Back to Western Plains Arts Association is Queen City Jazz Band. The traditional jazz band was founded in Denver more than 60 years ago, and is recognized across the nation for playing outstanding traditional, Dixieland, gospel and spiritual music. &nbsp;The group has also toured widely across Europe. Colby High School will host Queen City Jazz Band, at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 14. Admission is by season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door.&nbsp; In addition to businesses and individual donors across northwest Kansas, Queen City Jazz Band is made possible through special funding by the Dane Hansen Memorial Foundation, Lenora; the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, Bird City; and the Thomas County Community Foundation. Bill Clark, tubist and band leader, joined the QCJB in 1976 and became the leader in 1985. A retired University of Colorado music professor, Clark set a goal while a 1960's high school student to one day play in the already popular band. Band members come from strong music performance and/or music eduction background and all have played with a number of local bands prior to joining QCJB. Instrumentalists include Kevin Bollinger, trumpet; John Bredenberg, clarinet and saxophone; Eric Staffelt, trombone; Hank Troy, piano; Rory Thomas, banjo; and Tony Pantelis, drums. Their gospel, blues and jazz vocalist Wende Harston has sang with the band since 1992. The band has released numerous recordings over the years. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://queencityjazzband.com/">QueenCityJazzBand.com</a>&nbsp;for further information about the musicians and music, pictures and video samples. Ball in the House, and R&amp;B group originally scheduled this date, canceled their 2021 spring season because the on-going pandemic. The WPAA board appreciates QCJB for agreeing to perform at the same March 14 time. Colby High School is an alternate venue than originally scheduled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581542018976.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WPAABack to Western Plains Arts Association is Queen City Jazz Band. The traditional jazz band was founded in Denver more than 60 years ago, and is recognized across the nation for playing outstanding traditional, Dixieland, gospel and spiritual music. &nbsp;The group has also toured widely across Europe. Colby High School will host Queen City Jazz Band, at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 14. Admission is by season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door.&nbsp; In addition to businesses and individual donors across northwest Kansas, Queen City Jazz Band is made possible through special funding by the Dane Hansen Memorial Foundation, Lenora; the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, Bird City; and the Thomas County Community Foundation. Bill Clark, tubist and band leader, joined the QCJB in 1976 and became the leader in 1985. A retired University of Colorado music professor, Clark set a goal while a 1960's high school student to one day play in the already popular band. Band members come from strong music performance and/or music eduction background and all have played with a number of local bands prior to joining QCJB. Instrumentalists include Kevin Bollinger, trumpet; John Bredenberg, clarinet and saxophone; Eric Staffelt, trombone; Hank Troy, piano; Rory Thomas, banjo; and Tony Pantelis, drums. Their gospel, blues and jazz vocalist Wende Harston has sang with the band since 1992. The band has released numerous recordings over the years. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://queencityjazzband.com/">QueenCityJazzBand.com</a>&nbsp;for further information about the musicians and music, pictures and video samples. Ball in the House, and R&amp;B group originally scheduled this date, canceled their 2021 spring season because the on-going pandemic. The WPAA board appreciates QCJB for agreeing to perform at the same March 14 time. Colby High School is an alternate venue than originally scheduled.

Queen City Jazz Band set to perform in Colby

Upcoming
blood donation opportunities

Hays Blood Donation Center 208 E. 8th Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Cheyenne County Saint Francis 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 202 N College

Decatur County Oberlin 3/11/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 102 N. Cass

Ellis County&nbsp; Victoria 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Victoria High School, 1107 E. 10th St.

Gove County Quinter 3/12/2021: 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Church of the Brethren, 700 Grant

Osborne County Downs 3/9/2021: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Memorial Hall, S. Morgan Ave.

Phillips County Phillipsburg 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Phillips County 4-H Building, North Hwy 183

Thomas County Colby 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5th 3/11/2021: 7:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5th

Wallace County Sharon Springs 3/10/2021: 9:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Wallace County Schools, 521 N Main

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614983294750.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Upcoming
blood donation opportunitiesHays Blood Donation Center 208 E. 8th Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cheyenne County Saint Francis 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 202 N CollegeDecatur County Oberlin 3/11/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 102 N. Cass Ellis County&nbsp; Victoria 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Victoria High School, 1107 E. 10th St. Gove County Quinter 3/12/2021: 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Church of the Brethren, 700 Grant Osborne County Downs 3/9/2021: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Memorial Hall, S. Morgan Ave. Phillips County Phillipsburg 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Phillips County 4-H Building, North Hwy 183 Thomas County Colby 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5th 3/11/2021: 7:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5thWallace County Sharon Springs 3/10/2021: 9:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Wallace County Schools, 521 N Main

Red Cross needs blood donations after winter storms; area drives scheduled  

BY HOLLY DICKMAN City of Hays Water Conservation Specialist

World Water Day is an annual observance focusing on the importance of water.&nbsp; To celebrate, the City of Hays and the KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds are once again partnering to host a World Water Day Fun Fest on Thursday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the lobby of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp; 

This free event will feature fun, hands-on, "water-related" activities for kids of all ages. In addition, educational information regarding water conservation and water quality will be provided.&nbsp; Social distancing and masks are required. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614974465738.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY HOLLY DICKMAN City of Hays Water Conservation SpecialistWorld Water Day is an annual observance focusing on the importance of water.&nbsp; To celebrate, the City of Hays and the KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds are once again partnering to host a World Water Day Fun Fest on Thursday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the lobby of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp; This free event will feature fun, hands-on, "water-related" activities for kids of all ages. In addition, educational information regarding water conservation and water quality will be provided.&nbsp; Social distancing and masks are required. &nbsp;

World Water Day Fun Fest set for March 25 in Hays

We're looking forward to a fun day spent with 4-H'ers from across the NW region. If you'd like to join us for the morning or afternoon session, register by the 17th.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4FAFAD2FA5FEC70-4hspace" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4FAFAD2FA5FEC70-4hspace</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615042551042.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We're looking forward to a fun day spent with 4-H'ers from across the NW region. If you'd like to join us for the morning or afternoon session, register by the 17th.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4FAFAD2FA5FEC70-4hspace" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4FAFAD2FA5FEC70-4hspace</a>

Space Tech Day open to NW Kansas 4-H'ers

The Chamber in Hays will host its first “Legislative Coffee” of 2021 on Saturday, March 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

“Premier Sponsors” Midwest Energy Inc. and the Hays Daily News are proud to provide this opportunity for area residents to visit with local legislators about the legislative process and happenings in Topeka and at the national level. 

Representing on behalf of the Office of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran is Mike Zamrzla, deputy state director. Senator Rick Billinger and Representatives Ken Rahjes and Barb Wasinger will be in attendance to address current legislative issues impacting Kansas.

The legislators and their designees will begin with opening remarks and will be given two minutes to address each question. Closing statements will commence after the Q&amp;A session closes. 

A chat room feature will be available for virtual attendees to input their questions during the virtual event. 

Questions can also be preaddressed to Chamber staff by emailing hayscc@hayschamber.com or by calling 785-628-8201. Those providing questions may also submit their name, email address, and phone numbers should they desire to speak directly with legislators after the event.

To participate in this Virtual Legislative Coffee, please access this link the morning of the event: https://youtu.be/pTwrev6KqI8. 

Thank you to Nex-Tech for serving as the “Technology Sponsor” for this virtual “Legislative Coffee.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580746901375.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Chamber in Hays will host its first “Legislative Coffee” of 2021 on Saturday, March 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.“Premier Sponsors” Midwest Energy Inc. and the Hays Daily News are proud to provide this opportunity for area residents to visit with local legislators about the legislative process and happenings in Topeka and at the national level. Representing on behalf of the Office of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran is Mike Zamrzla, deputy state director. Senator Rick Billinger and Representatives Ken Rahjes and Barb Wasinger will be in attendance to address current legislative issues impacting Kansas.The legislators and their designees will begin with opening remarks and will be given two minutes to address each question. Closing statements will commence after the Q&amp;A session closes. A chat room feature will be available for virtual attendees to input their questions during the virtual event. Questions can also be preaddressed to Chamber staff by emailing hayscc@hayschamber.com or by calling 785-628-8201. Those providing questions may also submit their name, email address, and phone numbers should they desire to speak directly with legislators after the event.To participate in this Virtual Legislative Coffee, please access this link the morning of the event: https://youtu.be/pTwrev6KqI8. Thank you to Nex-Tech for serving as the “Technology Sponsor” for this virtual “Legislative Coffee.”

Hays Chamber to virtually host Legislative Coffee March 13

It is time for the annual KSU Watersheds and city of Hays Water Poster Contest. The 2021 theme is “Let’s Talk Water.”

Daycares, pre-schools, USD 489, Holy Family Elementary, TMP Marian and home-school students, students at Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech, and adults in the city of Hays are eligible to participate.&nbsp;

The “Let’s Talk Water” posters can focus on water conservation or stormwater/water quality messages. Posters could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at home and work. Also, posters might share how to reduce sediment, nutrients, and E.coli bacteria, household chemicals, etc. that are harmful to water sources. Both water conservation and stormwater/water quality can be highlighted on the same poster.&nbsp;

Posters must be horizontal, designed on 12 x 18-inch white poster paper with “Let’s Talk Water” included. Posters can be designed with pencil, paints, pens, crayons, or markers. In addition, the posters can be 3-dimensional, or compute-generated. Name, age, and teacher need to be included on the back of the poster.&nbsp;

Poster paper is available for pick-up at Public Works Department, 1002 Vine Street, during regular business hours.&nbsp;

Prize money will be awarded to 1st-3rd place winners in each age division.&nbsp;

Winning posters will be displayed at TriCentral Office, 1101 Main, supply during the month of May and also at the Ellis County Fair.&nbsp;

Posters are due by Thursday, March 18, 2021 at school offices, city hall, or the Public Works Department.&nbsp;

To learn more about water conservation and stormwater/water quality for poster ideas, visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/776/Water-Poster-Contest">www.watersmarthays.com</a> or <a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/special_events.html">www.MyKansasWatershed.com</a> (special events tab).&nbsp;

For questions, call Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist,
785-769-3297 or Holly Dickman, city of Hays Water Conservation Specialist,
785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614981909832.jpeg" alt="Winning water poster in 2020 by Hays 3rd grader Lena Smalley. (Image courtesy KSU Watersheds)" />
 <figcaption>Winning water poster in 2020 by Hays 3rd grader Lena Smalley. (Image courtesy KSU Watersheds)</figcaption>
 </figure>It is time for the annual KSU Watersheds and city of Hays Water Poster Contest. The 2021 theme is “Let’s Talk Water.”Daycares, pre-schools, USD 489, Holy Family Elementary, TMP Marian and home-school students, students at Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech, and adults in the city of Hays are eligible to participate.&nbsp;The “Let’s Talk Water” posters can focus on water conservation or stormwater/water quality messages. Posters could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at home and work. Also, posters might share how to reduce sediment, nutrients, and E.coli bacteria, household chemicals, etc. that are harmful to water sources. Both water conservation and stormwater/water quality can be highlighted on the same poster.&nbsp;Posters must be horizontal, designed on 12 x 18-inch white poster paper with “Let’s Talk Water” included. Posters can be designed with pencil, paints, pens, crayons, or markers. In addition, the posters can be 3-dimensional, or compute-generated. Name, age, and teacher need to be included on the back of the poster.&nbsp;Poster paper is available for pick-up at Public Works Department, 1002 Vine Street, during regular business hours.&nbsp;Prize money will be awarded to 1st-3rd place winners in each age division.&nbsp;Winning posters will be displayed at TriCentral Office, 1101 Main, supply during the month of May and also at the Ellis County Fair.&nbsp;Posters are due by Thursday, March 18, 2021 at school offices, city hall, or the Public Works Department.&nbsp;To learn more about water conservation and stormwater/water quality for poster ideas, visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/776/Water-Poster-Contest">www.watersmarthays.com</a> or <a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/special_events.html">www.MyKansasWatershed.com</a> (special events tab).&nbsp;For questions, call Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist,
785-769-3297 or Holly Dickman, city of Hays Water Conservation Specialist,
785-628-7350.

“Let’s Talk Water” poster contest open to Hays students and residents

Entries open for NWKS Down Syndrome Society golf tourney on April 23

Deadline for deposit / discount is Feb. 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605640016400.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Deadline for deposit / discount is Feb. 1.

⚾ Signups underway for Hays Eagles 2021 Legion season

ABILENE - The next Ike's (Virtual) Book Club will meet March 9 at 7 p.m. central time. The program is free and open to the public -- join us online or by phone.

Join this program as if you were meeting your friends in a cozy café or living room with a glass of wine -- even if you have not read the book. 

The March book selection is "Snow Falling on Cedars" by David Guterson.&nbsp; This bestseller received the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction in 1995. The discussion will also incorporate the movie of the same title released in 2000.

The informal discussion will be led by Sandra Wiechert in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMvsubul5vazts1BA4GvRm6myH5XXTu9ttjU4N1LembqbA6rU-B0ScgMvVnp-UizYblBw6961XTluBZ6BhBQIBwtTG_Rz1dCS1hW9d4kKiZMH&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">Humanities Kansas</a>. The entire&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMvsubul5vaztifnp_YHZFql6ddCH0KuEYBSM2JUyN8rKTib8eY7LSl5u0CDSW8YyNCOBb5i7-BA2wz9HmSWo4HZ27UYVY7xUBmNXYxMzYPaxDiRFYHNRWcW2QsYVKvtuJPL0ATwNFvCn&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">reading list schedule</a>&nbsp;is available on the Eisenhower Presidential Library's website (<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMjg21KPZhO46dgAwb3EYK7-77zkM76RXma8_-syzUHQjbCaY__1CZMC-iJhQQ8j2hsn-_yRvP0Pzvl_WGH91DMzyYdveccvlfA==&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov</a>).

The&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMvsubul5vaztifnp_YHZFql6ddCH0KuEYBSM2JUyN8rKTib8eY7LSl5u0CDSW8YyNCOBb5i7-BA2wz9HmSWo4HZ27UYVY7xUBmNXYxMzYPaxDiRFYHNRWcW2QsYVKvtuJPL0ATwNFvCn&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">2021 Ike Book Talk series</a>&nbsp;is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation, Jeffcoat Foundation, Humanities Kansas, and the Abilene Public Library. For more details about this event, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMovXBHzLP4u8bk4FW95MXfzKhd4pWmXcDw-Dws0eKUTE78V-RohqO4olrKCKU2sfVGgxgj3UDsrvuCIj8cvNP_ybPoy4zhr9Sw2j_tnPJtFc&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">eisenhowerlibrary.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614874586387.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE - The next Ike's (Virtual) Book Club will meet March 9 at 7 p.m. central time. The program is free and open to the public -- join us online or by phone. Join this program as if you were meeting your friends in a cozy café or living room with a glass of wine -- even if you have not read the book. The March book selection is "Snow Falling on Cedars" by David Guterson.&nbsp; This bestseller received the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction in 1995. The discussion will also incorporate the movie of the same title released in 2000.The informal discussion will be led by Sandra Wiechert in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMvsubul5vazts1BA4GvRm6myH5XXTu9ttjU4N1LembqbA6rU-B0ScgMvVnp-UizYblBw6961XTluBZ6BhBQIBwtTG_Rz1dCS1hW9d4kKiZMH&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">Humanities Kansas</a>. The entire&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMvsubul5vaztifnp_YHZFql6ddCH0KuEYBSM2JUyN8rKTib8eY7LSl5u0CDSW8YyNCOBb5i7-BA2wz9HmSWo4HZ27UYVY7xUBmNXYxMzYPaxDiRFYHNRWcW2QsYVKvtuJPL0ATwNFvCn&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">reading list schedule</a>&nbsp;is available on the Eisenhower Presidential Library's website (<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMjg21KPZhO46dgAwb3EYK7-77zkM76RXma8_-syzUHQjbCaY__1CZMC-iJhQQ8j2hsn-_yRvP0Pzvl_WGH91DMzyYdveccvlfA==&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov</a>). MEETING OPTIONS:<ul>
 <li>Google Meet online:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMr5K--x0pyF5SFEOVkvgI6Tm4Ig8nxajiluD7h6ER0wCtgJaKtcmAAwAkVL1IS6AthV9VcaQZN9bHqRcymU80AH70SulPHGMn7y7ZEExiq5m&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">﻿meet.google.com/skd-zcwh-rxf</a></li><li>Telephone:&nbsp;617-675-4444‬ (PIN: ‪691 800 541 4258‬#)</li><li>Please join 10 minutes early so the program may begin on time.</li>
 </ul>The&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMvsubul5vaztifnp_YHZFql6ddCH0KuEYBSM2JUyN8rKTib8eY7LSl5u0CDSW8YyNCOBb5i7-BA2wz9HmSWo4HZ27UYVY7xUBmNXYxMzYPaxDiRFYHNRWcW2QsYVKvtuJPL0ATwNFvCn&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">2021 Ike Book Talk series</a>&nbsp;is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation, Jeffcoat Foundation, Humanities Kansas, and the Abilene Public Library. For more details about this event, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Yw-u6-G483-8sdnufY5ON8WzxS1UtYsBwh6wfbtDDIcH8YFpeOFjMovXBHzLP4u8bk4FW95MXfzKhd4pWmXcDw-Dws0eKUTE78V-RohqO4olrKCKU2sfVGgxgj3UDsrvuCIj8cvNP_ybPoy4zhr9Sw2j_tnPJtFc&amp;c=L6SOPMu4OFRRnLGY_mQ6qBWk9Jcqm3az8WRxoAC--D1ONzjLJ2QrZQ==&amp;ch=4CP9GFGCHRyCjzGdAkhyvwJ2Rg9HxoGyK2tKdkYadfvg6nQ-LEr4XQ==" target="_blank">eisenhowerlibrary.gov</a>.

Ike's (Virtual) Book Club for March 9 

The Trego County Republican Central Committee will hold a convention at 7 p.m. Monday at the Trego County Senior Center, 413 Russell Avenue, WaKeeney, for the purpose of electing a county attorney to fill the vacancy being created by the resignation of Christopher Lyon effective March 19. 
Attorneys interested in being elected should send a resume to:

Richard A. Jensen Vice-Chairman &nbsp;19024 240 Terr WaKeeney, KS 67672

Only the Trego County precinct committee men and precinct committee women will be allowed to vote (by law) in the election process. This meeting is open to the public as observers only. 
Trego County Republican Central Committee officers:

Lois E. Keller, Chairman, 37092 N RD, Ellis, KS 67637; 

Richard A. Jensen, Vice-Chairman 19024 240 Terr, WaKeeney, KS 67672 

The Trego County Republican Central Committee will hold a convention at 7 p.m. Monday at the Trego County Senior Center, 413 Russell Avenue, WaKeeney, for the purpose of electing a county attorney to fill the vacancy being created by the resignation of Christopher Lyon effective March 19. 
Attorneys interested in being elected should send a resume to:Richard A. Jensen Vice-Chairman &nbsp;19024 240 Terr WaKeeney, KS 67672Only the Trego County precinct committee men and precinct committee women will be allowed to vote (by law) in the election process. This meeting is open to the public as observers only. 
Trego County Republican Central Committee officers:Lois E. Keller, Chairman, 37092 N RD, Ellis, KS 67637; Richard A. Jensen, Vice-Chairman 19024 240 Terr, WaKeeney, KS 67672

Trego Co. GOP will meet to elect new county attorney

Lewis Automotive Group of Hays and the Lewis Family invite you to their location at 4440
North Vine to celebrate 30 years in the Hays community on Thursday, March 4, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 4440 North Vine.


The presentation will start with a ribbon cutting from the Hays Chamber of Commerce, new General
Manager Jeff Kirwan and staff, followed by refreshments.


“We are honored to serve the Hays Community. I immediately fell in love with Hays and am proud to
call it home. The Midwest culture and way of life is still alive and well. Where a handshake means
more than pen and paper and community comes before the 'BIG CITY' and faith and family above all.
Our company has seen tremendous growth over the last 30 years and that is, in part, to our excellent
product. The core of our great reputation and reason we are celebrating 30 years is our staff. People
truly do make the difference, and they are our greatest asset. We take care of our people, and they
take great care of our customers. Our customer service is one of the most defining factors of Lewis
Automotive Group. Our founder, Ralph Lewis, realized that providing outstanding customer service
was the best way to earn a great reputation and ensure repeat business, and that is his legacy. We are
proud to carry on his legendary service both as a tribute to his legacy and as a guidepost as to how we
conduct our business everyday. We want to thank everyone within the Hays and surrounding
communities for making the last 30 years truly exceptional and we cannot wait for the next 30 years
to come,” Kirwan said.


This celebration event is open to the public, media and all of Lewis Automotive Group’s customers
that have supported them throughout their 30 years in business in the Hays and surrounding
communities. (Lewis Ford of Hays is celebrating 30 years while Lewis Toyota Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is celebrating 25 years.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614781479703.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLewis Automotive Group of Hays and the Lewis Family invite you to their location at 4440
North Vine to celebrate 30 years in the Hays community on Thursday, March 4, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 4440 North Vine.
The presentation will start with a ribbon cutting from the Hays Chamber of Commerce, new General
Manager Jeff Kirwan and staff, followed by refreshments.
“We are honored to serve the Hays Community. I immediately fell in love with Hays and am proud to
call it home. The Midwest culture and way of life is still alive and well. Where a handshake means
more than pen and paper and community comes before the 'BIG CITY' and faith and family above all.
Our company has seen tremendous growth over the last 30 years and that is, in part, to our excellent
product. The core of our great reputation and reason we are celebrating 30 years is our staff. People
truly do make the difference, and they are our greatest asset. We take care of our people, and they
take great care of our customers. Our customer service is one of the most defining factors of Lewis
Automotive Group. Our founder, Ralph Lewis, realized that providing outstanding customer service
was the best way to earn a great reputation and ensure repeat business, and that is his legacy. We are
proud to carry on his legendary service both as a tribute to his legacy and as a guidepost as to how we
conduct our business everyday. We want to thank everyone within the Hays and surrounding
communities for making the last 30 years truly exceptional and we cannot wait for the next 30 years
to come,” Kirwan said.
This celebration event is open to the public, media and all of Lewis Automotive Group’s customers
that have supported them throughout their 30 years in business in the Hays and surrounding
communities. (Lewis Ford of Hays is celebrating 30 years while Lewis Toyota Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is celebrating 25 years.)— Submitted

Lewis Automative will celebrate 30 years in Hays

GREAT BEND - Barton Community College has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the fall semester of 2020.

Ellis County graduates are listed below. For an entire list of grads, <a href="https://bartonccc.edu/news/fall-grads-20">click here</a>.&nbsp;

Grant Brungardt, Natural
Gas Transmission &amp; Distribution Certificate 
Sarah Stramel, Medical Coding Certificate 
Brittney Unrein, A.A.S. &nbsp; 
Grace Walker, Pharmacy Technician Certificate

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613590329847.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - Barton Community College has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the fall semester of 2020.Ellis County graduates are listed below. For an entire list of grads, <a href="https://bartonccc.edu/news/fall-grads-20">click here</a>.&nbsp;HAYSGrant Brungardt, Natural
Gas Transmission &amp; Distribution Certificate 
Sarah Stramel, Medical Coding Certificate 
Brittney Unrein, A.A.S. &nbsp; 
Grace Walker, Pharmacy Technician Certificate

Hays students among fall graduates at Barton Community College

Fort Hays State University will host the Tiger Education Nation Online Career Fair on Tuesday, March 9, from 3 to 5 p.m. Over 70 employers from Kansas and neighboring states will be represented.&nbsp;

Employers will visit with anyone interested in teaching or other professional opportunities in K-12 education. Members of the Hays community, alumni and students are welcome to attend. This includes experienced teachers, Transition to Teaching candidates, and students seeking their first career position.&nbsp;

There is no cost to participate in the online career fair. Register at <a href="https://fhsu.edu/career/fairs/ttn-virtual-fair">https://fhsu.edu/career/fairs/ttn-virtual-fair</a>.

Fort Hays State University will host the Tiger Education Nation Online Career Fair on Tuesday, March 9, from 3 to 5 p.m. Over 70 employers from Kansas and neighboring states will be represented.&nbsp;Employers will visit with anyone interested in teaching or other professional opportunities in K-12 education. Members of the Hays community, alumni and students are welcome to attend. This includes experienced teachers, Transition to Teaching candidates, and students seeking their first career position.&nbsp;There is no cost to participate in the online career fair. Register at <a href="https://fhsu.edu/career/fairs/ttn-virtual-fair">https://fhsu.edu/career/fairs/ttn-virtual-fair</a>.— FHSU

Fort Hays State will host online career fair next week

For an up-to-date list of events, check the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau website, <a href="http://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614718686341.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614718769524.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-date list of events, check the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau website, <a href="http://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

Community events in Hays during March

If you have a concern that your child may have a developmental delay or be in need of special education services, call for a free developmental screening. 

Children from ages birth to school age who live in Ellis or Rush counties are eligible to be screened. Speech, language, vision, hearing, thinking, self-help, behavior and motor development will be checked.

The screenings will be held on Friday, March 12, 2021.

 Call 785-625-3257 to set up a free developmental screening appointment for your child. 

These developmental screenings are offered monthly and sponsored by the Hays Interagency Coordination Council and USD 489.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604417909842.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have a concern that your child may have a developmental delay or be in need of special education services, call for a free developmental screening. Children from ages birth to school age who live in Ellis or Rush counties are eligible to be screened. Speech, language, vision, hearing, thinking, self-help, behavior and motor development will be checked.The screenings will be held on Friday, March 12, 2021. Call 785-625-3257 to set up a free developmental screening appointment for your child. These developmental screenings are offered monthly and sponsored by the Hays Interagency Coordination Council and USD 489.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594143285232.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Free developmental screenings offered March 12 for preschoolers in Ellis, Rush counties

The reconstruction of 27th Street from Hall to Fort is scheduled to begin on or about March 15. &nbsp;A preconstruction public information meeting will be held beginning at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

The meeting will be live streamed on YouTube. The link to the live stream is:&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/xzv0pdsaROA" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/xzv0pdsaROA</a>&nbsp; You can also access it by typing bit.ly/hays27 into your web browser. &nbsp;Or, simply go to YouTube and search “27th Street Reconstruction”

The meeting and broadcast will feature comments from the contractor Paul-Wertenberger Construction, the city’s engineer Kirkham Michael, and city staff.

Due to social distancing precautions, in-person attendance at the city commission chambers is limited, and access may be denied if the space is full. &nbsp;The contractor, engineer, and staff will be available until 7 p.m. for questions.

An informational flyer is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/3831/27th-Street-Reconstruction-Flyer---March-2021" target="_blank">attached</a>. &nbsp;If you have specific questions that you would like to discuss ahead of time, or have addressed during the virtual meeting, email johnbraun@haysusa.com or call (785) 628-7350 before noon on the day of the meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614616315062.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe reconstruction of 27th Street from Hall to Fort is scheduled to begin on or about March 15. &nbsp;A preconstruction public information meeting will be held beginning at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.The meeting will be live streamed on YouTube. The link to the live stream is:&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/xzv0pdsaROA" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/xzv0pdsaROA</a>&nbsp; You can also access it by typing bit.ly/hays27 into your web browser. &nbsp;Or, simply go to YouTube and search “27th Street Reconstruction”The meeting and broadcast will feature comments from the contractor Paul-Wertenberger Construction, the city’s engineer Kirkham Michael, and city staff.Due to social distancing precautions, in-person attendance at the city commission chambers is limited, and access may be denied if the space is full. &nbsp;The contractor, engineer, and staff will be available until 7 p.m. for questions.An informational flyer is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/3831/27th-Street-Reconstruction-Flyer---March-2021" target="_blank">attached</a>. &nbsp;If you have specific questions that you would like to discuss ahead of time, or have addressed during the virtual meeting, email johnbraun@haysusa.com or call (785) 628-7350 before noon on the day of the meeting.

27th Street reconstruction public information meeting Wednesday

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The state of Kansas announces the launch of a new art contest geared towards Kansas youth. The Youth Suicide Prevention Art Contest is for artists, musicians, painters, writers, sculptors, poets, singers and photographers in grades 6 to 12. The contest, hosted by Kansas Partners in Empowering Youth for Suicide Prevention, will help state agencies shape suicide prevention messages and health promotion campaigns.

In 2019, 521 Kansans died by suicide including six under the age of 15 and 83 individuals between the ages of 15 and 24.

“Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Kansans age 15 to 24 and is a leading cause of death for youth ages 5 to 14 – this is unacceptable,” Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said. “Every one of us has a role to play, whether you’re a friend, parent, community member or school employee. We need to come together to help our youth.”

The Kansas Partners for Empowering Youth for Suicide Prevention is comprised of the following agencies: KDHE, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), Kansas State Department of Education, the Kansas Suicide Prevention Headquarters along with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.

This group believes that every young person deserves to be safe from suicide and that the best way to reach youth in Kansas is to provide opportunities for youth to reach out to their peers, thus creation of the Youth Suicide Prevention Art Contest.

The goals of the contest are to raise awareness of the possibility of hope and healing while working to provide enough support to Kansas youth so that no one ever walks alone in crisis. The submissions will reach other youth to reduce stigma around mental health and experiencing thoughts of suicide. Preventing suicide is a community effort and youth are extremely important. So, the partners ask eligible Kansas youth to pull out your pen and paper, reach for your guitar and mic, or grab your favorite art supplies to let your voices be heard!

All submissions to the Youth Suicide Prevention Art Contest are due by April 4, 2021, 10 p.m. For more information and to submit a project, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMjIzODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rc3BocS5vcmcvYXJ0Y29udGVzdC8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.s0oMY7xl6Ys_kDDwXcuvMxor_DT6HKk59CglHCpvmDc/s/1305913542/br/98481534358-l" target="_blank">https://www.ksphq.org/artcontest/</a>.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (or 800-273-TALK).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614613662447.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The state of Kansas announces the launch of a new art contest geared towards Kansas youth. The Youth Suicide Prevention Art Contest is for artists, musicians, painters, writers, sculptors, poets, singers and photographers in grades 6 to 12. The contest, hosted by Kansas Partners in Empowering Youth for Suicide Prevention, will help state agencies shape suicide prevention messages and health promotion campaigns.In 2019, 521 Kansans died by suicide including six under the age of 15 and 83 individuals between the ages of 15 and 24.“Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Kansans age 15 to 24 and is a leading cause of death for youth ages 5 to 14 – this is unacceptable,” Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said. “Every one of us has a role to play, whether you’re a friend, parent, community member or school employee. We need to come together to help our youth.”The Kansas Partners for Empowering Youth for Suicide Prevention is comprised of the following agencies: KDHE, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), Kansas State Department of Education, the Kansas Suicide Prevention Headquarters along with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.This group believes that every young person deserves to be safe from suicide and that the best way to reach youth in Kansas is to provide opportunities for youth to reach out to their peers, thus creation of the Youth Suicide Prevention Art Contest.The goals of the contest are to raise awareness of the possibility of hope and healing while working to provide enough support to Kansas youth so that no one ever walks alone in crisis. The submissions will reach other youth to reduce stigma around mental health and experiencing thoughts of suicide. Preventing suicide is a community effort and youth are extremely important. So, the partners ask eligible Kansas youth to pull out your pen and paper, reach for your guitar and mic, or grab your favorite art supplies to let your voices be heard!All submissions to the Youth Suicide Prevention Art Contest are due by April 4, 2021, 10 p.m. For more information and to submit a project, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMjIzODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rc3BocS5vcmcvYXJ0Y29udGVzdC8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.s0oMY7xl6Ys_kDDwXcuvMxor_DT6HKk59CglHCpvmDc/s/1305913542/br/98481534358-l" target="_blank">https://www.ksphq.org/artcontest/</a>.If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (or 800-273-TALK).

State announces art contest geared toward suicide prevention

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for Ellis Rural Water District No. 1C. This advisory is not related to COVID-19.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on Monday and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a waterline break resulting in a&nbsp;loss of pressure in the system. A loss of pressure may lead to inadequate chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">webpage</a>.

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

KDHETOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for Ellis Rural Water District No. 1C. This advisory is not related to COVID-19.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on Monday and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a waterline break resulting in a&nbsp;loss of pressure in the system. A loss of pressure may lead to inadequate chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">webpage</a>.Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil order issued for rural Ellis Co. water district

World Water Day Fun Fest set for March 25

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State Library of Kansas, Talking Books Division is celebrating their annual Talking Books Week, March 1-5, 2021. The Talking Books Service connects eligible Kansans to free, accessible library services for the blind and print disabled.

As part of the weeklong celebration, Kansas Talking Books invites Talking Books library patrons to connect with staff to ask questions and provide feedback in an open forum. The conversation will take place via Zoom and participants can connect online or by telephone.&nbsp; To receive login information, patrons should email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KTB@ks.gov" target="_blank">KTB@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 800-362-0699 ext. 7.

The Kansas Talking Books Service was established in 1970. Today this division of the State Library of Kansas, located in Emporia, serves nearly 4,000 print disabled readers across the state with the assistance of outreach centers in Norton, Dodge City, Great Bend, and Iola.

“As we celebrate more than 50 years of service to Kansans with visual and physical impairments,” State Librarian Eric Norris said, “we are looking forward to new and exciting developments in delivery methods for accessible digital materials.&nbsp; It’s critical that the print-impaired community have access to the same technological, educational, and entertainment opportunities as their sighted friends.”

When the Pratt-Smoot Act became law on March 3, 1931, the Library of Congress was authorized to make arrangements with other libraries to circulate books for blind adults. By 1933, sound recordings were perfected enough to record a book of up to 60,000 words on eight or nine discs to be distributed to the blind. Among the first titles chosen were the Declaration of Independence, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, and Shakespeare’s&nbsp;Hamlet.

Today, people with print impairments have the option of downloading accessible books and magazines directly to their phones and tablets using the BARD Mobile app.

To ensure “That All May Read,” the Kansas Talking Books Library Service provides resources in specialized formats free-of-charge to Kansans unable to use standard print. To learn more about services from the State Library’s Talking Books division, call toll-free 1-800-362-0699 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kslib.info%2Ftalking&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cpio-stwide%40list.da.ks.gov%7C9964124a47f44f9b067508d8da93a514%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637499674951592084%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=Xg9JfrUgN5b6IPLz4M9ueNmYNMUb85qev%2B9rDK7wWQQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kslib.info/talking</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614610903914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KS State LibraryTOPEKA&nbsp;– The State Library of Kansas, Talking Books Division is celebrating their annual Talking Books Week, March 1-5, 2021. The Talking Books Service connects eligible Kansans to free, accessible library services for the blind and print disabled.As part of the weeklong celebration, Kansas Talking Books invites Talking Books library patrons to connect with staff to ask questions and provide feedback in an open forum. The conversation will take place via Zoom and participants can connect online or by telephone.&nbsp; To receive login information, patrons should email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KTB@ks.gov" target="_blank">KTB@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 800-362-0699 ext. 7.The Kansas Talking Books Service was established in 1970. Today this division of the State Library of Kansas, located in Emporia, serves nearly 4,000 print disabled readers across the state with the assistance of outreach centers in Norton, Dodge City, Great Bend, and Iola.“As we celebrate more than 50 years of service to Kansans with visual and physical impairments,” State Librarian Eric Norris said, “we are looking forward to new and exciting developments in delivery methods for accessible digital materials.&nbsp; It’s critical that the print-impaired community have access to the same technological, educational, and entertainment opportunities as their sighted friends.”When the Pratt-Smoot Act became law on March 3, 1931, the Library of Congress was authorized to make arrangements with other libraries to circulate books for blind adults. By 1933, sound recordings were perfected enough to record a book of up to 60,000 words on eight or nine discs to be distributed to the blind. Among the first titles chosen were the Declaration of Independence, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, and Shakespeare’s&nbsp;Hamlet.Today, people with print impairments have the option of downloading accessible books and magazines directly to their phones and tablets using the BARD Mobile app.To ensure “That All May Read,” the Kansas Talking Books Library Service provides resources in specialized formats free-of-charge to Kansans unable to use standard print. To learn more about services from the State Library’s Talking Books division, call toll-free 1-800-362-0699 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kslib.info%2Ftalking&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cpio-stwide%40list.da.ks.gov%7C9964124a47f44f9b067508d8da93a514%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637499674951592084%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=Xg9JfrUgN5b6IPLz4M9ueNmYNMUb85qev%2B9rDK7wWQQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kslib.info/talking</a>.

Celebrating Talking Books Week; outreach center in Norton

TOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the spring 2021 round of the agency’s Cost Share Program.

The Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for construction projects that improve safety, leverage state funds to increase total transportation investment and help both rural and urban areas of the state improve the transportation system. The program was created in fall 2019. This is the fourth round of projects to receive funding. The deadline to submit applications is April 9.

“The continuation of the Cost Share Program shows KDOT’s ongoing commitment to improving transportation and creating economic growth and job opportunities across Kansas,” said Lindsey Douglas, Deputy Secretary of Transportation. “Past Cost Share participants have proven this program to be the financial boost that many small and large communities needed to achieve their project goals.”

An informational webinar on the program will take place on Friday, March 12, at 11 a.m. – to register for the webinar, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.2EFIn-mu4WYmuXOhZI2OdpsiE7aR6jCmfF2FntcNVqc/s/1410649012/br/98478984844-l" target="_blank">https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8445653790550283536</a>

The program’s new application process will be discussed on the webinar.

This round of grant funding has been altered to respond to impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. KDOT has lowered the non-state cash match to 10% for this round only. In addition, additional consideration will be given to applications originating from counties that have a more than 50% increase in unemployment rates between 2019 and 2020.

Because of the federal Corona Virus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), up to $25 million is available for projects this spring. Any remaining funding will carry over to fall 2021.

All transportation projects are eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, airport, bicycle/pedestrian and public transit. Candidate projects should include investments that provide transportation benefits and are not eligible for other KDOT programs.

More information and the link to the application are available on KDOT’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMTY3NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lm9yZy9Db3N0U2hhcmUvQ29zdFNoYXJlUHJvZ3JhbS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.9D4Oi4Ss0kL-H-3eDy0Pq1w1IioBP33jRATDzvY6gU8/s/1410649012/br/98478984844-l" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/CostShare/CostShareProgram.asp</a>. All applications will be completed through an online link. A sample PDF application will be available for preview. Please contact Michelle Needham, Economic Development Programs Manager, at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:michelle.d.needham@ks.gov" target="_blank">michelle.d.needham@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;with any questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the spring 2021 round of the agency’s Cost Share Program.The Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for construction projects that improve safety, leverage state funds to increase total transportation investment and help both rural and urban areas of the state improve the transportation system. The program was created in fall 2019. This is the fourth round of projects to receive funding. The deadline to submit applications is April 9.“The continuation of the Cost Share Program shows KDOT’s ongoing commitment to improving transportation and creating economic growth and job opportunities across Kansas,” said Lindsey Douglas, Deputy Secretary of Transportation. “Past Cost Share participants have proven this program to be the financial boost that many small and large communities needed to achieve their project goals.”An informational webinar on the program will take place on Friday, March 12, at 11 a.m. – to register for the webinar, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.2EFIn-mu4WYmuXOhZI2OdpsiE7aR6jCmfF2FntcNVqc/s/1410649012/br/98478984844-l" target="_blank">https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8445653790550283536</a>The program’s new application process will be discussed on the webinar.This round of grant funding has been altered to respond to impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. KDOT has lowered the non-state cash match to 10% for this round only. In addition, additional consideration will be given to applications originating from counties that have a more than 50% increase in unemployment rates between 2019 and 2020.Because of the federal Corona Virus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), up to $25 million is available for projects this spring. Any remaining funding will carry over to fall 2021.All transportation projects are eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, airport, bicycle/pedestrian and public transit. Candidate projects should include investments that provide transportation benefits and are not eligible for other KDOT programs.More information and the link to the application are available on KDOT’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMTY3NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lm9yZy9Db3N0U2hhcmUvQ29zdFNoYXJlUHJvZ3JhbS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.9D4Oi4Ss0kL-H-3eDy0Pq1w1IioBP33jRATDzvY6gU8/s/1410649012/br/98478984844-l" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/CostShare/CostShareProgram.asp</a>. All applications will be completed through an online link. A sample PDF application will be available for preview. Please contact Michelle Needham, Economic Development Programs Manager, at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:michelle.d.needham@ks.gov" target="_blank">michelle.d.needham@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;with any questions.

Webinar about KDOT Cost Share Program offered on March 12

Fort Hays State University Virtual Science Café presents: “A Cathartic Conversation about COVID-19.”

Join us for a comfortable conversation about a difficult disease. We explore the current understanding, rDNA test results in wastewater treatment, and vaccine status.&nbsp;

Presenters: Kevin S. Amidon, PhD, Director, The Honors College, FHSU and Jane A. Talkington, PhD, Interim Director, Center for Entrepreneurship, FHSU

Monday, March 15, 2021&nbsp;&nbsp; 7:00 PM

Join us LIVE at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

Sponsored by FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614110823684.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University Virtual Science Café presents: “A Cathartic Conversation about COVID-19.”Join us for a comfortable conversation about a difficult disease. We explore the current understanding, rDNA test results in wastewater treatment, and vaccine status.&nbsp; Presenters: Kevin S. Amidon, PhD, Director, The Honors College, FHSU and Jane A. Talkington, PhD, Interim Director, Center for Entrepreneurship, FHSU Monday, March 15, 2021&nbsp;&nbsp; 7:00 PMJoin us LIVE at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>Sponsored by FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute.Free and open to the public.

'Cathartic Conversation about COVID-19' presented by Virtual Science Café

Beginning, Monday, the new 37th Street west of Vine Street in Hays will be open for access. 

37th Street will provide access to the adjacent businesses of 24/7, Phillips 66, Baymont Inn and the Hays Antique Mall. It will also connect to Skyline Drive and West 41st Street. 

The Frontage Road north and south of 37th Street will no longer be accessible from 37th Street. 

See the above drawing showing the configuration as it will be after March 1. 

On or about March 15, construction will begin again on Vine Street, causing traffic to be reduced to one-lane in each direction. 

More information about future traffic control configurations is forthcoming.

All this information and more can be found on the project webpage at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/vine">haysusa.com/vine</a> or by contacting the Office of Project Management at 785 628-7350 or John Braun at johbraun@haysusa.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614369627348.jpeg" alt="The newly constructed portion of West 37th St. west of Vine Street in Hays opens March 1 as part of the North Vine Street Improvement Project." />
 <figcaption>The newly constructed portion of West 37th St. west of Vine Street in Hays opens March 1 as part of the North Vine Street Improvement Project.</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning, Monday, the new 37th Street west of Vine Street in Hays will be open for access. 37th Street will provide access to the adjacent businesses of 24/7, Phillips 66, Baymont Inn and the Hays Antique Mall. It will also connect to Skyline Drive and West 41st Street. The Frontage Road north and south of 37th Street will no longer be accessible from 37th Street. See the above drawing showing the configuration as it will be after March 1. On or about March 15, construction will begin again on Vine Street, causing traffic to be reduced to one-lane in each direction. More information about future traffic control configurations is forthcoming. All this information and more can be found on the project webpage at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/vine">haysusa.com/vine</a> or by contacting the Office of Project Management at 785 628-7350 or John Braun at johbraun@haysusa.com.

New 37th Street west of Vine to open Monday in Hays

The Ellis County Historical Society will hold a special meeting for all members on Tuesday, March 9, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at Celebration Community Church at 5790 230th Ave., Hays. Please use the office door on the east side of the building.

This Special Meeting replaces the regular Annual Meeting that was postponed in January due to inclement weather.

There are three officer positions open, and five trustee member seats open. If you are interested in serving on the board, write-in candidates are welcome. Only ECHS members may vote. The Society also welcomes anyone who wishes to volunteer their time and expertise.

We encourage you to renew or become a member at the meeting. Single memberships are $15 and Family is $25. We also accept donations.

Ellis County Historical Society, founded in 1972, collects, preserves, and exhibits items and documents that illustrate the history of Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614296143487.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Historical Society will hold a special meeting for all members on Tuesday, March 9, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at Celebration Community Church at 5790 230th Ave., Hays. Please use the office door on the east side of the building.This Special Meeting replaces the regular Annual Meeting that was postponed in January due to inclement weather.There are three officer positions open, and five trustee member seats open. If you are interested in serving on the board, write-in candidates are welcome. Only ECHS members may vote. The Society also welcomes anyone who wishes to volunteer their time and expertise.We encourage you to renew or become a member at the meeting. Single memberships are $15 and Family is $25. We also accept donations.Ellis County Historical Society, founded in 1972, collects, preserves, and exhibits items and documents that illustrate the history of Ellis County.- Submitted

Ellis County Historical Society to host special meeting March 9

The chair of the Ellis County Democratic Party, Trina Powell, recently gave details of a business and planning meeting of the party and its supporters.

Twenty-four people joined the Ellis County Democrats’ business and planning Zoom meeting on Feb. 23. The next Zoom meeting will be on March 23 at 6:30 p.m. Dr. Jay Steinmetz will be the guest speaker. 

Additional information on the upcoming meeting, other events and news is on the Ellis County Democrats Facebook Page, <a href="http://https/www.facebook.com/elliscountydems">http://https://www.facebook.com/elliscountydems</a>. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:EllisCountyDemocrats@gmail.com">EllisCountyDemocrats@gmail.com</a>. &nbsp;This is an ongoing activity of the Democratic Party of Ellis County and will occur monthly on the fourth Tuesday, according to Powell.

The chair of the Ellis County Democratic Party, Trina Powell, recently gave details of a business and planning meeting of the party and its supporters.Twenty-four people joined the Ellis County Democrats’ business and planning Zoom meeting on Feb. 23. The next Zoom meeting will be on March 23 at 6:30 p.m. Dr. Jay Steinmetz will be the guest speaker. Additional information on the upcoming meeting, other events and news is on the Ellis County Democrats Facebook Page, <a href="http://https/www.facebook.com/elliscountydems">http://https://www.facebook.com/elliscountydems</a>. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:EllisCountyDemocrats@gmail.com">EllisCountyDemocrats@gmail.com</a>. &nbsp;This is an ongoing activity of the Democratic Party of Ellis County and will occur monthly on the fourth Tuesday, according to Powell.

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