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.

Ellis County Democrats meet to plan for the future

In an effort to alleviate some stress and answer some questions, the Hays High School prom planning committee wanted to send out this message to juniors and seniors regarding prom.&nbsp;

At this time, Hays High School is going forward with the prom planning process. So far, we have decided the following:

More details will be sent as they are available, but as always, if you have any questions feel free to contact the committee. 

Junior Class Sponsors: Julie Pfannenstiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">jpfannenstiel@usd489.com</a> <a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank"></a>Beth Schiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bschiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">bschiel@usd489.com</a>

In an effort to alleviate some stress and answer some questions, the Hays High School prom planning committee wanted to send out this message to juniors and seniors regarding prom.&nbsp;At this time, Hays High School is going forward with the prom planning process. So far, we have decided the following:<ol>
 <li>Prom will be&nbsp;from 6-8:30 p.m. April 10, 2021 with the location yet to be determined</li><li>Prom will be an outside event</li><li>Prom will be a formal event</li><li>Juniors and seniors will be allowed to invite the date of their choice as usual, but all of the usual guidelines will have to be followed for signing up dates, etc.</li><li>The “theme” will be the Roaring 20’s, but no new decorations will be ordered.&nbsp;Students and parents are welcome to donate items to the theme, but will not be reimbursed for them</li><li>Decorations will be limited and simple</li><li>There will be refreshments served, but they will also be limited to COVID-friendly snacks</li>
 </ol>More details will be sent as they are available, but as always, if you have any questions feel free to contact the committee. Junior Class Sponsors: Julie Pfannenstiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">jpfannenstiel@usd489.com</a> <a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank"></a>Beth Schiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bschiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">bschiel@usd489.com</a>

Hays High prom set for April 10

Healing After Loss will meet from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 2 and 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 16 at 103 W. 27th, Oak Plaza Suite C.

There will be dinner with the meeting on March 16.

The meeting will be in person unless otherwise announced. You will be notified by email, Facebook or the Center for Life Experience website.

Please RSVP by the Monday prior to the meeting. RSVP to cfle1@eaglecom.net or text 785-625-6078.

Everyone is requested to wear masks and agree to social distance. Please bring your own mask. The center will have some available.

Healing After Loss will meet from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 2 and 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 16 at 103 W. 27th, Oak Plaza Suite C.There will be dinner with the meeting on March 16.The meeting will be in person unless otherwise announced. You will be notified by email, Facebook or the Center for Life Experience website.Please RSVP by the Monday prior to the meeting. RSVP to cfle1@eaglecom.net or text 785-625-6078.Everyone is requested to wear masks and agree to social distance. Please bring your own mask. The center will have some available.

Healing After Loss to meet March 2, 16

NAMI to meet March 1 by Zoom, in-person

The HaysMed Foundation is holding an online auction with the theme, "Together we Rise." The auction is live now through Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Items include art, electronics, jewelry, dinners, experiences, household items, passes, sports memorabilia, man-cave items, and lots of unique wine offerings.

Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction" target="_blank">https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction</a>&nbsp;for details. This event is open to anyone who would like to participate and support healthcare in our region. The online auction is being held in lieu of the annual HaysMed Black Tie Gala. Proceeds of the auction help support the people and programs of HaysMed. HaysMed Foundation Executive Director Jeff Brull said, "Like everyone else, we've had to adapt to challenging circumstances. We're extremely grateful for the people and businesses that have made our online auction a possibility through their generous gifts of auction items, direct donations, and word-of-mouth advertising. We'd also like to encourage everyone to thank our listed business partners by patronizing those local and regional partners when you can." The HaysMed Foundation was established 25 years ago to&nbsp;provide vital philanthropic support to help fund life-saving equipment, special projects and programs for HaysMed&nbsp;that will positively impact the health of our region. All gifts to the HaysMed Foundation remain local to help the people and patients in our region.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614269459892.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMed FoundationThe HaysMed Foundation is holding an online auction with the theme, "Together we Rise." The auction is live now through Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Items include art, electronics, jewelry, dinners, experiences, household items, passes, sports memorabilia, man-cave items, and lots of unique wine offerings.Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction" target="_blank">https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction</a>&nbsp;for details. This event is open to anyone who would like to participate and support healthcare in our region. The online auction is being held in lieu of the annual HaysMed Black Tie Gala. Proceeds of the auction help support the people and programs of HaysMed. HaysMed Foundation Executive Director Jeff Brull said, "Like everyone else, we've had to adapt to challenging circumstances. We're extremely grateful for the people and businesses that have made our online auction a possibility through their generous gifts of auction items, direct donations, and word-of-mouth advertising. We'd also like to encourage everyone to thank our listed business partners by patronizing those local and regional partners when you can." The HaysMed Foundation was established 25 years ago to&nbsp;provide vital philanthropic support to help fund life-saving equipment, special projects and programs for HaysMed&nbsp;that will positively impact the health of our region. All gifts to the HaysMed Foundation remain local to help the people and patients in our region.&nbsp;

HaysMed Foundation online auction ends Saturday

The Hays USD 489 kindergarten roundup is set for Monday, March 1.

Due to COVID, attendance is limited to only parents of incoming kindergarten students who do not currently have a sibling attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools.

The event will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays High School Gymnasium, 2300 E. 13th St.

Eligibility for kindergarten - Student must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2021.

If you have a child who is eligible to attend kindergarten in fall 2021 and you do not currently have a child attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools, please plan to attend our USD 489 Kindergarten Round-up.

This is a parents only informational meeting.

A kindergarten pre-enrollment form must be completed for each incoming kindergarten student.

These forms will be mailed to families who have incoming kindergarten students attending one of the district elementary schools, and they will be made available for other families the night of round up.

On the form, you will be asked to fill out and rank the four elementary schools in the order you prefer your child to attend. 

Efforts will be made to place your child in the school of your first choice, but there may be a chance your child will be placed at another school due to limits on class sizes.

Preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.

Pre-enrollment forms for all incoming kindergarten students must be returned to the USD 489 Board Office no later than Friday, March 19 for first choice to be considered.

Parents will be notified of their child's school assignment by the end of April.

Again, preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.

Round-up information will be made available for those who choose not to attend due to COVID and/or for those parents who have children currently attending Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt, or Wilson.

If you have questions, call any of the USD 489 elementary schools listed below.

Lincoln Elementary School: 623-2500 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School: 623-2510 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School: 623-2520 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wilson Elementary School: 623-2550

&nbsp;A master kindergarten contact list is kept at the district office. Please call Jess Reling at the Rockwell Administration Center 785-623-2400 to put your name on that contact list. Contacts will also be gathered from our elementary schools and the night of round up.&nbsp;

Reunión informativa sobre Kínder del distrito de USD 489

Debido a COVID, la asistencia está limitada solo a los PADRES de los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder y que NO tienen actualmente un hermano que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489.

Gimnasio de la escuela secundaria Hays, 2300 E. 13th St.

Lunes 1 de marzo, 2021 a las 6:30 pm

Elegibilidad para kínder: el estudiante debe tener cinco años el 31 de agosto de 2021 o antes.

Si tiene un niño que es elegible para asistir al Kínder en el otoño de 2021 y actualmente no tiene un niño que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489, planee asistir a nuestra reunión de Kínder de USD 489. Esta reunión informativa SOLAMENTE PARA PADRES se llevará a cabo en el gimnasio de Hays High School el lunes 1 de marzo a las 6:30 pm.

Se debe completar un formulario de preinscripción para kínder para cada estudiante que ingrese a kínder. Estos formularios se enviarán por correo a las familias que tengan estudiantes entrantes a kínder que asistan a una de las escuelas primarias del distrito, y estarán disponibles para otras familias la noche de la reunión. En el formulario, se le pedirá que complete y clasifique las cuatro escuelas primarias en el orden en que prefiere que asista su hijo. Se harán esfuerzos para ubicar a su hijo en la escuela de su primera elección, pero existe la posibilidad de que su hijo sea colocado en otra escuela debido a los límites en el tamaño de las clases. Se dará preferencia a aquellos que tengan hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito. Los formularios de preinscripción para todos los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder deben devolverse a la Oficina de la Junta de USD 489 a más tardar el viernes 19 de marzo de 2021 para que se considere la primera opción. Los padres serán notificados de la asignación escolar de su hijo a fines de abril. Nuevamente, se dará preferencia a aquellos que tienen hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito.

TENGA EN CUENTA: La información de resumen estará disponible para aquellos que elijan no asistir debido a COVID y / o para aquellos padres que tienen hijos que actualmente asisten a Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt o Wilson.

¿¿PREGUNTAS?? Llame a cualquiera de las escuelas primarias de USD 489 que se enumeran a continuación. Ayúdenos a encontrar a los nuevos niños de kínder compartiendo esta información con todos sus conocidos. ¡Gracias!

Lincoln Elementary School:			623-2500			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School:			623-2510			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School:			623-2520				 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Wilson Elementary School:			623-2550

Esperamos que usted y su hijo formen parte del

** En la oficina del distrito se mantiene una lista maestra de contactos de kindergarten. Llame a Jess Reling en el Centro de administración de Rockwell (785) 623-2400 para poner su nombre en esa lista de contactos. También se recopilarán contactos de nuestras escuelas primarias esa noche.&nbsp;

The Hays USD 489 kindergarten roundup is set for Monday, March 1.Due to COVID, attendance is limited to only parents of incoming kindergarten students who do not currently have a sibling attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools.The event will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays High School Gymnasium, 2300 E. 13th St. Eligibility for kindergarten - Student must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2021.If you have a child who is eligible to attend kindergarten in fall 2021 and you do not currently have a child attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools, please plan to attend our USD 489 Kindergarten Round-up.This is a parents only informational meeting.A kindergarten pre-enrollment form must be completed for each incoming kindergarten student.These forms will be mailed to families who have incoming kindergarten students attending one of the district elementary schools, and they will be made available for other families the night of round up.On the form, you will be asked to fill out and rank the four elementary schools in the order you prefer your child to attend. Efforts will be made to place your child in the school of your first choice, but there may be a chance your child will be placed at another school due to limits on class sizes.Preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.Pre-enrollment forms for all incoming kindergarten students must be returned to the USD 489 Board Office no later than Friday, March 19 for first choice to be considered.Parents will be notified of their child's school assignment by the end of April.Again, preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.Round-up information will be made available for those who choose not to attend due to COVID and/or for those parents who have children currently attending Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt, or Wilson.If you have questions, call any of the USD 489 elementary schools listed below.Lincoln Elementary School: 623-2500 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School: 623-2510 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School: 623-2520 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wilson Elementary School: 623-2550&nbsp;A master kindergarten contact list is kept at the district office. Please call Jess Reling at the Rockwell Administration Center 785-623-2400 to put your name on that contact list. Contacts will also be gathered from our elementary schools and the night of round up.&nbsp;----Reunión informativa sobre Kínder del distrito de USD 489Debido a COVID, la asistencia está limitada solo a los PADRES de los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder y que NO tienen actualmente un hermano que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489.Gimnasio de la escuela secundaria Hays, 2300 E. 13th St.Lunes 1 de marzo, 2021 a las 6:30 pmElegibilidad para kínder: el estudiante debe tener cinco años el 31 de agosto de 2021 o antes.Si tiene un niño que es elegible para asistir al Kínder en el otoño de 2021 y actualmente no tiene un niño que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489, planee asistir a nuestra reunión de Kínder de USD 489. Esta reunión informativa SOLAMENTE PARA PADRES se llevará a cabo en el gimnasio de Hays High School el lunes 1 de marzo a las 6:30 pm.Se debe completar un formulario de preinscripción para kínder para cada estudiante que ingrese a kínder. Estos formularios se enviarán por correo a las familias que tengan estudiantes entrantes a kínder que asistan a una de las escuelas primarias del distrito, y estarán disponibles para otras familias la noche de la reunión. En el formulario, se le pedirá que complete y clasifique las cuatro escuelas primarias en el orden en que prefiere que asista su hijo. Se harán esfuerzos para ubicar a su hijo en la escuela de su primera elección, pero existe la posibilidad de que su hijo sea colocado en otra escuela debido a los límites en el tamaño de las clases. Se dará preferencia a aquellos que tengan hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito. Los formularios de preinscripción para todos los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder deben devolverse a la Oficina de la Junta de USD 489 a más tardar el viernes 19 de marzo de 2021 para que se considere la primera opción. Los padres serán notificados de la asignación escolar de su hijo a fines de abril. Nuevamente, se dará preferencia a aquellos que tienen hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito.TENGA EN CUENTA: La información de resumen estará disponible para aquellos que elijan no asistir debido a COVID y / o para aquellos padres que tienen hijos que actualmente asisten a Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt o Wilson.¿¿PREGUNTAS?? Llame a cualquiera de las escuelas primarias de USD 489 que se enumeran a continuación. Ayúdenos a encontrar a los nuevos niños de kínder compartiendo esta información con todos sus conocidos. ¡Gracias!Lincoln Elementary School:			623-2500			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School:			623-2510			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School:			623-2520				 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Wilson Elementary School:			623-2550Esperamos que usted y su hijo formen parte delHays-USD 489 distrito escolar.** En la oficina del distrito se mantiene una lista maestra de contactos de kindergarten. Llame a Jess Reling en el Centro de administración de Rockwell (785) 623-2400 para poner su nombre en esa lista de contactos. También se recopilarán contactos de nuestras escuelas primarias esa noche.&nbsp;

Hays USD 489 kindergarten roundup set for March 1

The Flying Bison Disc Golf Club in affiliation with the Kansas Disc Golf Association is hosting a local food drive disc golf tournament this Saturday, February 27. All proceeds will benefit the Hays Community Assistance Center. 

Anyone is welcome to participate or donate cash or non-perishable food items. 

For $25 individuals can receive a custom stamped disc and register to compete or donate. 

Registration/Check-in will begin at 8:30AM that morning.

Schedule: 8:30 AM Registration/Check-in begins 10:00 AM Tee-Off Lunch following first round. Optional $5 best/worst doubles round after lunch. (Approximately 1 PM Tee-Off). $2 Donation=1 Mulligan 1 canned food item = 1 Mulligan Tournament Director:&nbsp; Brett E. Straight&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614266818975.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Flying Bison Disc Golf Club in affiliation with the Kansas Disc Golf Association is hosting a local food drive disc golf tournament this Saturday, February 27. All proceeds will benefit the Hays Community Assistance Center. Anyone is welcome to participate or donate cash or non-perishable food items. For $25 individuals can receive a custom stamped disc and register to compete or donate. Registration/Check-in will begin at 8:30AM that morning.Schedule: 8:30 AM Registration/Check-in begins 10:00 AM Tee-Off Lunch following first round. Optional $5 best/worst doubles round after lunch. (Approximately 1 PM Tee-Off). $2 Donation=1 Mulligan 1 canned food item = 1 Mulligan Tournament Director:&nbsp; Brett E. Straight&nbsp;&nbsp;

Flyin' Bison disc golf tourney includes local food drive 

The Knights of Columbus of Munjor will host a Lenten Fish Fry Friday, March 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Munjor School building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583868129243.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Knights of Columbus of Munjor will host a Lenten Fish Fry Friday, March 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Munjor School building.Takeout meals will be available.&nbsp;A freewill offering will be accepted.Everyone is invited.

Lenten Fish Fry March 5 hosted by Munjor K of C 

Government surplus food commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, February 26 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until we run out.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight * Add $486 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: corn, mixed fruit, frozen chicken, garbanzo beans, raisins, pecan pieces, orange juice, fruit and nut mix, canned chicken, frozen chicken leg quarters, and split peas. 

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;

Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580255349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Government surplus food commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, February 26 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until we run out.Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight * Add $486 for each additional family member after eightCommodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: corn, mixed fruit, frozen chicken, garbanzo beans, raisins, pecan pieces, orange juice, fruit and nut mix, canned chicken, frozen chicken leg quarters, and split peas. Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

Commodity food distribution Friday morning in Hays 

COLBY — The annual Art on the Oasis art show is returning to Colby Community College March 5 through 7. The event, held in the Bedker Memorial Complex and&nbsp;the Cultural&nbsp;Arts Center gallery, features works by high school, amateur and professional artists from around the region.

The opening gala is from 6 to 9 p.m. at both venues on Friday, March 5, and continues Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.&nbsp;

"We'll have food, music, awards, and opportunities to purchase art," said organizer Rebel Mahieu. "We had more than 400 entries and five high schools participate last year and expect as many this year."

In addition to local entries, participating artists are from eastern Colorado, southern Nebraska, Hays, Great Bend, Phillipsburg, and Garden City.&nbsp;

The judge will be Fort Hays State University sculpture professor Tobias Flores.

"There will be a variety of pieces that include abstract and non-representational, paintings, drawings, sculpture, weaving, metal work, ceramics, photography, and mixed media," Mahieu said.

Admission is free. Masks are required but will also be available for those who do not have one. For more information, contact Mahieu at (785) 269-7065.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The annual Art on the Oasis art show is returning to Colby Community College March 5 through 7. The event, held in the Bedker Memorial Complex and&nbsp;the Cultural&nbsp;Arts Center gallery, features works by high school, amateur and professional artists from around the region.The opening gala is from 6 to 9 p.m. at both venues on Friday, March 5, and continues Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.&nbsp;"We'll have food, music, awards, and opportunities to purchase art," said organizer Rebel Mahieu. "We had more than 400 entries and five high schools participate last year and expect as many this year."In addition to local entries, participating artists are from eastern Colorado, southern Nebraska, Hays, Great Bend, Phillipsburg, and Garden City.&nbsp;The judge will be Fort Hays State University sculpture professor Tobias Flores."There will be a variety of pieces that include abstract and non-representational, paintings, drawings, sculpture, weaving, metal work, ceramics, photography, and mixed media," Mahieu said.Admission is free. Masks are required but will also be available for those who do not have one. For more information, contact Mahieu at (785) 269-7065.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colby Community College hosts Art on the Oasis 

MANHATTAN — More than 1,415 students completed degree requirements from Kansas State University in fall 2020. The graduates are from 87 Kansas counties, 39 states and 32 countries. The university awarded 1,139 bachelor's degrees, 229 master's degrees, 58 doctorates and five associate degrees. Several students earned multiple degrees.&nbsp; For outstanding academic performance, 209 students earned graduation honors. Of those, 64 students graduated summa cum laude with a grade point average of 3.95 or above, 67 students graduated magna cum laude with a grade point average of 3.85 to 3.949, and 78 students graduated cum laude with a GPA of 3.75 to 3.849.

Hays:&nbsp;Kacie Engel, Bachelor of Science,
Summa Cum Laude; Madisyn Keller, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Magna Cum
Laude; Laura Montgomery, Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness; Payton Ruder,
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering; Jessie Vallejo, Master of
Science; Brian Weber, Doctor of Philosophy; Caitlyn White, Bachelor of Science
in Mechanical Engineering

Victoria:&nbsp;Nicole Dinkel, Bachelor
of Science in Business Administration

A complete list of students who have earned degrees and, if applicable, graduation honors from Kansas State University is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/degrees_gradhonors.html" target="_blank">k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/degrees_gradhonors.html</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1583029965907.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State News ServiceMANHATTAN — More than 1,415 students completed degree requirements from Kansas State University in fall 2020. The graduates are from 87 Kansas counties, 39 states and 32 countries. The university awarded 1,139 bachelor's degrees, 229 master's degrees, 58 doctorates and five associate degrees. Several students earned multiple degrees.&nbsp; For outstanding academic performance, 209 students earned graduation honors. Of those, 64 students graduated summa cum laude with a grade point average of 3.95 or above, 67 students graduated magna cum laude with a grade point average of 3.85 to 3.949, and 78 students graduated cum laude with a GPA of 3.75 to 3.849.Ellis County graduates are:Hays:&nbsp;Kacie Engel, Bachelor of Science,
Summa Cum Laude; Madisyn Keller, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Magna Cum
Laude; Laura Montgomery, Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness; Payton Ruder,
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering; Jessie Vallejo, Master of
Science; Brian Weber, Doctor of Philosophy; Caitlyn White, Bachelor of Science
in Mechanical EngineeringVictoria:&nbsp;Nicole Dinkel, Bachelor
of Science in Business AdministrationA complete list of students who have earned degrees and, if applicable, graduation honors from Kansas State University is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/degrees_gradhonors.html" target="_blank">k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/degrees_gradhonors.html</a>.

Ellis County students among KSU Fall 2020 graduates

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved its 2021-22 school calendar at its meeting Monday.&nbsp;

School will start on Aug. 18. The last day of school for Hays High School and Hays Middle School will be May 19, 2022. The elementary schools will end with a half day on May 20, 2022.

The board asked Superintendent Ron Wilson asked if the schedule allowed for snow days.

Wilson said although the school does have the capacity to go to remote learning at times of inclement weather, he said the district has no intent of doing away with snow days at this time.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved its 2021-22 school calendar at its meeting Monday.&nbsp;School will start on Aug. 18. The last day of school for Hays High School and Hays Middle School will be May 19, 2022. The elementary schools will end with a half day on May 20, 2022.Spring break will be March 14-18, 2022.The board asked Superintendent Ron Wilson asked if the schedule allowed for snow days.Wilson said although the school does have the capacity to go to remote learning at times of inclement weather, he said the district has no intent of doing away with snow days at this time.See the full calendar below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614197224498.jpeg" alt="USD 489 21-22 District Calendar.jpg" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 21-22 District Calendar.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays USD 489 approves 2021-22 school calendar

A public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) will be conducted Wednesday during the Ellis County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.

CUP 2047 is requested by Industrial Tower West, LLC, as the agent for landowner Donald Lang, Victoria, for construction of a cellphone tower.

The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Ellis County Administrative Center, 718 Main, Hays.

In other business, the commission will also hear an update of the comprehensive plan and zoning regulations.&nbsp;

The complete Feb. 24 agenda is available <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02242021-388">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579287163220.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostA public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) will be conducted Wednesday during the Ellis County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.CUP 2047 is requested by Industrial Tower West, LLC, as the agent for landowner Donald Lang, Victoria, for construction of a cellphone tower.The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Ellis County Administrative Center, 718 Main, Hays.In other business, the commission will also hear an update of the comprehensive plan and zoning regulations.&nbsp;The complete Feb. 24 agenda is available <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02242021-388">here</a>.&nbsp;

Public hearing for cell phone tower to be heard by Planning and Zoning Commission

Are you the parent of a current sixth-grade student in an area school or homeschool?

Now is the time to pre-enroll for seventh grade at Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior High School.

Families of all faith backgrounds are welcome.

The school consistently strives to make sure cost is never the reason that a family can't choose a Catholic education.

If you have questions about cost or any other aspect of TMP-Marian, please email or call the school at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:meitnerc@tmpmarian.org" target="_blank">meitnerc@tmpmarian.org</a>&nbsp;or 625-6577. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fLIWnmM31vuCx_SKwCoZW3Gl7wRfrU-k/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click Here to Download and Print the Pre-Enrollment Packet.</a>

Sixth graders at Holy Family Elementary in Hays will receive their packets at the school.

Pre-enrollment takes place at the TMP-Marian from 3:30-6 p.m. March 3 on the second floor of the Learning Commons.

SubmittedAre you the parent of a current sixth-grade student in an area school or homeschool?Now is the time to pre-enroll for seventh grade at Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior High School. Families of all faith backgrounds are welcome.The school consistently strives to make sure cost is never the reason that a family can't choose a Catholic education.If you have questions about cost or any other aspect of TMP-Marian, please email or call the school at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:meitnerc@tmpmarian.org" target="_blank">meitnerc@tmpmarian.org</a>&nbsp;or 625-6577. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fLIWnmM31vuCx_SKwCoZW3Gl7wRfrU-k/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click Here to Download and Print the Pre-Enrollment Packet.</a> Sixth graders at Holy Family Elementary in Hays will receive their packets at the school. Pre-enrollment takes place at the TMP-Marian from 3:30-6 p.m. March 3 on the second floor of the Learning Commons.

TMP-M enrolling incoming 7th graders on March 3

A portion of sales Tuesday, Feb. 23, at Plainville Pizza Hut, WaKeeney Pizza Hut, and at Old Chicago in Hays will go to the Heartland Community Foundation&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/twiceasnice?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXESfB2XJcu5yIfowuid5RWLHdk_2bz6MS4avZWY5JfZcUbzOf_mVYg99sS9n4nxcLDwCeybEz-N0tMeE1oP5ucA75jn_Bx1-EeWWhF81tGHey5rnc57MWJ3UghagIk5Lix07kUpo48GAQpfVg6UwrW&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#TwiceAsNice</a>&nbsp;match month fundraiser to help us reach our goal!&nbsp;

Dine-in, carry out, and delivery -- all count!

Heads up, Stockton -- your Pizza Night is this Thursday, Feb. 25!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614032111480.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A portion of sales Tuesday, Feb. 23, at Plainville Pizza Hut, WaKeeney Pizza Hut, and at Old Chicago in Hays will go to the Heartland Community Foundation&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/twiceasnice?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXESfB2XJcu5yIfowuid5RWLHdk_2bz6MS4avZWY5JfZcUbzOf_mVYg99sS9n4nxcLDwCeybEz-N0tMeE1oP5ucA75jn_Bx1-EeWWhF81tGHey5rnc57MWJ3UghagIk5Lix07kUpo48GAQpfVg6UwrW&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#TwiceAsNice</a>&nbsp;match month fundraiser to help us reach our goal!&nbsp;Dine-in, carry out, and delivery -- all count! Heads up, Stockton -- your Pizza Night is this Thursday, Feb. 25!

'Pizza for HCF Twice As Nice' fundraiser this week in Stockton

TOPEKA –&nbsp; The Attorney General’s Office will mark National Consumer Protection Week with free document destruction events throughout the state, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said.

“Our office works hard year-round to protect consumers,” Schmidt said. “Next week, we will place a particular focus on helping Kansans protect themselves from identity theft and stay safe from scams.”

The office will sponsor free document destruction at eight locations throughout the state from March 1 to March 6, which is National Consumer Protection Week. Securely shredding personal documents is an important step toward preventing identity theft.

The schedule of events for the week includes:

Tuesday, March 2 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Hays Sternberg Museum, 3000 Sternberg Dr.

Consumers are asked to limit their documents for destruction to three small bags or boxes. Documents will be securely transported to the shredding facility for safe destruction by certified shredding companies.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/" target="_blank">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call 1-800-432-2310.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614007886340.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp; The Attorney General’s Office will mark National Consumer Protection Week with free document destruction events throughout the state, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said.“Our office works hard year-round to protect consumers,” Schmidt said. “Next week, we will place a particular focus on helping Kansans protect themselves from identity theft and stay safe from scams.”The office will sponsor free document destruction at eight locations throughout the state from March 1 to March 6, which is National Consumer Protection Week. Securely shredding personal documents is an important step toward preventing identity theft.The schedule of events for the week includes:Tuesday, March 2 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Hays Sternberg Museum, 3000 Sternberg Dr.Consumers are asked to limit their documents for destruction to three small bags or boxes. Documents will be securely transported to the shredding facility for safe destruction by certified shredding companies.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/" target="_blank">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call 1-800-432-2310.&nbsp;

Free document shredding during National Consumer Protection Week

LENORA — The Foundation for Rural Service reccently announced the James L. Bass Legal Scholarship, a new scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities entering their first year of law school. FRS is the philanthropic arm of NTCA—The Rural Broadband Association, of which Nex-Tech is a member.

With an active law career that spanned more than 70 years, James Bass helped secure funds for rural telephone systems to bring modern telephone service to rural areas. He was pivotal in the creation of NTCA, where he served as one of the organization’s earliest presidents. Bass continued his leadership with service for more than 50 years as legal counsel.

Recognizing Bass’s impact to the industry and his passion for the legal profession, the NTCA Board of Directors established a scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities to attend law school. The first James L. Bass Legal Scholarship will be awarded in spring 2021 and will be at least $5,000.

“Jim was not only a founding member of NTCA, he was a guiding light for our association through much of his lifetime,” said Shirley Bloomfield, chief executive officer of NTCA. “He spent his last years in service to the association as our general counsel where he helped guide our national board through growth and transformation. How fitting it is to honor him with a law school scholarship recognizing not only his passion for rural America but for the legal profession as well. My sincere thanks to all the NTCA members who so generously donated in Jim’s memory.”

Jacque Beckman, Nex-Tech Youth Services/Training Specialist said, “What an amazing opportunity for those entering as first-year law students this fall. It is our privilege to help share this opportunity with students in the rural communities we serve.”

The deadline to be considered for the spring 2021 James L. Bass Scholarship is April 16. Application materials and more information about the scholarship can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://go.nex-tech.com/e2t/tc/MV-zKY7Y42RW57dBHG1VjSDwW4TqGZG4n6l59N74PqtV3p_9rV1-WJV7CgY03W4H2cB41pXPhjT3D0c7djS9_VKN9Wm2dd6DDW4r6_x_8pXS7HW7PCNH76qln-FVmCx8C2H6_W2W47qq076bhQS1W1lqXZp2Yg0C0W6Jz9b07QkfkzW4QR3Y32Js9LWW6H49xV58lfHyN6CfgPzy6dgvW1sFSjj4BzPk6W4xp4wg8RNJw0N34K0YGcfJS9W4nNdDM5k31L9VZg9rf1rRQkqW2VnPx-53sgRdW7XlvP85PV14jLH6cL8CGk-W7RRnqY2-w6LzW88fVz895JykfW4lrFZ71y19xLW7TfHt_6893C7W3j8fNy5lzbMrW4YnH7n3XyjLM3bTC1" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613489978210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LENORA — The Foundation for Rural Service reccently announced the James L. Bass Legal Scholarship, a new scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities entering their first year of law school. FRS is the philanthropic arm of NTCA—The Rural Broadband Association, of which Nex-Tech is a member.With an active law career that spanned more than 70 years, James Bass helped secure funds for rural telephone systems to bring modern telephone service to rural areas. He was pivotal in the creation of NTCA, where he served as one of the organization’s earliest presidents. Bass continued his leadership with service for more than 50 years as legal counsel.Recognizing Bass’s impact to the industry and his passion for the legal profession, the NTCA Board of Directors established a scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities to attend law school. The first James L. Bass Legal Scholarship will be awarded in spring 2021 and will be at least $5,000.“Jim was not only a founding member of NTCA, he was a guiding light for our association through much of his lifetime,” said Shirley Bloomfield, chief executive officer of NTCA. “He spent his last years in service to the association as our general counsel where he helped guide our national board through growth and transformation. How fitting it is to honor him with a law school scholarship recognizing not only his passion for rural America but for the legal profession as well. My sincere thanks to all the NTCA members who so generously donated in Jim’s memory.”Jacque Beckman, Nex-Tech Youth Services/Training Specialist said, “What an amazing opportunity for those entering as first-year law students this fall. It is our privilege to help share this opportunity with students in the rural communities we serve.”The deadline to be considered for the spring 2021 James L. Bass Scholarship is April 16. Application materials and more information about the scholarship can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://go.nex-tech.com/e2t/tc/MV-zKY7Y42RW57dBHG1VjSDwW4TqGZG4n6l59N74PqtV3p_9rV1-WJV7CgY03W4H2cB41pXPhjT3D0c7djS9_VKN9Wm2dd6DDW4r6_x_8pXS7HW7PCNH76qln-FVmCx8C2H6_W2W47qq076bhQS1W1lqXZp2Yg0C0W6Jz9b07QkfkzW4QR3Y32Js9LWW6H49xV58lfHyN6CfgPzy6dgvW1sFSjj4BzPk6W4xp4wg8RNJw0N34K0YGcfJS9W4nNdDM5k31L9VZg9rf1rRQkqW2VnPx-53sgRdW7XlvP85PV14jLH6cL8CGk-W7RRnqY2-w6LzW88fVz895JykfW4lrFZ71y19xLW7TfHt_6893C7W3j8fNy5lzbMrW4YnH7n3XyjLM3bTC1" target="_blank">here</a>.

Applications open for James L. Bass Legal Scholarship

MANHATTAN — A proposed Flood Insurance Rate Map update for Ellis County
was released for public review in November 2019. Before the new map is finalized, property
owners and lessees will have one more opportunity to provide engineering data through
their community during the official 90-day appeal process. The appeal period began Jan.
20 and will continue through April 20. The new map will provide communities in this
area with up-to-date flood risk information and tools that can be used to enhance local
mitigation plans, and help local officials and residents make informed decisions about
reducing flood risks and purchasing flood insurance.


The local mapping project is part of a nationwide effort led by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency to increase local knowledge of flood risks and to support actions to
address and reduce those risks. The work in Ellis County has been led by FEMA and the
Kansas Department of Agriculture–Division of Water Resources in partnership with local
community officials. The 90-day appeal period provides a time frame during which property
owners and lessees can provide engineering data for consideration before the new Flood
Insurance Rate Map is finalized.


Submitting an appeal requires the development of science-based data or technically-backed
information to replace or update preliminary engineering, which can require a significant
investment of time and money. Those interested in submitting an appeal are recommended
to first discuss it with their local floodplain administrator to help provide guidance on the
process, as appeals must be submitted through your local floodplain administrator. Appeal
period guidance along with contact information for floodplain administrators in Ellis
County is available at the KDA–DWR website under the Ellis County mapping project
page.


The new map, which can be found on the KDA–DWR website, is still a preliminary
version. Ellis County officials encourage property owners and lessees to view the proposed


Flood Insurance Rate Map to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood
insurance requirements.


For contact information, to view the new maps, or to find out more about Kansas
floodplain mapping projects, visit www.agriculture.ks.gov/floodplainmapping; select “Ellis
County” to view the mapping project in Ellis County.


MANHATTAN — A proposed Flood Insurance Rate Map update for Ellis County
was released for public review in November 2019. Before the new map is finalized, property
owners and lessees will have one more opportunity to provide engineering data through
their community during the official 90-day appeal process. The appeal period began Jan.
20 and will continue through April 20. The new map will provide communities in this
area with up-to-date flood risk information and tools that can be used to enhance local
mitigation plans, and help local officials and residents make informed decisions about
reducing flood risks and purchasing flood insurance.
The local mapping project is part of a nationwide effort led by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency to increase local knowledge of flood risks and to support actions to
address and reduce those risks. The work in Ellis County has been led by FEMA and the
Kansas Department of Agriculture–Division of Water Resources in partnership with local
community officials. The 90-day appeal period provides a time frame during which property
owners and lessees can provide engineering data for consideration before the new Flood
Insurance Rate Map is finalized.
Submitting an appeal requires the development of science-based data or technically-backed
information to replace or update preliminary engineering, which can require a significant
investment of time and money. Those interested in submitting an appeal are recommended
to first discuss it with their local floodplain administrator to help provide guidance on the
process, as appeals must be submitted through your local floodplain administrator. Appeal
period guidance along with contact information for floodplain administrators in Ellis
County is available at the KDA–DWR website under the Ellis County mapping project
page.
The new map, which can be found on the KDA–DWR website, is still a preliminary
version. Ellis County officials encourage property owners and lessees to view the proposed
Flood Insurance Rate Map to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood
insurance requirements.
For contact information, to view the new maps, or to find out more about Kansas
floodplain mapping projects, visit www.agriculture.ks.gov/floodplainmapping; select “Ellis
County” to view the mapping project in Ellis County.

Appeal period open for proposed Ellis Co. floodplain map

Come grab a meal to go and help support some great ministries! Donated funds raised go to support: Student pastors, Lutheran Hour Ministry- mission work (local/world), Orphan Grain Train, Messiah youth group, etc.

Meal includes: Eggs, Pancakes, &amp; Sausage You can also order additional frozen sausage packages by the pound.

WHEN: February 27, 2021 (Saturday) TIME: 9:00am - 1:00pm ** Meals will be picked up in parking lot WHERE: Messiah Lutheran Church COST: Pay the day of the event. Pay w/Cash or Checks made out to "Messiah Lutheran"

Prices listed below: ** Sausage Packages ($5.00 a pound) ** Adult Meals ($8.00 a person) ** Child Meals ($4.00 a person) - Under 10 years of age

We are requesting that you PRE-ORDER!! Meal or Sausage food orders due by Sunday Feb. 21st.

Pre-Order cards can be found at the welcome center by the sanctuary. Drop completed forms in the box at the welcome center.

Contact DCE Ben if you have questions: 785-639-2933

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613765447000.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Come grab a meal to go and help support some great ministries! Donated funds raised go to support: Student pastors, Lutheran Hour Ministry- mission work (local/world), Orphan Grain Train, Messiah youth group, etc.Meal includes: Eggs, Pancakes, &amp; Sausage You can also order additional frozen sausage packages by the pound.WHEN: February 27, 2021 (Saturday) TIME: 9:00am - 1:00pm ** Meals will be picked up in parking lot WHERE: Messiah Lutheran Church COST: Pay the day of the event. Pay w/Cash or Checks made out to "Messiah Lutheran"Prices listed below: ** Sausage Packages ($5.00 a pound) ** Adult Meals ($8.00 a person) ** Child Meals ($4.00 a person) - Under 10 years of ageWe are requesting that you PRE-ORDER!! Meal or Sausage food orders due by Sunday Feb. 21st.Pre-Order cards can be found at the welcome center by the sanctuary. Drop completed forms in the box at the welcome center.Contact DCE Ben if you have questions: 785-639-2933

Groundhog Feed fundraiser sponsored by Hays Noble Men of Messiah; pre-order now

ABILENE - The next monthly Lunch &amp; Learn program will be Thursday, February 25 at noon central time.

President Eisenhower’s efforts to create a more peaceful world through diplomatic and personal relationships is the focal point of this presentation. Throughout his two-term administration, Eisenhower worked tirelessly to keep America safe and because of this became known as the Champion of Peace. 

The virtual program will begin right at noon, so please sign in 10 minutes early.

Leading the discussion are two of the Eisenhower Presidential Library curatorial team members, Jeff Nelson and Troy Elkins. Nelson has worked for the Eisenhower Presidential Library for six years. He has a Master’s degree in history from Kansas State University and specializes in military and diplomatic history. Elkins has worked for the curatorial team for 11 years, is a U.S. Marine veteran, and a PhD candidate in history at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

&nbsp;JOIN US ONLINE Google Meet URL:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001XEIJpiMd_g8_ToG_CJWYQfmRu-qjj84lxBNSjQSxsN7bwL7XNPCfnluG-chtPG3KCcRhZkLHevpH0FCImWbIH7CwhezIs2luvCAS9o2TKIawGgpB-6ebEuyajrVb2g3l5KfIieIdJu1HgxbRTp-tANEU06pmfKac&amp;c=Dd0xO2x2Y-TkNg1X0-JF3KbivF_YnkWh7cRw5OGKfqVkQ21pX3qLOA==&amp;ch=saWORImfmYuhcYGEUHhpn8IjJZylYJZfHPHcmqIuNnpEczeZQ-gvoQ==" target="_blank">meet.google.com/szz-qbkf-enq</a> Telephone: 617-675-4444‬ (PIN: ‪699 710 731 8312‬#) Please join 10 minutes early so the program may begin on time.

The 2021 Lunch &amp; Learn series is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation with generous support from the Jeffcoat Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613764657426.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613764729447.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE - The next monthly Lunch &amp; Learn program will be Thursday, February 25 at noon central time.President Eisenhower’s efforts to create a more peaceful world through diplomatic and personal relationships is the focal point of this presentation. Throughout his two-term administration, Eisenhower worked tirelessly to keep America safe and because of this became known as the Champion of Peace. The virtual program will begin right at noon, so please sign in 10 minutes early.Leading the discussion are two of the Eisenhower Presidential Library curatorial team members, Jeff Nelson and Troy Elkins. Nelson has worked for the Eisenhower Presidential Library for six years. He has a Master’s degree in history from Kansas State University and specializes in military and diplomatic history. Elkins has worked for the curatorial team for 11 years, is a U.S. Marine veteran, and a PhD candidate in history at Kansas State University.&nbsp;&nbsp;JOIN US ONLINE Google Meet URL:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001XEIJpiMd_g8_ToG_CJWYQfmRu-qjj84lxBNSjQSxsN7bwL7XNPCfnluG-chtPG3KCcRhZkLHevpH0FCImWbIH7CwhezIs2luvCAS9o2TKIawGgpB-6ebEuyajrVb2g3l5KfIieIdJu1HgxbRTp-tANEU06pmfKac&amp;c=Dd0xO2x2Y-TkNg1X0-JF3KbivF_YnkWh7cRw5OGKfqVkQ21pX3qLOA==&amp;ch=saWORImfmYuhcYGEUHhpn8IjJZylYJZfHPHcmqIuNnpEczeZQ-gvoQ==" target="_blank">meet.google.com/szz-qbkf-enq</a> Telephone: 617-675-4444‬ (PIN: ‪699 710 731 8312‬#) Please join 10 minutes early so the program may begin on time.The 2021 Lunch &amp; Learn series is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation with generous support from the Jeffcoat Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eisenhower February Lunch & Learn: Champion of Peace

GREAT BEND -&nbsp; The Shafer Gallery at Barton Community College will premiere an exhibit featuring Michael Knutson and Brian McCollum from Feb. 26 through April 1 with a virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 via facebook.com/shafergallery.

Knutson is an accomplished visual artist who works primarily as a painter and is an art instructor at Garden City Community College. He has an active national exhibition record of solo and group shows and has completed many public art commissions for intuitions such as the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. 

The base for Michael’s work is a deep connection to the immediate environment, life experiences and the way the mind interprets this information, according to – michaelknutson.com.

 “Emotions can strongly be prompted by a place,” he said. “My strongest influences are my immediate environment, life experiences, and the way my mind interprets this information. I work both in the studio and in the landscape researching a wide range of physical and emotional experiences. 

"I am interested in cinematic scenes, with a strong sense of impending drama. The surface becomes visually captivating and eerily mysterious at the same time. My artistic language applied to slightly isolated yet familiar landscapes allows the viewer to transcend a common place to make the insignificant significant. 

"Every paint stroke harbors intent, yet I try to create with abandonment. Through the process of addition and subtraction the viewer is hopefully left with fragments of memories suspended in time. The figures in the work are losing control of what is real and what is imagined, while still being present in their own reality.” 

Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he is excited to feature Knutson’s work as it brings a unique brand of art to the gallery. “Michael Knutson is no stranger to the Shafer Gallery,” he said.

"He first exhibited here as a stellar graduate student working with Fort Hays State University professor Joel Dugan. Since then, he has become a stellar art instructor in his own right at Garden City Community College. Michael’s work can be described as barely controlled energy in paint. Dynamic, in-your-face canvases, filled with dazzling light, courage, and subjects that cannot be forgotten. They have a common and wry sense of humor, very personal, eccentric even, but always accessible. When I think of Michael’s work a word comes to mind that is sometimes missing when talking about art; that word is fun," Barnes said.

The exhibit will also feature a small exhibit of sculptures by Knutson’s fellow Garden City Community College Art Department comrade, sculpting instructor Brian McCollum.

For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at barnesd@bartonccc.edu or (620) 792-9342. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Masks are required. Admission is always free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613763485523.jpeg" alt=""Don't Cry Over Spilt Milk" by Michael Knutson" />
 <figcaption>"Don't Cry Over Spilt Milk" by Michael Knutson</figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND -&nbsp; The Shafer Gallery at Barton Community College will premiere an exhibit featuring Michael Knutson and Brian McCollum from Feb. 26 through April 1 with a virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 via facebook.com/shafergallery.Knutson is an accomplished visual artist who works primarily as a painter and is an art instructor at Garden City Community College. He has an active national exhibition record of solo and group shows and has completed many public art commissions for intuitions such as the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. The base for Michael’s work is a deep connection to the immediate environment, life experiences and the way the mind interprets this information, according to – michaelknutson.com. “Emotions can strongly be prompted by a place,” he said. “My strongest influences are my immediate environment, life experiences, and the way my mind interprets this information. I work both in the studio and in the landscape researching a wide range of physical and emotional experiences. "I am interested in cinematic scenes, with a strong sense of impending drama. The surface becomes visually captivating and eerily mysterious at the same time. My artistic language applied to slightly isolated yet familiar landscapes allows the viewer to transcend a common place to make the insignificant significant. "Every paint stroke harbors intent, yet I try to create with abandonment. Through the process of addition and subtraction the viewer is hopefully left with fragments of memories suspended in time. The figures in the work are losing control of what is real and what is imagined, while still being present in their own reality.” Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he is excited to feature Knutson’s work as it brings a unique brand of art to the gallery. “Michael Knutson is no stranger to the Shafer Gallery,” he said."He first exhibited here as a stellar graduate student working with Fort Hays State University professor Joel Dugan. Since then, he has become a stellar art instructor in his own right at Garden City Community College. Michael’s work can be described as barely controlled energy in paint. Dynamic, in-your-face canvases, filled with dazzling light, courage, and subjects that cannot be forgotten. They have a common and wry sense of humor, very personal, eccentric even, but always accessible. When I think of Michael’s work a word comes to mind that is sometimes missing when talking about art; that word is fun," Barnes said.The exhibit will also feature a small exhibit of sculptures by Knutson’s fellow Garden City Community College Art Department comrade, sculpting instructor Brian McCollum.For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at barnesd@bartonccc.edu or (620) 792-9342. The Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Masks are required. Admission is always free.

Shafer Art Gallery presents Michael Knutson exhibit; virtual reception Feb. 26

GREAT BEND - Barton Community College has named 261 students to the President’s List for the fall 2020 semester. To qualify for this honor students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 4.0 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.

Northwest Kansas students named to the President's List include:&nbsp;

Bazine&nbsp; Lucas Hertel &nbsp;

Hays Anna Brull &nbsp; Kirsten Sulzman &nbsp;

Sharon Springs Alex Basgall &nbsp;

Barton Community College has named 283 students to the Dean’s List for the fall 2020 semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.99 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.

Northwest Kansas students named to the Dean's List include:

Albert Sheridan Ewy Sierra Thorne

Gorham Tiffany Dortland Vashti Waldschmidt

Russell Ronnie Gideon Mallory Hudson&nbsp;&nbsp;

Smith Center Rece Buckmaster&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wilson Kassie Sheridan&nbsp;&nbsp;

Woodston Hannah Reichard&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613590329847.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - Barton Community College has named 261 students to the President’s List for the fall 2020 semester. To qualify for this honor students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 4.0 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.Northwest Kansas students named to the President's List include:&nbsp;Bazine&nbsp; Lucas Hertel &nbsp;Colby Ryanne Meyer &nbsp;Goodland Frank Hayes &nbsp;Hays Anna Brull &nbsp; Kirsten Sulzman &nbsp;Olmitz Ray Kuhlman &nbsp;Phillipsburg Gabe Sauer &nbsp;Russell Caleb Nuss &nbsp;Sharon Springs Alex Basgall &nbsp;Schoenchen Mark Bowen &nbsp;Barton Community College has named 283 students to the Dean’s List for the fall 2020 semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.99 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.Northwest Kansas students named to the Dean's List include:Albert Sheridan Ewy Sierra ThorneAlexander Michael ShowalterGoodland Talon CorkeGorham Tiffany Dortland Vashti WaldschmidtRussell Ronnie Gideon Mallory Hudson&nbsp;&nbsp;Smith Center Rece Buckmaster&nbsp;&nbsp;Wilson Kassie Sheridan&nbsp;&nbsp;Woodston Hannah Reichard&nbsp;&nbsp;

Area students named to BCC President's and Dean's Lists for fall 2020

RUSSELL - The Southwest Power Pool is no longer under an energy emergency alert (EEA). However, due to continuing high demand across the SPP region and continued cold weather, energy demand and production will fluctuate over the next 48-hours, meaning conditions can change rapidly.

Our customers' conservation efforts and the city's ability to generate electricity helped lower demands on the electric grid, keeping the city from experiencing the controlled outages other communities faced. While the electric grid stabilizes, energy prices remain elevated.

A few items customers can consider to reduce electric and natural gas consumption: • Avoid the use of electric space heaters • Close blinds and shades to reduce the amount of heat loss through windows. • Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances. • When possible, delay non-essential energy use (washing/drying clothes) to hours lower in energy use (between 10 pm and 5 am). "Thank You" to our customers for conserving energy these past few days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611586896424.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL - The Southwest Power Pool is no longer under an energy emergency alert (EEA). However, due to continuing high demand across the SPP region and continued cold weather, energy demand and production will fluctuate over the next 48-hours, meaning conditions can change rapidly.Our customers' conservation efforts and the city's ability to generate electricity helped lower demands on the electric grid, keeping the city from experiencing the controlled outages other communities faced. While the electric grid stabilizes, energy prices remain elevated. A few items customers can consider to reduce electric and natural gas consumption: • Avoid the use of electric space heaters • Close blinds and shades to reduce the amount of heat loss through windows. • Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances. • When possible, delay non-essential energy use (washing/drying clothes) to hours lower in energy use (between 10 pm and 5 am). "Thank You" to our customers for conserving energy these past few days.

RUSSELL: Southwest Power Pool no longer under energy emergency alert; thanks customers

In celebration of Women's History Month, Women for Kansas is hosting a Zoom performance by Pauline Sharp (citizen of the Kaw Nation) titled "Kanza Chief Lucy."

In the Chautauqua-style, Pauline portrays her grandmother, Lucy Tayiah Eads, the first woman chief of the Kanza who lived in Lawrence, Kansas in the 1950s. The performance surveys Kanza history through the lens of Eads experiences.

 Please join us for this event on&nbsp;Saturday March 20, 10:30 a.m. (on Zoom).

All are welcome.&nbsp;Attendance is capped at 100, so please register&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001dsFEMOYqy1DjHJJNQvhAA37gPZ05eOMB53br47bE0hpS3qkbv1_MHi1vRjkbMX1CTqHmgantcJIx66EAl6mXw7w8LSqnduCbxgxkbPmse-I5a4hbTUW4OOln-cWB7mCq0_3GGfCTJTdFmnZi4FRdqJWy5Ylpga7GUWBhPzfRO8dU0IH0s0VqxkGiMHCq2MHX-CxzVNcEawsgt1MmCOiyX3np9Md7dH_X&amp;c=IxAI7t3Cb4sPfblmQes_jCLqT_vFj6nZ7vFylbrdYOHUsBnCJ5ZDrQ==&amp;ch=m3-Vu7hgqEBtsOahEJep_VTcJ32ejoJibWKDNl42e5QyJvOb1Uv2FA==" target="_blank">here</a>.

QUESTIONS? Contact﻿Tai Edwards at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:taisedwards@gmail.com" target="_blank">taisedwards@gmail.com</a>.

Learn more about Pauline Sharp and Kanza Chief Lucy by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001dsFEMOYqy1DjHJJNQvhAA37gPZ05eOMB53br47bE0hpS3qkbv1_MHoRPIEhuItLP7UjPwTVptQMnZtlRyFhVrYXImiuXR4_SnUPR0DOWMzq5zZhaPDZ27Lzal5dfgMDJUiLDoowc2Sic9Gx5-dFG38bRGE6dsmXi&amp;c=IxAI7t3Cb4sPfblmQes_jCLqT_vFj6nZ7vFylbrdYOHUsBnCJ5ZDrQ==&amp;ch=m3-Vu7hgqEBtsOahEJep_VTcJ32ejoJibWKDNl42e5QyJvOb1Uv2FA==" target="_blank">kanzachieflucy.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613661632468.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In celebration of Women's History Month, Women for Kansas is hosting a Zoom performance by Pauline Sharp (citizen of the Kaw Nation) titled "Kanza Chief Lucy."In the Chautauqua-style, Pauline portrays her grandmother, Lucy Tayiah Eads, the first woman chief of the Kanza who lived in Lawrence, Kansas in the 1950s. The performance surveys Kanza history through the lens of Eads experiences. Please join us for this event on&nbsp;Saturday March 20, 10:30 a.m. (on Zoom).All are welcome.&nbsp;Attendance is capped at 100, so please register&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001dsFEMOYqy1DjHJJNQvhAA37gPZ05eOMB53br47bE0hpS3qkbv1_MHi1vRjkbMX1CTqHmgantcJIx66EAl6mXw7w8LSqnduCbxgxkbPmse-I5a4hbTUW4OOln-cWB7mCq0_3GGfCTJTdFmnZi4FRdqJWy5Ylpga7GUWBhPzfRO8dU0IH0s0VqxkGiMHCq2MHX-CxzVNcEawsgt1MmCOiyX3np9Md7dH_X&amp;c=IxAI7t3Cb4sPfblmQes_jCLqT_vFj6nZ7vFylbrdYOHUsBnCJ5ZDrQ==&amp;ch=m3-Vu7hgqEBtsOahEJep_VTcJ32ejoJibWKDNl42e5QyJvOb1Uv2FA==" target="_blank">here</a>.QUESTIONS? Contact﻿Tai Edwards at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:taisedwards@gmail.com" target="_blank">taisedwards@gmail.com</a>. Learn more about Pauline Sharp and Kanza Chief Lucy by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001dsFEMOYqy1DjHJJNQvhAA37gPZ05eOMB53br47bE0hpS3qkbv1_MHoRPIEhuItLP7UjPwTVptQMnZtlRyFhVrYXImiuXR4_SnUPR0DOWMzq5zZhaPDZ27Lzal5dfgMDJUiLDoowc2Sic9Gx5-dFG38bRGE6dsmXi&amp;c=IxAI7t3Cb4sPfblmQes_jCLqT_vFj6nZ7vFylbrdYOHUsBnCJ5ZDrQ==&amp;ch=m3-Vu7hgqEBtsOahEJep_VTcJ32ejoJibWKDNl42e5QyJvOb1Uv2FA==" target="_blank">kanzachieflucy.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Online performance of first woman Kanza chief who lived in Lawrence by granddaughter 

ST. PAUL, Minn.&nbsp; - Hadley Hauser, a junior at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota, has been named to the Dean's List for academic excellence for the fall 2020 semester. 

She is the daughter of Jennifer and Keith Hauser from Norton, Kansas.

The Dean's List honors students who achieve an outstanding scholastic record during a semester with a grade point average of 3.6 or greater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613596164743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseST. PAUL, Minn.&nbsp; - Hadley Hauser, a junior at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota, has been named to the Dean's List for academic excellence for the fall 2020 semester. She is the daughter of Jennifer and Keith Hauser from Norton, Kansas.The Dean's List honors students who achieve an outstanding scholastic record during a semester with a grade point average of 3.6 or greater.Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education with nearly 4,500 students from 47 states and 22 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult undergraduate programs. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers bachelor's and advanced degrees in more than 100 fields through classroom-based and online programs.For further information on Bethel University, go to <a href="https://www.bethel.edu/">www.bethel.edu</a>.

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