Lora Schneider has been named to open a new Edward Jones branch office located at 213 W. 43rd St. in Hays, the firm announced. Schneider said&nbsp;she is enthusiastic about opening a new branch office.

 "In my Edward Jones branch in Garden City, I had the pleasure of building deep, personal relationships with my clients in order to understand what really mattered to them and put their money to work toward those goals,"&nbsp;she said.

"Now, I'm looking forward to partnering with the people here in&nbsp;Hays and northwest Kansas and helping them find, and fund, the possibilities for their lives." Schneider has over 13 years of experience as an Edward Jones financial advisor. Edward Jones is a leading financial services firm in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm's nearly 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 8 million clients with a total of $1.7 trillion in client assets under care at the end of March 2023.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691092059435.jpeg" alt="Lora M.Schneider" />
 <figcaption>Lora M.Schneider</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLora Schneider has been named to open a new Edward Jones branch office located at 213 W. 43rd St. in Hays, the firm announced. Schneider said&nbsp;she is enthusiastic about opening a new branch office. "In my Edward Jones branch in Garden City, I had the pleasure of building deep, personal relationships with my clients in order to understand what really mattered to them and put their money to work toward those goals,"&nbsp;she said. "Now, I'm looking forward to partnering with the people here in&nbsp;Hays and northwest Kansas and helping them find, and fund, the possibilities for their lives." Schneider has over 13 years of experience as an Edward Jones financial advisor. Edward Jones is a leading financial services firm in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm's nearly 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 8 million clients with a total of $1.7 trillion in client assets under care at the end of March 2023.&nbsp;

New Edward Jones branch office opens in Hays 

Join Options in creating a special quilt for its 40th anniversary.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057187641106&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWzeUkllxiwWOiKxqHKNzDHjDIIoB-ZZ16AYmN5fGtROgoIMO4Y0zWOPy_qim-453U4G8EKt8rxKpiFr_4RcjEOYcfCNoYvaOkxjNTr2BVyouD36p3S_TOzPx5zdpPUV-RyAGvYcQr-3WgYnugifZ-c76G-3eifVQc376ksqydoGxjwvRAZvnya6Tywks5JAos&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Quilt Cottage Co.</a> is partnering with Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services for this memorable project.

Help Options make it unique by contributing a 9-inch quilt block in purple and teal, representing "help, hope, and healing."

See the Options logo for color reference.

Please have blocks turned in to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057187641106&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWzeUkllxiwWOiKxqHKNzDHjDIIoB-ZZ16AYmN5fGtROgoIMO4Y0zWOPy_qim-453U4G8EKt8rxKpiFr_4RcjEOYcfCNoYvaOkxjNTr2BVyouD36p3S_TOzPx5zdpPUV-RyAGvYcQr-3WgYnugifZ-c76G-3eifVQc376ksqydoGxjwvRAZvnya6Tywks5JAos&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Quilt Cottage Co.</a> by Saturday, Aug. 12. For more information, call 785-625-0080.

Guidelines : Use quality cotton fabrics in purple, teal, and light to medium grey, with a white background.

Get creative. Feel free to add applique or embroidery. If you want to include a message, use only a fabric pen in grey or silver (no sharpies or fabric paint). Don't forget to add your name and county on a note accompanying your block. The deadline is Aug. 12.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690987116297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OptionsJoin Options in creating a special quilt for its 40th anniversary.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057187641106&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWzeUkllxiwWOiKxqHKNzDHjDIIoB-ZZ16AYmN5fGtROgoIMO4Y0zWOPy_qim-453U4G8EKt8rxKpiFr_4RcjEOYcfCNoYvaOkxjNTr2BVyouD36p3S_TOzPx5zdpPUV-RyAGvYcQr-3WgYnugifZ-c76G-3eifVQc376ksqydoGxjwvRAZvnya6Tywks5JAos&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Quilt Cottage Co.</a> is partnering with Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services for this memorable project.Help Options make it unique by contributing a 9-inch quilt block in purple and teal, representing "help, hope, and healing."See the Options logo for color reference.Please have blocks turned in to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057187641106&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWzeUkllxiwWOiKxqHKNzDHjDIIoB-ZZ16AYmN5fGtROgoIMO4Y0zWOPy_qim-453U4G8EKt8rxKpiFr_4RcjEOYcfCNoYvaOkxjNTr2BVyouD36p3S_TOzPx5zdpPUV-RyAGvYcQr-3WgYnugifZ-c76G-3eifVQc376ksqydoGxjwvRAZvnya6Tywks5JAos&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Quilt Cottage Co.</a> by Saturday, Aug. 12. For more information, call 785-625-0080.Guidelines : Use quality cotton fabrics in purple, teal, and light to medium grey, with a white background.Get creative. Feel free to add applique or embroidery. If you want to include a message, use only a fabric pen in grey or silver (no sharpies or fabric paint). Don't forget to add your name and county on a note accompanying your block. The deadline is Aug. 12.

Options requests quilt blocks for 40th anniversary quilt

<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/2023/8/1691172660486.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

KS firefighter recruitment, safety grant applications now open

LAWRENCE — More than 6,800 undergraduate students at the University of Kansas earned honor roll distinction for the spring 2023 semester.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The honor roll comprises undergraduates who meet requirements in the College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences and in the schools of Architecture &amp; Design, Business, Education &amp; Human Sciences, Engineering, Health Professions, Journalism &amp; Mass Communications, Music, Nursing, Pharmacy, Professional Studies and Social Welfare.

Students must complete a minimum number of credit hours to be considered for the honor roll.

Those on the honor roll include the following area residents:&nbsp;

Search for students by Kansas county:&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Allen">Allen</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Anderson">Anderson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Atchison">Atchison</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Barber">Barber</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Barton">Barton</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Bourbon">Bourbon</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Brown">Brown</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Butler">Butler</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Chase">Chase</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Chautauqua">Chautauqua</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cherokee">Cherokee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cheyenne">Cheyenne</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Clay">Clay</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cloud">Cloud</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Coffey">Coffey</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cowley">Cowley</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Crawford">Crawford</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Dickinson">Dickinson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Doniphan">Doniphan</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Douglas">Douglas</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Edwards">Edwards</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ellis">Ellis</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ellsworth">Ellsworth</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Finney">Finney</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ford">Ford</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Franklin">Franklin</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Geary">Geary</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Gove">Gove</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Graham">Graham</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Grant">Grant</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Gray">Gray</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Greenwood">Greenwood</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Hamilton">Hamilton</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Harper">Harper</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Harvey">Harvey</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Hodgeman">Hodgeman</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Jackson">Jackson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Jefferson">Jefferson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Jewell">Jewell</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Johnson">Johnson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Kingman">Kingman</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Labette">Labette</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Leavenworth">Leavenworth</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Lincoln">Lincoln</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Linn">Linn&nbsp;&nbsp;</a><a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Logan">Logan</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Lyon">Lyon</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Marion">Marion</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Marshall">Marshall</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#McPherson">McPherson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Meade">Meade</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Miami">Miami</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Mitchell">Mitchell</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Montgomery">Montgomery</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Morris">Morris</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Nemaha">Nemaha</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Neosho">Neosho</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ness">Ness</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Norton">Norton</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Osage">Osage</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Pawnee">Pawnee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Phillips">Phillips</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Pottawatomie">Pottawatomie</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Pratt">Pratt</a> &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rawlins">Rawlins</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Reno">Reno</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Republic">Republic</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rice">Rice</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Riley">Riley</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rooks">Rooks</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rush">Rush</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Russell">Russell</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Saline">Saline</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Scott">Scott</a> <a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Sedgwick">Sedgwick</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Seward">S</a><a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Seward">eward</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Shawnee">Shawnee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Sherman">Sherman</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Smith">Smith</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Stafford">Stafford</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Stevens">Stevens</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Sumner">Sumner</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Thomas">Thomas</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Trego">Trego</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Wabaunsee">Wabaunsee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Washington">Washington</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Wilson">Wilson</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Woodson">Woodson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Wyandotte">Wyandotte</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575650214747.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KU news serviceLAWRENCE — More than 6,800 undergraduate students at the University of Kansas earned honor roll distinction for the spring 2023 semester.&nbsp;&nbsp;The honor roll comprises undergraduates who meet requirements in the College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences and in the schools of Architecture &amp; Design, Business, Education &amp; Human Sciences, Engineering, Health Professions, Journalism &amp; Mass Communications, Music, Nursing, Pharmacy, Professional Studies and Social Welfare.Students must complete a minimum number of credit hours to be considered for the honor roll.Those on the honor roll include the following area residents:&nbsp;ELLIS COUNTY<ol>
 <li>George Crawford, Ellis, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Brett Bowles, Hays, School of Business</li><li>Alexandra Coveney, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Amanti Debelo, Hays, School of Business</li><li>Kilee Hale, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Ginny Ke, Hays, School of Engineering</li><li>Hope Kisner, Hays, School of Business</li><li>Lance Lang, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Leah Legleiter, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Kallie Leiker, Hays, School of Pharmacy</li><li>Andrea Lopez, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Emry Lundy, Hays, School of Journalism &amp; Mass Communications</li><li>Keaton Markley, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Sophia Mickelson-Coulter, Hays, School of Business</li><li>Mkilar Otte, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Mylah Potter, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Blayne Riedel, Hays, School of Business</li><li>Jenna Romme, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Brianna Romme, Hays, School of Nursing</li><li>Cameron Rozean, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Ryan Stoecklein, Hays, School of Pharmacy</li><li>Connor Teget, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>McKinley Wamser, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Kassidi Yost, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Camry Young, Hays, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Shelby Schmeidler, Victoria, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Kenzie Sweat, Victoria, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Ashlyn Windholz, Victoria, School of Nursing</li>
 </ol>ROOKS COUNTY<ol>
 <li>Jared Casey, Plainville, School of Education &amp; Human Sciences</li><li>Benjamin Hansen, Plainville, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li>
 </ol>RUSH COUNTY<ol>
 <li>Paige Holopirek, La Crosse, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Audrey Irvin, La Crosse, School of Business</li><li>Will Rues, La Crosse, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Basia Schendzielos, Rush Center, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li>
 </ol>RUSSELL COUNTY<ol>
 <li>Sheree Ward-Herold, Lucas, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Lauren Chinski, Luray, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Cole Birky, Russell, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li><li>Ryan Birky, Russell, School of Pharmacy</li><li>Lauren Myers, Russell, College of Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences</li>
 </ol>TREGO COUNTY<ol>
 <li>Libby Frost, WaKeeney, School of Business</li><li>Olivia Herman, WaKeeney, School of the Arts</li>
 </ol>Search for students by Kansas county:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Allen">Allen</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Anderson">Anderson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Atchison">Atchison</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Barber">Barber</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Barton">Barton</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Bourbon">Bourbon</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Brown">Brown</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Butler">Butler</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Chase">Chase</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Chautauqua">Chautauqua</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cherokee">Cherokee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cheyenne">Cheyenne</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Clay">Clay</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cloud">Cloud</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Coffey">Coffey</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Cowley">Cowley</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Crawford">Crawford</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Dickinson">Dickinson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Doniphan">Doniphan</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Douglas">Douglas</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Edwards">Edwards</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ellis">Ellis</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ellsworth">Ellsworth</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Finney">Finney</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ford">Ford</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Franklin">Franklin</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Geary">Geary</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Gove">Gove</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Graham">Graham</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Grant">Grant</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Gray">Gray</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Greenwood">Greenwood</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Hamilton">Hamilton</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Harper">Harper</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Harvey">Harvey</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Hodgeman">Hodgeman</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Jackson">Jackson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Jefferson">Jefferson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Jewell">Jewell</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Johnson">Johnson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Kingman">Kingman</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Labette">Labette</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Leavenworth">Leavenworth</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Lincoln">Lincoln</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Linn">Linn&nbsp;&nbsp;</a><a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Logan">Logan</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Lyon">Lyon</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Marion">Marion</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Marshall">Marshall</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#McPherson">McPherson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Meade">Meade</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Miami">Miami</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Mitchell">Mitchell</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Montgomery">Montgomery</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Morris">Morris</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Nemaha">Nemaha</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Neosho">Neosho</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Ness">Ness</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Norton">Norton</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Osage">Osage</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Pawnee">Pawnee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Phillips">Phillips</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Pottawatomie">Pottawatomie</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Pratt">Pratt</a> &nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rawlins">Rawlins</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Reno">Reno</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Republic">Republic</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rice">Rice</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Riley">Riley</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rooks">Rooks</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Rush">Rush</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Russell">Russell</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Saline">Saline</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Scott">Scott</a> <a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Sedgwick">Sedgwick</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Seward">S</a><a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Seward">eward</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Shawnee">Shawnee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Sherman">Sherman</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Smith">Smith</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Stafford">Stafford</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Stevens">Stevens</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Sumner">Sumner</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Thomas">Thomas</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Trego">Trego</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Wabaunsee">Wabaunsee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Washington">Washington</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Wilson">Wilson</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Woodson">Woodson</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/spring-2023-honor-roll-kansas-students#Wyandotte">Wyandotte</a>

Area students earn KU honor roll distinction for spring '23 semester

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; is pleased to announce the recipients of the solid waste reduction grants.&nbsp;Grants totaled $333,037.56 and were awarded to 14 different cities, counties and organizations, including three in northwest Kansas.

The solid waste tire reduction grant is used to support projects related to the development and operation of recycling, source reduction, waste minimization and solid waste management public education programs. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the solid waste tonnage fee - a $1.00/per ton of solid waste disposed at any solid waste disposal area in the state.

“These grants will help cover the costs of proper disposal of many materials including scrap tires and assist local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Secretary Janet Stanek. “KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation of our communities in reusing materials that help protect the health and environment of all Kansans.”

The Solid Waste Reduction Grants and the communities they will serve include:

City of Abilene, Dickinson - $46,516.00. City of Leavenworth, Leavenworth - $7,500.00. City of Lyndon, Osage - $32,174.21. Gove County Landfill, Gove - $14,031.00;&nbsp;Recycling Trailer. Kansas Trophy Outfitters, Osage - $62,700.00. Lake Region Solid Waste Authority, Miami - $5,854.40. Lakemary Center, Miami - $27,172.00. Missouri Organic Recycling, Kansas City - $16,852.50 (this funding directly benefits Kansas residents). Nemaha County, Nemaha - $12,003.00. Rawlins County Recycling, Rawlins - $20,355.75;&nbsp;Drop Deck-Semi Trailer. Sheridan County, Sheridan - $15,738.75;&nbsp;Can Crusher. Sunflower Diversified Services Inc., Barton - $23,254.72;&nbsp;Recycling Storage. Twin Valley Developmental Services Inc., Washington - $15,622.73. Washington County Environmental Sciences, Washington - $33,262.50

Learn more about the proposed projects at,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzcwMC9XYXN0ZS1SZWR1Y3Rpb24tUHVibGljLUVkdWNhdGlvbi1HcmFudHM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgwMi44MDU1MTY3MSJ9.5mWH-ibjOa83KOsOwta0aSMJmPwIee2te0Gl3WCawng/s/1305914033/br/223592612542-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/700/</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691013605295.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; is pleased to announce the recipients of the solid waste reduction grants.&nbsp;Grants totaled $333,037.56 and were awarded to 14 different cities, counties and organizations, including three in northwest Kansas.The solid waste tire reduction grant is used to support projects related to the development and operation of recycling, source reduction, waste minimization and solid waste management public education programs. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the solid waste tonnage fee - a $1.00/per ton of solid waste disposed at any solid waste disposal area in the state.“These grants will help cover the costs of proper disposal of many materials including scrap tires and assist local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Secretary Janet Stanek. “KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation of our communities in reusing materials that help protect the health and environment of all Kansans.”The Solid Waste Reduction Grants and the communities they will serve include:City of Abilene, Dickinson - $46,516.00. City of Leavenworth, Leavenworth - $7,500.00. City of Lyndon, Osage - $32,174.21. Gove County Landfill, Gove - $14,031.00;&nbsp;Recycling Trailer. Kansas Trophy Outfitters, Osage - $62,700.00. Lake Region Solid Waste Authority, Miami - $5,854.40. Lakemary Center, Miami - $27,172.00. Missouri Organic Recycling, Kansas City - $16,852.50 (this funding directly benefits Kansas residents). Nemaha County, Nemaha - $12,003.00. Rawlins County Recycling, Rawlins - $20,355.75;&nbsp;Drop Deck-Semi Trailer. Sheridan County, Sheridan - $15,738.75;&nbsp;Can Crusher. Sunflower Diversified Services Inc., Barton - $23,254.72;&nbsp;Recycling Storage. Twin Valley Developmental Services Inc., Washington - $15,622.73. Washington County Environmental Sciences, Washington - $33,262.50Learn more about the proposed projects at,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzcwMC9XYXN0ZS1SZWR1Y3Rpb24tUHVibGljLUVkdWNhdGlvbi1HcmFudHM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgwMi44MDU1MTY3MSJ9.5mWH-ibjOa83KOsOwta0aSMJmPwIee2te0Gl3WCawng/s/1305914033/br/223592612542-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/700/</a>.&nbsp;

NW Kansas counties receive solid waste reduction grants from KDHE

TOPEKA -&nbsp; The Kansas Manufacturing Council, an affiliated program of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3f6i-8VDr2Xu8GH4og4HvYXe_9aYlHJaR_wsxtGMifqjdFTzUkqFNJvlp3gVMGAcpYY2qfKmTOGLRUj01Yv_u0cRJebGN87STg==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>.

Presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3agS4I45P7Q_1NYmp1Krly2vvHs0XBVyLq5m_yCK--qaWxEMwLklkQTTlYft-1dyZ7UdZNwhGQH7MOe7mEAMI1D5BWwhPtL-kQ==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">FORVIS</a>, the Kansas Manufacturing Council, launched this competition in 2020 to promote and elevate Kansas manufacturers and to highlight products developed and produced in Kansas and distributed across the U.S. and internationally.

“The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future,” said Brandie McPherson, the council's executive director.

Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition. 

There are two categories in this year's competition: People's Choice and Coolest Innovation. 

The People’s Choice contest begins with product nominations and the popular vote round. The top 16 vote-getters will move on to a bracket-style tournament where they will compete in head-to-head match-ups. The ones that receive the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the People’s Choice - Coolest Thing Made in Kansas.

The Coolest Innovation contest highlights the many ways Kansas manufacturers research and develop new products and work to improve products to address crucial challenges.

A panel of expert judges will review and score questionnaires completed by the companies regarding their nominated products. The top four scoring products will be invited to present in-person to the expert panel on October 23 at the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception. The judges will choose the winning product&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNa9AwPm1v7oVofpQVabCpSG0QPPjYXjlCMTojgLlpSbSpMk2cKvJbprJQuf4DbbOWL-S_yDwIfQ9j9drz9cvL5tkrROh27uqkCPx1veugGzd7R4dg5tTtTYiXp2KG3r-hRf6KSzB6hWiX_anjDbFJw7RUG4TztDxXwIdvr3ec73_4=&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">based on a criteria&nbsp;</a>that includes its impact on the challenge it solves as well as the business, its employees, and customers.

Winners for both categories will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3Yn05dZhlCIZQ33ze_EQWEyvSHxCYxcN8PjUG_zh2TiSaPWz6E87e1JiYZfGKRTZXA2WwZYvBCeIFDRHQk4Sb9QTgwyE7054W59WpXDtXx1winnMvUkLozFFvyVHKfCX2Qwmej84YbLG-g2dcNLwyJhuKxT2nCJxX3eq3LTPmC7A&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, October 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Click here</a>to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2023 contest close on August 30 at midnight CT.

2023 Competition Details Nomination Rules

Voting Rules for People's Choice contest

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690920883205.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>News releaseTOPEKA -&nbsp; The Kansas Manufacturing Council, an affiliated program of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3f6i-8VDr2Xu8GH4og4HvYXe_9aYlHJaR_wsxtGMifqjdFTzUkqFNJvlp3gVMGAcpYY2qfKmTOGLRUj01Yv_u0cRJebGN87STg==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>.Presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3agS4I45P7Q_1NYmp1Krly2vvHs0XBVyLq5m_yCK--qaWxEMwLklkQTTlYft-1dyZ7UdZNwhGQH7MOe7mEAMI1D5BWwhPtL-kQ==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">FORVIS</a>, the Kansas Manufacturing Council, launched this competition in 2020 to promote and elevate Kansas manufacturers and to highlight products developed and produced in Kansas and distributed across the U.S. and internationally.“The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future,” said Brandie McPherson, the council's executive director.Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition. There are two categories in this year's competition: People's Choice and Coolest Innovation. The People’s Choice contest begins with product nominations and the popular vote round. The top 16 vote-getters will move on to a bracket-style tournament where they will compete in head-to-head match-ups. The ones that receive the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the People’s Choice - Coolest Thing Made in Kansas. The Coolest Innovation contest highlights the many ways Kansas manufacturers research and develop new products and work to improve products to address crucial challenges.A panel of expert judges will review and score questionnaires completed by the companies regarding their nominated products. The top four scoring products will be invited to present in-person to the expert panel on October 23 at the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception. The judges will choose the winning product&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNa9AwPm1v7oVofpQVabCpSG0QPPjYXjlCMTojgLlpSbSpMk2cKvJbprJQuf4DbbOWL-S_yDwIfQ9j9drz9cvL5tkrROh27uqkCPx1veugGzd7R4dg5tTtTYiXp2KG3r-hRf6KSzB6hWiX_anjDbFJw7RUG4TztDxXwIdvr3ec73_4=&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">based on a criteria&nbsp;</a>that includes its impact on the challenge it solves as well as the business, its employees, and customers.Winners for both categories will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3Yn05dZhlCIZQ33ze_EQWEyvSHxCYxcN8PjUG_zh2TiSaPWz6E87e1JiYZfGKRTZXA2WwZYvBCeIFDRHQk4Sb9QTgwyE7054W59WpXDtXx1winnMvUkLozFFvyVHKfCX2Qwmej84YbLG-g2dcNLwyJhuKxT2nCJxX3eq3LTPmC7A&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, October 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Click here</a>to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2023 contest close on August 30 at midnight CT.2023 Competition Details Nomination Rules <ol>
 <li>Everyone is encouraged to nominate their favorite products. There is no limit to the number of product nominations per person.</li><li>Products nominated can be from any sector of the state’s manufacturing industry.</li><li>The company does not have to be headquartered in Kansas but the product must be manufactured in a Kansas-based facility.</li><li>The product must be made using a manufacturing process.</li><li>The Kansas Manufacturing Council will review each nomination to ensure these requirements are met. If for any reason the nomination does not meet these requirements, the nominator will be notified.</li><li>Companies may only have one product featured in the top four, so only one product nomination per company is encouraged.</li><li>Winning companies are prohibited from participating in the contest for one year, while each winning product is indefinitely prohibited from being nominated again.</li><li>Companies with products nominated will be notified by the Kansas Manufacturing Council.</li><li>Products can be nominated for both categories but may only be in one of the category's finals.</li>
 </ol>Voting Rules for People's Choice contest <ol>
 <li>Voting is open to the public. A voter may vote once per day.</li><li>The number of votes received will be reset at the beginning of each round.</li><li>The 16 nominated products who receive the most votes during the popular vote round will advance to the bracket-style tournament.</li><li>The products receiving the highest number of votes in their head-to-head match-ups during each voting period will advance to the next round.</li><li>&nbsp;The final round of final four (4) will be decided by popular vote.</li>
 </ol>

Nominations open for 'Coolest Thing Made In Kansas' to highlight manufacturers  

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

What's more fun than playing with a little toy duck in the bathtub?

Racing thousands of yellow rubber ducks down the slide and around the cool water of the Lazy River at the Hays municipal swimming pool.

The eighth annual Hays Duck Derby, a popular fundraiser for Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Ellis County, will be held 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wed., August 9 at the Hays Aquatic Park.

 "We sell between five and six-thousand ducks which will race in two heats, " said Jenny Bates, director of the Ellis County nonprofit group. "It's been an amazing community event hundreds of people turn out to watch."

The first 500 ducks to cross the finish line in those races are captured for the championship run.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The owner of the first duck across the final finish line wins the $10,000 grand prize.&nbsp;

There are nine other significant prizes to be awarded that night.&nbsp;

Supporters "adopt" their ducks with donations, from a single duck for $5 to a 25-duck colony for $100 bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There's a separate kids' duck dash, with 1,000 ducks available at $2 each. All those ducks are usually adopted right away.

Prizes range from free rental of an inflatable jump house to mini-golf passes.

The most adventurous donors will participate in the "Sink or Sail! Cardboard Regatta," so named by last year's winner, High Plains Baptist Church.

Sponsored teams will construct water-worthy crafts of cardboard and "duck" tape and paddle them across the deep end of the pool. There's a $500 entry fee and prizes for the fastest boats. "They get pretty creative and pretty competitive,"&nbsp;said Bates. 

"We have lots of winners and lots to be given away, thanks to our many sponsors."&nbsp;

It's a wet, fun-filled summer evening that's grown to be one of the bigger fundraisers for the local Big Brothers Big Sisters.

There are currently 160 Big/Little matches in Ellis County.

"That means there are 160 children who are able to have that impact of having a Big in their life," Bates said.&nbsp;

"It's amazing there that many volunteers in our community who are stepping up and walking alongside children who are needing that kind of support in their lives."

The volunteers, who can be individual adults, couples, or families, are thoroughly screened and undergo&nbsp;a background check before they're accepted as Bigs.

The Duck Derby helps pay for the costs of that process.

"The children are facing some kind of adversity or struggle in their life and they need that extra support," Bates said, "someone who will be that consistent person in their life who is cheering them on and is in their corner."

Children are recommended for the program by parents or guardians, teachers, counselors, and social service agencies.&nbsp;

There are currently about 30 Littles on the waiting list for a Big.

Bigs agree to meet with their Littles at least twice a month for at least an hour.

The get-together might be something special like going fishing, or as simple as taking a pet dog for a walk.&nbsp;

The average match length is three years in Ellis County, Bates said, with the longest lasting 18 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Derby Ducks are available for adoption at several Hays businesses where you see a huge blowup yellow duck, and online at <a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/duckderby/Donate/Tickets">4kidsake.org/duckderby</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659631593227.jpeg" alt="Duck Derby 2022&nbsp; (Photos by Cris Janney/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Duck Derby 2022&nbsp; (Photos by Cris Janney/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostWhat's more fun than playing with a little toy duck in the bathtub?Racing thousands of yellow rubber ducks down the slide and around the cool water of the Lazy River at the Hays municipal swimming pool.The eighth annual Hays Duck Derby, a popular fundraiser for Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Ellis County, will be held 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wed., August 9 at the Hays Aquatic Park. "We sell between five and six-thousand ducks which will race in two heats, " said Jenny Bates, director of the Ellis County nonprofit group. "It's been an amazing community event hundreds of people turn out to watch."The first 500 ducks to cross the finish line in those races are captured for the championship run.&nbsp;&nbsp;The owner of the first duck across the final finish line wins the $10,000 grand prize.&nbsp;There are nine other significant prizes to be awarded that night.&nbsp;Supporters "adopt" their ducks with donations, from a single duck for $5 to a 25-duck colony for $100 bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a separate kids' duck dash, with 1,000 ducks available at $2 each. All those ducks are usually adopted right away.Prizes range from free rental of an inflatable jump house to mini-golf passes.The most adventurous donors will participate in the "Sink or Sail! Cardboard Regatta," so named by last year's winner, High Plains Baptist Church.Sponsored teams will construct water-worthy crafts of cardboard and "duck" tape and paddle them across the deep end of the pool. There's a $500 entry fee and prizes for the fastest boats. "They get pretty creative and pretty competitive,"&nbsp;said Bates. "We have lots of winners and lots to be given away, thanks to our many sponsors."&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/HFEZOHrQ-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Duck Derby Preview 1" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>It's a wet, fun-filled summer evening that's grown to be one of the bigger fundraisers for the local Big Brothers Big Sisters.There are currently 160 Big/Little matches in Ellis County."That means there are 160 children who are able to have that impact of having a Big in their life," Bates said.&nbsp;"It's amazing there that many volunteers in our community who are stepping up and walking alongside children who are needing that kind of support in their lives."The volunteers, who can be individual adults, couples, or families, are thoroughly screened and undergo&nbsp;a background check before they're accepted as Bigs.The Duck Derby helps pay for the costs of that process."The children are facing some kind of adversity or struggle in their life and they need that extra support," Bates said, "someone who will be that consistent person in their life who is cheering them on and is in their corner."Children are recommended for the program by parents or guardians, teachers, counselors, and social service agencies.&nbsp;There are currently about 30 Littles on the waiting list for a Big.Bigs agree to meet with their Littles at least twice a month for at least an hour.The get-together might be something special like going fishing, or as simple as taking a pet dog for a walk.&nbsp;The average match length is three years in Ellis County, Bates said, with the longest lasting 18 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Derby Ducks are available for adoption at several Hays businesses where you see a huge blowup yellow duck, and online at <a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/duckderby/Donate/Tickets">4kidsake.org/duckderby</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691149959721.jpeg" alt="" />
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🎥Hays Duck Derby fundraiser is all about the 'Little' kids

The <a href="https://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/">Kansas Wetlands Education Center</a> will host its annual Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party on Fri., Aug. 11.

The center, located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at 592 NE K-156 Highway, welcomes the public to enjoy free, family-friendly activities beginning at 8:30 p.m.

Each year, as the Earth passes through the dust and debris of the Swift-Tuttle comet, the center celebrates the end of summer by watching the meteors or shower activity. Stargazers may spot from 60-100 meteors per hour during this time.

Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable sky-watching. The center will offer various space-themed crafts, science experiments, planetarium shows, and games. In addition, special black light chemistry experiments will be set up in the auditorium.

Highlighting the evening, s’mores, a time-honored summer tradition, will be roasted at the center’s fire pit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690468850453.jpeg" alt="The annual Perseid Meteor Shower watch party at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center will be on Aug. 11 at 8:30 p.m. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The annual Perseid Meteor Shower watch party at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center will be on Aug. 11 at 8:30 p.m. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe <a href="https://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/">Kansas Wetlands Education Center</a> will host its annual Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party on Fri., Aug. 11.The center, located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at 592 NE K-156 Highway, welcomes the public to enjoy free, family-friendly activities beginning at 8:30 p.m.Each year, as the Earth passes through the dust and debris of the Swift-Tuttle comet, the center celebrates the end of summer by watching the meteors or shower activity. Stargazers may spot from 60-100 meteors per hour during this time.Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable sky-watching. The center will offer various space-themed crafts, science experiments, planetarium shows, and games. In addition, special black light chemistry experiments will be set up in the auditorium.Highlighting the evening, s’mores, a time-honored summer tradition, will be roasted at the center’s fire pit.

Perseid Meteor Shower watch party Aug. 11 at KS Wetlands Center

Eating out at a favorite restaurant or community event is always a treat, and as consumers, we expect the food to be safe. In most food environments, food safety training is required because we must rely on food handlers to provide fresh, safe meals.

K-State Research and Extension in partnership with the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association provides training for all food handlers. The ServSafe program is a national certification program designed to teach safe handling practices to those who serve food to the public.

ServSafe Food Handlers class is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, from 1-4 p.m. at the Cottonwood Extension Office at 3007 10th St. in Great Bend. 

The class covers basic food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, time and temperature abuse, cleaning, and sanitation. The course is for both commercial food safety employees and non-profit volunteers. 

Food Handler's certificates are valid for 3 years. 

The course is $15 and covers the cost of the ServSafe® Food Handlers manual, training materials, and refreshments. 

Registration is due by August 11. For more information or to sign up, please contact me via email at krwinkel@ksu.edu or phone at 620-793-1910.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Eating out at a favorite restaurant or community event is always a treat, and as consumers, we expect the food to be safe. In most food environments, food safety training is required because we must rely on food handlers to provide fresh, safe meals.K-State Research and Extension in partnership with the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association provides training for all food handlers. The ServSafe program is a national certification program designed to teach safe handling practices to those who serve food to the public.ServSafe Food Handlers class is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, from 1-4 p.m. at the Cottonwood Extension Office at 3007 10th St. in Great Bend. The class covers basic food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, time and temperature abuse, cleaning, and sanitation. The course is for both commercial food safety employees and non-profit volunteers. Food Handler's certificates are valid for 3 years. The course is $15 and covers the cost of the ServSafe® Food Handlers manual, training materials, and refreshments. Registration is due by August 11. For more information or to sign up, please contact me via email at krwinkel@ksu.edu or phone at 620-793-1910.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKLER: ServSafe food handlers training coming up in Great Bend

LOGAN - If you enjoy sunshine and crafts, come spend a fun-filled Saturday in northwest Kansas on Highway 9. The town of Logan, home to the renovated Hansen Museum, hosts one of the best arts and crafts fairs in Kansas. 

Join the festivities on Saturday, August 19, 2023, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., when more than 57 artisans and crafters from Kansas and the surrounding states will turn the Hansen Plaza into a shopper’s paradise. 

The day kicks off with a 5K Run and 2 Mile Fun Walk. Registration and T-shirt pickup begin at 7:00 a.m. at the corner of Douglas and Main. The 5K Run starts at 8:00 a.m. with the 2 Mile Walk to follow at 8:15 a.m. All registration fees will be given to Phillips County Hospice Services. Download a registration form at <a href="https://hansenmuseum.org/5k-run2-mile-fun-walk/">hansenmuseum.org/5k-run2-mile-fun-walk/ </a>or call the museum to sign up.

After the race, cool off in the shade and check out the crafty offerings as every booth opens for business at 9:00 a.m. Food vendors fill the air with tantalizing smells as they prepare delicious foods such as hamburgers, bratwursts, turkey and noodles, pies, barbeque, walking tacos, snow cones, kettle corn, and more. There is something tasty for every palette. Also, at 9:00 a.m., Inflate-o-Fun will be ready to entertain the children with an obstacle course, meltdown game and a jump/slide combo.

For your listening pleasure, live music on two stages can be enjoyed throughout the day. The south stage will showcase the talents of “Formerly Three” at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. alternating with “The Bent Fork Band” entertaining from the north stage at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Artisans presenting their skills around the Plaza Square throughout the day include Joy of Painting instructor Sandra Seamone; caricature sketches by Brooke Werner; basket weaving by Marsha Jensen; wheel throwing techniques on the potter’s wheel by Rodney Zimmerman; weaver Sally Brandon; pen and ink artist Julie Peterson-Shea; and fast draw shooting with the Deer Creek Regulators.

Amble across the street to the Logan Library where you can watch Janie Lowry’s Disappearing Quilts Keep Showing Up demonstration at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. On the other end of the block, Iowa chainsaw artist, Blair Smith, will astonish you with his chainsaw artistry. Blair is scheduled to carve at the service station at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. Be sure to stop and watch his amazing talent. Two of his incredible sculptures will be given away in drawings at 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.

Please take time to step inside the museum and meander through the gallery. On display is Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibition, sculptures made with LEGO bricks. This exhibit is a crowd-pleaser, so make sure to stop in the gallery for a look. 

While inside, check out the membership table to purchase or renew your Hansen Museum membership. Purchasing a membership during the Arts &amp; Crafts Fair automatically enters you in the Hansen Bucks drawings (Hansen Bucks can be spent just like cash at all Arts and Crafts Fair vendors). Hansen Bucks worth $500 will be given away in drawings held at 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Remember to stick around because you must be present to win and spend these bucks!

The highlight of the day will be the selection of 12 new winners (and two alternates) of the coveted “Artist of the Month” award. The crafters are judged for uniqueness, quality of craft, and display. Winners announced at 2:45 p.m. with prizes and photos to follow the fair’s 3:00 p.m. closing.

Join us for the 49th Annual Hansen Arts &amp; Crafts Fair, Saturday, August 19, 2023, on the beautiful Hansen Plaza in downtown Logan. Come hungry, bring your wallet, and wear your walking shoes. You’ll leave with a smile.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690495091756.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLOGAN - If you enjoy sunshine and crafts, come spend a fun-filled Saturday in northwest Kansas on Highway 9. The town of Logan, home to the renovated Hansen Museum, hosts one of the best arts and crafts fairs in Kansas. Join the festivities on Saturday, August 19, 2023, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., when more than 57 artisans and crafters from Kansas and the surrounding states will turn the Hansen Plaza into a shopper’s paradise. There is no admission charge.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690494107879.jpeg" alt="Registration fees go to Phillips County Hospice from the Hansen Museum 5K Run and 2 Mile Fun Walk. Courtesy file photo" />
 <figcaption>Registration fees go to Phillips County Hospice from the Hansen Museum 5K Run and 2 Mile Fun Walk. Courtesy file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The day kicks off with a 5K Run and 2 Mile Fun Walk. Registration and T-shirt pickup begin at 7:00 a.m. at the corner of Douglas and Main. The 5K Run starts at 8:00 a.m. with the 2 Mile Walk to follow at 8:15 a.m. All registration fees will be given to Phillips County Hospice Services. Download a registration form at <a href="https://hansenmuseum.org/5k-run2-mile-fun-walk/">hansenmuseum.org/5k-run2-mile-fun-walk/ </a>or call the museum to sign up.After the race, cool off in the shade and check out the crafty offerings as every booth opens for business at 9:00 a.m. Food vendors fill the air with tantalizing smells as they prepare delicious foods such as hamburgers, bratwursts, turkey and noodles, pies, barbeque, walking tacos, snow cones, kettle corn, and more. There is something tasty for every palette. Also, at 9:00 a.m., Inflate-o-Fun will be ready to entertain the children with an obstacle course, meltdown game and a jump/slide combo.For your listening pleasure, live music on two stages can be enjoyed throughout the day. The south stage will showcase the talents of “Formerly Three” at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. alternating with “The Bent Fork Band” entertaining from the north stage at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.Artisans presenting their skills around the Plaza Square throughout the day include Joy of Painting instructor Sandra Seamone; caricature sketches by Brooke Werner; basket weaving by Marsha Jensen; wheel throwing techniques on the potter’s wheel by Rodney Zimmerman; weaver Sally Brandon; pen and ink artist Julie Peterson-Shea; and fast draw shooting with the Deer Creek Regulators.Amble across the street to the Logan Library where you can watch Janie Lowry’s Disappearing Quilts Keep Showing Up demonstration at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. On the other end of the block, Iowa chainsaw artist, Blair Smith, will astonish you with his chainsaw artistry. Blair is scheduled to carve at the service station at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. Be sure to stop and watch his amazing talent. Two of his incredible sculptures will be given away in drawings at 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690494890529.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Please take time to step inside the museum and meander through the gallery. On display is Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibition, sculptures made with LEGO bricks. This exhibit is a crowd-pleaser, so make sure to stop in the gallery for a look. While inside, check out the membership table to purchase or renew your Hansen Museum membership. Purchasing a membership during the Arts &amp; Crafts Fair automatically enters you in the Hansen Bucks drawings (Hansen Bucks can be spent just like cash at all Arts and Crafts Fair vendors). Hansen Bucks worth $500 will be given away in drawings held at 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Remember to stick around because you must be present to win and spend these bucks!The highlight of the day will be the selection of 12 new winners (and two alternates) of the coveted “Artist of the Month” award. The crafters are judged for uniqueness, quality of craft, and display. Winners announced at 2:45 p.m. with prizes and photos to follow the fair’s 3:00 p.m. closing.Join us for the 49th Annual Hansen Arts &amp; Crafts Fair, Saturday, August 19, 2023, on the beautiful Hansen Plaza in downtown Logan. Come hungry, bring your wallet, and wear your walking shoes. You’ll leave with a smile.

49th annual Hansen Arts & Crafts Fair is Aug. 19 in Logan

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691172632370.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>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County area director Jenny Bates about the Hays Duck Derby.&nbsp;

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/19CDmQhwezc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County area director Jenny Bates about the Hays Duck Derby.&nbsp;

🎤 Forward Ever: BBBS director Jenny Bates discusses Duck Derby

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including in northwest Kansas.

 The letting took place July 19, 2023, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

The following project was approved from the June 21, 2023 letting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689603343931.jpeg" alt="File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects, including in northwest Kansas. The letting took place July 19, 2023, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690899332455.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The following project was approved from the June 21, 2023 letting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690899460914.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Norton, Osborne counties in KDOT bids approved in July

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays received 1.45 inches of rain overnight, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Rainfall measured at the Eagle Radio station at 2300 Hall was 1.25 inches.

The southern portion of Ellis County still remains in exceptional drought, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor.

Hays has received 14.49 inches of rain year to date compared to an average of 17.57 inches by the end of August.

Hays averages 2.97 inches of rain in August.

The National Weather Service is forecasting a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10 tonight.&nbsp;

There's a 50 percent chance for thunderstorms Saturday night. There's a 20 to 30 percent chance of rain Monday, Monday night and Tuesday.

The cold front brings a break in the heat wave. The high is forecast for 91 today and 93 Saturday. Temps are forecast to dip into the 80s Sunday through Tuesday.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays received 1.45 inches of rain overnight, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Rainfall measured at the Eagle Radio station at 2300 Hall was 1.25 inches.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691161290286.png" alt="Kansas Drought Monitor map as of Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Monitor map as of Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>The southern portion of Ellis County still remains in exceptional drought, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor.Hays has received 14.49 inches of rain year to date compared to an average of 17.57 inches by the end of August.Hays averages 2.97 inches of rain in August.The National Weather Service is forecasting a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10 tonight.&nbsp;There's a 50 percent chance for thunderstorms Saturday night. There's a 20 to 30 percent chance of rain Monday, Monday night and Tuesday.The cold front brings a break in the heat wave. The high is forecast for 91 today and 93 Saturday. Temps are forecast to dip into the 80s Sunday through Tuesday.

Hays receives much-need rain, break in heat; drought persists

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Heath Department celebrated its recently
completed remodel with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week.

Tuesday's ribbon cutting, with the Hays Chamber, celebrated
the remodeling process that began, with the design phase, under previous
Health Department Director Jason Kennedy and wrapped up earlier this year.

Current Health Director Kim Reel took over the position in
January 2022 and said the $225,000 project was paid for by grant funds.

One of the main parts of the remodel included changes to the
entrance of the building at 2507 Canterbury, to improve safety measures for
staff and visitors to the office.

Reel said they worked with the Kansas Department of Health
and Environment on the safety improvements.

“Unfortunately, it was a no-win situation during COVID. It
was a very tumultuous time when threats were made to the health department, and there were days that were better than others. There were days
that were worse than others, but in the end, everybody's safety was what we had
in mind,” Reel said.

Reel said the Ellis County
Health Department received threats. She said hearing threats made and carried out against other health departments meant safety was top of mind when it came to the
changes to the office in Hays.

“We were doing what we were called to do for the
public because that's what we do as community health [department]. But at the same time,
nothing that we ever did was right, in the public’s eye,” Reel said.

The remodel also improved the department’s space needs in
the front lobby. Reel said since the construction was completed in February, the department has received
positive input from the community.

“We've received
positive feedback from the community of those that maybe came in during COVID that
were kind of shoulder to shoulder with people waiting in the lobby area," Reel said. "It's
been a well-received remodel from the community of people that have come
through the doors.”

Reel also said she hopes the changes and the programs the department has put together for the community will help the community move on from the negative connotation
the health department received during the height of the pandemic and remind the
community that the health department has a lot to offer.

“We looked at the entire health of the public during COVID
(and) we're still doing that,” Reel said. “Our eye is still on the health of
the general public, so we're going to continue to move forward and and offer our
services.”

This week the department offered back-to-school physicals at Hays
Middle School. They are looking at bringing back a foot care program and travel
vaccines. Next month the department is sponsoring a presentation on the dangers of
human trafficking with a free public presentation and presentations to the
local schools. 

“We’re just hoping that people can continue to see us as a
positive entity moving forward, instead of the negative perception that the
public had simply because of what we were called to do,” Reel said.

You can find out more about the services the Ellis County
Health Department offers through its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">website </a>and on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/elliscokshealth">Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691005899856.jpeg" alt="Photo by Jonathan Zweygardt/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Jonathan Zweygardt/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Heath Department celebrated its recently
completed remodel with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week.Tuesday's ribbon cutting, with the Hays Chamber, celebrated
the remodeling process that began, with the design phase, under previous
Health Department Director Jason Kennedy and wrapped up earlier this year.Current Health Director Kim Reel took over the position in
January 2022 and said the $225,000 project was paid for by grant funds.One of the main parts of the remodel included changes to the
entrance of the building at 2507 Canterbury, to improve safety measures for
staff and visitors to the office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691005975507.jpeg" alt="The front entrance now adds extra security for both visitors and staff. Photo by&nbsp;Jonathan Zweygardt/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The front entrance now adds extra security for both visitors and staff. Photo by&nbsp;Jonathan Zweygardt/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Reel said they worked with the Kansas Department of Health
and Environment on the safety improvements.“Unfortunately, it was a no-win situation during COVID. It
was a very tumultuous time when threats were made to the health department, and there were days that were better than others. There were days
that were worse than others, but in the end, everybody's safety was what we had
in mind,” Reel said.Reel said the Ellis County
Health Department received threats. She said hearing threats made and carried out against other health departments meant safety was top of mind when it came to the
changes to the office in Hays.“We were doing what we were called to do for the
public because that's what we do as community health [department]. But at the same time,
nothing that we ever did was right, in the public’s eye,” Reel said.The remodel also improved the department’s space needs in
the front lobby. Reel said since the construction was completed in February, the department has received
positive input from the community.“We've received
positive feedback from the community of those that maybe came in during COVID that
were kind of shoulder to shoulder with people waiting in the lobby area," Reel said. "It's
been a well-received remodel from the community of people that have come
through the doors.”Reel also said she hopes the changes and the programs the department has put together for the community will help the community move on from the negative connotation
the health department received during the height of the pandemic and remind the
community that the health department has a lot to offer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691006103438.jpeg" alt="There is now more space in the front lobby allowing for more social distancing.&nbsp;Photo by Jonathan Zweygardt/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>There is now more space in the front lobby allowing for more social distancing.&nbsp;Photo by Jonathan Zweygardt/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“We looked at the entire health of the public during COVID
(and) we're still doing that,” Reel said. “Our eye is still on the health of
the general public, so we're going to continue to move forward and and offer our
services.”This week the department offered back-to-school physicals at Hays
Middle School. They are looking at bringing back a foot care program and travel
vaccines. Next month the department is sponsoring a presentation on the dangers of
human trafficking with a free public presentation and presentations to the
local schools. “We’re just hoping that people can continue to see us as a
positive entity moving forward, instead of the negative perception that the
public had simply because of what we were called to do,” Reel said.You can find out more about the services the Ellis County
Health Department offers through its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">website </a>and on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/elliscokshealth">Facebook page</a>.

Ellis County Health Department celebrates safety improvements after threats during pandemic

PLAINVILLE — The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded Rooks County Healthcare Foundation $200,000 in Community Service Program tax credits to help build another daycare center in Rooks County.

The program provides a 70% tax credit to qualified donors in rural communities. The credits are a direct deduction from the donor’s state tax obligation and the remaining 30% of the donation may be deductible on federal tax filings.

The contributions raised by the sale of the tax credits will also help fund a new bus barn facility for the Rooks County Transit System. Both daycare and transit system facilities will be sited on the Rooks County Health Center (RCH) campus grounds.

Stephanie Bjornstad, CEO of the health center said, “These tax credits allow us to fill some&nbsp;funding gaps for providing a day-care center that will help some of our staff with&nbsp;their childcare needs. This will relieve the stress on those employees who have&nbsp;to scramble to find daycare for their young children. We always try to provide the&nbsp;resources that help us retain employees. This will also serve as an added incentive when trying to hire new employees. If potential new hires live outside the county, they might see this as an added incentive for moving their young families to Rooks County.”

Bjornstad went on to note that the daycare center project is a partnership with&nbsp;USD 270 and that after RCH employees had been given a chance to enroll their&nbsp;children, the extra slots would be available to parents in the community at large.

The formal announcement from the Kansas Dept. of Commerce reads in part:

“The CSP program amplifies fundraising activities for non-profits and boosts large capital campaigns. Any individual or business subject to Kansas income tax is eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. This year, CSP will assist six counties with building new or upgrading existing child care facilities. Other community projects across the state include housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, a center for youth who have aged out of the foster system, a dormitory for children in acute psychiatric crises, a community wellness facility, historic renovations, health care equipment, and more.”

The director of RCHF, Eric Sumearll, points out that while the entire allotment of tax credits has already been pledged, there is the possibility that more credits may be available in coming months if other awardees cannot complete their projects.

Rooks County Healthcare Foundation was one of 36 non-profits in Kansas that were awarded the tax credits through a highly competitive, score-based selection process.

The Rooks County Healthcare Foundation is a standalone, 501 (C)(3) non-profit charitable foundation that helps fund many healthcare entities and initiatives in Rooks County.

For more information about Rooks County Healthcare Foundation or Rooks County Health Center, visit <a href="https://rookscountyhealthcenter.com/">www.rookscountyhealthcenter.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690469914988.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RCHFPLAINVILLE — The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded Rooks County Healthcare Foundation $200,000 in Community Service Program tax credits to help build another daycare center in Rooks County.The program provides a 70% tax credit to qualified donors in rural communities. The credits are a direct deduction from the donor’s state tax obligation and the remaining 30% of the donation may be deductible on federal tax filings.The contributions raised by the sale of the tax credits will also help fund a new bus barn facility for the Rooks County Transit System. Both daycare and transit system facilities will be sited on the Rooks County Health Center (RCH) campus grounds.Stephanie Bjornstad, CEO of the health center said, “These tax credits allow us to fill some&nbsp;funding gaps for providing a day-care center that will help some of our staff with&nbsp;their childcare needs. This will relieve the stress on those employees who have&nbsp;to scramble to find daycare for their young children. We always try to provide the&nbsp;resources that help us retain employees. This will also serve as an added incentive when trying to hire new employees. If potential new hires live outside the county, they might see this as an added incentive for moving their young families to Rooks County.”Bjornstad went on to note that the daycare center project is a partnership with&nbsp;USD 270 and that after RCH employees had been given a chance to enroll their&nbsp;children, the extra slots would be available to parents in the community at large.The formal announcement from the Kansas Dept. of Commerce reads in part:“The CSP program amplifies fundraising activities for non-profits and boosts large capital campaigns. Any individual or business subject to Kansas income tax is eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. This year, CSP will assist six counties with building new or upgrading existing child care facilities. Other community projects across the state include housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, a center for youth who have aged out of the foster system, a dormitory for children in acute psychiatric crises, a community wellness facility, historic renovations, health care equipment, and more.”The director of RCHF, Eric Sumearll, points out that while the entire allotment of tax credits has already been pledged, there is the possibility that more credits may be available in coming months if other awardees cannot complete their projects.Rooks County Healthcare Foundation was one of 36 non-profits in Kansas that were awarded the tax credits through a highly competitive, score-based selection process.The Rooks County Healthcare Foundation is a standalone, 501 (C)(3) non-profit charitable foundation that helps fund many healthcare entities and initiatives in Rooks County.For more information about Rooks County Healthcare Foundation or Rooks County Health Center, visit <a href="https://rookscountyhealthcenter.com/">www.rookscountyhealthcenter.com</a>.

Rooks County closer to new day care center, bus barn with tax credit award 

When an altruistic heart is driven by the aspiration to assist others in achieving their full potential, a level of excellence beyond measure is attained. This is how I would portray our nursing department - a group of faculty and staff whose unwavering passion for supporting and caring for others never ceases to amaze me.

 One is through nursing licensure exam pass rates. Our May 2023 doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) graduates achieved a 100% pass rate for the Family Nurse Practitioner National Certification exam, the same pass rate we received in 2022. The national average for this exam was 74% in 2022. 

In November, we hosted the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) to renew accreditation for the DNP program, and we were approved for ten years - the lengthiest renewal period possible.

We are also thrilled to have been selected for a federal grant of over $2.5 million over the next four years. It will provide stipends for students who plan to work in rural western Kansas. This grant also covers tuition, books, and travel expenses and provides an iPad loaded with nearly $500 of medical software for our DNP students. Our commitment to advancing healthcare in rural western Kansas remains steadfast.

While these facts and figures are noteworthy, the true victories lie in the impact stories of our graduates. 

Taylor Ziegler is a prime example of this. Taylor graduated from FHSU with both her undergraduate and graduate degrees and now serves as Vice President of Nursing at Camber Children's Mental Health, where she oversees nursing and program services for Camber's children's psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment facilities.

"I appreciate how Fort Hays teaches students about diverse and rural populations and how to serve them best as a provider. Camber continues to serve children in crisis across our three sites in Kansas and enjoys having FHSU nursing students for their clinical in mental health," shared Taylor.

Through her service as an engaged citizen leader on our BSN and DNP advisory boards, Taylor perfectly embodies our university’s mission. She is an outstanding advocate for advancing the quality of nursing and mental health care in western Kansas.

In May, we graduated our largest bachelor of science class ever. 

Our National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate for the last two years combined is 95%. In 2022 our pass rate was 93%, a remarkable achievement compared to the national average of just under 80%. 

Our success has led to an opportunity to expand our impact, with our faculty seeking approval from the State Board of Nursing in Topeka to raise our admission quota from 65 to 90. The request was approved. This will allow us to prepare even more students for rewarding careers in nursing.

I am particularly impressed by how the department collaborates with Hays Medical Center (HMC). 

Recently, HMC created a paid summer internship that allows students who plan to work at HMC following graduation to receive a stipend for tuition and their time spent working as interns. Thank you, HaysMed and FHSU nursing faculty, for being strong partners and looking out for our students.

Our faculty understands that college is about much more than classrooms and exams – it’s also a time to gain leadership experiences, build confidence, and make a difference. 

Our nursing students are fully engaged in university life, participating in various co-curricular activities, including intercollegiate and intramural athletics, the arts, and student organizations like student government and professional organizations like the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Nursing Christian Fellowship, and Sigma Theta Tau, the international honor society of nursing.

Nursing student Emma Swint's decision to join a student organization helped her build confidence. It also resulted in her making courageous decisions that delivered life-giving results. As a member of the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Emma was asked to consider swabbing her cheek for bone marrow and stem cell donation for the Gift of Life Program. Shortly after that experience, she was notified she was a match for two sisters, one aged five and the other six months, suffering from a type of leukemia.

Emma was sent to Salina in March to begin the process with blood draws to ensure she was the perfect match. In June, Emma received a phone call from the Gift of Life program. She was indeed the perfect match – having one donor match two individuals was extraordinary. She then flew down to Boca Raton, Florida, to give the gift of life to these girls – after a seven-hour, successful transplant process.

I am immensely proud of our faculty members who strive to make their courses and student learning experiences the best possible. 

Dr. Jenny Manry, our exemplary nursing department chair, shared that our recent BSN curriculum change increased the time students spend in clinical and rural rotations. The added hours in the capstone experience will increase student confidence and knowledge regarding patient care, better preparing them to be nurses immediately after graduation. I deeply admire and am grateful for Jenny's vision and passion for serving rural communities.

Our faculty constantly create great experiences and opportunities for our students and model their belief in continuing education and stackable professional credentials. We are very proud of several faculty members who have completed their doctoral degrees over the last two years - Michelle VanderWege, Bonnie Landgraf, and Katie Gabel each received their DNP degrees, and Kelly Cole received her Ed.D. degree.

Our department of nursing is truly exceptional. 

Their commitment to providing high-quality education and training to their students is evident in the success of their graduates. The department's faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting their students in every way possible, from providing hands-on clinical experience to offering mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, the department is at the forefront of nursing education. It's no wonder graduates of this program are highly sought after by employers and go on to make significant contributions to the healthcare field. 

Tisa Mason, Ed.D., is the president of Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president</figcaption>
 </figure>When an altruistic heart is driven by the aspiration to assist others in achieving their full potential, a level of excellence beyond measure is attained. This is how I would portray our nursing department - a group of faculty and staff whose unwavering passion for supporting and caring for others never ceases to amaze me.Success can be measured in several ways. One is through nursing licensure exam pass rates. Our May 2023 doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) graduates achieved a 100% pass rate for the Family Nurse Practitioner National Certification exam, the same pass rate we received in 2022. The national average for this exam was 74% in 2022. In November, we hosted the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) to renew accreditation for the DNP program, and we were approved for ten years - the lengthiest renewal period possible.We are also thrilled to have been selected for a federal grant of over $2.5 million over the next four years. It will provide stipends for students who plan to work in rural western Kansas. This grant also covers tuition, books, and travel expenses and provides an iPad loaded with nearly $500 of medical software for our DNP students. Our commitment to advancing healthcare in rural western Kansas remains steadfast.While these facts and figures are noteworthy, the true victories lie in the impact stories of our graduates. Taylor Ziegler is a prime example of this. Taylor graduated from FHSU with both her undergraduate and graduate degrees and now serves as Vice President of Nursing at Camber Children's Mental Health, where she oversees nursing and program services for Camber's children's psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment facilities."I appreciate how Fort Hays teaches students about diverse and rural populations and how to serve them best as a provider. Camber continues to serve children in crisis across our three sites in Kansas and enjoys having FHSU nursing students for their clinical in mental health," shared Taylor.Through her service as an engaged citizen leader on our BSN and DNP advisory boards, Taylor perfectly embodies our university’s mission. She is an outstanding advocate for advancing the quality of nursing and mental health care in western Kansas.In May, we graduated our largest bachelor of science class ever. Our National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate for the last two years combined is 95%. In 2022 our pass rate was 93%, a remarkable achievement compared to the national average of just under 80%. Our success has led to an opportunity to expand our impact, with our faculty seeking approval from the State Board of Nursing in Topeka to raise our admission quota from 65 to 90. The request was approved. This will allow us to prepare even more students for rewarding careers in nursing.I am particularly impressed by how the department collaborates with Hays Medical Center (HMC). Recently, HMC created a paid summer internship that allows students who plan to work at HMC following graduation to receive a stipend for tuition and their time spent working as interns. Thank you, HaysMed and FHSU nursing faculty, for being strong partners and looking out for our students.Our faculty understands that college is about much more than classrooms and exams – it’s also a time to gain leadership experiences, build confidence, and make a difference. Our nursing students are fully engaged in university life, participating in various co-curricular activities, including intercollegiate and intramural athletics, the arts, and student organizations like student government and professional organizations like the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Nursing Christian Fellowship, and Sigma Theta Tau, the international honor society of nursing.Nursing student Emma Swint's decision to join a student organization helped her build confidence. It also resulted in her making courageous decisions that delivered life-giving results. As a member of the Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students, Emma was asked to consider swabbing her cheek for bone marrow and stem cell donation for the Gift of Life Program. Shortly after that experience, she was notified she was a match for two sisters, one aged five and the other six months, suffering from a type of leukemia.Emma was sent to Salina in March to begin the process with blood draws to ensure she was the perfect match. In June, Emma received a phone call from the Gift of Life program. She was indeed the perfect match – having one donor match two individuals was extraordinary. She then flew down to Boca Raton, Florida, to give the gift of life to these girls – after a seven-hour, successful transplant process.I am immensely proud of our faculty members who strive to make their courses and student learning experiences the best possible. Dr. Jenny Manry, our exemplary nursing department chair, shared that our recent BSN curriculum change increased the time students spend in clinical and rural rotations. The added hours in the capstone experience will increase student confidence and knowledge regarding patient care, better preparing them to be nurses immediately after graduation. I deeply admire and am grateful for Jenny's vision and passion for serving rural communities.Our faculty constantly create great experiences and opportunities for our students and model their belief in continuing education and stackable professional credentials. We are very proud of several faculty members who have completed their doctoral degrees over the last two years - Michelle VanderWege, Bonnie Landgraf, and Katie Gabel each received their DNP degrees, and Kelly Cole received her Ed.D. degree.Our department of nursing is truly exceptional. Their commitment to providing high-quality education and training to their students is evident in the success of their graduates. The department's faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting their students in every way possible, from providing hands-on clinical experience to offering mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, the department is at the forefront of nursing education. It's no wonder graduates of this program are highly sought after by employers and go on to make significant contributions to the healthcare field. I couldn’t be prouder.Tisa Mason, Ed.D., is the president of Fort Hays State University.

Heart of a Tiger: Professional excellence and caring hearts hallmarks of FHSU nursing

Walt Hill, long-time executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, has announced he will retire effective January 2024. 

Hill has had a long and illustrious career in community mental health services, serving High Plains Mental Health Center for a total of 45 years. Hill has served as executive director since 2002. Hill began his career at HPMHC in 1978 as an outpatient therapist. He was later promoted to director of clinical services before becoming executive director.

During Hill’s tenure as executive director, High Plains Mental Health Center saw significant growth and expansion throughout northwest Kansas. 

The number of service locations increased to include more than 50 outreach sites, including the addition of telehealth services in most of the public school districts in HPMHC’s 20-county catchment area and outreach clinics in many hospitals and public health departments. 

Hill, an early leader in the use of telehealth for mental health services, was instrumental in securing crisis screening access for every county hospital and county jail in northwest Kansas. 

Recently, HPMHC became one of the first Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in the state of Kansas, further expanding services and “raising the bar” in providing local behavioral health services.

“I am incredibly proud of all High Plains Mental Health Center has accomplished over the years. We have seen incredible growth in programs, staffing and the number of clients we are able to serve every year,” Hill said.

 “None of it would have been possible without the passion and hard work of our incredible staff. I am grateful to all of them for their contributions and for the long-standing support of all our community partners and counties in Northwest Kansas. It has been my great honor to serve this agency and this region for so many years.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691079007895.png" alt="Walt Hill (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Walt Hill (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>HPMHCWalt Hill, long-time executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, has announced he will retire effective January 2024. Hill has had a long and illustrious career in community mental health services, serving High Plains Mental Health Center for a total of 45 years. Hill has served as executive director since 2002. Hill began his career at HPMHC in 1978 as an outpatient therapist. He was later promoted to director of clinical services before becoming executive director.During Hill’s tenure as executive director, High Plains Mental Health Center saw significant growth and expansion throughout northwest Kansas. The number of service locations increased to include more than 50 outreach sites, including the addition of telehealth services in most of the public school districts in HPMHC’s 20-county catchment area and outreach clinics in many hospitals and public health departments. Hill, an early leader in the use of telehealth for mental health services, was instrumental in securing crisis screening access for every county hospital and county jail in northwest Kansas. Recently, HPMHC became one of the first Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in the state of Kansas, further expanding services and “raising the bar” in providing local behavioral health services.“I am incredibly proud of all High Plains Mental Health Center has accomplished over the years. We have seen incredible growth in programs, staffing and the number of clients we are able to serve every year,” Hill said. “None of it would have been possible without the passion and hard work of our incredible staff. I am grateful to all of them for their contributions and for the long-standing support of all our community partners and counties in Northwest Kansas. It has been my great honor to serve this agency and this region for so many years.”The certified clinics involve expanded substance use disorder treatment programs, including the addition of medication-assisted treatment for opioid disorders; an assertive community treatment team serving Ellis and Russell counties; and greater focus on whole-person healthcare. Additionally, High Plains has integrated bilingual Spanish-speaking services at all levels of care, including support staff, case managers and therapists. Jail-based services have also expanded following the addition of assisted outpatient treatment program in Ellis County for justice-involved clients. During Walt’s tenure, High Plains became an early implementer of the community-based Mental Health First Aid training program. To date, more than 3,300 northwest Kansas residents have been certified in the program by High Plains staff trainers.High Plains Mental Health Center has secured the services of the Boland Group, an executive search consulting firm that will assist with searching for a new executive director. Both internal and external&nbsp;candidates will be considered. The Boland Group has successfully placed new administrative staff at several other Kansas Community Mental Health Centers. The High Plains governing board, consisting of representatives from all 20 counties served, will lead the search and hiring process.“On behalf of the board, I want to thank Walt for his many years of service and all of his efforts to advance behavioral health care in northwest Kansas,” said Joel Hiesterman, board president. “We congratulate him and wish him all the best in retirement, while also looking forward to what will be a promising new chapter for High Plains.”

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