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="" />
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 </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>.

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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614718769524.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </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.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604417909842.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
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 </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>
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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>
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 </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.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </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.

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>

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