TOPEKA&nbsp;– Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services&nbsp; Secretary Laura Howard announced the agency has reopened its shared living program, a home and community based services living option for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.&nbsp;

“The process to re-introduce this program to Kansans with such disabilities has been an important one and we are grateful to and want to acknowledge those who continuously advocated for this program across the state and for those who participated in the creation of the manual,”&nbsp; Howard said. “Our team and our partner group has implemented best practices in our state, answered questions, developed tools, and have been vital in this program’s development.”

Shared living is a nationally recognized model for habilitation or residential services for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

 In shared living, one to two participants share a home with a family or single adult's family (the contractor). The contractor lives with the participant and provides supports to them in accordance with the participant’s person-centered support plan to include social activities, companionship, teaching, daily living skills, supported employment, night supports and other needs.

“Shared living provides adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities the opportunity to live in a supportive, family-like environment that promotes independence, social inclusion,&nbsp;and a sense of belonging,”&nbsp;Sunflower Health Plan’s President and CEO, Michael Stephens said. “Sunflower is proud to partner with the state and providers to reopen this program.”&nbsp;

Participants in the shared living program have the same rights, responsibilities, and assurances as other participants receiving home and community based services-intellectual and/or developmental disabilities services in other settings. All services and supports will comply with state licensing, community developmental disabilities organization quality assurance, managed care organization reviews, the person-centered support plan, and other quality assurance reviews.

KDADS has developed the standards for the shared living program in collaboration with a group of licensed residential providers currently providing shared living services for participants. The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2RhZHMua3MuZ292L3Byb3ZpZGVyLWhvbWUvaG9tZS1hbmQtY29tbXVuaXR5LWJhc2VkLXNlcnZpY2VzLXByb3ZpZGVyLWluZm9ybWF0aW9uL2ludGVsbGVjdHVhbC1kZXZlbG9wbWVudGFsLWRpc2FiaWxpdHktcHJvdmlkZXItaW5mb3JtYXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzE4Ljc5ODE4MDQxIn0.wwk0hlbXHVWo_bEGRWrxzpmcZJsOwhxJPW5CFTqBz5o/s/1303161001/br/222821759297-l" target="_blank">Shared Living Manual</a>, effective July 1, 2023, formalizes existing practices and addresses specific issues related to the home and community based services-intellectual and/or developmental disabilities services residential requirements and the expansion of the shared living program in Kansas. The Shared Living Manual may be amended based on public comment.

“We are excited to offer this high-quality service option to our Sunflower members and other adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities across Kansas.&nbsp;We appreciate the knowledge and collaboration the state and our provider partners offer to inform the future structure of this valuable service model,”&nbsp;Sunflower’s Vice President of Long-term Care and External Relations, Stephanie Rasmussen, said.

KDADS expects the shared living program to:

The entry timeline for the program is staggered to allow development and implementation to progress efficiently:

Any agency currently providing shared living or that would like to become a shared living provider can contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aaron.norris@ks.gov">Aaron Norris</a>, Kansas' intellectual and/or developmental disabilities licensing manager.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689801622302.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDADSTOPEKA&nbsp;– Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services&nbsp; Secretary Laura Howard announced the agency has reopened its shared living program, a home and community based services living option for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.&nbsp;“The process to re-introduce this program to Kansans with such disabilities has been an important one and we are grateful to and want to acknowledge those who continuously advocated for this program across the state and for those who participated in the creation of the manual,”&nbsp; Howard said. “Our team and our partner group has implemented best practices in our state, answered questions, developed tools, and have been vital in this program’s development.”Shared living is a nationally recognized model for habilitation or residential services for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. In shared living, one to two participants share a home with a family or single adult's family (the contractor). The contractor lives with the participant and provides supports to them in accordance with the participant’s person-centered support plan to include social activities, companionship, teaching, daily living skills, supported employment, night supports and other needs.“Shared living provides adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities the opportunity to live in a supportive, family-like environment that promotes independence, social inclusion,&nbsp;and a sense of belonging,”&nbsp;Sunflower Health Plan’s President and CEO, Michael Stephens said. “Sunflower is proud to partner with the state and providers to reopen this program.”&nbsp;Participants in the shared living program have the same rights, responsibilities, and assurances as other participants receiving home and community based services-intellectual and/or developmental disabilities services in other settings. All services and supports will comply with state licensing, community developmental disabilities organization quality assurance, managed care organization reviews, the person-centered support plan, and other quality assurance reviews.KDADS has developed the standards for the shared living program in collaboration with a group of licensed residential providers currently providing shared living services for participants. The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2RhZHMua3MuZ292L3Byb3ZpZGVyLWhvbWUvaG9tZS1hbmQtY29tbXVuaXR5LWJhc2VkLXNlcnZpY2VzLXByb3ZpZGVyLWluZm9ybWF0aW9uL2ludGVsbGVjdHVhbC1kZXZlbG9wbWVudGFsLWRpc2FiaWxpdHktcHJvdmlkZXItaW5mb3JtYXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNzE4Ljc5ODE4MDQxIn0.wwk0hlbXHVWo_bEGRWrxzpmcZJsOwhxJPW5CFTqBz5o/s/1303161001/br/222821759297-l" target="_blank">Shared Living Manual</a>, effective July 1, 2023, formalizes existing practices and addresses specific issues related to the home and community based services-intellectual and/or developmental disabilities services residential requirements and the expansion of the shared living program in Kansas. The Shared Living Manual may be amended based on public comment.“We are excited to offer this high-quality service option to our Sunflower members and other adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities across Kansas.&nbsp;We appreciate the knowledge and collaboration the state and our provider partners offer to inform the future structure of this valuable service model,”&nbsp;Sunflower’s Vice President of Long-term Care and External Relations, Stephanie Rasmussen, said.KDADS expects the shared living program to:<ul>
 <li>Contribute to the development of individualized, independent daily living routines through encouragement of informed choice, creativity, and enrichment of a participant’s life.</li><li>Assist participants in contributing to Kansas as a community.</li><li>Support quality homes or apartments that are integrated into our communities.</li><li>Consistently teach new skills with evidenced-based practices.</li><li>Foster inclusion.</li><li>Gently and respectfully address inappropriate behavior, with an emphasis on prevention by teaching alternative behaviors through the provision of enriched environments, activities, and choices.</li><li>Ensure that all behavioral interventions comply with state statutes to ensure the least restrictive environment possible.</li><li>Increase a Participant’s ability to live in the least restrictive environment.</li><li>Encourage and support the development of relationships between Participants, participant peers, families, roommates, employees, friends, coworkers, roommates, and other community members.</li><li>Motivate participants to learn new skills and avoid behaviors that are stigmatizing or harmful.</li><li>Comply with federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services final rule and all local, state, federal, and program requirements.</li><li>Promote the need for choice, exercising autonomy, and control over one’s own services.</li><li>Address workforce shortages without compromising quality of services and supports.</li>
 </ul>The entry timeline for the program is staggered to allow development and implementation to progress efficiently:<ul>
 <li>July 1, 2023 – All providers currently providing shared living services can continue to do so and expand into other catchment areas. Any residential licensed provider in good standing can begin the process to provide shared living services.</li><li>January 1, 2024 – New applicants can begin the process to become a residential licensed provider to provide shared living services. New applicants can include any new or existing agency that wishes to be become licensed for residential services and offer the shared living program.</li>
 </ul>Any agency currently providing shared living or that would like to become a shared living provider can contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aaron.norris@ks.gov">Aaron Norris</a>, Kansas' intellectual and/or developmental disabilities licensing manager.&nbsp;

State reopens shared living for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26. This virtual fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, will focus on employment opportunities available within many of the state’s 98 government agencies. 

Currently, there are almost 800 vacancies across the state.

“The Department of Commerce alone has 28 openings, and we want to fill these positions with skilled and professional candidates looking to secure good-paying careers with great benefits,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“All of our agency jobs offer opportunities for individuals to make a true difference in the lives of individuals and communities by serving our great state.”

Registration is required to participate in the event, regardless of previous participation. The Virtual Job Fair portal features a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device, but it is highly recommended to use a computer to be most effective during the job fairs. If a jobseeker does not have access to a personal computer, they are available at&nbsp;KANSASWORKS offices as well as local libraries throughout the state. 

Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

To register for the July 26 State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLnByZW1pZXJ2aXJ0dWFsLmNvbS9ldmVudHMvYTM2OGY3YWMtODc1ZS00ZjRkLWIwM2EtMmU3NGRjY2U0MDg5L3N0YXRlLW9mLWthbnNhcy1hZ2VuY2llcy1nb3Zlcm5tZW50LWpvYnMtdmlydHVhbC1qb2ItZmFpci1qdWx5LTI2LC0yMDIzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcyMC43OTk1NzI5MSJ9.Vq0kwky__jLHuYeSX5F86v1V7ANqpNg_oRuo5xqKmCk/s/1303161001/br/222992889619-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789937052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;– Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26. This virtual fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, will focus on employment opportunities available within many of the state’s 98 government agencies. Currently, there are almost 800 vacancies across the state.“The Department of Commerce alone has 28 openings, and we want to fill these positions with skilled and professional candidates looking to secure good-paying careers with great benefits,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“All of our agency jobs offer opportunities for individuals to make a true difference in the lives of individuals and communities by serving our great state.”Registration is required to participate in the event, regardless of previous participation. The Virtual Job Fair portal features a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device, but it is highly recommended to use a computer to be most effective during the job fairs. If a jobseeker does not have access to a personal computer, they are available at&nbsp;KANSASWORKS offices as well as local libraries throughout the state. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.To register for the July 26 State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLnByZW1pZXJ2aXJ0dWFsLmNvbS9ldmVudHMvYTM2OGY3YWMtODc1ZS00ZjRkLWIwM2EtMmU3NGRjY2U0MDg5L3N0YXRlLW9mLWthbnNhcy1hZ2VuY2llcy1nb3Zlcm5tZW50LWpvYnMtdmlydHVhbC1qb2ItZmFpci1qdWx5LTI2LC0yMDIzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcyMC43OTk1NzI5MSJ9.Vq0kwky__jLHuYeSX5F86v1V7ANqpNg_oRuo5xqKmCk/s/1303161001/br/222992889619-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Virtual job fair for Kansas state agencies Wednesday; 800 vacancies available

Whew! The Barton County Fair was a busy, fun, and successful week! Our Country Pride, County Wide was definitely on display!

Some of my favorite moments were watching big kids help small ones and when fierce competitors were teaching one another how to show their animals so that they are all better. Listening to 4-H members talk to judges about their projects with the successes and learning moments from less than successful is always great to hear.

We had several youth step into bigger leadership roles from presenting learning activities about water to serving as co-superintendents or assistant superintendents.

If you happened to be in the buildings on judging days, you probably saw 4-H members sitting down to review their projects with a judge. Consultative judging is an important aspect of the learning process for 4-H.&nbsp;Judges consider the project itself based on a project standard along with the learning opportunities that led to a fair entry. 

For our youth in the Foods and Nutrition project, they are hopefully sharing about helping with meals during the year, learning new cooking techniques and skills, or learning about nutrition. All of that goes into a judge’s decision when determining a ribbon placing. 

4-H uses the Danish System of ribbon placement which means:

Purple – Outstanding on all standards Blue – Exceeds minimum standards, minor improvements can be made Red – Meets minimum standards, needs improvements White – Fails to meet minimum standards

An important skill for a judge is to be able to give feedback to the youth that is both constructive and encouraging.

For youth nine and older who receive a purple ribbon (in most cases), they have the opportunity to enter that exhibit at the Kansas State Fair. I am excited to see all of the entries we will have!

I want to say Thank You to the Barton County Fair Association, the Friends of the Fair group, and superintendents for their countless hours! Families of 4-H members who volunteer for set up and clean up, and jump in to help whenever and wherever are invaluable!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.

For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran,&nbsp;4-H Youth Development Agent,&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran,&nbsp;4-H Youth Development Agent,&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Whew! The Barton County Fair was a busy, fun, and successful week! Our Country Pride, County Wide was definitely on display!Some of my favorite moments were watching big kids help small ones and when fierce competitors were teaching one another how to show their animals so that they are all better. Listening to 4-H members talk to judges about their projects with the successes and learning moments from less than successful is always great to hear.We had several youth step into bigger leadership roles from presenting learning activities about water to serving as co-superintendents or assistant superintendents.If you happened to be in the buildings on judging days, you probably saw 4-H members sitting down to review their projects with a judge. Consultative judging is an important aspect of the learning process for 4-H.&nbsp;Judges consider the project itself based on a project standard along with the learning opportunities that led to a fair entry. For our youth in the Foods and Nutrition project, they are hopefully sharing about helping with meals during the year, learning new cooking techniques and skills, or learning about nutrition. All of that goes into a judge’s decision when determining a ribbon placing. 4-H uses the Danish System of ribbon placement which means:Purple – Outstanding on all standards Blue – Exceeds minimum standards, minor improvements can be made Red – Meets minimum standards, needs improvements White – Fails to meet minimum standards An important skill for a judge is to be able to give feedback to the youth that is both constructive and encouraging.For youth nine and older who receive a purple ribbon (in most cases), they have the opportunity to enter that exhibit at the Kansas State Fair. I am excited to see all of the entries we will have!I want to say Thank You to the Barton County Fair Association, the Friends of the Fair group, and superintendents for their countless hours! Families of 4-H members who volunteer for set up and clean up, and jump in to help whenever and wherever are invaluable!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Barton County Fair Week wrap-up

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689960157891.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

Fort Hays State University recently celebrated its
expanded partnerships in China with visits to commencement ceremonies as
students wrapped up their academic year.

The four-stop tour also marked the first trip to the
partner schools since 2019.

The FHSU delegation included President Tisa Mason and
Provost Jill Arensdorf along with Joe Bain, FHSU general council, Phil
Whittkorn, academic partnership director, Haley Williams, global affairs
operations director, and Jing Wang, Sias-FHSU presidential scholar.

“We were able to visit our two longest and largest
partnership schools there, which is where we held the commencements at Sias
University and Shenyang Normal University,” Williams said.

They also made a stop at a brand-new partner school, Wuxi
University.

Altogether Williams said the Chinese partnership programs
serve about 4,000 students in various fields.

“Many of them are business majors,” she said. “We also have
Organizational Leadership, Health Studies and Global Business English. (They)
were primarily the ones that we saw graduate when we were there this spring.”

The majority of those students at Sias and Shenyang University
receive lessons from FHSU instructors in person for a third of their academic journey
while at their home university.

“I think something else that's really profound and is a kind
of a trademark thing for Fort Hays is we send about 40 faculty to live and
teach in China every year,” Williams said. “And so that's a huge part of what
our office does in supporting them just through the visa process and
integrating into living in teaching in China.”

“Of course, their academic department plays a huge role as
well as in supporting them. It is a really unique model that we have, and
it's had a huge impact.”

“That's all by design,” said FHSU chief communications
officer Scott Cason. “Since the inception of this program, what they have
wanted was American-style education in the classroom.”

“So our model, when it was developed, was pretty unique.
It's still kind of, I think, the standard model for how you deliver courses in a
country like China. These are not courses out of a box. This is an emulation of
the FHSU experience that they would get on our campus here.”

“Really, the vision of that…was East Meets West education,”
Williams said. “It's fulfilling the Fort Hays mission statement to develop,
engage global citizen leaders. And so, we're doing that in a very unique way.”

FHSU’s partnerships in China date back 23 years with Sias University.


The partnership with Wuxi University is just getting started
with 73 students with recruitment for next year underway.

Students from that program will spend their fourth year on
the FHSU campus.

“Hays is such a wonderful, small, safe community that a lot
of times when Chinese students come here, they really find Hays to bring a new
sense of home for them,” Williams said. “And they really enjoy their experience
of living and learning in our community and on our campus.

Along with the universities, the delegation met with Educare International
Incorporated.

“This partnership began about five years ago and is really a
unique model that has been just a wonderful working relationship and
partnership for Fort Hays,” Williams said.

Their model is non-degree seeking and helps expedite degrees
from other English-speaking universities around the world.

“They recruit these students to Fort Hays to take a couple
of courses to help save money,” Williams said.

During the trip, the delegation also attended a residential
life conference and visited the Soybean Innovation Center, which receives soybeans
directly from Kansas.

“It was cool to be able to support what the commerce in
Kansas is doing there,” Williams said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689802890642.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostFort Hays State University recently celebrated its
expanded partnerships in China with visits to commencement ceremonies as
students wrapped up their academic year.The four-stop tour also marked the first trip to the
partner schools since 2019.<div><iframe title="East meets West: FHSU celebrates, expands global partnerships during commencement trip to China" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=isiuh-145ff43-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The FHSU delegation included President Tisa Mason and
Provost Jill Arensdorf along with Joe Bain, FHSU general council, Phil
Whittkorn, academic partnership director, Haley Williams, global affairs
operations director, and Jing Wang, Sias-FHSU presidential scholar.“We were able to visit our two longest and largest
partnership schools there, which is where we held the commencements at Sias
University and Shenyang Normal University,” Williams said.They also made a stop at a brand-new partner school, Wuxi
University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689802992907.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Altogether Williams said the Chinese partnership programs
serve about 4,000 students in various fields.“Many of them are business majors,” she said. “We also have
Organizational Leadership, Health Studies and Global Business English. (They)
were primarily the ones that we saw graduate when we were there this spring.”The majority of those students at Sias and Shenyang University
receive lessons from FHSU instructors in person for a third of their academic journey
while at their home university.“I think something else that's really profound and is a kind
of a trademark thing for Fort Hays is we send about 40 faculty to live and
teach in China every year,” Williams said. “And so that's a huge part of what
our office does in supporting them just through the visa process and
integrating into living in teaching in China.”“Of course, their academic department plays a huge role as
well as in supporting them. It is a really unique model that we have, and
it's had a huge impact.”“That's all by design,” said FHSU chief communications
officer Scott Cason. “Since the inception of this program, what they have
wanted was American-style education in the classroom.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689803011071.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“So our model, when it was developed, was pretty unique.
It's still kind of, I think, the standard model for how you deliver courses in a
country like China. These are not courses out of a box. This is an emulation of
the FHSU experience that they would get on our campus here.”“Really, the vision of that…was East Meets West education,”
Williams said. “It's fulfilling the Fort Hays mission statement to develop,
engage global citizen leaders. And so, we're doing that in a very unique way.”FHSU’s partnerships in China date back 23 years with Sias University.
The partnership with Wuxi University is just getting started
with 73 students with recruitment for next year underway.Students from that program will spend their fourth year on
the FHSU campus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689803029700.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“Hays is such a wonderful, small, safe community that a lot
of times when Chinese students come here, they really find Hays to bring a new
sense of home for them,” Williams said. “And they really enjoy their experience
of living and learning in our community and on our campus.Along with the universities, the delegation met with Educare International
Incorporated.“This partnership began about five years ago and is really a
unique model that has been just a wonderful working relationship and
partnership for Fort Hays,” Williams said.Their model is non-degree seeking and helps expedite degrees
from other English-speaking universities around the world.“They recruit these students to Fort Hays to take a couple
of courses to help save money,” Williams said.During the trip, the delegation also attended a residential
life conference and visited the Soybean Innovation Center, which receives soybeans
directly from Kansas.“It was cool to be able to support what the commerce in
Kansas is doing there,” Williams said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689803048363.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 East meets West: FHSU celebrates, expands global partnerships during commencement trip to China

The 145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration looks good. We have a dedicated homecoming committee that is working hard. There is a little something for everyone.

Come learn about “specialty crops” from the Kansas Black Farmers Association. KBFA will conduct their quarterly meeting from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.Specialty Crops Dr. Gail Meyers, Oakland, CA and Dr. Martha Mamo, Department Chair University of Nebraska Lincoln, Agronomy are the guest speakers. Register for free at <a href="https://kbfa.org/">www.kbfa.org</a>.

The Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration Committee, LLC and the Nicodemus Historical Society will both host their annual meetings later that afternoon.

Start your morning off with a good old “cowboy breakfast.” The afternoon will be full of music, games, kids activities and genealogy. Spinning the music is our very own native from Hill City, Troy Chapman aka “D.J. Storytella.” Participate in the Dominions Tournament, play some cards, horseshoes, etc. If you’re a Nicodemus Descendant, come learn about your history from the "Live Family Tree.” In the evening come participate in the corn hole tournament.

Returning back home from California don’t miss the special event hosted by a native from Hill City, Frankie “Cooper” Bates. He will perform his award winning one-man show, “Black When I Was A Boy.” Performance time starts at 6:00 p.m. at the Hill City High School auditorium. Get your tickets and come support Cooper in this powerful coming of age story. All proceeds will be given back to the community.

Then come on back to Nicodemus for the afterparty. Come hear D.J. Storytella spinning sounds, hear some live music and if you’re so inclined you can sing too during karaoke.

Start the day off with a little physical activity and then another good breakfast. Join the 5K Run/Walk Fundraiser where all proceeds will go to help Will Clark participate in the European Band Trip. Register at <a href="https://kbfa.org/">www.kbfa.org</a>. Afterwards eat a hearty breakfast. Sponsored by the Kansas Black Farmers Association this is their 12th annual “FREE Pancake Feed.”

Starting at 11:00 a.m., be there and don’t miss the event that draws the crowd, the Nicodemus Homecoming Parade.

So much going on in the afternoon you may have to pick and choose what you want to do. There will be games, kids activities, fashion show, watermelon feed and even a tent where a Master American Straw and Wheat Artist will do live hands-on demonstrations.

From 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. in the Kids Corner, the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center will join us again this year and set up their amazing traveling kids activities and games.

Don’t forget the Smithsonian Exhibit, “Voices and Votes: Democracy In America” is on display at the Visitor’s Center along with the companion exhibit “Nicodemus Politicians.” There will be history programs and presentations hosted by the Nicodemus Historical Society and the National Park Service. Julie Clover with Robert J. Dole Institute will be the guest speaker to talk about the designation of Nicodemus becoming a National Historic Site.

Bert Brogden will show his Award Winning Documentary “Robert &amp; Billie” A Nicodemus Love Story. We also anticipate the showing of the introduction of our new documentary that’s in the making, “Ellis Trail To Nicodemus.”

The Gospel Extravaganza in Nicodemus featuring Rev. Venson Quarels, Sr. and his family are coming all the way from California. He is the grandson of Rev. Daniel Hickman.

On the big stage enjoy the party with our live music headliner from L.A. He plays soul, R&amp;B, pop and is a smooth-jazz instrumentalist, Fernando Harkless. Then D.J. Storytella will keep the afterparty groove going.

Friday and Saturday, July 28th and 29th

The American Red Cross Sickle Cell Blood Drive will be set up at the Villa from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. both days.

Come explore the magical world of the Nicodemus “Kids Corner.” Get ready for an extraordinary journey in the historic town of Nicodemus KS, where history, culture and wonder await you at the Kids Corner. There will be games (potato sack race, Minute to Win It, three-legged race, scavenger hunt, Transfer the Cotton Balls, Cookie Challenge, watermelon eating contest); activities (Bouncy House, arts, crafts, story time, books giveaway, and the kids will learn to plant a garden). Food, prizes, giveaways, and so much more. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the magic of Nicodemus at Kids Corner.

Start your morning with praise. Church service will be held at the First Baptist Church then following will be lunch under the big tent. D.J. Storytella will be in the park spinning those sounds.

For more information and details check out our website at <a href="https://www.nicodemushomecoming.org/">www.nicodemushomecoming.org</a>. Also, like and follow us on Facebook, <a href="https://www.nicodemushomecoming.org/nicodemus-kansas-homecoming-2023-events?fbclid=IwAR2StlSEn_aVRzkWdzdB_7l71nJrID9TPuOExBmXXzkmkpxgLF7_Flo7JoE">Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration</a>.

So many exciting things are happening that you don’t want to miss it. Come participate in the 2023 145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration! See you there!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689605419121.png" alt="145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration is July 27-30. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration is July 27-30. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration looks good. We have a dedicated homecoming committee that is working hard. There is a little something for everyone.Thursday, July 27thCome learn about “specialty crops” from the Kansas Black Farmers Association. KBFA will conduct their quarterly meeting from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.Specialty Crops Dr. Gail Meyers, Oakland, CA and Dr. Martha Mamo, Department Chair University of Nebraska Lincoln, Agronomy are the guest speakers. Register for free at <a href="https://kbfa.org/">www.kbfa.org</a>.The Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration Committee, LLC and the Nicodemus Historical Society will both host their annual meetings later that afternoon.Friday, July 28thStart your morning off with a good old “cowboy breakfast.” The afternoon will be full of music, games, kids activities and genealogy. Spinning the music is our very own native from Hill City, Troy Chapman aka “D.J. Storytella.” Participate in the Dominions Tournament, play some cards, horseshoes, etc. If you’re a Nicodemus Descendant, come learn about your history from the "Live Family Tree.” In the evening come participate in the corn hole tournament.Returning back home from California don’t miss the special event hosted by a native from Hill City, Frankie “Cooper” Bates. He will perform his award winning one-man show, “Black When I Was A Boy.” Performance time starts at 6:00 p.m. at the Hill City High School auditorium. Get your tickets and come support Cooper in this powerful coming of age story. All proceeds will be given back to the community.Then come on back to Nicodemus for the afterparty. Come hear D.J. Storytella spinning sounds, hear some live music and if you’re so inclined you can sing too during karaoke.Saturday, July 29thStart the day off with a little physical activity and then another good breakfast. Join the 5K Run/Walk Fundraiser where all proceeds will go to help Will Clark participate in the European Band Trip. Register at <a href="https://kbfa.org/">www.kbfa.org</a>. Afterwards eat a hearty breakfast. Sponsored by the Kansas Black Farmers Association this is their 12th annual “FREE Pancake Feed.”Starting at 11:00 a.m., be there and don’t miss the event that draws the crowd, the Nicodemus Homecoming Parade.So much going on in the afternoon you may have to pick and choose what you want to do. There will be games, kids activities, fashion show, watermelon feed and even a tent where a Master American Straw and Wheat Artist will do live hands-on demonstrations.From 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. in the Kids Corner, the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center will join us again this year and set up their amazing traveling kids activities and games.Don’t forget the Smithsonian Exhibit, “Voices and Votes: Democracy In America” is on display at the Visitor’s Center along with the companion exhibit “Nicodemus Politicians.” There will be history programs and presentations hosted by the Nicodemus Historical Society and the National Park Service. Julie Clover with Robert J. Dole Institute will be the guest speaker to talk about the designation of Nicodemus becoming a National Historic Site.Bert Brogden will show his Award Winning Documentary “Robert &amp; Billie” A Nicodemus Love Story. We also anticipate the showing of the introduction of our new documentary that’s in the making, “Ellis Trail To Nicodemus.”The Gospel Extravaganza in Nicodemus featuring Rev. Venson Quarels, Sr. and his family are coming all the way from California. He is the grandson of Rev. Daniel Hickman.On the big stage enjoy the party with our live music headliner from L.A. He plays soul, R&amp;B, pop and is a smooth-jazz instrumentalist, Fernando Harkless. Then D.J. Storytella will keep the afterparty groove going.Friday and Saturday, July 28th and 29thThe American Red Cross Sickle Cell Blood Drive will be set up at the Villa from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. both days.Come explore the magical world of the Nicodemus “Kids Corner.” Get ready for an extraordinary journey in the historic town of Nicodemus KS, where history, culture and wonder await you at the Kids Corner. There will be games (potato sack race, Minute to Win It, three-legged race, scavenger hunt, Transfer the Cotton Balls, Cookie Challenge, watermelon eating contest); activities (Bouncy House, arts, crafts, story time, books giveaway, and the kids will learn to plant a garden). Food, prizes, giveaways, and so much more. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the magic of Nicodemus at Kids Corner.Sunday, July 30thStart your morning with praise. Church service will be held at the First Baptist Church then following will be lunch under the big tent. D.J. Storytella will be in the park spinning those sounds.For more information and details check out our website at <a href="https://www.nicodemushomecoming.org/">www.nicodemushomecoming.org</a>. Also, like and follow us on Facebook, <a href="https://www.nicodemushomecoming.org/nicodemus-kansas-homecoming-2023-events?fbclid=IwAR2StlSEn_aVRzkWdzdB_7l71nJrID9TPuOExBmXXzkmkpxgLF7_Flo7JoE">Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration</a>.So many exciting things are happening that you don’t want to miss it. Come participate in the 2023 145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration! See you there!

145th Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration set for last week of July

OktoberfestHays is now accepting vendor registrations for the upcoming regional celebration on Friday and Saturday, September 29 and 30. Registration is online at <a href="https://www.oktoberfesthays.com/">oktoberfesthays.com</a>.

The celebration which commemorates the Volga German heritage of our region's hardy early settlers will coincide with both Hays High’s Homecoming on Friday night and FHSU’s Homecoming parade and 7 p.m. game on Saturday.

Oktoberfest 2023 will once again feature the “World’s Largest Bierock,” prepared by Phil Kuhn and his team, and sponsored by Lewis Automotive Group of Hays. 

“There is such great enthusiasm surrounding the ‘World’s Largest Bierock’, and this year it will be even larger,” said Kuhn. Bierocks, whether large or small, are a crowd favorite at Oktoberfest, with thousands consumed down at the park each year, and many taken home and frozen for a later meal.

New at this year’s Oktoberfest is the Fest Market operating 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Friday.

The Fest Market is a large tent (pictured above) on the Oktoberfest grounds that will provide ten banquet-table sized booths for commercial businesses looking to reach an estimated 7,000 fest goers. OktoberfestHays vendor committee chair Tom Bird says, “the Fest Market booths can sell anything from jeans to jewelry and blouses to bagels. I think it will be a great addition, especially for businesses that typically are not our traditional vendors.”

Two vendors already secured are Everlasting Links offering permanent jewelry and Second Wind IV, ready to hydrate and energize Oktoberfest-goers with vitamin injections and IV drips.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629473292311.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOktoberfestHays is now accepting vendor registrations for the upcoming regional celebration on Friday and Saturday, September 29 and 30. Registration is online at <a href="https://www.oktoberfesthays.com/">oktoberfesthays.com</a>.The celebration which commemorates the Volga German heritage of our region's hardy early settlers will coincide with both Hays High’s Homecoming on Friday night and FHSU’s Homecoming parade and 7 p.m. game on Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665261553077.jpeg" alt="Phil Kuhn with the 'World's Largest Bierock' at the 2022 Oktoberfest in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Phil Kuhn with the 'World's Largest Bierock' at the 2022 Oktoberfest in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Oktoberfest 2023 will once again feature the “World’s Largest Bierock,” prepared by Phil Kuhn and his team, and sponsored by Lewis Automotive Group of Hays. “There is such great enthusiasm surrounding the ‘World’s Largest Bierock’, and this year it will be even larger,” said Kuhn. Bierocks, whether large or small, are a crowd favorite at Oktoberfest, with thousands consumed down at the park each year, and many taken home and frozen for a later meal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689715292730.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>New at this year’s Oktoberfest is the Fest Market operating 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Friday.The Fest Market is a large tent (pictured above) on the Oktoberfest grounds that will provide ten banquet-table sized booths for commercial businesses looking to reach an estimated 7,000 fest goers. OktoberfestHays vendor committee chair Tom Bird says, “the Fest Market booths can sell anything from jeans to jewelry and blouses to bagels. I think it will be a great addition, especially for businesses that typically are not our traditional vendors.”Two vendors already secured are Everlasting Links offering permanent jewelry and Second Wind IV, ready to hydrate and energize Oktoberfest-goers with vitamin injections and IV drips.

OktoberfestHays now accepting vendor registrations for Sept. 29-30

By MICHAEL SMITH Emporia State University

Do we need to re-learn how we merge on the freeway?&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Transportation says yes.&nbsp; But are we open to re-thinking something we have done the same way for years?

Since 2016, KDOT has been promoting the “<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/bureaus/kcmetro/zipper-merge.asp" target="_blank">zipper merge</a>” for the construction zones along US 69 in Johnson County.&nbsp; Now, they also want us to use it along sections of K-10 that are under construction between Olathe and Lawrence, near Eudora.&nbsp; They may expand it further.

Around here, most use the early merge.&nbsp; When we see that a lane is closed, we move over into the open lane as quickly as possible.&nbsp; We treat drivers that do not do this as “cheaters.”&nbsp; Any attempt to cut in line may be met with a refusal to open a space, dirty looks, or even a famous, obscene hand gesture. Once, in construction around Olathe, I saw a semi truck driver steer his truck so it was straddling both lanes, just to block these line cutters. Didn’t the teachers in elementary school teach us not to cut in line?&nbsp;

They did, but they also taught us to take turns. The early merge is fine if there is not much traffic, but when things get busy, drivers may slow down looking for a chance to merge early, slowing traffic further or even causing accidents.&nbsp; The zipper merge calls for drivers to stay in their lane until the merge point, and then take turns, one car from each lane at a time, so that the traffic closes up like the teeth of a zipper.&nbsp; No more viewing drivers who stay in the to-be-closed lane as “cheaters,” no more blocking, no more gesturing.&nbsp; Signs warn drivers “Stay in your lane,” and “Take turns merging.”

Traffic is an excellent example of how what we think is intuitively right, is often wrong.&nbsp; It reminds me of a debate I had with a family member when they were younger.&nbsp; Frustrated that we were running late, they suggested that the city needed to re-time the traffic light where we were waiting.&nbsp; I replied that a citywide traffic study might be in order.&nbsp; Baffled, they replied that no such thing was necessary–this particular traffic light need only be reprogrammed.&nbsp; I disagreed.&nbsp; After all,&nbsp; re-timing just&nbsp; one traffic light could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets, which in turn could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets to those streets, and so on–a ripple effect that could be felt for many miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This complexity is why study of traffic is an academic subject in its own right– just ask the experts at K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://transport.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">University Transportation Center.</a>&nbsp; Traffic flows are complicated, and easing congestion often calls on drivers to re-learn what we think we know, among other changes.

This is policymaking in the real world– complicated, sometimes counterintuitive challenges to our established ways of thinking and doing,&nbsp; which rely on the assumption that people are ready to make the change.&nbsp; Sometimes, half of us embrace the change and half of us do not, creating further confusion if not outright chaos, and making us angry with one another.&nbsp; This helps explain how issues that should not be part of the culture war get sucked into it–issues like gas stoves or Covid-19 protocols.

There are bigger problems in the world today than how we merge at construction sites, but few have such a direct, immediate impact on our everyday lives–or exemplify just how difficult policy change is.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL SMITH Emporia State UniversityDo we need to re-learn how we merge on the freeway?&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Transportation says yes.&nbsp; But are we open to re-thinking something we have done the same way for years?Since 2016, KDOT has been promoting the “<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/bureaus/kcmetro/zipper-merge.asp" target="_blank">zipper merge</a>” for the construction zones along US 69 in Johnson County.&nbsp; Now, they also want us to use it along sections of K-10 that are under construction between Olathe and Lawrence, near Eudora.&nbsp; They may expand it further.Around here, most use the early merge.&nbsp; When we see that a lane is closed, we move over into the open lane as quickly as possible.&nbsp; We treat drivers that do not do this as “cheaters.”&nbsp; Any attempt to cut in line may be met with a refusal to open a space, dirty looks, or even a famous, obscene hand gesture. Once, in construction around Olathe, I saw a semi truck driver steer his truck so it was straddling both lanes, just to block these line cutters. Didn’t the teachers in elementary school teach us not to cut in line?&nbsp;They did, but they also taught us to take turns. The early merge is fine if there is not much traffic, but when things get busy, drivers may slow down looking for a chance to merge early, slowing traffic further or even causing accidents.&nbsp; The zipper merge calls for drivers to stay in their lane until the merge point, and then take turns, one car from each lane at a time, so that the traffic closes up like the teeth of a zipper.&nbsp; No more viewing drivers who stay in the to-be-closed lane as “cheaters,” no more blocking, no more gesturing.&nbsp; Signs warn drivers “Stay in your lane,” and “Take turns merging.”Traffic is an excellent example of how what we think is intuitively right, is often wrong.&nbsp; It reminds me of a debate I had with a family member when they were younger.&nbsp; Frustrated that we were running late, they suggested that the city needed to re-time the traffic light where we were waiting.&nbsp; I replied that a citywide traffic study might be in order.&nbsp; Baffled, they replied that no such thing was necessary–this particular traffic light need only be reprogrammed.&nbsp; I disagreed.&nbsp; After all,&nbsp; re-timing just&nbsp; one traffic light could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets, which in turn could cause traffic to back up on the feeder streets to those streets, and so on–a ripple effect that could be felt for many miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;This complexity is why study of traffic is an academic subject in its own right– just ask the experts at K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://transport.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">University Transportation Center.</a>&nbsp; Traffic flows are complicated, and easing congestion often calls on drivers to re-learn what we think we know, among other changes.This is policymaking in the real world– complicated, sometimes counterintuitive challenges to our established ways of thinking and doing,&nbsp; which rely on the assumption that people are ready to make the change.&nbsp; Sometimes, half of us embrace the change and half of us do not, creating further confusion if not outright chaos, and making us angry with one another.&nbsp; This helps explain how issues that should not be part of the culture war get sucked into it–issues like gas stoves or Covid-19 protocols.There are bigger problems in the world today than how we merge at construction sites, but few have such a direct, immediate impact on our everyday lives–or exemplify just how difficult policy change is.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: KDOT’s zipper merge is policymaking in the real world

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689960128300.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Barton Community College area students named to President’s List for spring 2023

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/" target="_blank">Hays Arts Council</a> executive director Brenda Meder discusses current happenings at the Hays Arts Center as preparations begin for the Fall Art Walk.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council begins Fall Art Walk preparations" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kztav-145fed2-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/" target="_blank">Hays Arts Council</a> executive director Brenda Meder discusses current happenings at the Hays Arts Center as preparations begin for the Fall Art Walk.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council begins Fall Art Walk preparations

Jay Harris, K-State Cottonwood Extension District director,
recently added new responsibilities to his position after accepting the duties
of Horticulture Agent filling the long-time role for the first time in two
years.

He said the district board of directors were “pretty excited”
to have someone in the position after they were unable to fill the job with an
outside hire.

In the new job, Harris will serve the community with their
questions on trees, lawns and gardens.

He will also serve as the coordinator for the Extension Master Gardener Program. The program
has been serving area residents since 1996.

“Master gardeners do a lot of
good things for the public,” Harris said. “These are volunteers that take the
time to do some pretty extensive training.”

The next round of training is
set to begin in September.

“The
biggest thing is being there for people,” Harris said.

Since
assuming the position, he said he has been educating residents on their
trees in the midst of the ongoing excessive drought.

“We've
been in such a drought for a couple of years,” Harris said. “And even though
we've been getting rain, our trees are so far behind in the growth they're
showing dead spots and some fertility issues.”

The
Master Gardener program also maintains demonstration gardens throughout the
area. 

There are
two located at the Ag Experiment Station and one at the Old Fort Hays, he said.

Year-round the program helps residents with questions and provides assistance to all
types of horticulture issues with participants required to complete 40 hours of
volunteer service the first year and 20 each year after.

“The
volunteer service needs to be educational,” Harris said. “It's not truly labor
hours going out and working in the gardens. It is actually helping do some of
the educational part of extensions’ goal and our mission.”

Two
upcoming events will highlight that educational mission.

Today Iris Day will be during Bazaar on the Bricks. They will be providing Iris
bulbs for a suggested donation of $1.

On Aug.
23, the Master Gardeners will conduct a garden tour from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in conjunction with the
Hays Art Council’s Fall Art Walk at the demonstration gardens and at their
perennial garden at the district office at 601 Main.

It is a “good way for the
public to come out and see what Master Gardeners are doing,” Harris said.

Following
the events in September, training for the newest Master Gardeners will begin and
include people from all walks of life, Harris said.

“They do this extensive
training,” he said, in order to help out people with all sorts of questions and
assist with projects throughout the community.

To become a Master Gardner,
Harris said requirements include a high school diploma a desire to “get their
hands dirty” and “a love of gardening.” 

For more information about the Master Gardner program, visit the Cottonwood Extension District's website,<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/MasterGardeners.html">&nbsp;cottonwood.k-state.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689958422362.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostJay Harris, K-State Cottonwood Extension District director,
recently added new responsibilities to his position after accepting the duties
of Horticulture Agent filling the long-time role for the first time in two
years.He said the district board of directors were “pretty excited”
to have someone in the position after they were unable to fill the job with an
outside hire.In the new job, Harris will serve the community with their
questions on trees, lawns and gardens.<div><iframe title="Cottonwood director assumes horticulture agent, Master Gardener coordinator position" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5ewcw-145ed33-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>He will also serve as the coordinator for the Extension Master Gardener Program. The program
has been serving area residents since 1996.“Master gardeners do a lot of
good things for the public,” Harris said. “These are volunteers that take the
time to do some pretty extensive training.”The next round of training is
set to begin in September.“The
biggest thing is being there for people,” Harris said.Since
assuming the position, he said he has been educating residents on their
trees in the midst of the ongoing excessive drought.“We've
been in such a drought for a couple of years,” Harris said. “And even though
we've been getting rain, our trees are so far behind in the growth they're
showing dead spots and some fertility issues.”The
Master Gardener program also maintains demonstration gardens throughout the
area. There are
two located at the Ag Experiment Station and one at the Old Fort Hays, he said.Year-round the program helps residents with questions and provides assistance to all
types of horticulture issues with participants required to complete 40 hours of
volunteer service the first year and 20 each year after.“The
volunteer service needs to be educational,” Harris said. “It's not truly labor
hours going out and working in the gardens. It is actually helping do some of
the educational part of extensions’ goal and our mission.”Two
upcoming events will highlight that educational mission.Today Iris Day will be during Bazaar on the Bricks. They will be providing Iris
bulbs for a suggested donation of $1.On Aug.
23, the Master Gardeners will conduct a garden tour from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in conjunction with the
Hays Art Council’s Fall Art Walk at the demonstration gardens and at their
perennial garden at the district office at 601 Main.It is a “good way for the
public to come out and see what Master Gardeners are doing,” Harris said.An ice cream truck also will be on site.Following
the events in September, training for the newest Master Gardeners will begin and
include people from all walks of life, Harris said.“They do this extensive
training,” he said, in order to help out people with all sorts of questions and
assist with projects throughout the community.To become a Master Gardner,
Harris said requirements include a high school diploma a desire to “get their
hands dirty” and “a love of gardening.” For more information about the Master Gardner program, visit the Cottonwood Extension District's website,<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/MasterGardeners.html">&nbsp;cottonwood.k-state.edu</a>.

🎙 Cottonwood director assumes horticulture agent, Master Gardener coordinator position

Disorganization could lead to closure of all school buildings in Barton County’s USD 112

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

CLAFLIN — Barton County residents will decide whether to break up with their school district and “start fresh” following heartbreak and anger over the closure of a rural community’s high school.

The change could result in hundreds of students displaced and three more schools shut down.

The Aug. 1 disorganization vote is a test case for rural communities that increasingly have to make decisions to shut down or consolidate as populations dwindle&nbsp;and schools face financial strain.

“This is brand new territory for the Department of Education, for the State Board of Education and basically every district in the state of Kansas,” said KSDE general counsel Scott Gordon during a June 27 meeting in Claflin.

Dissolving the district is likely to have widespread consequences for all district schools and likely will increase residents’ taxes, according to opponents of disorganization.

Wilson parent Kayla Cullens said the split needs to happen because the Claflin-based Unified School District 112 school board voted to shut down Wilson High School.

The district covers portions of five counties, including the Holyrood, Bushton, Claflin, Dorrance, Lorraine, Wilson, Beaver and Odin communities, along with other rural areas. Claflin and Wilson are a little less than a half hour apart, and the other communities mostly fall within a 10-30 minute range of each other.

Cullens, part of a disorganization campaign, said the district’s school board had long treated the Wilson community unfairly. She said the “hostility” in the decision to close the high school was the latest evidence of other schools being prioritized over Wilson.

“It’s been growing animosity between both ends of the district since consolidation, and it’s now a good time just to part ways,” Cullens said. “They weren’t willing to work with us. They weren’t willing to look at the bigger picture.”

Michael Kratky, a lifelong Wilson resident and fellow disorganization advocate, said the Wilson shutdown was a bad decision by the board. Kratky said part of his frustration stemmed from Claflin’s consolidation with Wilson, Holyrood, Bushton and Lorraine in 2010, when the Claflin school district needed financial help.

Kratky said the district didn’t extend the same help these past two years to Wilson.&nbsp;

“They’re shooting for everything to be centrally located eventually in Claflin. … (The district) helped them survive. They didn’t help us survive,” Kratky said.

The district now has three schools left: Central Plains Elementary, Central Plains Junior-Senior High School and Wilson Elementary School.

Cullens said she is aware that disorganization isn’t likely to re-open the high school, but she said the Wilson community will fare better under a different district school board.

“I do not think it will get re-opened,” Cullens said. “I hope it will, and it’s really the only chance we have of reopening it. But I don’t see a yes vote opening our high school.”

Other members of communities in the district call the move misguided.

Denise Schmidt, a Claflin resident, educator and member of the opposing&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.unitedusd112.com/">“United USD 112” campaign</a>, said the disorganization effort is driven by anger and fear.

“They will lose their elementary school, we will lose our elementary school, Central Plains Elementary, and we’ll also lose Central Plains Junior Senior High School,” Schmidt said. “We will lose everything in a yes vote.”

Some have said the disorganization campaign has been misleading, with Wilson residents encouraged to believe signing the disorganization petition would bring back the high school or allow them to create their own district. Schmidt said a sign at the local post office asked residents to go in and sign the petition to “save our schools.”&nbsp;

“Obviously it’s for the postal officials to decide, but putting it out there to patrons, ‘save our school’ or ‘we need a high school’ and then encouraging them to sign the petition is misleading, because by signing the petition, it doesn’t open the high school,” Schmidt said.

Cullens said signs about saving the school were the work of one person, and not the official campaign effort, which has put up signs asking for a “fresh start.”

If the measure doesn’t pass in the Aug. 1 vote, the USD 112 school district will stay the same, keeping the tax rate and schools intact.

If the measure passes, the Kansas State Board of Education takes over, deciding how to divide up the USD 112 territory into 10 neighboring school districts. The district’s schools will either be absorbed into the surrounding districts or shut down.

Officials from the Kansas State Department of Education held two informational meetings on June 27 to explain the repercussions of disorganization. During one of the informational meetings, Gordon, the agency attorney, said he wanted to clear up rumors that people in the school district would have some say over which school district they became a part of.

“I don’t know who came up with that,” Gordon said. “And that’s probably not going to happen.”

Gordon said Wilson High School wouldn’t be reopened unless the incorporating school district decided it was a good choice. Gordon said reassignment wouldn’t assure the future safety of any of the district’s schools, or the school staffs’ jobs.

“Do we get to guarantee that they’re going to stay open? I don’t believe so,” Gordon said. “If you vote to disorganize a school district and you disorganize the locally elected school board, it is the same as if an employer suddenly goes out of business or a business owner suddenly goes out of business. The business is gone. It is entirely up to the receiving school districts.”

According to Gordon, former USD 112 residents likely would lose any say in school district functions for a few months. After the state Board of Education makes the reassignment decision, people from the former district wouldn’t be eligible to vote in elections for about 120 days.

Gordon estimated it would take 18 months after reassignment before anyone from the former USD 112 could run for local school board.

Taxpayers will pay the rate of their new district. Because nine of the 10 neighboring districts have higher mill levy rates, it’s likely many reassigned residents would see a tax increase.

Cullens said she understood there could be negative implications for the district but that Wilson needed better representation.

“We don’t know if a school will close,” Cullens said. “That’s totally up to the receiving district. We don’t know what that looks like. … They can choose to leave as open as is. They can choose to reopen the high school here in Wilson. They could choose to shut everybody down.”

She added: “We’re putting faith in the effort that they will be looking out for what’s in the best interest of our students, which we feel they’re not getting today.”

In April 2022, the USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted to reassign Wilson junior and high school students to the Central Plains Junior-Senior High School because of low enrollment and financial issues.

Members of the Wilson community began to explore options of keeping the school open, such as a land transfer, which would place the building into a neighboring district.

After those unsuccessful efforts, the BOE voted in January to close Wilson High School at the end of the 2022-23 school year. The plan was that Wilson junior high and high school students would be bused to Central Plains High School in Claflin. Kindergarten through sixth grade students would continue to attend school in Wilson.

According to KSDE data, the Wilson high school had 73 students at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, a 50 percent decline over 10 years. The Claflin high school had 140 students for the same school year.

Members of the community asked the board to grant an one-year extension to give the school time to find alternate solutions, such as opening a Catholic school in the space, or continuing efforts to have other school districts accept the high school.

After the extension was refused, a group of community residents successfully filed a petition in May to dissolve the school district entirely. Under&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_006_0035.html">Kansas statute</a>, a disorganization petition with enough signatures is put on a ballot for all voters in the district.

Cullens, who has lived in Wilson for about 20 years, has said the months since the closure have been difficult. Her son graduated from the high school after attending the school since preschool, and her daughter, a rising senior, was set on the same track before the closure announcement. Now, she will shift schools, splitting her up from friends she has known since kindergarten.

“It’s very sad,” Cullens said. “And it’s hard on her.”

She blames a “lopsided” school board for the decision. Two out of the seven board members represent Wilson, and she said the school board wasn’t advocating for her community.

Cullens cited differences in janitor pay and being passed over for collaborative opportunities with other schools for athletic programs as examples of unequal treatment

She said she’s already seen some families move away as a result.

“There’s a house on the market,” Cullens said. “There’s no more local spending. … I just foresee it getting worse.”

In reaction to anger from the Wilson community, and support from other rural communities, the Legislature this year voted into law&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/summary_hb_2138_2023">House Bill 2138</a>.

The law allows citizens to request the state BOE to conduct an administrative review of a resolution to close a school building if 5 percent or more of registered voters in the school district request the review.

Kratky went to Topeka multiple times to testify in support of the proposal.

“Through all of this in our district, this discussion was never about education,” Kratky said in testimony submitted for a&nbsp; March 22 hearing. “It was always about one school surviving at the cost of another closing. … The current structure allows lopsided boards to overpower smaller schools in a district, and the smaller schools don’t have the ability to do what’s best for our communities. We need your help.”

Following the review, the state BOE will give its opinion on closure to the local board, which will make the final decision.

Schmidt said rural communities needed to find ways to cope with shrinking populations, pointing to Bushton as an example. When the district voted to shut down the Bushton middle school in 2019, her daughter was one of the students transferred to the Claflin school.

Schmidt said Wilson could learn from Bushton, which has turned the former middle school building into a multi-purpose facility for community spaces. She pointed out the Bushton community didn’t “take their anger and hurt” and use the statute to disorganize the school district.

“There’s always a loss,” Schmidt said. “Kind of like a death. You have to mourn the death of what was. You’re not the same community you’ve always been. But that doesn’t mean your community can’t go on, that your students can’t prosper, and that there’s good things to come.”

<h2>Disorganization could lead to closure of all school buildings in Barton County’s USD 112</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689621524859.jpeg" alt="Barton County residents will vote August 1, 2023, on whether to disorganize or keep the USD 112 school district intact. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Barton County residents will vote August 1, 2023, on whether to disorganize or keep the USD 112 school district intact. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>CLAFLIN — Barton County residents will decide whether to break up with their school district and “start fresh” following heartbreak and anger over the closure of a rural community’s high school.The change could result in hundreds of students displaced and three more schools shut down.The Aug. 1 disorganization vote is a test case for rural communities that increasingly have to make decisions to shut down or consolidate as populations dwindle&nbsp;and schools face financial strain.“This is brand new territory for the Department of Education, for the State Board of Education and basically every district in the state of Kansas,” said KSDE general counsel Scott Gordon during a June 27 meeting in Claflin.Dissolving the district is likely to have widespread consequences for all district schools and likely will increase residents’ taxes, according to opponents of disorganization.Wilson parent Kayla Cullens said the split needs to happen because the Claflin-based Unified School District 112 school board voted to shut down Wilson High School.The district covers portions of five counties, including the Holyrood, Bushton, Claflin, Dorrance, Lorraine, Wilson, Beaver and Odin communities, along with other rural areas. Claflin and Wilson are a little less than a half hour apart, and the other communities mostly fall within a 10-30 minute range of each other.Cullens, part of a disorganization campaign, said the district’s school board had long treated the Wilson community unfairly. She said the “hostility” in the decision to close the high school was the latest evidence of other schools being prioritized over Wilson.“It’s been growing animosity between both ends of the district since consolidation, and it’s now a good time just to part ways,” Cullens said. “They weren’t willing to work with us. They weren’t willing to look at the bigger picture.”Michael Kratky, a lifelong Wilson resident and fellow disorganization advocate, said the Wilson shutdown was a bad decision by the board. Kratky said part of his frustration stemmed from Claflin’s consolidation with Wilson, Holyrood, Bushton and Lorraine in 2010, when the Claflin school district needed financial help.Kratky said the district didn’t extend the same help these past two years to Wilson.&nbsp;“They’re shooting for everything to be centrally located eventually in Claflin. … (The district) helped them survive. They didn’t help us survive,” Kratky said.The district now has three schools left: Central Plains Elementary, Central Plains Junior-Senior High School and Wilson Elementary School.Cullens said she is aware that disorganization isn’t likely to re-open the high school, but she said the Wilson community will fare better under a different district school board.“I do not think it will get re-opened,” Cullens said. “I hope it will, and it’s really the only chance we have of reopening it. But I don’t see a yes vote opening our high school.”Other members of communities in the district call the move misguided.Denise Schmidt, a Claflin resident, educator and member of the opposing&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.unitedusd112.com/">“United USD 112” campaign</a>, said the disorganization effort is driven by anger and fear.“They will lose their elementary school, we will lose our elementary school, Central Plains Elementary, and we’ll also lose Central Plains Junior Senior High School,” Schmidt said. “We will lose everything in a yes vote.”Some have said the disorganization campaign has been misleading, with Wilson residents encouraged to believe signing the disorganization petition would bring back the high school or allow them to create their own district. Schmidt said a sign at the local post office asked residents to go in and sign the petition to “save our schools.”&nbsp;“Obviously it’s for the postal officials to decide, but putting it out there to patrons, ‘save our school’ or ‘we need a high school’ and then encouraging them to sign the petition is misleading, because by signing the petition, it doesn’t open the high school,” Schmidt said.Cullens said signs about saving the school were the work of one person, and not the official campaign effort, which has put up signs asking for a “fresh start.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689621606794.jpeg" alt="A sign placed in a Wilson gas station tells residents to “vote yes” on the Aug. 1, 2023, petition to disorganize. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector) " />
 <figcaption>A sign placed in a Wilson gas station tells residents to “vote yes” on the Aug. 1, 2023, petition to disorganize. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector) </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>What will happen?&nbsp;</h2>If the measure doesn’t pass in the Aug. 1 vote, the USD 112 school district will stay the same, keeping the tax rate and schools intact.If the measure passes, the Kansas State Board of Education takes over, deciding how to divide up the USD 112 territory into 10 neighboring school districts. The district’s schools will either be absorbed into the surrounding districts or shut down.Officials from the Kansas State Department of Education held two informational meetings on June 27 to explain the repercussions of disorganization. During one of the informational meetings, Gordon, the agency attorney, said he wanted to clear up rumors that people in the school district would have some say over which school district they became a part of.“I don’t know who came up with that,” Gordon said. “And that’s probably not going to happen.”Gordon said Wilson High School wouldn’t be reopened unless the incorporating school district decided it was a good choice. Gordon said reassignment wouldn’t assure the future safety of any of the district’s schools, or the school staffs’ jobs.“Do we get to guarantee that they’re going to stay open? I don’t believe so,” Gordon said. “If you vote to disorganize a school district and you disorganize the locally elected school board, it is the same as if an employer suddenly goes out of business or a business owner suddenly goes out of business. The business is gone. It is entirely up to the receiving school districts.”According to Gordon, former USD 112 residents likely would lose any say in school district functions for a few months. After the state Board of Education makes the reassignment decision, people from the former district wouldn’t be eligible to vote in elections for about 120 days.Gordon estimated it would take 18 months after reassignment before anyone from the former USD 112 could run for local school board.Taxpayers will pay the rate of their new district. Because nine of the 10 neighboring districts have higher mill levy rates, it’s likely many reassigned residents would see a tax increase.Cullens said she understood there could be negative implications for the district but that Wilson needed better representation.“We don’t know if a school will close,” Cullens said. “That’s totally up to the receiving district. We don’t know what that looks like. … They can choose to leave as open as is. They can choose to reopen the high school here in Wilson. They could choose to shut everybody down.”She added: “We’re putting faith in the effort that they will be looking out for what’s in the best interest of our students, which we feel they’re not getting today.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689621671526.jpeg" alt="The high school side of the Wilson school building closed at the end of the school year. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The high school side of the Wilson school building closed at the end of the school year. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Timeline of the vote&nbsp;</h2>In April 2022, the USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted to reassign Wilson junior and high school students to the Central Plains Junior-Senior High School because of low enrollment and financial issues.Members of the Wilson community began to explore options of keeping the school open, such as a land transfer, which would place the building into a neighboring district.After those unsuccessful efforts, the BOE voted in January to close Wilson High School at the end of the 2022-23 school year. The plan was that Wilson junior high and high school students would be bused to Central Plains High School in Claflin. Kindergarten through sixth grade students would continue to attend school in Wilson.According to KSDE data, the Wilson high school had 73 students at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, a 50 percent decline over 10 years. The Claflin high school had 140 students for the same school year.Members of the community asked the board to grant an one-year extension to give the school time to find alternate solutions, such as opening a Catholic school in the space, or continuing efforts to have other school districts accept the high school.After the extension was refused, a group of community residents successfully filed a petition in May to dissolve the school district entirely. Under&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch72/072_006_0035.html">Kansas statute</a>, a disorganization petition with enough signatures is put on a ballot for all voters in the district.Cullens, who has lived in Wilson for about 20 years, has said the months since the closure have been difficult. Her son graduated from the high school after attending the school since preschool, and her daughter, a rising senior, was set on the same track before the closure announcement. Now, she will shift schools, splitting her up from friends she has known since kindergarten.“It’s very sad,” Cullens said. “And it’s hard on her.”She blames a “lopsided” school board for the decision. Two out of the seven board members represent Wilson, and she said the school board wasn’t advocating for her community.Cullens cited differences in janitor pay and being passed over for collaborative opportunities with other schools for athletic programs as examples of unequal treatmentShe said she’s already seen some families move away as a result.“There’s a house on the market,” Cullens said. “There’s no more local spending. … I just foresee it getting worse.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689621738925.jpeg" alt="Half of the Wilson school building has been shut down. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Half of the Wilson school building has been shut down. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Rural communities across Kansas&nbsp;</h2>In reaction to anger from the Wilson community, and support from other rural communities, the Legislature this year voted into law&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/summary_hb_2138_2023">House Bill 2138</a>.The law allows citizens to request the state BOE to conduct an administrative review of a resolution to close a school building if 5 percent or more of registered voters in the school district request the review.Kratky went to Topeka multiple times to testify in support of the proposal.“Through all of this in our district, this discussion was never about education,” Kratky said in testimony submitted for a&nbsp; March 22 hearing. “It was always about one school surviving at the cost of another closing. … The current structure allows lopsided boards to overpower smaller schools in a district, and the smaller schools don’t have the ability to do what’s best for our communities. We need your help.”Following the review, the state BOE will give its opinion on closure to the local board, which will make the final decision.Schmidt said rural communities needed to find ways to cope with shrinking populations, pointing to Bushton as an example. When the district voted to shut down the Bushton middle school in 2019, her daughter was one of the students transferred to the Claflin school.Schmidt said Wilson could learn from Bushton, which has turned the former middle school building into a multi-purpose facility for community spaces. She pointed out the Bushton community didn’t “take their anger and hurt” and use the statute to disorganize the school district.“There’s always a loss,” Schmidt said. “Kind of like a death. You have to mourn the death of what was. You’re not the same community you’ve always been. But that doesn’t mean your community can’t go on, that your students can’t prosper, and that there’s good things to come.”

After school shutdown, rural Kansas community tries to divorce district

WICHITA - Come out to FHSU Soccer Stadium (1315 230th&nbsp;Ave) at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, July 22 to experience intense high-caliber adult men's soccer as Sporting Wichita plays Indios Denver to earn the UPSL national tournament semi-final game spot! Noisemakers welcome. &nbsp;

Join your local Hays Soccer Club tailgating outside the stadium starting around 5:30 p.m. Please bring your own tailgating items.

UPSL (United Premier Soccer League) is the largest and most competitive soccer pro-development league in North America. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689793424440.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWICHITA - Come out to FHSU Soccer Stadium (1315 230th&nbsp;Ave) at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, July 22 to experience intense high-caliber adult men's soccer as Sporting Wichita plays Indios Denver to earn the UPSL national tournament semi-final game spot! Noisemakers welcome. &nbsp;Join your local Hays Soccer Club tailgating outside the stadium starting around 5:30 p.m. Please bring your own tailgating items.UPSL (United Premier Soccer League) is the largest and most competitive soccer pro-development league in North America. Each spring/summer the UPSL hosts it national tournament. Just to enter the tournament, the Sporting Wichita First Team (adult men's team) won its local Kansas league. Next, Sporting Wichita won two national tournament single-elimination bracket games -- first against Minneapolis, then against Dallas -- to reach this UPSL national tournament quarter-finals round against Denver.Learn more about the match-up online:&nbsp;<a href="https://premier.upsl.com/upsl-national-quarterfinal-saturday-preview-central-and-southeast-region/?fbclid=IwAR0XzJDpC4TnNO7hJ6ZxY42SShuc3OAnbgfMeAE8eRCocXO7Z-xHZdZEJSk" target="_blank">https://premier.upsl.com/upsl-national-quarterfinal-saturday-preview-central-and-southeast-region/?fbclid=IwAR0XzJDpC4TnNO7hJ6ZxY42SShuc3OAnbgfMeAE8eRCocXO7Z-xHZdZEJSk</a>Let others know about this game by re-posting game information from Sporting Wichita First Team’s &nbsp;facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Sporting-Wichita-First-Team-100063500486580/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/p/Sporting-Wichita-First-Team-100063500486580/</a>&nbsp; or twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/SWFirstTeam" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/SWFirstTeam</a>View the full national tournament bracket and learn more about UPSL soccer:&nbsp;<a href="https://premier.upsl.com/playoffs/" target="_blank">https://premier.upsl.com/playoffs/</a>

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