The Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct three public hearings Wednesday morning.

* Ellis County for a special use permit for a construction and demolition landfill on property at 55th Street and 240th Avenue.

* Brian M. Ralph for a two-foot side yard variance from the required 5 feet for a detached garage at 203 W. 37th.

* BJ and Dena Rupp for two additional signs on the south and north sides of their building located at 1007 Vine.

In other business, the board will hear from Werth Rentals LLC on a&nbsp; request for a public hearing for variance in setbacks and total square feet for an off-premise sign at 1007 E. 37th.

Details and the complete April 14 agenda are available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04142021-1264">here</a>.&nbsp;

The meeting begins at 8:15 a.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct three public hearings Wednesday morning.The public hearings involve:&nbsp;* Ellis County for a special use permit for a construction and demolition landfill on property at 55th Street and 240th Avenue.* Brian M. Ralph for a two-foot side yard variance from the required 5 feet for a detached garage at 203 W. 37th.* BJ and Dena Rupp for two additional signs on the south and north sides of their building located at 1007 Vine.In other business, the board will hear from Werth Rentals LLC on a&nbsp; request for a public hearing for variance in setbacks and total square feet for an off-premise sign at 1007 E. 37th. Details and the complete April 14 agenda are available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04142021-1264">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 8:15 a.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Zoning Appeals Board to conduct public hearings Wednesday

Northwest Kansas blood drives April 16-30

With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential for hospital patients in need of&nbsp;transfusions.&nbsp;During National Volunteer Month this April, the American Red Cross is celebrating the blood donors who help fulfill its lifesaving mission&nbsp;and urging healthy individuals to join them in&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4i1lKBoTKFU59CLSymLses-2FqV26Rwc57LHMldNfblnxz-2FO21kHEuv4PapV4qVEihHPl3U-2FsQtGve4dDVF3-2B4aso-3Dy8nu_SlIKMIBCDfJ5uHXky-2F-2BzFYCcyV908zVEY-2Fr-2BI3OK1b8uWNXQxC7Lidh-2BOi2iJbI8HtKaElFWPCrH-2BlBPMBUu3i-2BHL29OJi7WpfwtEuyvrmnINTChC1KuFz5GQcvxSCezqi6EL1-2BakrZ7vhTn6HT7k677WXTgCLJYIMHCNCH1stoixqciQlK57K9l-2B5SjaHr8SvQv5R2MnHobiTaGG19bTdZ7X40Pc-2Fy-2Bjr5zNdftSANMKXTKWC9hDKYgt-2BokWZp-2BAi45SAtjWeem61gooAy9atYMWPOPnCEYhOOf-2BSgmEQS1Y-2FG593PkNlWQRxAWj2z4YW-2FE1NbvCOrQWucdBNMkzysFCwEwVgHsmhm-2Bq7YclCw-3D" target="_blank">giving</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nearly 2.6 million&nbsp;Red Cross&nbsp;volunteer donors step up every year to ensure blood is on the shelves when patients need it. The&nbsp;generosity&nbsp;of these heroes&nbsp;has been especially impactful over the past year as&nbsp;they helped the Red Cross continue to meet patient needs amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Red Cross continues to urge&nbsp;healthy individuals, especially those with type O blood,&nbsp;to&nbsp;give blood to ensure&nbsp;hospitals can meet patient needs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608743625160.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Northwest Kansas blood drives April 16-30</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618261880333.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential for hospital patients in need of&nbsp;transfusions.&nbsp;During National Volunteer Month this April, the American Red Cross is celebrating the blood donors who help fulfill its lifesaving mission&nbsp;and urging healthy individuals to join them in&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4i1lKBoTKFU59CLSymLses-2FqV26Rwc57LHMldNfblnxz-2FO21kHEuv4PapV4qVEihHPl3U-2FsQtGve4dDVF3-2B4aso-3Dy8nu_SlIKMIBCDfJ5uHXky-2F-2BzFYCcyV908zVEY-2Fr-2BI3OK1b8uWNXQxC7Lidh-2BOi2iJbI8HtKaElFWPCrH-2BlBPMBUu3i-2BHL29OJi7WpfwtEuyvrmnINTChC1KuFz5GQcvxSCezqi6EL1-2BakrZ7vhTn6HT7k677WXTgCLJYIMHCNCH1stoixqciQlK57K9l-2B5SjaHr8SvQv5R2MnHobiTaGG19bTdZ7X40Pc-2Fy-2Bjr5zNdftSANMKXTKWC9hDKYgt-2BokWZp-2BAi45SAtjWeem61gooAy9atYMWPOPnCEYhOOf-2BSgmEQS1Y-2FG593PkNlWQRxAWj2z4YW-2FE1NbvCOrQWucdBNMkzysFCwEwVgHsmhm-2Bq7YclCw-3D" target="_blank">giving</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nearly 2.6 million&nbsp;Red Cross&nbsp;volunteer donors step up every year to ensure blood is on the shelves when patients need it. The&nbsp;generosity&nbsp;of these heroes&nbsp;has been especially impactful over the past year as&nbsp;they helped the Red Cross continue to meet patient needs amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Red Cross continues to urge&nbsp;healthy individuals, especially those with type O blood,&nbsp;to&nbsp;give blood to ensure&nbsp;hospitals can meet patient needs.

Area blood drives scheduled for April 16-30

The 55th annual Fort Hays State University NIRA Rodeo kicks off on Friday and continues through Sunday at Doug Philip Arena on Golf Course Road off the Highway 183 Bypass in Hays.

Since 1964, the FHSU Rodeo Club and team have provided students with valuable opportunities to hone their skills in an arena environment. This is an exciting intercollegiate rodeo that attracts around 600 entrants from 26 colleges and universities.

Advanced tickets are available now at Vanderbilts, Orscheln Farm &amp; Home, and in the FHSU Memorial Union.

Advanced tickets: Adults $10 Children (12 and under) $5

At the gate: Adults $12 Children (12 and under) $8

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618239910810.jpeg" alt="FHSU NIRA Rodeo action (Photo by Hays CVB)" />
 <figcaption>FHSU NIRA Rodeo action (Photo by Hays CVB)</figcaption>
 </figure>The 55th annual Fort Hays State University NIRA Rodeo kicks off on Friday and continues through Sunday at Doug Philip Arena on Golf Course Road off the Highway 183 Bypass in Hays.Since 1964, the FHSU Rodeo Club and team have provided students with valuable opportunities to hone their skills in an arena environment. This is an exciting intercollegiate rodeo that attracts around 600 entrants from 26 colleges and universities.Advanced tickets are available now at Vanderbilts, Orscheln Farm &amp; Home, and in the FHSU Memorial Union.Advanced tickets: Adults $10 Children (12 and under) $5At the gate: Adults $12 Children (12 and under) $8

55th annual FHSU NIRA Rodeo this weekend in Hays

For decades, Sister Cities International has leveraged the power that art has to transform societies and transcend cultural boundaries through their Young Artists and Authors Showcase, giving youth the opportunity to express their vision for a more unified, peaceful world through original art and literature.

“United in Hope” is the theme for this year’s Young Artists and Authors Showcase.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a unique phenomenon in that it has affected every country around the globe. However, as is common in tragedy, hope shines through for those who persevere. Hope is a uniting force during this time as people struggle to cope with its ongoing effects and once again start to imagine a life without social distancing or wearing a mask.

The showcase features six categories: art, photography, creative writing, poetry, music (original), and music (interpretation).

The local contest is sponsored by Hays Sister Cities who is proud to partner with the Hays Arts Council on this project.

“I can’t think of a better program to bring these two community organizations together to highlight the creative work of the youth in this area. Encouraging local artists to inspire unity and explore cultural uniqueness is at the heart of both organizations,” said Brittney Squire, board member for Hays Sister Cities and the Hays Arts Council.

The first place winner in each category will receive a $100 cash prize. The top five winners in each category will be submitted to the Sister Cities International competition on behalf of Hays Sister Cities. The international showcase awards an overall first, second, and third place winner who is awarded $1,000; $250; and $100, respectively.

Area students between 13 and 18 years of age at the time of the 2021 deadline are eligible to enter the contest.

Submissions are due by April 18 and winners will be announced in the weeks following.

For more details about the showcase, the criteria, and the entry form,&nbsp;visit&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/yaas" target="_blank">https://haysartscouncil.org/yaas</a>.

Hays' sister cities include: Santa Maria de las Misiones, Paraguay, and Xinzheng, China. Hays Sister Cities is a board of local citizen volunteers with a passion for international collaboration. The group is a member of Sister Cities International, the oldest and largest organization of citizen diplomats in the nation, whose mission is “To promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation — one individual, one community at a time.” For information on Hays Sister Cities, email hayssistercities@gmail.com or find the group on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617729129632.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFor decades, Sister Cities International has leveraged the power that art has to transform societies and transcend cultural boundaries through their Young Artists and Authors Showcase, giving youth the opportunity to express their vision for a more unified, peaceful world through original art and literature.“United in Hope” is the theme for this year’s Young Artists and Authors Showcase.The COVID-19 pandemic is a unique phenomenon in that it has affected every country around the globe. However, as is common in tragedy, hope shines through for those who persevere. Hope is a uniting force during this time as people struggle to cope with its ongoing effects and once again start to imagine a life without social distancing or wearing a mask.The showcase features six categories: art, photography, creative writing, poetry, music (original), and music (interpretation).The local contest is sponsored by Hays Sister Cities who is proud to partner with the Hays Arts Council on this project.“I can’t think of a better program to bring these two community organizations together to highlight the creative work of the youth in this area. Encouraging local artists to inspire unity and explore cultural uniqueness is at the heart of both organizations,” said Brittney Squire, board member for Hays Sister Cities and the Hays Arts Council.The first place winner in each category will receive a $100 cash prize. The top five winners in each category will be submitted to the Sister Cities International competition on behalf of Hays Sister Cities. The international showcase awards an overall first, second, and third place winner who is awarded $1,000; $250; and $100, respectively.Area students between 13 and 18 years of age at the time of the 2021 deadline are eligible to enter the contest.Submissions are due by April 18 and winners will be announced in the weeks following. For more details about the showcase, the criteria, and the entry form,&nbsp;visit&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/yaas" target="_blank">https://haysartscouncil.org/yaas</a>.<h2>About Hays Sister Cities</h2>Hays' sister cities include: Santa Maria de las Misiones, Paraguay, and Xinzheng, China. Hays Sister Cities is a board of local citizen volunteers with a passion for international collaboration. The group is a member of Sister Cities International, the oldest and largest organization of citizen diplomats in the nation, whose mission is “To promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation — one individual, one community at a time.” For information on Hays Sister Cities, email hayssistercities@gmail.com or find the group on Facebook.

Hays Sister Cities launches Young Artists and Authors Showcase

STOCKTON — The stilling basin at Webster Reservoir near Stockton will be closed to all activities beginning April 19. This popular fishing location will be closed for approximately three years to allow completion of a large construction project.

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation is beginning a long-term renovation of the concrete spillway at Webster and due to safety concerns of an active construction site, the entire area below the dam is closed as a precaution.  The construction contractor is expected to begin work on April 19, 2021.  The entire project is expected to take three years and most of the time the stilling basin will have no water.

The spillway road will be gated off at the 11 Rd. intersection to prevent vehicle access.  Walk-in access is also prohibited.  No entry is allowed into the active construction zone. 

Webster stilling basin is known for its winter trout fishing, the well-constructed ADA access ramps and fishing piers, and it provides a fishing opportunity throughout the year. 

 The area will be open through the end of the Kansas trout season on April 15 this year. 

 Absolutely no access (vehicle or walk-in) will be allowed after April 18, 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617747302196.jpeg" alt="Aerial view of Webster Dam, Rooks County. The stilling basin will be closed beginning April 19 for a three-year renovation of the concrete spillway." />
 <figcaption>Aerial view of Webster Dam, Rooks County. The stilling basin will be closed beginning April 19 for a three-year renovation of the concrete spillway.</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPTSTOCKTON — The stilling basin at Webster Reservoir near Stockton will be closed to all activities beginning April 19. This popular fishing location will be closed for approximately three years to allow completion of a large construction project.The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation is beginning a long-term renovation of the concrete spillway at Webster and due to safety concerns of an active construction site, the entire area below the dam is closed as a precaution. The construction contractor is expected to begin work on April 19, 2021. The entire project is expected to take three years and most of the time the stilling basin will have no water.The spillway road will be gated off at the 11 Rd. intersection to prevent vehicle access. Walk-in access is also prohibited. No entry is allowed into the active construction zone. Webster stilling basin is known for its winter trout fishing, the well-constructed ADA access ramps and fishing piers, and it provides a fishing opportunity throughout the year. The area will be open through the end of the Kansas trout season on April 15 this year. Absolutely no access (vehicle or walk-in) will be allowed after April 18, 2021.

Webster Reservoir stilling basin to close for 3-year construction project

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey along U.S. 24 in Osborne County the week of April 12.

Survey crews will be gathering information for the detailed design of a proposed bridge project approximately 1.5 miles east of the K-181 junction near Downs. Activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. KDOT expects work to be complete by May 5.

Crews will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property if access is needed. Kara LaRiviere, field survey project manager, will oversee the survey for KDOT.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey along U.S. 24 in Osborne County the week of April 12.Survey crews will be gathering information for the detailed design of a proposed bridge project approximately 1.5 miles east of the K-181 junction near Downs. Activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. KDOT expects work to be complete by May 5.Crews will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property if access is needed. Kara LaRiviere, field survey project manager, will oversee the survey for KDOT.

Survey work starting on U.S. 24 near Downs

LAWRENCE — The Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training, part of the University of Kansas Life Span Institute, will host the conference Autism Across the Life Span on April 23.

The virtual event will address the needs of families, professionals and educators interested in autism spectrum disorder. The one-day event will feature&nbsp;<a href="https://autismacrossthelifespan.drupal.ku.edu/sessions">16 breakout sessions</a>&nbsp;on behavioral health, interventions, research and neuroscience, and transition.

“While we always are excited for this annual meeting as it brings together our community, we are particularly eager for this year’s,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://clchild.ku.edu/matt-mosconi">Matt Mosconi</a>, director of the Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training. “While we look forward to in-person meetings in coming years, this virtual environment will provide a means for more people to be involved and for us to gather, learn and continue our broader mission of advancing understanding and support for families affected by autism spectrum disorder.”

<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~lsi/forms/form/2" target="_blank">Registration</a>&nbsp;for the conference is $95 for professionals, including investigators, tenure-track or research faculty, and clinicians. Families and self-advocates can register for $50, and the cost is $40 for undergraduate and graduate students.&nbsp;<a href="https://redcap.kumc.edu/surveys/?s=949RPX9WF3">Scholarships are available for families and self-advocates.</a>

With presentations from nationally recognized researchers including KU faculty, the conference will offer research presentations as well as practical and informative guidance for people who are currently working and caring for children, teenagers and/or adults with autism spectrum disorder. Topics include technology and social skills, genetics, early childhood, self-determination, supported decision-making and more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617993396622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — The Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training, part of the University of Kansas Life Span Institute, will host the conference Autism Across the Life Span on April 23.The virtual event will address the needs of families, professionals and educators interested in autism spectrum disorder. The one-day event will feature&nbsp;<a href="https://autismacrossthelifespan.drupal.ku.edu/sessions">16 breakout sessions</a>&nbsp;on behavioral health, interventions, research and neuroscience, and transition.“While we always are excited for this annual meeting as it brings together our community, we are particularly eager for this year’s,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://clchild.ku.edu/matt-mosconi">Matt Mosconi</a>, director of the Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training. “While we look forward to in-person meetings in coming years, this virtual environment will provide a means for more people to be involved and for us to gather, learn and continue our broader mission of advancing understanding and support for families affected by autism spectrum disorder.”<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~lsi/forms/form/2" target="_blank">Registration</a>&nbsp;for the conference is $95 for professionals, including investigators, tenure-track or research faculty, and clinicians. Families and self-advocates can register for $50, and the cost is $40 for undergraduate and graduate students.&nbsp;<a href="https://redcap.kumc.edu/surveys/?s=949RPX9WF3">Scholarships are available for families and self-advocates.</a>With presentations from nationally recognized researchers including KU faculty, the conference will offer research presentations as well as practical and informative guidance for people who are currently working and caring for children, teenagers and/or adults with autism spectrum disorder. Topics include technology and social skills, genetics, early childhood, self-determination, supported decision-making and more.Keynote presentations at the conference:<ul>
 <li>“Understanding Repetitive Behaviors and Interests in Autism,” by&nbsp;<a href="https://medschool.vanderbilt.edu/hearing-speech/person/james-bodfish/" target="_blank">Jim Bodfish</a>, vice chair of research and professor, Hearing and Speech Sciences Department and the Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences Department at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Bodfish’s research program strives to maintain a close link with autism clinical service-delivery programs.</li><li>“Preparing families to support transition-aged youth on the autism spectrum,” by&nbsp;<a href="https://vkc.vumc.org/people/taylor-julielounds/" target="_blank">Julie Lounds Taylor</a>, associate professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Taylor’s research focuses on promoting positive outcomes in adulthood for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Public, practitioners invited to KU autism research virtual conference

GREAT BEND — Kris Kuksi has received praise from around the globe for his awe-inspiring sculptures, and rightfully so, as they are truly creations you have to see to believe.

“We are very excited to have world-famous Kansas artist Kris Kuksi judge our annual BaRTaRT student exhibition this year,” Barton Community College Gallery Director Dave Barnes said. “Kuksi is an artist of special regional interest who has created a following of very devoted and erudite fans. He will be exhibiting one of his own sculptural pieces in the exhibit as well.”

Kuksi has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in painting from Fort Hays State University. He previously had an art studio in downtown Hays. His current studio is in Lawrence.

Kuksi is not only the judge of this year’s BaRTaRT college student show,&nbsp; he is also taping a special dedicated presentation for the annual Virtual Vortex High School Art event in April. He is coming to Barton County and the Shafer Gallery with a message of encouragement and inspiration to rural Kansas high school artists, as he grew up in rural Kansas and has proved that great artists can emerge from even the most humble hometown beginnings.

His work is sometimes called fantastic realism or surrealism, but it really doesn’t fit into labels.

Legendary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro known for Oscar winning movies such as “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of&nbsp; Water” is an avid collector of Kuksi’s work and describes the artist, on <a href="https://www.kuksi.com/bio">kuksi.com</a>, as being “A postindustrial Rococo master, (who) obsessively arranges characters and architecture with an exquisite sense of drama. Instead of stones and shells, he uses plastic soldiers, miniature engine blocks, towering spires and assorted debris to form his landscapes. The political, spiritual, and material conflict within these shrines is enacted under the calm gaze of remote deities and august statuary. Kuksi manages to evoke, at once, a sanctum and a mausoleum for our suffocated spirit."

Barnes said the magic of Kuksi’s work is his ability to use the power of simple juxtaposition to create iconic imagery.

“For example, the ‘Churchtank’ piece he is exhibiting can evoke all kinds of pop culture and historical associations, from ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ ‘Mortal Engines,’ or ‘Steam Boy,’ to any number of triumphant Christian anthems,” he said.&nbsp; “It could also present the idea of the ever-present dichotomies of shadow and light, good and evil, power and grace, and the whole yin and yang of human experience. It might be an emblem of our boldest existential questions. Or, perhaps it is no more than an anime daydream come to life? These are questions only the viewer can answer as they themselves daydream in front of the sculpture. That’s a lot of associations coming from what is essentially deconstructed plastic model car kits on steroids.”

Shafer Art Gallery Director Dave Barnes said the student exhibit is a wonderful opportunity for students to gain experience as professional artists. The exhibit will open April 19 and the awards will be announced via virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. that evening at&nbsp;<a href="https://facebook.com/shafergallery" target="_blank">facebook.com/shafergallery</a>. The exhibit will be open through May 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; For more information on Kuksi go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kuksi.com/" target="_blank">kuksi.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

“This exhibit is an opportunity for Barton art students to display the fruits of the hard work and discipline involved in the process of creative production,” he said. “This is a resume-building exhibit in a professional venue and will hopefully encourage students to fearlessly pursue their artistic careers and interests.”

The Shafer Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is always free.

For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at (620) 792-9342 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617832990964.jpeg" alt="Former Hays artist Kris Kukski will bring his work "Churchtank" to the&nbsp;BaRTaRT Student Exhibition, where he will judge the Barton Community College show." />
 <figcaption>Former Hays artist Kris Kukski will bring his work "Churchtank" to the&nbsp;BaRTaRT Student Exhibition, where he will judge the Barton Community College show.</figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND — Kris Kuksi has received praise from around the globe for his awe-inspiring sculptures, and rightfully so, as they are truly creations you have to see to believe.“We are very excited to have world-famous Kansas artist Kris Kuksi judge our annual BaRTaRT student exhibition this year,” Barton Community College Gallery Director Dave Barnes said. “Kuksi is an artist of special regional interest who has created a following of very devoted and erudite fans. He will be exhibiting one of his own sculptural pieces in the exhibit as well.”Kuksi has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in painting from Fort Hays State University. He previously had an art studio in downtown Hays. His current studio is in Lawrence.Kuksi is not only the judge of this year’s BaRTaRT college student show,&nbsp; he is also taping a special dedicated presentation for the annual Virtual Vortex High School Art event in April. He is coming to Barton County and the Shafer Gallery with a message of encouragement and inspiration to rural Kansas high school artists, as he grew up in rural Kansas and has proved that great artists can emerge from even the most humble hometown beginnings.His work is sometimes called fantastic realism or surrealism, but it really doesn’t fit into labels.Legendary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro known for Oscar winning movies such as “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of&nbsp; Water” is an avid collector of Kuksi’s work and describes the artist, on <a href="https://www.kuksi.com/bio">kuksi.com</a>, as being “A postindustrial Rococo master, (who) obsessively arranges characters and architecture with an exquisite sense of drama. Instead of stones and shells, he uses plastic soldiers, miniature engine blocks, towering spires and assorted debris to form his landscapes. The political, spiritual, and material conflict within these shrines is enacted under the calm gaze of remote deities and august statuary. Kuksi manages to evoke, at once, a sanctum and a mausoleum for our suffocated spirit."Barnes said the magic of Kuksi’s work is his ability to use the power of simple juxtaposition to create iconic imagery.“For example, the ‘Churchtank’ piece he is exhibiting can evoke all kinds of pop culture and historical associations, from ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ ‘Mortal Engines,’ or ‘Steam Boy,’ to any number of triumphant Christian anthems,” he said.&nbsp; “It could also present the idea of the ever-present dichotomies of shadow and light, good and evil, power and grace, and the whole yin and yang of human experience. It might be an emblem of our boldest existential questions. Or, perhaps it is no more than an anime daydream come to life? These are questions only the viewer can answer as they themselves daydream in front of the sculpture. That’s a lot of associations coming from what is essentially deconstructed plastic model car kits on steroids.”Shafer Art Gallery Director Dave Barnes said the student exhibit is a wonderful opportunity for students to gain experience as professional artists. The exhibit will open April 19 and the awards will be announced via virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. that evening at&nbsp;<a href="https://facebook.com/shafergallery" target="_blank">facebook.com/shafergallery</a>. The exhibit will be open through May 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For more information on Kuksi go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kuksi.com/" target="_blank">kuksi.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;“This exhibit is an opportunity for Barton art students to display the fruits of the hard work and discipline involved in the process of creative production,” he said. “This is a resume-building exhibit in a professional venue and will hopefully encourage students to fearlessly pursue their artistic careers and interests.”The Shafer Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is always free.For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at (620) 792-9342 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>.

World-famous sculptor, former Hays artist Kuksi to judge BaRTaRT

Drive-through COVID-19 shots will be available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at HaysMed in cooperation with the Ellis County Health Department.&nbsp;Enter north drive on Canterbury. 

There are 900 Johnson &amp; Johnson one-dose vaccines available for people ages 18 and older.

You will be observed for 15 minutes after you receive the shot.

No pre-preregistration required.&nbsp;

You can fill out the online forms at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhaysmedfoundation.org%2Fcovidshot%2F&amp;h=AT3Uo1qOcZFtf3QNRJ0xVBojOh2T4VV_pnM637eiHPGcBbWO8Aw7b0maP1VOylE2fxjNsEWnpYwob0X-YW5-_5EF90OGedyUpAaVThbfoIyVfXTdkmA6irmVz3fHUrXhlgN6XmWIlp3IiNYLRuNNVxNSuh0y_nUS2nu716dgJihmWSSkAbgrxhVsS604AlHrfvfoHNml2zL2YhivvI-QEqYCLjyEqKShdgOzTvxn-wcgeVl7f0QqDhZpJsYFH-cFdKJNr11RT8Q7W8H9HpTEd1bom_1OoyU2WzerkwqCHMQels4oHdTlEF_ZGAh6X1_Lxt3wp_MtH6lVZ6XtUHY4cKPefqMFZCwbH4xs5fDcBGiJt3XXaYYiHCXVXRUWG54chPc2_ZoyyhbkvVnPTwrONyLoKUUa82fS629aEIBY-k0qeKQDUvEwxtNS5w9DrUUAm1xWY_hDeVkqjM_HvwUtw2QVSIJDZXm5LkcLGLz0LTzoyXz3rDu5vZv5MkDtiUBfckm9hTumquSulr8XGBgREKw6b2HiytiSIVD5qBsDHIUZiRNyKuPQH3ZuuGQ26gKkAgxLZuBUXsAYNS5mOd5uCEjlk1v0xq-G3sEsgpjqUro" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://haysmedfoundation.org/covidshot/</a>&nbsp;and bring them with you.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617712963332.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Drive-through COVID-19 shots will be available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at HaysMed in cooperation with the Ellis County Health Department.&nbsp;Enter north drive on Canterbury. Masks required.&nbsp;There are 900 Johnson &amp; Johnson one-dose vaccines available for people ages 18 and older.You will be observed for 15 minutes after you receive the shot.No pre-preregistration required.&nbsp;

You can fill out the online forms at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhaysmedfoundation.org%2Fcovidshot%2F&amp;h=AT3Uo1qOcZFtf3QNRJ0xVBojOh2T4VV_pnM637eiHPGcBbWO8Aw7b0maP1VOylE2fxjNsEWnpYwob0X-YW5-_5EF90OGedyUpAaVThbfoIyVfXTdkmA6irmVz3fHUrXhlgN6XmWIlp3IiNYLRuNNVxNSuh0y_nUS2nu716dgJihmWSSkAbgrxhVsS604AlHrfvfoHNml2zL2YhivvI-QEqYCLjyEqKShdgOzTvxn-wcgeVl7f0QqDhZpJsYFH-cFdKJNr11RT8Q7W8H9HpTEd1bom_1OoyU2WzerkwqCHMQels4oHdTlEF_ZGAh6X1_Lxt3wp_MtH6lVZ6XtUHY4cKPefqMFZCwbH4xs5fDcBGiJt3XXaYYiHCXVXRUWG54chPc2_ZoyyhbkvVnPTwrONyLoKUUa82fS629aEIBY-k0qeKQDUvEwxtNS5w9DrUUAm1xWY_hDeVkqjM_HvwUtw2QVSIJDZXm5LkcLGLz0LTzoyXz3rDu5vZv5MkDtiUBfckm9hTumquSulr8XGBgREKw6b2HiytiSIVD5qBsDHIUZiRNyKuPQH3ZuuGQ26gKkAgxLZuBUXsAYNS5mOd5uCEjlk1v0xq-G3sEsgpjqUro" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://haysmedfoundation.org/covidshot/</a>&nbsp;and bring them with you.&nbsp;

Free drive-through COVID shots at HaysMed Saturday

The Cottonwood Extension District is offering two summer intern positions, one in Great Bend and one in Hays.

Interns will work up to eight weeks and be paid a competitive rate.

The work includes some evenings and weekends, some outside physical labor, and duties at the county fairs. 

Applicants must have completed at least four college semesters. 

Position announcements at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.

For the Great Bend position, submit to:&nbsp;1800 12th St., Great Bend, KS 67530, (620) 793-1910

For the Hays position, submit to: 601 Main Street, Hays, KS 67601, (785) 628-9430.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617728059224.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Cottonwood Extension District is offering two summer intern positions, one in Great Bend and one in Hays.Interns will work up to eight weeks and be paid a competitive rate.The work includes some evenings and weekends, some outside physical labor, and duties at the county fairs. Applicants must have completed at least four college semesters. Position announcements at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>. Applications due Friday. For the Great Bend position, submit to:&nbsp;1800 12th St., Great Bend, KS 67530, (620) 793-1910For the Hays position, submit to: 601 Main Street, Hays, KS 67601, (785) 628-9430.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Summer internships available with Cottonwood Extension

LOGAN — In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts are returning this summer. The five unique summer theater workshops for northwest Kansas teens are sponsored by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan.

After successful summers in 2018, 2019, the program offered online opportunities in 2020 due to COVID-19. This summer, the Hansen Foundation is pleased to see a return to in-person workshops.

Each week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming freshman through graduating seniors).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists.

July 5-9 – Russell (location TBA) July 12 –16 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center) July 19 – 23 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater) July 26 – 30 – Hoxie (Hoxie High School) July 26 – 30 – Salina (Salina Community Theater)

Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp; Registration is limited to the first 20 students in each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit <a href="https://lovewell.org/apply/workshop-dates-kansas/">lovewell.org</a>, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.

Although a workshop cannot replace a full theatre arts program offered in schools, Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore this genre in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers was overwhelmingly positive.

The week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of all kinds.

The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.

The Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50.&nbsp; However, no student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available.

Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, playwrites, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.

Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. After a pilot in New York in 1984, the process became the “Lovewell Experience” in 1987 in Salina, Kansas. The director of the program is a Kansas native.

Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United states and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>

For more information on NW Kansas Arts opportunities sponsored by the Hansen Foundation, visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.danehansenfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.danehansenfoundation.org</a>; click on Special Initiatives and NWKansas Arts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617739411444.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hansen FoundationLOGAN — In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts are returning this summer. The five unique summer theater workshops for northwest Kansas teens are sponsored by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan.After successful summers in 2018, 2019, the program offered online opportunities in 2020 due to COVID-19. This summer, the Hansen Foundation is pleased to see a return to in-person workshops.Each week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming freshman through graduating seniors).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists.Workshop schedule:July 5-9 – Russell (location TBA) July 12 –16 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center) July 19 – 23 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater) July 26 – 30 – Hoxie (Hoxie High School) July 26 – 30 – Salina (Salina Community Theater)Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp; Registration is limited to the first 20 students in each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit <a href="https://lovewell.org/apply/workshop-dates-kansas/">lovewell.org</a>, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.Although a workshop cannot replace a full theatre arts program offered in schools, Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore this genre in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers was overwhelmingly positive.ABOUT THE LOVEWELL WORKSHOPSThe week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of all kinds.The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.PARTICIPTION COSTSThe Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50.&nbsp; However, no student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available.ABOUT LOVEWELLLovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, playwrites, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. After a pilot in New York in 1984, the process became the “Lovewell Experience” in 1987 in Salina, Kansas. The director of the program is a Kansas native.Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United states and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>For more information on NW Kansas Arts opportunities sponsored by the Hansen Foundation, visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.danehansenfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.danehansenfoundation.org</a>; click on Special Initiatives and NWKansas Arts.

High school summer theatre workshops to return to NW Kansas

Are you an applicator that is still short some hours to renew your 2020 commercial applicator license or just want to get credits to renew this year? 

If your license expired during the COVID-19 State Disaster Emergency (2020), it shall remain valid until 90 days following the termination of the emergency declaration (date yet to be determined). The Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program is providing a training opportunity this April for several of the categories to help these individuals renew. This training will be offered in a virtual format via Zoom. These will be the only trainings offered by the program this spring. In order to hold the training, we must have at least 20 registered participants. 

Training dates and categories: April 21-22: Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, and Noxious Weed (7 hours 6, 7C &amp; 9A plus core) April 28-29: Forestry, Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (5 hours 2/3C, 7 hours 3A/3B plus core) April 30: Ag Plant (7 hours 1A plus core) Training information is available <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/commercial-applicator.html">HERE</a> or e-mail fmiller@ksu.edu to have the flyer e-mailed to you!

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/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Are you an applicator that is still short some hours to renew your 2020 commercial applicator license or just want to get credits to renew this year? If your license expired during the COVID-19 State Disaster Emergency (2020), it shall remain valid until 90 days following the termination of the emergency declaration (date yet to be determined). The Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program is providing a training opportunity this April for several of the categories to help these individuals renew. This training will be offered in a virtual format via Zoom. These will be the only trainings offered by the program this spring. In order to hold the training, we must have at least 20 registered participants. Training dates and categories: April 21-22: Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, and Noxious Weed (7 hours 6, 7C &amp; 9A plus core) April 28-29: Forestry, Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (5 hours 2/3C, 7 hours 3A/3B plus core) April 30: Ag Plant (7 hours 1A plus core) Training information is available <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/commercial-applicator.html">HERE</a> or e-mail fmiller@ksu.edu to have the flyer e-mailed to you!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: Pesticide training course this month

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from 230th Avenue to Commerce Parkway along and south of U.S. 40 Bypass to Reservation Road. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency.

 Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. 

The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617817711819.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from 230th Avenue to Commerce Parkway along and south of U.S. 40 Bypass to Reservation Road. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;

Fire department inspects hydrants in south Hays on Thursday 

Russell Co. residents urged to donate items for time capsule

MERRIAM&nbsp; — The Mainstream Coalition is holding a series of free, virtual nonpartisan workshops on getting into local public service, titled "Step Up &amp; Lead."

The workshops are designed for individuals thinking of running for elected office, or interested in an appointed position, or working on a campaign for someone seeking public office. This is a nonpartisan series focusing on the fundamental aspects of running a local campaign, including fundraising, messaging, digital communications, and field operations.

The first session is introductory, and is being held before the June 1 filing deadline for local or municipal office this year. The two following sessions are workshops for those who are seeking public office, or those helping them. Registration is available for just one, two, or all three sessions.

Introduction to local public service and necessary next steps Saturday, April 24, 20219 am to 12:30 pm, via Zoom Learn about different opportunities to serve, either as elected officials, in appointed positions, or as campaign staff. We will cover a variety of topics, from ethics and diversity to issue positions and the nuts and bolts of filing to run. This is the event for people trying to decide if public service is for them (or if they want to support someone seeking public office).

Workshop: Fundraising, Networking, Marketing Saturday, June 5, 20219 am to 12:30 pm, via Zoom This is the necessary work of getting your campaign off the ground. In a workshop format, we will cover fundraising (including campaign finance reports, how to make compelling asks, platforms, and more), networking (including coalition building, local groups, special interest groups, other officials, and more), and marketing and communications (including digital media, press relations, and more). This event is for candidates for public office and/or campaign staff.

Workshop: Goals, Strategies, and Fieldwork Saturday, June 12, 20219 am to 12:30 pm, via Zoom This workshop focuses on working with the human capital required to get into public service. In a workshop format, we will talk about electoral strategy, identifying, targeting, and persuading your supporters, voter registration, getting out the vote (including texting, canvassing, phonebanks, writing scripts, virtual events, and more), finding volunteers, and election day strategies. This event is for candidates for public office and/or campaign staff.

All events are free, but space is limited. Registration is open now at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mainstreamcoalition.org/step_up_and_lead_2021" target="_blank">https://www.mainstreamcoalition.org/step_up_and_lead_2021</a>

Questions? Send email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@mainstreamcoalition.org" target="_blank">admin@mainstreamcoalition.org</a>&nbsp;or call (913) 649-3326&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617819055126.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MERRIAM&nbsp; — The Mainstream Coalition is holding a series of free, virtual nonpartisan workshops on getting into local public service, titled "Step Up &amp; Lead."The workshops are designed for individuals thinking of running for elected office, or interested in an appointed position, or working on a campaign for someone seeking public office. This is a nonpartisan series focusing on the fundamental aspects of running a local campaign, including fundraising, messaging, digital communications, and field operations.The first session is introductory, and is being held before the June 1 filing deadline for local or municipal office this year. The two following sessions are workshops for those who are seeking public office, or those helping them. Registration is available for just one, two, or all three sessions.Introduction to local public service and necessary next steps Saturday, April 24, 20219 am to 12:30 pm, via Zoom Learn about different opportunities to serve, either as elected officials, in appointed positions, or as campaign staff. We will cover a variety of topics, from ethics and diversity to issue positions and the nuts and bolts of filing to run. This is the event for people trying to decide if public service is for them (or if they want to support someone seeking public office).Workshop: Fundraising, Networking, Marketing Saturday, June 5, 20219 am to 12:30 pm, via Zoom This is the necessary work of getting your campaign off the ground. In a workshop format, we will cover fundraising (including campaign finance reports, how to make compelling asks, platforms, and more), networking (including coalition building, local groups, special interest groups, other officials, and more), and marketing and communications (including digital media, press relations, and more). This event is for candidates for public office and/or campaign staff.Workshop: Goals, Strategies, and Fieldwork Saturday, June 12, 20219 am to 12:30 pm, via Zoom This workshop focuses on working with the human capital required to get into public service. In a workshop format, we will talk about electoral strategy, identifying, targeting, and persuading your supporters, voter registration, getting out the vote (including texting, canvassing, phonebanks, writing scripts, virtual events, and more), finding volunteers, and election day strategies. This event is for candidates for public office and/or campaign staff.All events are free, but space is limited. Registration is open now at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mainstreamcoalition.org/step_up_and_lead_2021" target="_blank">https://www.mainstreamcoalition.org/step_up_and_lead_2021</a> Questions? Send email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@mainstreamcoalition.org" target="_blank">admin@mainstreamcoalition.org</a>&nbsp;or call (913) 649-3326&nbsp;&nbsp;

Free nonpartisan workshop series offered on how to get into local public service 

ABILENE — The next program in the Eisenhower Presidential Library "Evenings at Ease" series is April 13 at 7 p.m. featuring guest speaker Dr. Shelly Cline.&nbsp;

Perhaps the biggest misconception of Nazi Germany is that the Nazi party came to power in a landslide victory and overwhelming wave of public support. 

This talk will look at the conditions of Germany in the 1920s and 1930s that made Nazism possible. It will also explore many examples of propaganda used by the Nazis to gain the support of the people for their new vision of Germany.

Cline is the historian and director of education at the <a href="https://mchekc.org/holocaust-history/library/">Midwest Center for Holocaust Education</a> in Overland Park, Kan. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Kansas.

Her research focuses on the SS Aufseherinnen (female guards in Nazi concentration camps) in the concentration camp system and the gendered perpetration of the Holocaust. Her research has been supported by grants from the University of Kansas (KU) and Universität Hamburg.

 Cline has been an instructor in the KU Humanities Program and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department. She also served on the faculties of the Kansas City Art Institute and University of Missouri Kansas City.

<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001pfN_hVvw7IQNS6oHBkjlIojp970KbwS1mBRrwcoluwUWy1JNgGp8M32UCRaaRbhfRRtelK8sx4dLgRq4IEtQKVvbCUGcvuXDNPAnG6mgJmuDon5vw50i_xYzoYXEYWJln6JV38EPiV3JcKksW8y15q9PDV5VqTIs&amp;c=xoWgSwGTmat_pMMvGRd-YBqF2hofF27HSUrQ7NQYjlZKi6l6QAdIPA==&amp;ch=hRHxZCyfyV4G8zIXQp0sIxFb7u5iDzCeVtUvzsADa0eUD4EBgk__Gw==&amp;jrc=1" target="_blank">meet.google.com/buv-wkkh-cgw</a> Phone: 617-675-4444‬ (PIN: ‪‪‪‪225 170 016 5641#) Please join 10 minutes early so the program may begin on time.

The&nbsp;2021 Evenings at Ease series&nbsp;is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation with generous support from the Jeffcoat Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617816263600.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE — The next program in the Eisenhower Presidential Library "Evenings at Ease" series is April 13 at 7 p.m. featuring guest speaker Dr. Shelly Cline.&nbsp;Perhaps the biggest misconception of Nazi Germany is that the Nazi party came to power in a landslide victory and overwhelming wave of public support. This talk will look at the conditions of Germany in the 1920s and 1930s that made Nazism possible. It will also explore many examples of propaganda used by the Nazis to gain the support of the people for their new vision of Germany.Cline is the historian and director of education at the <a href="https://mchekc.org/holocaust-history/library/">Midwest Center for Holocaust Education</a> in Overland Park, Kan. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Kansas. Her research focuses on the SS Aufseherinnen (female guards in Nazi concentration camps) in the concentration camp system and the gendered perpetration of the Holocaust. Her research has been supported by grants from the University of Kansas (KU) and Universität Hamburg. Cline has been an instructor in the KU Humanities Program and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department. She also served on the faculties of the Kansas City Art Institute and University of Missouri Kansas City.<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001pfN_hVvw7IQNS6oHBkjlIojp970KbwS1mBRrwcoluwUWy1JNgGp8M32UCRaaRbhfRRtelK8sx4dLgRq4IEtQKVvbCUGcvuXDNPAnG6mgJmuDon5vw50i_xYzoYXEYWJln6JV38EPiV3JcKksW8y15q9PDV5VqTIs&amp;c=xoWgSwGTmat_pMMvGRd-YBqF2hofF27HSUrQ7NQYjlZKi6l6QAdIPA==&amp;ch=hRHxZCyfyV4G8zIXQp0sIxFb7u5iDzCeVtUvzsADa0eUD4EBgk__Gw==&amp;jrc=1" target="_blank">meet.google.com/buv-wkkh-cgw</a> Phone: 617-675-4444‬ (PIN: ‪‪‪‪225 170 016 5641#) Please join 10 minutes early so the program may begin on time. The&nbsp;2021 Evenings at Ease series&nbsp;is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation with generous support from the Jeffcoat Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rise of the Nazi Party, propaganda topic of next 'Evenings at Ease'

An upcoming virtual symposium on April 15 from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., hosted free by the Fort Hays State University College of Education, seeks to increase awareness about the mental well-being of students from pre-kindergarten to college.

At the helm of the keynote speech is Dr. Jamie Schwandt, FHSU alumnus, author, and U.S. Army major.

Schwandt, whose parents battled substance abuse and other untreated mental illnesses, bounced around the foster care system until high school. 

Despite these challenges, Schwandt has earned an Ed.D from Kansas State University, an M.S. and B.S. from Fort Hays State University, has published four books, authored articles for several magazines and blogs, and hosted "Dreaming Big!", an inspiring television show produced by Eagle Community Television, Hays. 

Schwandt’s keynote speech H.O.P.E. - Healthy Outlooks, Positive Emotions -&nbsp; will share strategies to support the mental well-being of vulnerable student populations.&nbsp;

To attend the Olliff Symposium sign up for free at this link: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fforms%2Fd%2Fe%2F1FAIpQLSfHab0kQtLwW5a45foM3m_vD0RyaIGN3fSmNTdpG3MivBg8Kg%2Fviewform%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3Ar-tMccco0KjUti1ZytT4byvV0ZLnbzAO8SGtcI4XF0sFlTSIjKdQPAU&amp;h=AT3ZRDmloaMz-kYk5sXA07B80uFLT13cCyKJOG69ZAYOoeKUab3qTAZOKsQnDe6o-SVI8K1Hg4bMKzrb-3C84StaeKlQTFxjsN1PsOGjl2qewMF0G6koWRFklkAQN8zR87Qb&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2FD-YdgTrWT-0WllpCYKNsVlN5jnhsBMtfPVYGoEfT0WHD7Jt1lyn7OpLYhJ_TLKopciYKHJiW8VbdWLV5a2AUOy3ocJWuPu1GifFZokl3_BWE291fEFR09Ks5PaeM1puqHlpBtAmZkT5WW8rEpQ4IRI7lb9ErU0vgv2yAhe6b5ZQ" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSfHab0kQtLwW5.../viewform</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617815527579.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An upcoming virtual symposium on April 15 from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., hosted free by the Fort Hays State University College of Education, seeks to increase awareness about the mental well-being of students from pre-kindergarten to college. At the helm of the keynote speech is Dr. Jamie Schwandt, FHSU alumnus, author, and U.S. Army major. Schwandt, whose parents battled substance abuse and other untreated mental illnesses, bounced around the foster care system until high school. Despite these challenges, Schwandt has earned an Ed.D from Kansas State University, an M.S. and B.S. from Fort Hays State University, has published four books, authored articles for several magazines and blogs, and hosted "Dreaming Big!", an inspiring television show produced by Eagle Community Television, Hays. Schwandt’s keynote speech H.O.P.E. - Healthy Outlooks, Positive Emotions -&nbsp; will share strategies to support the mental well-being of vulnerable student populations.&nbsp; To attend the Olliff Symposium sign up for free at this link: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fforms%2Fd%2Fe%2F1FAIpQLSfHab0kQtLwW5a45foM3m_vD0RyaIGN3fSmNTdpG3MivBg8Kg%2Fviewform%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3Ar-tMccco0KjUti1ZytT4byvV0ZLnbzAO8SGtcI4XF0sFlTSIjKdQPAU&amp;h=AT3ZRDmloaMz-kYk5sXA07B80uFLT13cCyKJOG69ZAYOoeKUab3qTAZOKsQnDe6o-SVI8K1Hg4bMKzrb-3C84StaeKlQTFxjsN1PsOGjl2qewMF0G6koWRFklkAQN8zR87Qb&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2FD-YdgTrWT-0WllpCYKNsVlN5jnhsBMtfPVYGoEfT0WHD7Jt1lyn7OpLYhJ_TLKopciYKHJiW8VbdWLV5a2AUOy3ocJWuPu1GifFZokl3_BWE291fEFR09Ks5PaeM1puqHlpBtAmZkT5WW8rEpQ4IRI7lb9ErU0vgv2yAhe6b5ZQ" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSfHab0kQtLwW5.../viewform</a>

Symposium features FHSU grad, former foster care kid on increasing mental well-being of students

State Rep. Christina Haswood featured at upcoming Ellis County Democratic BBQ

EMPORIA - Emporia State University congratulates more than 800 undergraduates named to the university honor roll and dean's lists for fall 2020. 

Students from this area who received honors include:

Kassi Brown of Ellis, Kansas, university honor roll and The Teachers College dean's list

Zachary Eck of Ellis, Kansas, university honor roll

To qualify for the university honor roll, students earned a minimum 3.80 semester grade point average in at least 12 graded hours.

Emporia State University offers over 200 academic programs in the School of Business, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Library and Information Management and The Teachers College.&nbsp;

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ls/click?upn=uevGtabMERb1wVxAAaAe-2BkgMK29AMwddLDJy5biJJhI-3DRlPs_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah3OEr0aunaG3iq5ObQ5dIjHiT7Iuh1xxmUy0v9oASCMspJhHKWWodskOlQZhIywvYKF7-2F6XT3phm9YGH4HL3feeffBLeP0nzCCTFwU4uDTbYwhDEvs6PfuOmQxP5Jp-2BqdJW4uCdKnjBRfPMY8Jj6wrdWVg-2BsAL6DSkr8-2F5LCa3bnCJicZvIq6Gjnx6TPQQBHhBKlwFvCweHFQk-2FjuUb4CnilMf-2FKU0-2BAr00IcQq-2Ft9ToPAch7MXpX0dcl4nkwYaMkKkU9fQ-2BUZiiZWi2pLhcP3yvC6XOIaU1lA41KZN7PoVYQ7ov4iwJHRbL4SqglNF7ro-3D" target="_blank">www.emporia.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617728682748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ESUEMPORIA - Emporia State University congratulates more than 800 undergraduates named to the university honor roll and dean's lists for fall 2020. Students from this area who received honors include:Kassi Brown of Ellis, Kansas, university honor roll and The Teachers College dean's listZachary Eck of Ellis, Kansas, university honor rollTo qualify for the university honor roll, students earned a minimum 3.80 semester grade point average in at least 12 graded hours.About Emporia State UniversityEmporia State University offers over 200 academic programs in the School of Business, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Library and Information Management and The Teachers College.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ls/click?upn=uevGtabMERb1wVxAAaAe-2BkgMK29AMwddLDJy5biJJhI-3DRlPs_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah3OEr0aunaG3iq5ObQ5dIjHiT7Iuh1xxmUy0v9oASCMspJhHKWWodskOlQZhIywvYKF7-2F6XT3phm9YGH4HL3feeffBLeP0nzCCTFwU4uDTbYwhDEvs6PfuOmQxP5Jp-2BqdJW4uCdKnjBRfPMY8Jj6wrdWVg-2BsAL6DSkr8-2F5LCa3bnCJicZvIq6Gjnx6TPQQBHhBKlwFvCweHFQk-2FjuUb4CnilMf-2FKU0-2BAr00IcQq-2Ft9ToPAch7MXpX0dcl4nkwYaMkKkU9fQ-2BUZiiZWi2pLhcP3yvC6XOIaU1lA41KZN7PoVYQ7ov4iwJHRbL4SqglNF7ro-3D" target="_blank">www.emporia.edu</a>.

Two Ellis students named to Emporia State University fall honor roll

HorseThief Reservoir fishing tournament May 22

If you’re the one who has inherited the job of caring for your family’s history, it can be quite the daunting task.

 We’ll take a look at the types of items you might have in your possession and what those things may tell us about our ancestors. We’ll also talk about how to tackle organizing, caring for and sharing those treasures with the rest of your family.

Registration is required. Copy and past the link below to pre-register.

<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0odeytqzMjGtIiIPWLis24saMydptW-FF2?fbclid=IwAR3W0fhrQFm8zg_TXWD0UoJzoW9Jis59jYUwFgrHRxNgQb3ml3Xy7K1--1s" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZ0odeytqzMjGtIiIPWLis24saMyd...</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617808050159.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you’re the one who has inherited the job of caring for your family’s history, it can be quite the daunting task. We’ll take a look at the types of items you might have in your possession and what those things may tell us about our ancestors. We’ll also talk about how to tackle organizing, caring for and sharing those treasures with the rest of your family.Registration is required. Copy and past the link below to pre-register.<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0odeytqzMjGtIiIPWLis24saMydptW-FF2?fbclid=IwAR3W0fhrQFm8zg_TXWD0UoJzoW9Jis59jYUwFgrHRxNgQb3ml3Xy7K1--1s" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZ0odeytqzMjGtIiIPWLis24saMyd...</a>

Virtual workshop for finding out what to do with all that family stuff

Free, family-friendly Saturday matinees at the Dream Theatre for our Russell area families.  This Saturday's presentation is is E.T.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617807293317.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Free, family-friendly Saturday matinees at the Dream Theatre for our Russell area families. This Saturday's presentation is is E.T.

Free family-friendly movie Saturday at Dream Theatre in Russell

The TMP-Marian Drama Department is presenting "The Phantom of the Opera" April 15-18. Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7 p.m. The Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m.

“The longest running show in Broadway history, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s&nbsp;The Phantom of the Opera&nbsp;has been seen by more than 140 million people worldwide.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Phantom of the Opera&nbsp;tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.”

All performances are in the TMP-Marian Dreiling Theater, 1701 Hall Street, Hays. <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/phantom/?fbclid=IwAR1tZ4FE25kKlx8FIm06YhC6tkiZpKiYmPJxqGFyrtfeJRl60M_YwAEodJY">Tickets</a> are $8 each.

For information, please contact boxoffice@tmpmarian.org

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617806948367.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The TMP-Marian Drama Department is presenting "The Phantom of the Opera" April 15-18. Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7 p.m. The Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m. “The longest running show in Broadway history, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s&nbsp;The Phantom of the Opera&nbsp;has been seen by more than 140 million people worldwide.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Phantom of the Opera&nbsp;tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.”All performances are in the TMP-Marian Dreiling Theater, 1701 Hall Street, Hays. <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/phantom/?fbclid=IwAR1tZ4FE25kKlx8FIm06YhC6tkiZpKiYmPJxqGFyrtfeJRl60M_YwAEodJY">Tickets</a> are $8 each.For information, please contact boxoffice@tmpmarian.org

TMP-Marian Drama Dept. to present 'The Phantom of the Opera'

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall St. to Fort St. between 27th St. and 7th St., and also Indian Trail to Canterbury between 27th St. and 22nd St. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583494575399.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall St. to Fort St. between 27th St. and 7th St., and also Indian Trail to Canterbury between 27th St. and 22nd St. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.&nbsp;

Testing and inspection of fire hydrants continues Wednesday

The Hays Public Library, 1205 Main, has a variety of volunteer opportunities for adults and teens.

If you are interested, stop by to pick up a volunteer application or print one from the <a href="https://hayslibrary.org/volunteer/">website</a> and drop it off.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578606002336.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Public Library, 1205 Main, has a variety of volunteer opportunities for adults and teens.If you are interested, stop by to pick up a volunteer application or print one from the <a href="https://hayslibrary.org/volunteer/">website</a> and drop it off.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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