The Hays After 5 Christian women’s group has announced it is canceling all monthly meetings through the end of calendar year 2020.

The Hays After 5 Christian women’s group has announced it is canceling all monthly meetings through the end of calendar year 2020.— Submitted

Christian women’s group cancels meetings through 2020

Healing Hearts will meet in-person from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13&nbsp;at the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh, Suite, 257.

Please RSVP by noon Wednesday, Aug. 12 to e-mail&nbsp;cfle1@ eaglecom.net&nbsp;or text 785-625-6078.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bring your own drinks or snacks.

The August meetings will be in person unless changes with COVID-19 happen and then we will go back to a Zoom meeting. We will keep you informed by email, Facebook and our website.

We are requesting that everyone wear a mask and agree to social distancing as much as possible for everyone’s well-being.&nbsp;

Please RSVP by noon the day before the meeting before the meeting so we can have the room arranged prior to the meeting for social distancing. Please bring your own mask. Will have some available.

Center for Life ExperienceHealing Hearts will meet in-person from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13&nbsp;at the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh, Suite, 257.Please RSVP by noon Wednesday, Aug. 12 to e-mail&nbsp;cfle1@ eaglecom.net&nbsp;or text 785-625-6078.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Bring your own drinks or snacks. The August meetings will be in person unless changes with COVID-19 happen and then we will go back to a Zoom meeting. We will keep you informed by email, Facebook and our website.We are requesting that everyone wear a mask and agree to social distancing as much as possible for everyone’s well-being.&nbsp;Please RSVP by noon the day before the meeting before the meeting so we can have the room arranged prior to the meeting for social distancing. Please bring your own mask. Will have some available.

Healing Hearts to meet in person in August

Work on a pair of resurfacing projects is expected to begin the week of Aug. 10 in Atwood.

Project activity will include a mill and overlay on U.S. 36 from 5th&nbsp;Street to 8th&nbsp;Street and on K-25 from near the south city limits to Main Street. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zones and directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should expect minor delays.

The Kansas Department of Transportation is overseeing the work, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of the month.

McCormick Excavation and Paving of Stratton, Colo., is the primary contractor for both projects with contract costs totaling approximately $93,000 on U.S. 36 and $208,000 on K-25.&nbsp;

KDOTWork on a pair of resurfacing projects is expected to begin the week of Aug. 10 in Atwood.Project activity will include a mill and overlay on U.S. 36 from 5th&nbsp;Street to 8th&nbsp;Street and on K-25 from near the south city limits to Main Street. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zones and directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should expect minor delays.The Kansas Department of Transportation is overseeing the work, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of the month.McCormick Excavation and Paving of Stratton, Colo., is the primary contractor for both projects with contract costs totaling approximately $93,000 on U.S. 36 and $208,000 on K-25.&nbsp;

Construction projects to begin in Atwood

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, the 500 block of West 16th will be closed at the Hall Street intersection for pavement repairs. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day on Friday. 

For more information, call (785) 628-7350.

City of HaysBeginning at 7 a.m. Monday, the 500 block of West 16th will be closed at the Hall Street intersection for pavement repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day on Friday. For more information, call (785) 628-7350.

16th Street closed at Hall this week for repairs

Sign up for the Hays Rec Kids Fest Business Fair

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Building stronger, healthier communities is a commitment Tyson Foods and Smoky Hills PBS takes very seriously.&nbsp; That’s why we’re so proud to announce a $1,700 grant from Tyson Foods to support our literacy initiative program for children in Finney and Kearny counties.

The literacy leadership initiative is an effort from Smoky Hills PBS to engage and inspire children to be ready and eager to learn.&nbsp; One component of literacy leadership is the First Book Club, in which we give free books to children enrolled in Head Start.&nbsp; With these funds, more than 100 children in Finney and Kearny counties, who are enrolled in Head Start, will receive books during the 2020-2021 school year. For some, these books will be the only ones that they own.&nbsp;

“We are so thankful for the grant we received from Tyson Foods,” said Haley Gagnon, Special Event Coordinator for Smoky Hills PBS. “Studies show the more books a child owns, the more likely they are to do well at school, and we want to thank Tyson Foods for helping us make this possible for the children in Finney and Kearny counties.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596721944838.png" alt="tyson" />
 <figcaption>tyson</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedBUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Building stronger, healthier communities is a commitment Tyson Foods and Smoky Hills PBS takes very seriously.&nbsp; That’s why we’re so proud to announce a $1,700 grant from Tyson Foods to support our literacy initiative program for children in Finney and Kearny counties.The literacy leadership initiative is an effort from Smoky Hills PBS to engage and inspire children to be ready and eager to learn.&nbsp; One component of literacy leadership is the First Book Club, in which we give free books to children enrolled in Head Start.&nbsp; With these funds, more than 100 children in Finney and Kearny counties, who are enrolled in Head Start, will receive books during the 2020-2021 school year. For some, these books will be the only ones that they own.&nbsp;“We are so thankful for the grant we received from Tyson Foods,” said Haley Gagnon, Special Event Coordinator for Smoky Hills PBS. “Studies show the more books a child owns, the more likely they are to do well at school, and we want to thank Tyson Foods for helping us make this possible for the children in Finney and Kearny counties.”— Submitted

Smoky Hills PBS is awarded grant from Tyson Foods

Parents as Teachers now available in Russell through USD 489

Alternative livestock tire water tank demo scheduled for August 11

A field survey is underway on a portion of U.S. 83 in northwest Kansas, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Crews from Olsson of Lincoln, Neb., are surveying KDOT right-of-way in Logan, Thomas, Sheridan and Decatur counties starting at the U.S. 40 junction in Oakley and ending near the U.S. 36 junction in Oberlin. Activities include the use of a drone to collect aerial footage for a project to place conduit for transportation infrastructure along the route. Drones will not survey private property.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of August.

For more information, contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTA field survey is underway on a portion of U.S. 83 in northwest Kansas, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.Crews from Olsson of Lincoln, Neb., are surveying KDOT right-of-way in Logan, Thomas, Sheridan and Decatur counties starting at the U.S. 40 junction in Oakley and ending near the U.S. 36 junction in Oberlin. Activities include the use of a drone to collect aerial footage for a project to place conduit for transportation infrastructure along the route. Drones will not survey private property.Work is expected to be completed by the end of August.For more information, contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>.

KDOT drone surveys underway on U.S. 83 in NW Kan.

TOPEKA - Program highlights for the Aug. 13 Kansas Livestock Association/Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day near Smith Center will include discussions on leveraging genetics to achieve cowherd objectives, managing and planning for tough economic times, optimizing gain with post-weaning nutrition and combating farm stress. The event will be hosted by W &amp; S Ranch Inc., owned and operated by the Weltmer family, which encompasses a farming business, cow-calf operation and feedyard.

Select Sires Beef Sire Analyst Jon Herrick will kick off the educational portion of the field day. The discussion will be centered on how genetics can be leveraged to increase the profitability of an operation. The presentation will cover how to tailor trait selection and capitalize on the genetic and reproductive tools available, as well as the feasibility, from a timing and financial standpoint, of achieving the genetic goals of the operation.

With the current state of the livestock industry, being able to manage through economic uncertainty is more important than ever. Mark Wood, Kansas Farm Management Association extension specialist, will share how ranchers can better prepare and plan for challenging times, rather than just reacting to them.

K-State Extension beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner will discuss nutrition management steps that need to be considered during the post weaning stage. He also will highlight some of the successes W &amp; S Ranch has had in leveraging nutrition to achieve their cattle weight-gain goals.

Kelsey Olson, deputy secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, will provide an update on the resources her team has compiled to assist Kansas farmers and ranchers in managing stress, financial and legal challenges and other issues.

The field day will begin with registration at 3:00 p.m. and include a free beef dinner at 6:45 p.m. All livestock producers and others involved in the business are invited to attend.&nbsp;<a>The event will be set up to ensure proper spacing to accommodate social distancing protocol. Masks will be available and hand sanitizer will be provided to each attendee.</a>

W &amp; S Ranch is located southeast of Smith Center. Head east on U.S. Highway 36 for 1 mile, then turn south on R Road and travel 2 miles. Or, go 1 mile south on U.S. Highway 281 from Smith Center, then east on 180 Road for 2 miles. The field day site is located on the southeast corner of R and 180 Roads. Directional signs will be posted.&nbsp;

The second and final event in the 2020 field day series will be held August 18 at G-Three Cattle Company near Uniontown. Both events are sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Bayer Animal Health. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">www.kla.org</a>. The educational sessions from each field day will be recorded and posted on the KLA website following the events.&nbsp;

KLA is a trade organization representing the business interests of independent beef producers at the state and national levels. Members of the association are involved in all segments of the livestock industry, including cow-calf production, backgrounding, cattle feeding, swine, dairy and sheep.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596485688217.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KLA TOPEKA - Program highlights for the Aug. 13 Kansas Livestock Association/Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day near Smith Center will include discussions on leveraging genetics to achieve cowherd objectives, managing and planning for tough economic times, optimizing gain with post-weaning nutrition and combating farm stress. The event will be hosted by W &amp; S Ranch Inc., owned and operated by the Weltmer family, which encompasses a farming business, cow-calf operation and feedyard.Select Sires Beef Sire Analyst Jon Herrick will kick off the educational portion of the field day. The discussion will be centered on how genetics can be leveraged to increase the profitability of an operation. The presentation will cover how to tailor trait selection and capitalize on the genetic and reproductive tools available, as well as the feasibility, from a timing and financial standpoint, of achieving the genetic goals of the operation.With the current state of the livestock industry, being able to manage through economic uncertainty is more important than ever. Mark Wood, Kansas Farm Management Association extension specialist, will share how ranchers can better prepare and plan for challenging times, rather than just reacting to them.K-State Extension beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner will discuss nutrition management steps that need to be considered during the post weaning stage. He also will highlight some of the successes W &amp; S Ranch has had in leveraging nutrition to achieve their cattle weight-gain goals.Kelsey Olson, deputy secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, will provide an update on the resources her team has compiled to assist Kansas farmers and ranchers in managing stress, financial and legal challenges and other issues.The field day will begin with registration at 3:00 p.m. and include a free beef dinner at 6:45 p.m. All livestock producers and others involved in the business are invited to attend.&nbsp;<a>The event will be set up to ensure proper spacing to accommodate social distancing protocol. Masks will be available and hand sanitizer will be provided to each attendee.</a>W &amp; S Ranch is located southeast of Smith Center. Head east on U.S. Highway 36 for 1 mile, then turn south on R Road and travel 2 miles. Or, go 1 mile south on U.S. Highway 281 from Smith Center, then east on 180 Road for 2 miles. The field day site is located on the southeast corner of R and 180 Roads. Directional signs will be posted.&nbsp;The second and final event in the 2020 field day series will be held August 18 at G-Three Cattle Company near Uniontown. Both events are sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Bayer Animal Health. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">www.kla.org</a>. The educational sessions from each field day will be recorded and posted on the KLA website following the events.&nbsp;KLA is a trade organization representing the business interests of independent beef producers at the state and national levels. Members of the association are involved in all segments of the livestock industry, including cow-calf production, backgrounding, cattle feeding, swine, dairy and sheep.

Smith Center ranch to host Kansas Livestock Association Field Day

13th Annual Waldo McBurney Run/Walk (COVID Edition)

9:30 AM 200 meter Children's Race

Come support Castle Rock Health and Fitness and your local Wellness Centers for the 2020 Waldo McBurney Race! In these challenging times, we are all in need of some community, fellowship, and healthy fun....the 13th Annual "Waldo" will provide just that!

No timing, no number, no prizes, no fuss...just some quality time with friends, neighbors and family!

We will be staggering the start, have only bottled water at the finish, as well as ample hand sanitizer, and we will be encouraging social distancing as much as possible!

Race T-shirt included with registration fee! 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596727451296.jpeg" alt="Waldo McBurney Run/Walk, Quinter" />
 <figcaption>Waldo McBurney Run/Walk, Quinter</figcaption>
 </figure>13th Annual Waldo McBurney Run/Walk (COVID Edition)Quinter City Park<h2>Saturday, August 8, 2020</h2>8:00 AM 5k run/walk9:00 AM 1 mile run/walk9:30 AM 200 meter Children's Race Come support Castle Rock Health and Fitness and your local Wellness Centers for the 2020 Waldo McBurney Race! In these challenging times, we are all in need of some community, fellowship, and healthy fun....the 13th Annual "Waldo" will provide just that!No timing, no number, no prizes, no fuss...just some quality time with friends, neighbors and family!We will be staggering the start, have only bottled water at the finish, as well as ample hand sanitizer, and we will be encouraging social distancing as much as possible!Race T-shirt included with registration fee!

Waldo McBurney Run/Walk (COVID Edition) in Quinter Saturday

The Backpacks For Kids distribution will be through 6 p.m. today at the Presbyterian Church in Hays for registered students only.

Backpacks full of school supplies as well as hygiene bags and masks will be available for non-registered families from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at the same location.

The Backpacks For Kids distribution will be through 6 p.m. today at the Presbyterian Church in Hays for registered students only.Backpacks full of school supplies as well as hygiene bags and masks will be available for non-registered families from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at the same location.

Backpack for Kids distribution today; non-registered families can pick up Friday

Affordable and reliable health insurance and coverage is one of the largest expenses for large and small employers alike.&nbsp; That is why The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is working with Heartland Benefits to provide affordable health and wellness benefits to its members beginning in January 2021.&nbsp; Those desiring to participate in the plan must be a chamber member in good standing (current on dues) and have a business membership status with The Chamber 30 days (12/1/2020) prior to the effective plan date. This health plan benefit will be available for all businesses, even sole proprietors, including farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;

The goal of this program is to come together as a community to provide an economical health insurance option to area businesses that focuses on keeping costs down year after year, by implementing cost containment strategies to mitigate as many costs as possible. Maximum participation will yield the greatest cost savings for members, and there is no obligation to join the plan if it is not the right fit for businesses.&nbsp;

The Chamber’s Health Insurance Plan is governed by a 13-member board that will make decisions for this health insurance plan. This board is comprised of local healthcare professionals/administrators, insurance experts, and small and large employer representation. This team is ultimately responsible for maintaining a fiduciary responsibility for all who participate in the plan and keeping the best interest of the community’s health as the guiding principle for making decisions.&nbsp; Health/Rx/Dental/Vision aspects of the program are being finalized. &nbsp;

More information will be disclosed during another upcoming town hall presentation. The presentation will be hosted at The Venue at Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill located at 2704 Vine St., Ste. B on August 20th at noon.&nbsp; Attendees can RSVP for $12 online at <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/events">www.hayschamber.com/events</a>.&nbsp; A meal will be provided to those who register, and the session should last approximately one hour.&nbsp; Those not wishing to eat may RSVP to attend this event for free by calling The Chamber office at 785-628-8201.&nbsp; Only 25 spots are available for this in-person presentation.&nbsp; Those unable to attend in person will also be able to watch via Facebook Live on The Chamber’s Facebook page.&nbsp; Health plan advisor, Joshua Sapp, President/CEO of Heartland Benefits Group, LLC (HBG), will be sharing information about the plan and answering questions. HBG is currently working with multiple chambers of commerce across Kansas on similar health insurance offerings for their members.

About The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan:

Questions about The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan can be addressed to: Joshua Sapp, President/CEO, Heartland Benefits Group, LLC, jsapp@heartlandbg.net, 316-670-2856

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588269644630.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseAffordable and reliable health insurance and coverage is one of the largest expenses for large and small employers alike.&nbsp; That is why The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is working with Heartland Benefits to provide affordable health and wellness benefits to its members beginning in January 2021.&nbsp; Those desiring to participate in the plan must be a chamber member in good standing (current on dues) and have a business membership status with The Chamber 30 days (12/1/2020) prior to the effective plan date. This health plan benefit will be available for all businesses, even sole proprietors, including farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;The goal of this program is to come together as a community to provide an economical health insurance option to area businesses that focuses on keeping costs down year after year, by implementing cost containment strategies to mitigate as many costs as possible. Maximum participation will yield the greatest cost savings for members, and there is no obligation to join the plan if it is not the right fit for businesses.&nbsp;The Chamber’s Health Insurance Plan is governed by a 13-member board that will make decisions for this health insurance plan. This board is comprised of local healthcare professionals/administrators, insurance experts, and small and large employer representation. This team is ultimately responsible for maintaining a fiduciary responsibility for all who participate in the plan and keeping the best interest of the community’s health as the guiding principle for making decisions.&nbsp; Health/Rx/Dental/Vision aspects of the program are being finalized. &nbsp;More information will be disclosed during another upcoming town hall presentation. The presentation will be hosted at The Venue at Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill located at 2704 Vine St., Ste. B on August 20th at noon.&nbsp; Attendees can RSVP for $12 online at <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/events">www.hayschamber.com/events</a>.&nbsp; A meal will be provided to those who register, and the session should last approximately one hour.&nbsp; Those not wishing to eat may RSVP to attend this event for free by calling The Chamber office at 785-628-8201.&nbsp; Only 25 spots are available for this in-person presentation.&nbsp; Those unable to attend in person will also be able to watch via Facebook Live on The Chamber’s Facebook page.&nbsp; Health plan advisor, Joshua Sapp, President/CEO of Heartland Benefits Group, LLC (HBG), will be sharing information about the plan and answering questions. HBG is currently working with multiple chambers of commerce across Kansas on similar health insurance offerings for their members.About The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan:<ol>
 <li>Chamber Association Health Plan (AHP) - work by allowing small businesses, including self-employed entities as well as sole proprietors, to band together by geography, industry, or chamber to obtain health insurance coverage as if they were a single large employer.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>There will be an employee population participation percentage of 65% of qualifying employees (excludes employees who have signed waivers).&nbsp; All employees are encouraged to complete a health questionnaire, even any of those employees who may likely waive coverage.&nbsp; If coverage is waived, then those employees will not be able to enroll at a later date, unless they meet a qualified life event, or until open enrollment of the next plan year.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Provider Networks - For in Kansas care, all claims will be processed through the ProviDrs Care Network. (providrscare.net - access code to search in-network providers is PCN). Nationwide coverage will utilize the First Health Network. (firsthealth.com – no access code needed).&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Individual Invoicing - each participating employer will receive their own invoice for the premiums of their&nbsp;participating employees. Premiums will be paid to the plan administrator to pay claims and administer funds accordingly.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>ACA Compliance - because this is 100% ACA compliant insurance, each employer will be required to pay at&nbsp;least 50% of the most economical single option for each participating employee.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Health Questionnaires – The link to the questionnaire will be provided in a Chamber communication on Tuesday, 9/1.&nbsp; MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL!!!&nbsp; Employees MUST complete a health questionnaire by September 22nd to be considered eligible for coverage. For underwriting purposes, health history for each individual participating is needed to determine the rates for this insurance plan.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Businesses are NOT contractually obligated to this plan until signing for the benefit at enrollment during the confirmation period.&nbsp; This is an incredible opportunity for businesses to investigate potentially substantial cost savings for employee benefits.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>The timeline for important dates for the exciting new offering is as follows:</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>9/1 - 9/22 - Health questionnaire period</li><li>9/23 - 10/14 - Underwriting period</li><li>10/15 - 10/29 - Enrollment period</li><li>10/30 - 11/11 - Enrollment review</li><li>11/12 - 11/19 - Confirm enrollment</li><li>11/23 - 12/7 - CPM prepare packages and send to participating members</li><li>1/1/2021 - PLAN START DATE</li>
 </ul><ol>
 <li>A list of plans and coverages can be found by visiting <a href="https://hayschamber.com/chamber-health-insurance-and-wellness-plans">https://hayschamber.com/chamber-health-insurance-and-wellness-plans</a>.&nbsp; Premium costs for this plan will be disclosed to participating businesses after the underwriting period takes place.&nbsp; Once final enrollments are confirmed, only participating member businesses will be provided with the final premium costs.</li>
 </ol>Questions about The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Health Insurance &amp; Wellness Plan can be addressed to: Joshua Sapp, President/CEO, Heartland Benefits Group, LLC, jsapp@heartlandbg.net, 316-670-2856

Hays chamber lays out details of health, wellness plan

The certified public accounting firm of Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, Chartered announced this week Alexis “Alex” Crispin has earned her license as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Kansas.&nbsp; Crispin joined Adams Brown’s audit department in 2019 as a staff accountant.

“Congratulations to Alex,” said Brian Staats, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of Adams Brown. “Earning your CPA license is an important career milestone for accounting professionals.&nbsp; As a CPA, we know she will continue serving the firm, our clients, and the profession well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A summa cum laude graduate of Fort Hays State University, Crispin earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Accounting in 2018. Originally from Shawnee, Kansas, she currently lives in Hays.

SubmittedThe certified public accounting firm of Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball, Chartered announced this week Alexis “Alex” Crispin has earned her license as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Kansas.&nbsp; Crispin joined Adams Brown’s audit department in 2019 as a staff accountant.“Congratulations to Alex,” said Brian Staats, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of Adams Brown. “Earning your CPA license is an important career milestone for accounting professionals.&nbsp; As a CPA, we know she will continue serving the firm, our clients, and the profession well.&nbsp;&nbsp;A summa cum laude graduate of Fort Hays State University, Crispin earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Accounting in 2018. Originally from Shawnee, Kansas, she currently lives in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596636592018.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Crispin earns CPA license

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division announced this week that an asphalt overlay
project on Ellis Avenue will take place beginning at the intersection of Spring Hill Road and Ellis
Avenue, commencing south on Ellis Avenue for 2 miles to the intersection of Ellis Avenue
and Munjor Road. The project will begin at the 900 block of Ellis Avenue and end in the 1000
block of Ellis Avenue. 

This 2-mile stretch of Ellis Avenue will be closed to through traffic
beginning at 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and will remain closed until the project is
completed. The estimated completion date is Monday. Pending the forecast
of rain, the start/completion date could be delayed. Motorists traveling in the affected closure
area should use alternate routes of travel until the project is completed.


Direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division at 785-628-
9455.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division announced this week that an asphalt overlay
project on Ellis Avenue will take place beginning at the intersection of Spring Hill Road and Ellis
Avenue, commencing south on Ellis Avenue for 2 miles to the intersection of Ellis Avenue
and Munjor Road. The project will begin at the 900 block of Ellis Avenue and end in the 1000
block of Ellis Avenue. This 2-mile stretch of Ellis Avenue will be closed to through traffic
beginning at 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and will remain closed until the project is
completed. The estimated completion date is Monday. Pending the forecast
of rain, the start/completion date could be delayed. Motorists traveling in the affected closure
area should use alternate routes of travel until the project is completed.
Direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division at 785-628-
9455.&nbsp;

Portion of Ellis Avenue will be closed for repairs

The ducks are still racing on Aug. 5, however this year you can only watch live on Hays Post and Facebook.&nbsp; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County has made the decision to not have the event open to the public to encourage safety due to COVID-19. &nbsp;

But, you can still be part of the fun. Watch the ducks race around the Lazy River and teams race in Auto World’s Man Overboard Challenge-Part 2.&nbsp; All Duck Derby winners will be announced live. You can still help by adopting ducks until 3 p.m. Wednesday at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysduckderby.net/">www.haysduckderby.net</a>. &nbsp;

The ducks are still racing on Aug. 5, however this year you can only watch live on Hays Post and Facebook.&nbsp; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County has made the decision to not have the event open to the public to encourage safety due to COVID-19. &nbsp;But, you can still be part of the fun. Watch the ducks race around the Lazy River and teams race in Auto World’s Man Overboard Challenge-Part 2.&nbsp; All Duck Derby winners will be announced live. You can still help by adopting ducks until 3 p.m. Wednesday at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysduckderby.net/">www.haysduckderby.net</a>. &nbsp;

BBBS plans live stream of annual Duck Derby fundraiser

Healing After Loss will meet in-person from 10 to 11:45 am. Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Please RSVP Monday to e-mail&nbsp;cfle1@ eaglecom.net&nbsp;or text 785-625-6078.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Please RSVP by noon the Monday before the meeting so we can have the room arranged prior to the meeting for social distancing. Please bring your own mask. Will have some available.&nbsp;

The second meeting in August will be from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18 at the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh, Suite, 257.

Center for Life ExperienceHealing After Loss will meet in-person from 10 to 11:45 am. Tuesday, Aug. 4.Please RSVP Monday to e-mail&nbsp;cfle1@ eaglecom.net&nbsp;or text 785-625-6078.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Bring your own drinks or snacks. The August meetings will be in person unless changes with COVID-19 happen and then we will go back to a Zoom meeting. We will keep you informed by email, Facebook and our website.We are requesting that everyone wear a mask and agree to social distancing as much as possible for everyone’s well-being.&nbsp;Please RSVP by noon the Monday before the meeting so we can have the room arranged prior to the meeting for social distancing. Please bring your own mask. Will have some available.&nbsp;The second meeting in August will be from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18 at the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh, Suite, 257.

Healing After Loss group to meet in person Tuesday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 summer lunch program has extended its services an additional three weeks.

Had the school district restarted under a normal schedule, the summer lunch program would have ended July 23.&nbsp;

Because the start of school was moved back to Wednesday, Aug. 26, because of concerns about COVID-19, the district decided to extend its summer lunch program to Thursday, Aug. 20. Meals resumed Monday.

"We didn't want some of those families who really rely on us to go an entire month without meals,"&nbsp;Jessica Younker, USD 489 director of nutrition services, said.

Younker said the summer lunch program continues to serve 500 to 600 students daily, about twice the number of students it served last summer.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/98aa5a01-e62d-406c-840e-1cdb729eed9e">RELATED STORY: Summer meal program doubles, extended through July</a>

Younker partially attributed the increase in use to the ease of the drive-through system that was implemented this summer because of COVID-19. She&nbsp;said she also thinks the increase in use is a result of an increase in food insecurity for children.

The program is free to any child 18 and younger. The child does not have to be enrolled in USD 489 schools. There are no income requirements Pick up is available 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays in the Hays High School east parking lot.&nbsp;

A child needs to be present in the vehicle to receive food. If this is not possible, contact food service for assistance.

The summer food program is supported with federal funds.

The Hays school district is preparing to restart school with options for onsite, remote and hybrid learning because of COVID-19.

Younker said varied learning options will make providing meals more difficult.

"Yes, it will be a challenge, but we are up for it, and we will do whatever we need to do to make sure the kids in our district get fed," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584378947824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 summer lunch program has extended its services an additional three weeks.Had the school district restarted under a normal schedule, the summer lunch program would have ended July 23.&nbsp;Because the start of school was moved back to Wednesday, Aug. 26, because of concerns about COVID-19, the district decided to extend its summer lunch program to Thursday, Aug. 20. Meals resumed Monday."We didn't want some of those families who really rely on us to go an entire month without meals,"&nbsp;Jessica Younker, USD 489 director of nutrition services, said. Younker said the summer lunch program continues to serve 500 to 600 students daily, about twice the number of students it served last summer.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/98aa5a01-e62d-406c-840e-1cdb729eed9e">RELATED STORY: Summer meal program doubles, extended through July</a>Younker partially attributed the increase in use to the ease of the drive-through system that was implemented this summer because of COVID-19. She&nbsp;said she also thinks the increase in use is a result of an increase in food insecurity for children.The program is free to any child 18 and younger. The child does not have to be enrolled in USD 489 schools. There are no income requirements Pick up is available 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays in the Hays High School east parking lot.&nbsp;A child needs to be present in the vehicle to receive food. If this is not possible, contact food service for assistance.The summer food program is supported with federal funds.The Hays school district is preparing to restart school with options for onsite, remote and hybrid learning because of COVID-19.Younker said varied learning options will make providing meals more difficult."Yes, it will be a challenge, but we are up for it, and we will do whatever we need to do to make sure the kids in our district get fed," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596486407926.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596486482935.jpeg" alt="Summer lunch August calendar" />
 <figcaption>Summer lunch August calendar</figcaption>
 </figure>

USD 489 extends summer food program three weeks

The new exhibition at Deines Cultural Center in Russell opens on Friday, Aug. 7 with "Conquering the Flight of Fancy," paintings by Michael Knutson and ceramics by Brian McCallum. Both artists are educators at Garden City Community College. The exhibition can be seen Tuesday through Friday 12-5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m.

McCallum is an artist and educator currently teaching all levels of 3-D art and art history at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. His sculptural work has earned numerous accolades in juried shows for more than a decade. His work and methods are featured in Lark Publications 500 Figures in Clay and Pottery Making Illustrated. McCallum has an extensive show record and was recently a featured artist at the invitational “Art of the New West” at Process Art House in Amarillo, Texas. McCallum also leads workshops at colleges and art centers throughout the U.S. His functional pottery has been quietly collected by Walmart shoppers for years.

Michael Knutson works as a 2-D art instructor at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. He grew up the son of two art educators and spent his childhood immersed in creativity drawing inspiration from his experiences in the natural environment of the Black Hills of South Dakota. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Black Hills State University in 2010. In 2013 Michael completed his MFA at Fort Hays State University. He is an accomplished visual artist and works primarily as a painter. Michael 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 Deines Cultural Center is located at&nbsp;820 N. Main Street in Russell, KS. Call 785-483-3742 for information.

The new exhibition at Deines Cultural Center in Russell opens on Friday, Aug. 7 with "Conquering the Flight of Fancy," paintings by Michael Knutson and ceramics by Brian McCallum. Both artists are educators at Garden City Community College. The exhibition can be seen Tuesday through Friday 12-5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596469609504.png" alt="Ceramic artwork by Brian McCallum" />
 <figcaption>Ceramic artwork by Brian McCallum</figcaption>
 </figure>McCallum is an artist and educator currently teaching all levels of 3-D art and art history at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. His sculptural work has earned numerous accolades in juried shows for more than a decade. His work and methods are featured in Lark Publications 500 Figures in Clay and Pottery Making Illustrated. McCallum has an extensive show record and was recently a featured artist at the invitational “Art of the New West” at Process Art House in Amarillo, Texas. McCallum also leads workshops at colleges and art centers throughout the U.S. His functional pottery has been quietly collected by Walmart shoppers for years. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596469427200.jpeg" alt="Painting by Michael Knutson, an FHSU MFA graduate" />
 <figcaption>Painting by Michael Knutson, an FHSU MFA graduate</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Knutson works as a 2-D art instructor at Garden City Community College in southwest Kansas. He grew up the son of two art educators and spent his childhood immersed in creativity drawing inspiration from his experiences in the natural environment of the Black Hills of South Dakota. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Black Hills State University in 2010. In 2013 Michael completed his MFA at Fort Hays State University. He is an accomplished visual artist and works primarily as a painter. Michael 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 Deines Cultural Center is located at&nbsp;820 N. Main Street in Russell, KS. Call 785-483-3742 for information.

New exhibit at Deines Cultural Center opens Friday 

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;The Seele Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS a grant for $3,000.&nbsp;

This grant will support Smoky Hills PBS with operations, programming, and educational outreach projects.

“The Seele Foundation has been a longtime supporter of Smoky Hills PBS and we want to thank them for their support in allowing us to provide educational resources and programming to our viewers for free,” said Kelli King, director of finance and administration.&nbsp; “We are constantly seeking new ways to use the power of media to help all children and adults learn.&nbsp; The Seele Foundation plays a big role in allowing us to do that!”&nbsp;

The Seele Foundation, established in 2007, is based in Colby.

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;The Seele Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS a grant for $3,000.&nbsp;This grant will support Smoky Hills PBS with operations, programming, and educational outreach projects.“The Seele Foundation has been a longtime supporter of Smoky Hills PBS and we want to thank them for their support in allowing us to provide educational resources and programming to our viewers for free,” said Kelli King, director of finance and administration.&nbsp; “We are constantly seeking new ways to use the power of media to help all children and adults learn.&nbsp; The Seele Foundation plays a big role in allowing us to do that!”&nbsp;The Seele Foundation, established in 2007, is based in Colby.— Submitted

Seele Foundation provides grant to Smoky Hills PBS

Studies show people spend almost 40% of their life at work. Why not spend that time enjoying your work while becoming an owner? 

Eagle Communications is growing and we are looking for motivated individuals. Openings range from account executives to radio announcers. To learn more, attend our job fair this Thursday, August 6th, from 10 a..m. to 2 p.m. at the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall Street, in Hays. 

Eagle is an employee-owned company and an E. E. O. employer. <a href="https://eagleradio.net/careers">https://eagleradio.net/careers</a>

Studies show people spend almost 40% of their life at work. Why not spend that time enjoying your work while becoming an owner? Eagle Communications is growing and we are looking for motivated individuals. Openings range from account executives to radio announcers. To learn more, attend our job fair this Thursday, August 6th, from 10 a..m. to 2 p.m. at the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall Street, in Hays. Eagle is an employee-owned company and an E. E. O. employer. <a href="https://eagleradio.net/careers">https://eagleradio.net/careers</a>

Eagle Radio job fair will be Thursday

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, the east leg of the intersection of Pine and 16th Street — the 300 block of East 16th — will be closed to through traffic for pavement repairs. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day Friday. 

For more information, call the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, the east leg of the intersection of Pine and 16th Street — the 300 block of East 16th — will be closed to through traffic for pavement repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day Friday. For more information, call the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

Pine, 16th intersection will be closed for repairs

A Downtown Hays Tradition continues this Saturday. It’s time for some good ol’ fashioned, brick-and-mortar shopping during the 2020 Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale! The sale runs from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (rain or shine) on Main Street and beyond.

Many events have had to adapt or cancel, and this event is no different. Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), believes that by adjusting just a little, our community can still enjoy a fun and safe Sidewalk Sale. This year, the only vendors shoppers will find along city streets are those who already call Downtown home. By limiting the number of outside merchants, DHDC hopes to encourage physical distancing and allow plenty of room for businesses and visitors to spread out.&nbsp;

“DHDC has put significant thought into the safety of business owners and customers alike while planning this event,” Allie Glidewell DHDC Director of Events and Operations said. “The streets will feel a little more empty than usual, but it’s done intentionally to keep our community safe and healthy.”

Also to ensure best safety practices, the Bazaar will not offer kid's crafts and activities this year. Shoppers will also find some participating stores have opted to keep their sales indoors.

Though the event might look different than last year, the Downtown merchants are excited to offer you deals and steals on products from clothing and accessories to discounts on drinks and art classes.

“I have visited with a lot of our business owners and they realize the importance of physically distancing but socially connecting, and feel the sidewalk sale is a great way to do both,” Glidewell said. “This kind of gives us all the opportunity to start fresh. Out with summer products, and in with new trendsetting fall items.”

DHDC requests the publics' help to ensure the safety of all participants and asks that vehicles not be parked in the public parking stalls located along Main Street between 8th and 12th streets after 5am. Some side streets, including parts of 10th and 11th Street, will also be closed, so please be mindful of the Hays Police Department's cones.

&nbsp;Under the Downtown Pavilion, more than 20 Downtown Hays Market vendors will be ready to greet you with local produce, handcrafted baked goods, and artisan products for every taste, style, and recipe. Normal hours of the market are 7:30 to 11:00 am but for this event only, they will also be available from 7:00am to 1:00pm while supplies last.&nbsp;

“With all the events that have had to be cancelled this year, it’s great to see this tradition live on,” Sara Bloom, DHDC Executive Director said. “It’s a great way to support our local, small businesses on The Bricks, and supporting those businesses only unifies and betters the Hays community. We hope to safely welcome lots of faces to Downtown this weekend.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596207699929.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCA Downtown Hays Tradition continues this Saturday. It’s time for some good ol’ fashioned, brick-and-mortar shopping during the 2020 Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale! The sale runs from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (rain or shine) on Main Street and beyond.Many events have had to adapt or cancel, and this event is no different. Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), believes that by adjusting just a little, our community can still enjoy a fun and safe Sidewalk Sale. This year, the only vendors shoppers will find along city streets are those who already call Downtown home. By limiting the number of outside merchants, DHDC hopes to encourage physical distancing and allow plenty of room for businesses and visitors to spread out.&nbsp;“DHDC has put significant thought into the safety of business owners and customers alike while planning this event,” Allie Glidewell DHDC Director of Events and Operations said. “The streets will feel a little more empty than usual, but it’s done intentionally to keep our community safe and healthy.”Also to ensure best safety practices, the Bazaar will not offer kid's crafts and activities this year. Shoppers will also find some participating stores have opted to keep their sales indoors.Though the event might look different than last year, the Downtown merchants are excited to offer you deals and steals on products from clothing and accessories to discounts on drinks and art classes.“I have visited with a lot of our business owners and they realize the importance of physically distancing but socially connecting, and feel the sidewalk sale is a great way to do both,” Glidewell said. “This kind of gives us all the opportunity to start fresh. Out with summer products, and in with new trendsetting fall items.”DHDC requests the publics' help to ensure the safety of all participants and asks that vehicles not be parked in the public parking stalls located along Main Street between 8th and 12th streets after 5am. Some side streets, including parts of 10th and 11th Street, will also be closed, so please be mindful of the Hays Police Department's cones.&nbsp;Under the Downtown Pavilion, more than 20 Downtown Hays Market vendors will be ready to greet you with local produce, handcrafted baked goods, and artisan products for every taste, style, and recipe. Normal hours of the market are 7:30 to 11:00 am but for this event only, they will also be available from 7:00am to 1:00pm while supplies last.&nbsp;“With all the events that have had to be cancelled this year, it’s great to see this tradition live on,” Sara Bloom, DHDC Executive Director said. “It’s a great way to support our local, small businesses on The Bricks, and supporting those businesses only unifies and betters the Hays community. We hope to safely welcome lots of faces to Downtown this weekend.”

Bazaar on The Bricks Sidewalk Sale set for Saturday

Habitat for Humanity announced in a letter to its volunteers Thursday it will be closing the Hays ReStore immediately and indefinitely.

According to the letter, after receiving information from Habitat for Humanity National concerning COVID-19 and visiting with the local Habitat director and the security member from its local board, the decision was made to close the store.

The ReStore closed during the statewide shutdown and only reopened to the public at the beginning of July.&nbsp;

All proceeds from the store support the mission of Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing, advocate for fair and just housing policies, and provide training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.

Hays PostHabitat for Humanity announced in a letter to its volunteers Thursday it will be closing the Hays ReStore immediately and indefinitely.According to the letter, after receiving information from Habitat for Humanity National concerning COVID-19 and visiting with the local Habitat director and the security member from its local board, the decision was made to close the store.The ReStore closed during the statewide shutdown and only reopened to the public at the beginning of July.&nbsp;All proceeds from the store support the mission of Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing, advocate for fair and just housing policies, and provide training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.

Hays ReStore closes because of COVID-19 concerns

First Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination, and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County announced this week it was awarded a $3,000 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant.

The grant will increase our assistance funds, which helps low-income households in four categories: rental assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, and diaper assistance.

&nbsp;“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our assistance program, which will allow us to serve more individuals and families in crisis.” said Linda Mills, Executive Director. “Without the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call would not be in a position to meet the increased need, especially for those who are financially stressed due to the pandemic.

Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to our region through community grants.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581950446822.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination, and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County announced this week it was awarded a $3,000 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant.	The grant will increase our assistance funds, which helps low-income households in four categories: rental assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, and diaper assistance.&nbsp;“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our assistance program, which will allow us to serve more individuals and families in crisis.” said Linda Mills, Executive Director. “Without the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call would not be in a position to meet the increased need, especially for those who are financially stressed due to the pandemic.Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to our region through community grants.&nbsp;

Announcements