts Center Chamber in Hays chat on Friday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays Arts Council launches $3M capital campaign

Hays city commissioners questioned the safety of shortening the upcoming East 13th Street widening project during Thursday's work session.

Commissioner Shaun Musil asked Public Works Director Jesse Rohr whether the traffic increase for the new Hays High and Middle Schools under construction is a concern.

The entire project is a reconstruction of 13th between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway.&nbsp;

Initially, the street was to be widened to three lanes from Canterbury to Commerce, but the sole project bid was $500,000 over budget.

The project, funded by Hays cash capital reserves, Ellis County, USD 489 and a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation, was slightly reduced and rebid.

APAC-Kansas, Hays, was again the sole bidder and was awarded the downsized project for $3.03 million.

The widening will now extend from Anthony Drive to Tallgrass Drive, with the easternmost end of 13th remaining two lanes to Commerce Parkway. An unneeded box culvert improvement was also eliminated. That put the city’s portion of the project at $2.26 million, $60,843 under the budget.

"We really have no [traffic] concerns," Rohr told Musil, "especially with 13th and Commerce intersection already having the three lanes running north and south. ... The eastbound side will be widened to three lanes to have a dedicated left-hand turn lane."

"We're hoping people will find a better way to get to the schools rather than 13th and Canterbury, and we'll be promoting that."&nbsp;

City work includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installing a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project, and milling and overlaying the complete roadway.

USD 489 is responsible for adding two right-turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded signals at 13th and Canterbury, which will cost $763,000.

The new high school is on target to open in August 2025, and the current high school, just to the west, will then be renovated as the new middle school.

Commissioners also discussed funding for the 27th and Main Street development project. Astra Bank is relocating and building a new facility on that site.

&nbsp;The city will pay 100% of the costs to construct the stormwater management infrastructure at the south end of the property and 50% of the costs to extend 26th Street through the development.

The $89,000 for the stormwater retention infrastructure will come from the stormwater reserve funds, and the city's 50% share of $205,000 for the street will come from the city's capital reserve cash funds.

Musil asked Rohr if the new development would worsen flooding concerns on 25th and 24th Streets at Main and Main Street Terrace. "The retention infrastructure controls the rate water leaves the property, and it can't be greater than it is now," Rohr said.

Elevation and water retention engineering on the site also considers the potential development of housing and a retail center.

Access to the new bank will be from 26th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city of Hays has purchased 1100 Fort, the existing Astra Bank building, to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.

The commission discussed an ordinance that would establish a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) and adopt a plan for the development of housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut.&nbsp;

Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is proposing to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.

The district is expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during its maximum 25-year term. This revenue would be used to reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis. Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, said the RHID is expected to pay off in less than 25 years.&nbsp;

The commission also talked about funds for another development project in downtown Hays.

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the city a $300,000 Commercial Rehabilitation Community Development Block Grant on behalf of Chestnut Suites&nbsp;at 1108 N. Main and Hays developer Adam Pray.

The former Hays State Bank building, which will be used for the $3.2 million project, was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.

Pray plans to redevelop the building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb location called Chestnut Suites with 24 to 26 rooms. The rooms will be designed similar to those of traditional hotels.

The funding proposals for all four development projects will be voted on at the Sept. 26 city commission meeting.&nbsp;

City Manager Toby Dougherty was absent from the work session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726674867070.png" alt="East end of 13th Street upcoming improvements between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>East end of 13th Street upcoming improvements between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays city commissioners questioned the safety of shortening the upcoming East 13th Street widening project during Thursday's work session.Commissioner Shaun Musil asked Public Works Director Jesse Rohr whether the traffic increase for the new Hays High and Middle Schools under construction is a concern.The entire project is a reconstruction of 13th between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681699285180.png" alt="All of 13th Street between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway will be reconstructed with mill and overlay. City of Hays photo" />
 <figcaption>All of 13th Street between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway will be reconstructed with mill and overlay. City of Hays photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726850646188.png" alt="West end of 13th Street reconstruction project. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>West end of 13th Street reconstruction project. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Initially, the street was to be widened to three lanes from Canterbury to Commerce, but the sole project bid was $500,000 over budget.The project, funded by Hays cash capital reserves, Ellis County, USD 489 and a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation, was slightly reduced and rebid.APAC-Kansas, Hays, was again the sole bidder and was awarded the downsized project for $3.03 million.The widening will now extend from Anthony Drive to Tallgrass Drive, with the easternmost end of 13th remaining two lanes to Commerce Parkway. An unneeded box culvert improvement was also eliminated. That put the city’s portion of the project at $2.26 million, $60,843 under the budget."We really have no [traffic] concerns," Rohr told Musil, "especially with 13th and Commerce intersection already having the three lanes running north and south. ... The eastbound side will be widened to three lanes to have a dedicated left-hand turn lane.""We're hoping people will find a better way to get to the schools rather than 13th and Canterbury, and we'll be promoting that."&nbsp;City work includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installing a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project, and milling and overlaying the complete roadway.USD 489 is responsible for adding two right-turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded signals at 13th and Canterbury, which will cost $763,000.The new high school is on target to open in August 2025, and the current high school, just to the west, will then be renovated as the new middle school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726850907046.png" alt="Location of new Astra Bank to be built at 27th and Main with access from an extension of 26th Street. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Location of new Astra Bank to be built at 27th and Main with access from an extension of 26th Street. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also discussed funding for the 27th and Main Street development project. Astra Bank is relocating and building a new facility on that site.&nbsp;The city will pay 100% of the costs to construct the stormwater management infrastructure at the south end of the property and 50% of the costs to extend 26th Street through the development.The $89,000 for the stormwater retention infrastructure will come from the stormwater reserve funds, and the city's 50% share of $205,000 for the street will come from the city's capital reserve cash funds.Musil asked Rohr if the new development would worsen flooding concerns on 25th and 24th Streets at Main and Main Street Terrace. "The retention infrastructure controls the rate water leaves the property, and it can't be greater than it is now," Rohr said.Elevation and water retention engineering on the site also considers the potential development of housing and a retail center.Access to the new bank will be from 26th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city of Hays has purchased 1100 Fort, the existing Astra Bank building, to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726851202910.png" alt="Site plan for proposed 10th and Walnut apartments in downtown Hays. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Site plan for proposed 10th and Walnut apartments in downtown Hays. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission discussed an ordinance that would establish a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) and adopt a plan for the development of housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut.&nbsp;Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is proposing to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.The district is expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during its maximum 25-year term. This revenue would be used to reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis. Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, said the RHID is expected to pay off in less than 25 years.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602173154574.jpeg" alt="1108 Main, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>1108 Main, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission also talked about funds for another development project in downtown Hays.The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the city a $300,000 Commercial Rehabilitation Community Development Block Grant on behalf of Chestnut Suites&nbsp;at 1108 N. Main and Hays developer Adam Pray.The former Hays State Bank building, which will be used for the $3.2 million project, was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.Pray plans to redevelop the building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb location called Chestnut Suites with 24 to 26 rooms. The rooms will be designed similar to those of traditional hotels.The funding proposals for all four development projects will be voted on at the Sept. 26 city commission meeting.&nbsp;City Manager Toby Dougherty was absent from the work session.

City of Hays says reduction of 13th St. widening project safe   

By LAYNE HAFFNER Buckeye Junior Farmers 4-H Club Reporter

The Buckeye Junior Farmers 4-H Club (BJF) has had a fun and very successful year.&nbsp;

We will be wrapping up our 2023-24 4-H year with the conclusion of the Kansas State Fair. Many of our club members exhibited their projects in Hutchinson. To qualify for the State Fair, one must receive a purple ribbon at the county fair. Some of our club members have also participated in the livestock shows. We had a great showing at the Ellis County Fair too.&nbsp;

The Buckeye Junior Farmers also participate in service projects to give back to the community who support us. We understand the meaning of helping each other because without volunteers, communities die. This year, club members helped with “Trick-Or-Treat so Others Can Eat”, shopped for “Angel Tree” families, and packed food at St. Joseph’s Food Pantry, and cleaned the fairground before fair. One of our favorite activities was playing bingo at Homestead Assisted Living of Hays because we had so much fun with residents and staff.&nbsp;

The club also participated in 4-H Club Days where 4-Hers participate in a variety of contests. Our club had success individually and as a team. Our club worked hard to learn a skit called and won at both the county and regional level with top blue. This is a great way for all club members, of all ages, to work together and learn how to speak or perform in front of an audience.

These are just a few examples of activities that the Buckeye Junior Farmers have participated in. We appreciate all the support the community has given to Ellis County 4-Hers. We can’t wait to see what 2024-2025 will bring!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726524914412.jpeg" alt="The Buckeye Junior Farmers receive feedback from the judge, on their skit, and Regional Club Days. (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Buckeye Junior Farmers receive feedback from the judge, on their skit, and Regional Club Days. (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By LAYNE HAFFNER Buckeye Junior Farmers 4-H Club ReporterThe Buckeye Junior Farmers 4-H Club (BJF) has had a fun and very successful year.&nbsp;We will be wrapping up our 2023-24 4-H year with the conclusion of the Kansas State Fair. Many of our club members exhibited their projects in Hutchinson. To qualify for the State Fair, one must receive a purple ribbon at the county fair. Some of our club members have also participated in the livestock shows. We had a great showing at the Ellis County Fair too.&nbsp;The Buckeye Junior Farmers also participate in service projects to give back to the community who support us. We understand the meaning of helping each other because without volunteers, communities die. This year, club members helped with “Trick-Or-Treat so Others Can Eat”, shopped for “Angel Tree” families, and packed food at St. Joseph’s Food Pantry, and cleaned the fairground before fair. One of our favorite activities was playing bingo at Homestead Assisted Living of Hays because we had so much fun with residents and staff.&nbsp;The club also participated in 4-H Club Days where 4-Hers participate in a variety of contests. Our club had success individually and as a team. Our club worked hard to learn a skit called and won at both the county and regional level with top blue. This is a great way for all club members, of all ages, to work together and learn how to speak or perform in front of an audience.These are just a few examples of activities that the Buckeye Junior Farmers have participated in. We appreciate all the support the community has given to Ellis County 4-Hers. We can’t wait to see what 2024-2025 will bring!&nbsp;

Buckeye Junior Farmers 4-H Club concludes year at Kansas State Fair

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

It is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. The abundance of grasshoppers being observed now is likely due to the weather patterns of the last couple seasons. Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. Despite many areas still being impacted by some level of drought, sporadic rainfall over the growing season has helped weeds persist in many areas of the state, which has likely contributed to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.

Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.

Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure as the insects can consume a large amount of leaf material before succumbing to the seed treatments. It is advisable to avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.

Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Alfalfa Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF809.pdf Wheat Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF745.pdf

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIt is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. The abundance of grasshoppers being observed now is likely due to the weather patterns of the last couple seasons. Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. Despite many areas still being impacted by some level of drought, sporadic rainfall over the growing season has helped weeds persist in many areas of the state, which has likely contributed to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure as the insects can consume a large amount of leaf material before succumbing to the seed treatments. It is advisable to avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Alfalfa Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF809.pdf Wheat Insect Management Guide https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF745.pdfStacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.