Registration open for Thunder on the Plains cruise night and car show

Veteran Service Representative Jeremy Miller, Hays, from the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs will be at the Phillips County Courthouse, 301 State Street, Phillipsburg on April 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Please call 785-625-8532 for an appointment.

COVID-19 screening restrictions apply.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617737409222.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Veteran Service Representative Jeremy Miller, Hays, from the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs will be at the Phillips County Courthouse, 301 State Street, Phillipsburg on April 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.Please call 785-625-8532 for an appointment.COVID-19 screening restrictions apply.&nbsp;

Veteran Service Representative to be in Phillipsburg April 13

Hays VFW Stars & Stripes Breakfast returns Sunday

Annual Hays Toy Show is April 17

Healing After Loss to meet Tuesday, April 20

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Monday in the area from Vine to Canterbury between Eighth and 13th, and Wheatland Ave. to Commerce between 10thand 22nd. 

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617405329309.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Monday in the area from Vine to Canterbury between Eighth and 13th, and Wheatland Ave. to Commerce between 10thand 22nd. 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.

Another week of fire hydrant testing, inspection in Hays

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Friday in the area from Ash St. to Vine St. between 4th St. and 13th St., and from Wheatland Ave. to Commerce Parkway between 13th St. and 22nd St. 

 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617312731328.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 Friday in the area from Ash St. to Vine St. between 4th St. and 13th St., and from Wheatland Ave. to Commerce Parkway between 13th 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. 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.

Testing of fire hydrants continues Friday

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, Ash Street from Skyline Court to Skyline Drive in Hays will be closed to through traffic for bridge deck repair work. 

Repairs are expected to be completed in approximately three weeks. 

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, call the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603291672014.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning at 7 a.m. Monday, Ash Street from Skyline Court to Skyline Drive in Hays will be closed to through traffic for bridge deck repair work. Repairs are expected to be completed in approximately three weeks. The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, call the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Ash from Skyline Court to Skyline Drive to close for bridge repair

Join us on Facebook for a virtual poetry presentation by Kansas State Poet Laureate, Huascar Medina. 

In honor of National Poetry Month and the annual Hays Public Library poetry contest, Huascar will be sharing some of his eloquent and dynamic poetry followed by a Q and A session. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617294946079.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Join us on Facebook for a virtual poetry presentation by Kansas State Poet Laureate, Huascar Medina. In honor of National Poetry Month and the annual Hays Public Library poetry contest, Huascar will be sharing some of his eloquent and dynamic poetry followed by a Q and A session. Presented by Humanities Kansas.

Kansas Poet Laureate to present virtual poetry reading April 15

WICHITA — The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center, Wichita, will hold a virtual listening session with stakeholders from 1 to 2:30 p.m. April 5 to hear from veterans and the communities the Veterans Administration serves.

This is one of 50 public virtual listening sessions across the country from March through June to hear from veterans on how to design a health care system of the future and grow services for veterans in a way that reinforces VA’s role as a leader in the U.S. health care system.

“We want to hear from Veterans and other stakeholders in the communities VA serves and understand their vision for VA health care,” said Candace Ifabiyi, director of the Dole VA. “VA’s goal is to collaborate closely with Veterans and other stakeholders to build the best VA health care system that meets the needs of veterans today and for generations to come.”

These listening sessions represent an exciting opportunity for veterans to help VA reimagine how VA delivers care in an equitable, high quality, veteran-centered manner and develop a plan for investing in VA’s aging infrastructure. 

The feedback will be used to develop the recommendations VA submits to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/115th-congress/house-report/1036" target="_blank">Asset and Infrastructure Review Commission</a>&nbsp;in January 2022. The AIR Commission will also conduct public hearings as part of their review of VA’s recommendations before submitting its recommendations to the president and Congress for review and approval in 2023.

To register for Dole VA’s listening session, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/HEALTHPOLICYPLANNING/listening.asp" target="_blank">https://www.va.gov/HEALTHPOLICYPLANNING/listening.asp</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608820708708.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA — The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center, Wichita, will hold a virtual listening session with stakeholders from 1 to 2:30 p.m. April 5 to hear from veterans and the communities the Veterans Administration serves.This is one of 50 public virtual listening sessions across the country from March through June to hear from veterans on how to design a health care system of the future and grow services for veterans in a way that reinforces VA’s role as a leader in the U.S. health care system.“We want to hear from Veterans and other stakeholders in the communities VA serves and understand their vision for VA health care,” said Candace Ifabiyi, director of the Dole VA. “VA’s goal is to collaborate closely with Veterans and other stakeholders to build the best VA health care system that meets the needs of veterans today and for generations to come.”These listening sessions represent an exciting opportunity for veterans to help VA reimagine how VA delivers care in an equitable, high quality, veteran-centered manner and develop a plan for investing in VA’s aging infrastructure. The feedback will be used to develop the recommendations VA submits to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/115th-congress/house-report/1036" target="_blank">Asset and Infrastructure Review Commission</a>&nbsp;in January 2022. The AIR Commission will also conduct public hearings as part of their review of VA’s recommendations before submitting its recommendations to the president and Congress for review and approval in 2023.To register for Dole VA’s listening session, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/HEALTHPOLICYPLANNING/listening.asp" target="_blank">https://www.va.gov/HEALTHPOLICYPLANNING/listening.asp</a>.

Stakeholders invited to virtual session to guide future of VA health care

On Thursday, the city's contractor will begin setting up traffic control, which will close the west half of the 27th and Hall intersection in Hays. Traffic will be detoured using Augusta Lane.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3892" target="_blank">See detour map above.</a>&nbsp;

Hall Street traffic will be carried through head-to-head in the east lanes of the intersection. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3893" target="_blank">See traffic control map below.</a>

Once the construction zone is isolated, the existing pavement will be removed, the subgrade will be stabilized with crushed concrete, and new pavement will be installed. &nbsp;The curb and gutter, sidewalk and ADA ramp in the northwest corner of the intersection will be replaced as well. &nbsp;All this work will take about three weeks. &nbsp;

Once that phase of construction is complete, then Hall Street traffic will be moved to the west side of the intersection on the new pavement while work begins in the southeast corner of the intersection and proceeds east down the south side of 27th Street.

All this information and more can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/778/27th-St-Project" target="_blank">project webpage at haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or by contacting the Office of Project Management at 785- 628-7350.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617131359307.jpeg" alt="Reconstruction of the 27th and Hall Streets intersection will take about three weeks." />
 <figcaption>Reconstruction of the 27th and Hall Streets intersection will take about three weeks.</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOn Thursday, the city's contractor will begin setting up traffic control, which will close the west half of the 27th and Hall intersection in Hays. Traffic will be detoured using Augusta Lane.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3892" target="_blank">See detour map above.</a>&nbsp; Hall Street traffic will be carried through head-to-head in the east lanes of the intersection. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3893" target="_blank">See traffic control map below.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617131528146.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Once the construction zone is isolated, the existing pavement will be removed, the subgrade will be stabilized with crushed concrete, and new pavement will be installed. &nbsp;The curb and gutter, sidewalk and ADA ramp in the northwest corner of the intersection will be replaced as well. &nbsp;All this work will take about three weeks. &nbsp;Once that phase of construction is complete, then Hall Street traffic will be moved to the west side of the intersection on the new pavement while work begins in the southeast corner of the intersection and proceeds east down the south side of 27th Street.All this information and more can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/778/27th-St-Project" target="_blank">project webpage at haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or by contacting the Office of Project Management at 785- 628-7350.&nbsp;

West side of 27th & Hall intersection closes for reconstruction 

&nbsp;MISSION&nbsp;– Casey’s General Stores is kicking off a giving campaign to support Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners across its 16-state footprint. 

From March 31 to April 15, Casey’s guests can round up their purchases to provide funding for the Special Olympics athletic, health, school, and leadership programs that positively impact the lives of thousands of athletes and Unified partners each year.

&nbsp;“Casey’s is proud to support Special Olympics Kansas through this campaign and encourage our guests to stop in and round up their purchase to support these outstanding athletes,” said Katie Petru, director of community at Casey’s.

“We could not be more grateful for this partnership with Casey’s General Stores,” said John Lair, Special Olympics Kansas President/CEO. "Their efforts help ensure sports and competition for over 4,000 Special Olympics athletes in Kansas, and we cannot thank them and their customers enough.”

In 2019, Casey’s General Stores, in partnership with Coca-Cola, raised over $2.2 million for Special Olympics.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617229484214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;MISSION&nbsp;– Casey’s General Stores is kicking off a giving campaign to support Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners across its 16-state footprint. From March 31 to April 15, Casey’s guests can round up their purchases to provide funding for the Special Olympics athletic, health, school, and leadership programs that positively impact the lives of thousands of athletes and Unified partners each year.&nbsp;“Casey’s is proud to support Special Olympics Kansas through this campaign and encourage our guests to stop in and round up their purchase to support these outstanding athletes,” said Katie Petru, director of community at Casey’s.“We could not be more grateful for this partnership with Casey’s General Stores,” said John Lair, Special Olympics Kansas President/CEO. "Their efforts help ensure sports and competition for over 4,000 Special Olympics athletes in Kansas, and we cannot thank them and their customers enough.”In 2019, Casey’s General Stores, in partnership with Coca-Cola, raised over $2.2 million for Special Olympics.

Special Olympics Kansas to benefit from Casey’s General Stores’ round up campaign 

April events in Hays

Ellis County offices will be closed Friday, April 2, in observance of Good Friday. The landfill will be open normal business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and will be closed Saturday.

Ellis County offices will be closed Friday, April 2, in observance of Good Friday. The landfill will be open normal business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and will be closed Saturday.

Ellis Co. offices will be closed; landfill open Friday

Fort Hays State University Science Café presents “Green Manure and Cover Crop Usage: From the Garden to the Farm," discussing soil health improvement for sustainable agriculture using cover crops and green manure.

Presenter: Dr. Iryna McDonald, Assistant Professor of Agronomy, Department of Agriculture , FHSU

April 19, 7 p.m. at&nbsp;‘The Venue’ in&nbsp; Thirsty’s, 2704 Vine Street, Hays.&nbsp;

Masks are highly recommended and social distance will be used.

<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> Sponsored by FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617145076392.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University Science Café presents “Green Manure and Cover Crop Usage: From the Garden to the Farm," discussing soil health improvement for sustainable agriculture using cover crops and green manure.Presenter: Dr. Iryna McDonald, Assistant Professor of Agronomy, Department of Agriculture , FHSUApril 19, 7 p.m. at&nbsp;‘The Venue’ in&nbsp; Thirsty’s, 2704 Vine Street, Hays.&nbsp;Masks are highly recommended and social distance will be used.<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> Sponsored by FHSU Science and Mathematics Education InstituteOpen to public

FHSU Science Café returns to in person presentations April 19

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall to Vine between 27th and 41st&nbsp;streets and north of Interstate 70. 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;&nbsp;

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. &nbsp;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.&nbsp;

Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616106491764.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall to Vine between 27th and 41st&nbsp;streets and north of Interstate 70. 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;&nbsp;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. &nbsp;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.&nbsp;Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

Fire hydrant flow testing, inspection in west Hays on Wednesday

The Hays Public Library 21st annual poetry contest is going virtual. Rather than holding one night of in-person submissions, HPL will be accepting online submissions of original works of poetry now through 11:59 p.m. April 12.&nbsp;

Participants (age 16 and older) can enter one original piece of poetry on the Hays Public Library website,&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest">hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest</a>. Judges, including Department Chair of History at Fort Hays State University David Goodlett, FHSU adviser and local author Dawne Leiker, and HPL Patron Experience Coordinator Nicole Thibodeau will deliberate and choose a first place and second place winner, which will be announced via the HPL Facebook page on April 16. The first-place winner will receive $75 in Chamber Cheques and his or her name engraved on the Poetry Contest plaque, and second place will receive $50 in Chamber Cheques.&nbsp;

HPL values the art of the written word and celebrates bringing together the many voices of the Hays community. After the contest, all submitted works of poetry will be published in a literary journal titled&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;to showcase the incredible creativity and hard work of those who entered. Both physical and digital copies of&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;will be available.&nbsp;

For questions or comments, contact Thibodeau at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org" target="_blank">nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org</a>.

You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617024632177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPLThe Hays Public Library 21st annual poetry contest is going virtual. Rather than holding one night of in-person submissions, HPL will be accepting online submissions of original works of poetry now through 11:59 p.m. April 12.&nbsp;Participants (age 16 and older) can enter one original piece of poetry on the Hays Public Library website,&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest">hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest</a>. Judges, including Department Chair of History at Fort Hays State University David Goodlett, FHSU adviser and local author Dawne Leiker, and HPL Patron Experience Coordinator Nicole Thibodeau will deliberate and choose a first place and second place winner, which will be announced via the HPL Facebook page on April 16. The first-place winner will receive $75 in Chamber Cheques and his or her name engraved on the Poetry Contest plaque, and second place will receive $50 in Chamber Cheques.&nbsp;HPL values the art of the written word and celebrates bringing together the many voices of the Hays community. After the contest, all submitted works of poetry will be published in a literary journal titled&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;to showcase the incredible creativity and hard work of those who entered. Both physical and digital copies of&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;will be available.&nbsp;For questions or comments, contact Thibodeau at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org" target="_blank">nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org</a>.You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

Hays library seeks submissions for 21st annual poetry contest

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Tuesday in the area from Ash to Vine between Fourth and 13th&nbsp;streets. 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;&nbsp;

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. &nbsp;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.&nbsp;

For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615901060478.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Hays Fire Department)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Hays Fire Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Tuesday in the area from Ash to Vine between Fourth and 13th&nbsp;streets. 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;&nbsp;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. &nbsp;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.&nbsp;Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

Tuesday's fire hydrant testing situated in south Hays

GREAT BEND - The Barton Community College Foundation aims to enhance the Barton student experience with its 11th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot fundraiser from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sunday, April 18 at Camp Aldrich, 884 NE 110 Ave. in Claflin. The money raised is used for mini-grants for Barton faculty members to purchase items for their classrooms to enhance student learning experiences. The foundation has awarded about $100,000 in mini-grants to date.

Participants can compete as individuals or as three-person teams in a modified 100-target Lewis Class style tournament. The shoot begins at 9 a.m. with a shot-gun start throughout the day. The last shooters must start the course by 3 p.m. 

This is not a National Sporting Clays Association sponsored event. 

Registration is $75 with a lunch provided by Great Western Dining for those who pre-register by April 8. Following April 11, registration will still be $75; however, lunch will not be included.

Registration includes 100 sporting clays, prizes for the overall winners and Lewis Class winners, and chance drawings for gifts. Shooters will need to provide their own shells. ATVs and golf carts are welcome. 

Those interested can register at <a href="http://www.bartonccfoundation.org/fundraising-events/sporting-clay-shoot">clayshoot.bartonccfoundation.org</a>.

Linden Target Sports will handle logistics and supply the equipment. 

The company has designed a course to complement the beautiful landscape of Camp Aldrich, which is located two miles north of Highway 156 between Claflin and the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. It sits on 290 acres of rolling sand hills and wilderness areas. The camp boasts at least 70 species of wildflowers and grasses, 57 different types of birds, deer, turkey and various other animals; some of which are on the endangered species list.

 “Although this event is not the largest in terms of funds raised it is certainly the most unique and the most innovative. It has proven to be a vehicle to fill a special niche for donors who had not previously been involved with our fund-raising efforts,” said Coleen Cape, executive director of the foundation. 

“It is also unique in that it reaches far beyond the communities in our service area. We have shooters join us, not only from all areas of Kansas but from outlying states as well. It is a great event and the numbers just keep growing. Of course, last year COVID 19 pre-empted this event, so this year we are looking forward to welcoming a record number of shooters," Cape added.

For more information, contact Donna McCormick at mccormickd@bartoncc.edu or (620) 792-9306. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617029189520.jpeg" alt="Participants in the 2019 clay shoot take aim at flying sporting clays down range. The 12-station event also features a side game of flurries, which offers participants an opportunity to practice or compete amongst themselves for bragging rights." />
 <figcaption>Participants in the 2019 clay shoot take aim at flying sporting clays down range. The 12-station event also features a side game of flurries, which offers participants an opportunity to practice or compete amongst themselves for bragging rights.</figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - The Barton Community College Foundation aims to enhance the Barton student experience with its 11th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot fundraiser from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sunday, April 18 at Camp Aldrich, 884 NE 110 Ave. in Claflin. The money raised is used for mini-grants for Barton faculty members to purchase items for their classrooms to enhance student learning experiences. The foundation has awarded about $100,000 in mini-grants to date.Participants can compete as individuals or as three-person teams in a modified 100-target Lewis Class style tournament. The shoot begins at 9 a.m. with a shot-gun start throughout the day. The last shooters must start the course by 3 p.m. This is not a National Sporting Clays Association sponsored event. Registration is $75 with a lunch provided by Great Western Dining for those who pre-register by April 8. Following April 11, registration will still be $75; however, lunch will not be included.Registration includes 100 sporting clays, prizes for the overall winners and Lewis Class winners, and chance drawings for gifts. Shooters will need to provide their own shells. ATVs and golf carts are welcome. Those interested can register at <a href="http://www.bartonccfoundation.org/fundraising-events/sporting-clay-shoot">clayshoot.bartonccfoundation.org</a>. Linden Target Sports will handle logistics and supply the equipment. The company has designed a course to complement the beautiful landscape of Camp Aldrich, which is located two miles north of Highway 156 between Claflin and the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. It sits on 290 acres of rolling sand hills and wilderness areas. The camp boasts at least 70 species of wildflowers and grasses, 57 different types of birds, deer, turkey and various other animals; some of which are on the endangered species list. “Although this event is not the largest in terms of funds raised it is certainly the most unique and the most innovative. It has proven to be a vehicle to fill a special niche for donors who had not previously been involved with our fund-raising efforts,” said Coleen Cape, executive director of the foundation. “It is also unique in that it reaches far beyond the communities in our service area. We have shooters join us, not only from all areas of Kansas but from outlying states as well. It is a great event and the numbers just keep growing. Of course, last year COVID 19 pre-empted this event, so this year we are looking forward to welcoming a record number of shooters," Cape added.For more information, contact Donna McCormick at mccormickd@bartoncc.edu or (620) 792-9306. Major sponsors:Barton Community CollegeRob &amp; Trisha DoveHammeke ElectricPryor Automatic Fire Sprinkler, Inc.12 Gauge Shot Gun SponsorsP&amp;S SecurityRicker Seeds20 Gauge Shot Gun SponsorsEldridge FencingFirst Kansas BankGreat Bend TribuneKansas Trophy ExperienceM &amp; M EquipmentPanzer Insurance

Sporting clay shoot to benefit BCC Foundation

Beginning Monday, Canal Boulevard in Hays will be closed between 24th and 27th streets for storm sewer improvements related to the project to reconstruct 27th Street. &nbsp;

This phase of work should be completed by Friday.

Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617023938910.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Monday, Canal Boulevard in Hays will be closed between 24th and 27th streets for storm sewer improvements related to the project to reconstruct 27th Street. &nbsp;This phase of work should be completed by Friday.Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions.

Portion of Canal closed this week for storm sewer improvements

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on&nbsp; Monday in the area from Indian Trail to Wheatland Ave. between 27th St. and 22nd St. and Highway 183 Alternate to Fort St. between 27th St. and 12th 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. 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615927348562.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on&nbsp; Monday in the area from Indian Trail to Wheatland Ave. between 27th St. and 22nd St. and Highway 183 Alternate to Fort St. between 27th St. and 12th 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. 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.

Fire hydrant testing continues Monday

Alton Community Easter Sunrise Pageant live re-enactment of the life of Christ will be held&nbsp;6 a.m. Sun., April 4, 2021 at the bluffs just south of Alton on Highway 24 between Osborne and Stockton.

Dress warm. Bring a flashlight and lawn chair. Breakfast at the Methodist Church following.

Sponsored by United Methodist Churches of Alton and Woodston, Mt. Ayr Friends Church and Community of Alton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617021893600.jpeg" alt="Alton area churches will host the Community Easter Sunrise Pageant on Sunday. (Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>Alton area churches will host the Community Easter Sunrise Pageant on Sunday. (Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Alton Community Easter Sunrise Pageant live re-enactment of the life of Christ will be held&nbsp;6 a.m. Sun., April 4, 2021 at the bluffs just south of Alton on Highway 24 between Osborne and Stockton.Dress warm. Bring a flashlight and lawn chair. Breakfast at the Methodist Church following.Sponsored by United Methodist Churches of Alton and Woodston, Mt. Ayr Friends Church and Community of Alton.For more information call 785-483-0660

Easter sunrise pageant at Alton bluffs Sunday

What better time to talk about this subject! Many in the community are taking advantage of KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds &amp;amp; City of Hays Roll Out the Rain Barrel distribution. This is a fabulous way to conserve a precious resource for the home landscape. A typical barrel will hold approximately 50-55 gallons. They have a cover (required for safety and&nbsp;to prevent mosquitos) with an opening covered by a removable screen for filling and a spigot at&nbsp;the bottom to use when water is needed. The spigot has a knob to adjust the flow and an end where a hose can be attached.

Sounds perfect! All that lovely water ready for use. Conserving water and saving money, a new&nbsp;source of water for the garden and landscape. Whoa! A few details about placement and ease of use might be helpful.

Placement. Under a gutter downspout, whether off a house or garage, even a shed will catch the&nbsp;rain. Where do you plan on using the water? Putting the barrel to the closest downspout&nbsp;facilitates ease of use. Keep in mind, when full, a rain barrel can weigh up to 400 lbs. If not&nbsp;placed on a sturdy base or concrete, they will slowly sink and possibly tip over. A barrel will&nbsp;have an overflow opening which should be placed away from the structure, ideally onto an&nbsp;unpaved surface, to prevent damage to the house or garage. With a heavy rain, the barrel(s) will&nbsp;fill quickly, make sure there is adequate drainage away from the structure. With a little work and&nbsp;some PVC pipe, the barrels can even be connected to one another.

Use: OK, the barrel is full. Now what? The water will not flow quickly and as the barrel empties&nbsp;the flow will slow. Trying to water anything that is above the height of the spigot will be difficult&nbsp;as the water fights against gravity. To make sure the barrel not only won’t sink into the ground with the water weight, but also for ease of use, it should be placed on a base of some sort. Again,&nbsp;keep the weight in mind. A base must not only be able to support the weight but is solid enough&nbsp;to not sink with the weight. Cinderblocks would be suitable. The higher the base, the easier it is&nbsp;to use.

Maintenance: At least once a year, completely empty and rinse out the barrel. This will prevent&nbsp;algal growth, debris or any stagnant water. Do not leave water in the barrel over winter and keep&nbsp;the valve open! If the valve is closed and water remains in the barrel during the winter months,&nbsp;the barrel will crack, the ice melt and water flow, causing possible damage to the foundation of the building.

Safety notes: If using the water on the vegetable garden, make sure to wash off any produce, not with the collected rain water as there may be possible contaminants contained in the water from&nbsp;the roof.

For further information about purchasing a barrel, please drop by the Cottonwood Extension&nbsp;District office, 601 Main St., Hays, KS 67601 or call 725-628-9430. They have the order forms&nbsp;and you may also make your payment there.

Master Gardeners of Ellis County, Cottonwood District. More information available at www.&nbsp;cottonwood.ksu.edu or visit Facebook at Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614966296214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>What better time to talk about this subject! Many in the community are taking advantage of KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds &amp;amp; City of Hays Roll Out the Rain Barrel distribution. This is a fabulous way to conserve a precious resource for the home landscape. A typical barrel will hold approximately 50-55 gallons. They have a cover (required for safety and&nbsp;to prevent mosquitos) with an opening covered by a removable screen for filling and a spigot at&nbsp;the bottom to use when water is needed. The spigot has a knob to adjust the flow and an end where a hose can be attached.Sounds perfect! All that lovely water ready for use. Conserving water and saving money, a new&nbsp;source of water for the garden and landscape. Whoa! A few details about placement and ease of use might be helpful.Placement. Under a gutter downspout, whether off a house or garage, even a shed will catch the&nbsp;rain. Where do you plan on using the water? Putting the barrel to the closest downspout&nbsp;facilitates ease of use. Keep in mind, when full, a rain barrel can weigh up to 400 lbs. If not&nbsp;placed on a sturdy base or concrete, they will slowly sink and possibly tip over. A barrel will&nbsp;have an overflow opening which should be placed away from the structure, ideally onto an&nbsp;unpaved surface, to prevent damage to the house or garage. With a heavy rain, the barrel(s) will&nbsp;fill quickly, make sure there is adequate drainage away from the structure. With a little work and&nbsp;some PVC pipe, the barrels can even be connected to one another.Use: OK, the barrel is full. Now what? The water will not flow quickly and as the barrel empties&nbsp;the flow will slow. Trying to water anything that is above the height of the spigot will be difficult&nbsp;as the water fights against gravity. To make sure the barrel not only won’t sink into the ground with the water weight, but also for ease of use, it should be placed on a base of some sort. Again,&nbsp;keep the weight in mind. A base must not only be able to support the weight but is solid enough&nbsp;to not sink with the weight. Cinderblocks would be suitable. The higher the base, the easier it is&nbsp;to use.Maintenance: At least once a year, completely empty and rinse out the barrel. This will prevent&nbsp;algal growth, debris or any stagnant water. Do not leave water in the barrel over winter and keep&nbsp;the valve open! If the valve is closed and water remains in the barrel during the winter months,&nbsp;the barrel will crack, the ice melt and water flow, causing possible damage to the foundation of the building.Safety notes: If using the water on the vegetable garden, make sure to wash off any produce, not with the collected rain water as there may be possible contaminants contained in the water from&nbsp;the roof.For further information about purchasing a barrel, please drop by the Cottonwood Extension&nbsp;District office, 601 Main St., Hays, KS 67601 or call 725-628-9430. They have the order forms&nbsp;and you may also make your payment there.Master Gardeners of Ellis County, Cottonwood District. More information available at www.&nbsp;cottonwood.ksu.edu or visit Facebook at Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners.

From the Ellis County Master Gardeners: Rain barrels

Clinkscales Elder Law Practice invites the public to attend three exclusive live, online workshops. The workshops are free and begin April 13.

The first topic is:&nbsp;“If the Diagnosis is Dementia”&nbsp;to be held on April 13 with sessions offered at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Attendees will learn about the top community resources and professionals to contact for help and the most important financial and legal concerns that need to be addressed today.

The second topic is:&nbsp;“8 Things You Need to Know for the Second Half of Life”&nbsp;to be held on April 28 with sessions available at noon and 3 p.m. Attendees will discover the essentials to establish a plan to avoid probate and ensure a legacy as well as the most effective way to protect children from the four ‘D’s.

The third and final topic is:&nbsp;“How to Pay for Long Term Care (without losing the farm)”&nbsp;to be held April 29 with sessions at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. A few items we will cover in this workshop will be a 1-2-3 step by step strategy for avoiding losing your life savings to the nursing home or to Medicaid and the number one best way to stay at home longer, and find ways to pay for care.

To sign up, visit <a href="http://www.clinkscaleslaw.com/events">www.clinkscaleslaw.com/events</a>.

Clinkscales Elder Law Practice invites the public to attend three exclusive live, online workshops. The workshops are free and begin April 13.The first topic is:&nbsp;“If the Diagnosis is Dementia”&nbsp;to be held on April 13 with sessions offered at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Attendees will learn about the top community resources and professionals to contact for help and the most important financial and legal concerns that need to be addressed today.The second topic is:&nbsp;“8 Things You Need to Know for the Second Half of Life”&nbsp;to be held on April 28 with sessions available at noon and 3 p.m. Attendees will discover the essentials to establish a plan to avoid probate and ensure a legacy as well as the most effective way to protect children from the four ‘D’s.The third and final topic is:&nbsp;“How to Pay for Long Term Care (without losing the farm)”&nbsp;to be held April 29 with sessions at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. A few items we will cover in this workshop will be a 1-2-3 step by step strategy for avoiding losing your life savings to the nursing home or to Medicaid and the number one best way to stay at home longer, and find ways to pay for care.To sign up, visit <a href="http://www.clinkscaleslaw.com/events">www.clinkscaleslaw.com/events</a>.

Clinkscales will host workshops on elder issues

GREAT BEND - The Central Kansas Community Choir (CKCC) in partnership with the Barton Community College will join the College Choir&nbsp;for a night of vocal performances at 7:30 p.m., April 11 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. Social distancing will be practiced and masks are required when attendees are not seated. 

A free-will donation will be accepted to cover production expenses. Tickets must be purchased in advance at&nbsp;<a href="http://bartonccc.booktix.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">bartonccc.booktix.com</a>.

The event will also be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="http://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>.&nbsp;

The program will feature Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's mass K. 317 in C Major, often called "The Coronation Mass", with solo quartet, full ensemble, piano, and organ.&nbsp; The choir will also perform several additional selections from the 20th century.

Founded in the spring of 2003, the CKCC is sponsored by the college. &nbsp;The non-denominational group performs a concert every other year. Members are from central Kansas and the surrounding communities.

For more information about the Central Kansas Community Choir, contact&nbsp;Director of Choral Activities&nbsp;Dr. Eric Foley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617031425017.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - The Central Kansas Community Choir (CKCC) in partnership with the Barton Community College will join the College Choir&nbsp;for a night of vocal performances at 7:30 p.m., April 11 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. Social distancing will be practiced and masks are required when attendees are not seated. A free-will donation will be accepted to cover production expenses. Tickets must be purchased in advance at&nbsp;<a href="http://bartonccc.booktix.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">bartonccc.booktix.com</a>. The event will also be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="http://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>.&nbsp;The program will feature Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's mass K. 317 in C Major, often called "The Coronation Mass", with solo quartet, full ensemble, piano, and organ.&nbsp; The choir will also perform several additional selections from the 20th century.Founded in the spring of 2003, the CKCC is sponsored by the college. &nbsp;The non-denominational group performs a concert every other year. Members are from central Kansas and the surrounding communities.For more information about the Central Kansas Community Choir, contact&nbsp;Director of Choral Activities&nbsp;Dr. Eric Foley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>.

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