🎥 Green & Growing: Watering depth

For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662736711319.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

Three-day weather outlook

I must admit when I arrived back at my air-conditioned office last Wednesday after spending the day at Kid’s Ag Day, it&nbsp;felt good to sit down. The&nbsp;cool&nbsp;early morning temperatures gave way to a hot day, but that did not take away from the fun learning experienced by 4th&nbsp;graders in&nbsp;Barton County. 

Fourth grade is the perfect age for kids to learn about where their food and other products they use daily come from. The station&nbsp;that&nbsp;my team member, Monique, and I manned for the day emphasized the importance of adding whole grains and other nutritious foods to the diet.&nbsp;We also provided a snack of animal crackers and a serving of 100% fruit juice.

Fourth graders are old enough to learn about reading a nutrition fact label, found on food products. During our short session we talked about looking for whole wheat or another whole grain as the first ingredient and making sure that the food had very little added sugar. I know when we had young kids at home, our rule was that they could choose cereal that had seven grams or less of sugar in a serving. That is a harder assignment than you might think. Many of the popular cereals advertised today have upwards of fifteen or more grams of sugar per serving. And then what about the&nbsp;person who fills an enormous cereal bowl with two cups of cereal? You will need to double the amount of sugar that is consumed. Yikes!

Another benefit of eating whole grains is the amount of fiber that contributes to healthier bodies. A feeling of fullness and healthy elimination are achieved when we consume&nbsp;around 30 grams of fiber each day. Our demonstration showed how fast a slice of white bread disintegrates when dipped in water and how the 100% whole wheat slice held together.&nbsp;

Besides talking about eating whole grains, we had Kassie Linsner, from Hoisington, visit with the 4th&nbsp;graders about joining 4-H.&nbsp;It’s always good to see our young people sharing what they are passionate about.

Hats off to our Great Bend Chamber for putting together such a well-planned event.&nbsp;In it’s 28thyear, many of the volunteers have helped lead a session or demonstration every year.&nbsp;I know I appreciated the help of June, Imogene, Aleta, Marilyn, and Kay who served the snacks.

Short after the calendar turns to October the Hays area 4th&nbsp;graders will be treated to a similar event. Their Kid’s Ag Day is sponsored by Farm Bureau on October 5th. Stacy Campbell, a Cottonwood District Ag and Natural Resources Agent, will have a station teaching young people about corn and the many by products they&nbsp;use daily.&nbsp;

I’m so glad we live in communities that value and promote the&nbsp;farming community and want our young people to develop an appreciation as well!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620) 793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. " />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. </figcaption>
 </figure>I must admit when I arrived back at my air-conditioned office last Wednesday after spending the day at Kid’s Ag Day, it&nbsp;felt good to sit down. The&nbsp;cool&nbsp;early morning temperatures gave way to a hot day, but that did not take away from the fun learning experienced by 4th&nbsp;graders in&nbsp;Barton County. Fourth grade is the perfect age for kids to learn about where their food and other products they use daily come from. The station&nbsp;that&nbsp;my team member, Monique, and I manned for the day emphasized the importance of adding whole grains and other nutritious foods to the diet.&nbsp;We also provided a snack of animal crackers and a serving of 100% fruit juice.Fourth graders are old enough to learn about reading a nutrition fact label, found on food products. During our short session we talked about looking for whole wheat or another whole grain as the first ingredient and making sure that the food had very little added sugar. I know when we had young kids at home, our rule was that they could choose cereal that had seven grams or less of sugar in a serving. That is a harder assignment than you might think. Many of the popular cereals advertised today have upwards of fifteen or more grams of sugar per serving. And then what about the&nbsp;person who fills an enormous cereal bowl with two cups of cereal? You will need to double the amount of sugar that is consumed. Yikes!Another benefit of eating whole grains is the amount of fiber that contributes to healthier bodies. A feeling of fullness and healthy elimination are achieved when we consume&nbsp;around 30 grams of fiber each day. Our demonstration showed how fast a slice of white bread disintegrates when dipped in water and how the 100% whole wheat slice held together.&nbsp;Besides talking about eating whole grains, we had Kassie Linsner, from Hoisington, visit with the 4th&nbsp;graders about joining 4-H.&nbsp;It’s always good to see our young people sharing what they are passionate about.Hats off to our Great Bend Chamber for putting together such a well-planned event.&nbsp;In it’s 28thyear, many of the volunteers have helped lead a session or demonstration every year.&nbsp;I know I appreciated the help of June, Imogene, Aleta, Marilyn, and Kay who served the snacks.Short after the calendar turns to October the Hays area 4th&nbsp;graders will be treated to a similar event. Their Kid’s Ag Day is sponsored by Farm Bureau on October 5th. Stacy Campbell, a Cottonwood District Ag and Natural Resources Agent, will have a station teaching young people about corn and the many by products they&nbsp;use daily.&nbsp;I’m so glad we live in communities that value and promote the&nbsp;farming community and want our young people to develop an appreciation as well!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620) 793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: 4th graders learn where their food comes from

On this episode of the Post Podcast USD 489 assistant superintendent Shanna Dinkel shares updates from the district.

For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

On this episode of the Post Podcast USD 489 assistant superintendent Shanna Dinkel shares updates from the district.<div><iframe title="As USD 489 accreditation process continues, district strengthens practical education programs" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5j54u-12bb693-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

🎙 Post Podcast: As USD 489 accreditation process continues, district strengthens trade and tech programs

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;

In September 1878, freed slaves from Kentucky disembarked from the train in Ellis and made their way on foot 35 miles across the prairie to their new home in <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/nicodemus.htm">Nicodemus</a>.&nbsp;

Over the Labor Day weekend, re-enactors — descendants of those original settlers — made that same journey through chest-high prairie grass in the hot late-summer heat for a documentary filmed on the Ellis Trail.&nbsp;

Angela Bates, <a href="https://www.nicodemushistoricalsociety.org/">Nicodemus</a> descendant and historian, wrote and directed the filming of "Ellis Trail to Nicodemus, The End of the Journey to the Promise Land.” <a href="https://www.abt-films.com/">Nick Abt</a> of Wichita was the videographer for the project.&nbsp;

“I had already seen it in my mind,” Bates said of the script, “and then when I came out on the landscape, it became real. … To participate and see it physically happen was surreal.”&nbsp;

Bates said she hopes the documentary, which will also include scenes filmed with re-enactors in Kentucky and Ellis, interviews with Nicodemus descendants and historical photos, will ultimately be aired on PBS.

“I wanted to focus on the people traveling from Ellis to Nicodemus, but I wanted to focus on the family that came over with that first group in 1878 and the lady that was pregnant at the time,” Bates said.&nbsp;

This woman, Emma Williams, would give birth to the first child born in Nicodemus, Henry, and ultimately Emma would be the matriarch of most of the descendants to live in the community, including Bates.

Emma came to Nicodemus with her parents, Tom and Zerena Johnson and her adult sibling Henry and Ella. Emma was eight months pregnant when she made the trek across the Ellis Trail.&nbsp;

Her husband, Charles Williams, sent her ahead with her parents and siblings, promising to meet Emma in Nicodemus in the spring. As a symbol of this promise, Charles gave Emma a yellow rose to carry with her on her journey.&nbsp;

Emma was afraid she wouldn't see her husband again, which was expressed in the documentary script. Charles did join his wife the following spring in Nicodemus where they established and grew their family.&nbsp;

The rose that Emma carried from Kentucky across the Kansas prairie was dried and pressed into a Bible and handed down through the generations.&nbsp;Although the Nicodemus Historical Society is not aware of the rose’s whereabouts at this time, Bates said she had seen the rose as a younger woman.&nbsp;

Bates said she tried to capture the contrast between the lush Kentucky landscape from which the settlers came to the dry plains of northwest Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I tried to capture the emotion,” Bates said. … “what it was like to be a former slave and now they’re free and now they are going to the West. They’re going to homestead. They’re going to have free land. They are going to have land they can call their own.”&nbsp;

A pivotal scene in the documentary is when the settlers reach Nicodemus. The landscape was barren. The settlers had to build their community up from the dirt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“What I hope people will get out of this is to understand the trials and tribulations and the visions that the people had and what it took for them to make their vision a reality,” Bates said.&nbsp;

“It’s one thing to endure slavery and now you’re emancipated. Now what are you going to do? If you stay in the South, you’re dealing with serious Jim Crow. If you move to the West, you can get some free government land.&nbsp;

Bates said her ancestors had a strong faith in God, and they had to believe their lives were going to be better in Kansas.&nbsp;

Both Bates and Abt said they encountered challenges in filming in the rough, hot prairie environment.&nbsp;The crew only had two days to shoot on location with the re-enactors.

Bates said the re-enactors were excited to participate in the project but were not used to the rough terrain. One of the children fell into a badger hole, but she was unhurt 

Bates and LeRoy Walz, local property owner, were instrumental in finding the path of the Ellis Trail, including finding wagon ruts that are still visible today.&nbsp;

Bates and the Walz family have helped coordinate tours at key locations along the trail, and the Nicodemus Historical Society has assisted in placing historical markers at several sites along the trail, including at the site of the Walz family homestead.&nbsp;

A portion of the limestone home built by the Walz family is still visible on the site. Historical accounts indicate the Nicodemus settlers stopped at the homestead for water on their trek to Nicodemus.&nbsp;

Many members of the extended Walz family traveled to Trego County for the filming and helped support the crew. LeRoy stabled the horses for the wagon teams. LeRoy and his cousin, Albert, both have cameos in the film.&nbsp;

In such a divided nation, Bates pointed to the cooperation between the descendant of Nicodemus and the white descendants from the Walz family who worked together on this project.&nbsp;

“Look at what we are doing right here, today,” she said. “You have 70 some people here depicting this story with wagons. You’ve got cowboys, and you’ve got wagons, and you’ve got people who own all of this equipment. They’re white, and they’re ecstatic and said they where so honored to be a part of this. …&nbsp;

“It’s not just our history, it’s everybody’s history.”&nbsp;

Funding for this project has come from several sources including the National Trust for Public Lands and the National Parks Foundation. Bates is applying for more grants to help fund the completion of the project. Abt offered his services for free.&nbsp;

Abt said the project will not be completed until winter of next year. He said he would like to see the film featured at film festivals and on PBS.&nbsp;

Abt’s wife has connections to the exoduster movement, which were the African Americans who migrated from states along the Mississippi River to Kansas starting in about 1879. He said that connections sparked his interest in the Nicodemus film.

“It’s an amazing piece of history," Abt said. ... “The adversities they faced while they were out there were truly incredible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Being able to be out there and being able to film it where they were. They actually walked right through where we filmed in the heat at the same time of year they were there. You get a really good idea and an appreciation for how hard it was.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Abt has been making films since 2012. Some of his other credits include: “Nico Hernandez: Road to the Olympics,” “Exploration Kansas," “Medicine Hills,” as well as a feature on New Jerusalem State Park for the Nature Conservancy.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662752587394.jpeg" alt="Descendants of Nicodemus settlers are filmed along the Ellis Trail in Trego County for a documentary about Nicodemus. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich " />
 <figcaption>Descendants of Nicodemus settlers are filmed along the Ellis Trail in Trego County for a documentary about Nicodemus. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;In September 1878, freed slaves from Kentucky disembarked from the train in Ellis and made their way on foot 35 miles across the prairie to their new home in <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/nicodemus.htm">Nicodemus</a>.&nbsp;Over the Labor Day weekend, re-enactors — descendants of those original settlers — made that same journey through chest-high prairie grass in the hot late-summer heat for a documentary filmed on the Ellis Trail.&nbsp;Angela Bates, <a href="https://www.nicodemushistoricalsociety.org/">Nicodemus</a> descendant and historian, wrote and directed the filming of "Ellis Trail to Nicodemus, The End of the Journey to the Promise Land.” <a href="https://www.abt-films.com/">Nick Abt</a> of Wichita was the videographer for the project.&nbsp;“I had already seen it in my mind,” Bates said of the script, “and then when I came out on the landscape, it became real. … To participate and see it physically happen was surreal.”&nbsp;Bates said she hopes the documentary, which will also include scenes filmed with re-enactors in Kentucky and Ellis, interviews with Nicodemus descendants and historical photos, will ultimately be aired on PBS.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662752805535.jpeg" alt="Nick Abt, filmmaker, middle, and Angela Bates, writer and director, right, during the filming of a new documentary on the settlement of Nicodemus. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich" />
 <figcaption>Nick Abt, filmmaker, middle, and Angela Bates, writer and director, right, during the filming of a new documentary on the settlement of Nicodemus. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich</figcaption>
 </figure>“I wanted to focus on the people traveling from Ellis to Nicodemus, but I wanted to focus on the family that came over with that first group in 1878 and the lady that was pregnant at the time,” Bates said.&nbsp;This woman, Emma Williams, would give birth to the first child born in Nicodemus, Henry, and ultimately Emma would be the matriarch of most of the descendants to live in the community, including Bates.Emma came to Nicodemus with her parents, Tom and Zerena Johnson and her adult sibling Henry and Ella. Emma was eight months pregnant when she made the trek across the Ellis Trail.&nbsp;Her husband, Charles Williams, sent her ahead with her parents and siblings, promising to meet Emma in Nicodemus in the spring. As a symbol of this promise, Charles gave Emma a yellow rose to carry with her on her journey.&nbsp;Emma was afraid she wouldn't see her husband again, which was expressed in the documentary script. Charles did join his wife the following spring in Nicodemus where they established and grew their family.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662752978639.jpeg" alt="An actress portrays Emma Williams, an early settler of Nicodemus. Emma was eight months pregnant when she walked the 35 miles to Nicodemus from Ellis. Her child was the first baby born in Nicodemus. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich" />
 <figcaption>An actress portrays Emma Williams, an early settler of Nicodemus. Emma was eight months pregnant when she walked the 35 miles to Nicodemus from Ellis. Her child was the first baby born in Nicodemus. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich</figcaption>
 </figure>The rose that Emma carried from Kentucky across the Kansas prairie was dried and pressed into a Bible and handed down through the generations.&nbsp;Although the Nicodemus Historical Society is not aware of the rose’s whereabouts at this time, Bates said she had seen the rose as a younger woman.&nbsp;Bates said she tried to capture the contrast between the lush Kentucky landscape from which the settlers came to the dry plains of northwest Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I tried to capture the emotion,” Bates said. … “what it was like to be a former slave and now they’re free and now they are going to the West. They’re going to homestead. They’re going to have free land. They are going to have land they can call their own.”&nbsp;A pivotal scene in the documentary is when the settlers reach Nicodemus. The landscape was barren. The settlers had to build their community up from the dirt.&nbsp;&nbsp;“What I hope people will get out of this is to understand the trials and tribulations and the visions that the people had and what it took for them to make their vision a reality,” Bates said.&nbsp;“It’s one thing to endure slavery and now you’re emancipated. Now what are you going to do? If you stay in the South, you’re dealing with serious Jim Crow. If you move to the West, you can get some free government land.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662753181039.jpeg" alt="Wagon teams volunteered their time to help in the re-enactment of the Nicodemus settlers' journey along the Ellis Trail for the documentary. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich" />
 <figcaption>Wagon teams volunteered their time to help in the re-enactment of the Nicodemus settlers' journey along the Ellis Trail for the documentary. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich</figcaption>
 </figure>Bates said her ancestors had a strong faith in God, and they had to believe their lives were going to be better in Kansas.&nbsp;Both Bates and Abt said they encountered challenges in filming in the rough, hot prairie environment.&nbsp;The crew only had two days to shoot on location with the re-enactors. Bates said the re-enactors were excited to participate in the project but were not used to the rough terrain. One of the children fell into a badger hole, but she was unhurt Bates and LeRoy Walz, local property owner, were instrumental in finding the path of the Ellis Trail, including finding wagon ruts that are still visible today.&nbsp;Bates and the Walz family have helped coordinate tours at key locations along the trail, and the Nicodemus Historical Society has assisted in placing historical markers at several sites along the trail, including at the site of the Walz family homestead.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662753317514.jpeg" alt="The descendants of Nicodemus portrayed early settlers of the community during the recent filming of a documentary on Nicodemus in Trego County. Angela Bates, a descendant as well as writer and director on the project, is at far left. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovic" />
 <figcaption>The descendants of Nicodemus portrayed early settlers of the community during the recent filming of a documentary on Nicodemus in Trego County. Angela Bates, a descendant as well as writer and director on the project, is at far left. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovic</figcaption>
 </figure>A portion of the limestone home built by the Walz family is still visible on the site. Historical accounts indicate the Nicodemus settlers stopped at the homestead for water on their trek to Nicodemus.&nbsp;Many members of the extended Walz family traveled to Trego County for the filming and helped support the crew. LeRoy stabled the horses for the wagon teams. LeRoy and his cousin, Albert, both have cameos in the film.&nbsp;In such a divided nation, Bates pointed to the cooperation between the descendant of Nicodemus and the white descendants from the Walz family who worked together on this project.&nbsp;“Look at what we are doing right here, today,” she said. “You have 70 some people here depicting this story with wagons. You’ve got cowboys, and you’ve got wagons, and you’ve got people who own all of this equipment. They’re white, and they’re ecstatic and said they where so honored to be a part of this. …&nbsp;“It’s not just our history, it’s everybody’s history.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662753641675.jpeg" alt="Nicodemus documentary director Angela Bates said many of the re-enactors said they were surprised by the rough conditions along the Ellis Trail. They were often walking in native fauna up to their chests. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich" />
 <figcaption>Nicodemus documentary director Angela Bates said many of the re-enactors said they were surprised by the rough conditions along the Ellis Trail. They were often walking in native fauna up to their chests. Photo courtesy of Kellie Hall Crnkovich</figcaption>
 </figure>Funding for this project has come from several sources including the National Trust for Public Lands and the National Parks Foundation. Bates is applying for more grants to help fund the completion of the project. Abt offered his services for free.&nbsp;Abt said the project will not be completed until winter of next year. He said he would like to see the film featured at film festivals and on PBS.&nbsp;Abt’s wife has connections to the exoduster movement, which were the African Americans who migrated from states along the Mississippi River to Kansas starting in about 1879. He said that connections sparked his interest in the Nicodemus film. “It’s an amazing piece of history," Abt said. ... “The adversities they faced while they were out there were truly incredible.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Being able to be out there and being able to film it where they were. They actually walked right through where we filmed in the heat at the same time of year they were there. You get a really good idea and an appreciation for how hard it was.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Abt has been making films since 2012. Some of his other credits include: “Nico Hernandez: Road to the Olympics,” “Exploration Kansas," “Medicine Hills,” as well as a feature on New Jerusalem State Park for the Nature Conservancy.&nbsp;

Black settlers' journey to Nicodemus documented in film shot in NW Kansas

Grow Hays Inc., a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of
Ellis County, has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. These
funds will go toward the building of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6db85997-dab7-4b6a-b1fb-733d747fd944">Grow Hays MicroFactory, which will be breaking ground
this October in the Heart of America Development on Commerce Parkway.
</a>

“In essence, the microfactory is an incubator for
manufacturing companies. It will be a 30,000-square-foot structure divided into four to six areas," said Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams." Once complete, it will house small manufacturers that have an idea or a product they're trying to
bring to the market. Space will be offered at a reduced rental rate to help tenants maximize their
growth potential.”


The Patterson Family Foundation is a family-led foundation extending the legacy of Neal and
Jeanne Patterson. The foundation strives to help lift rural communities through health care,
education, economic opportunity and beyond.


“On behalf of the Patterson Family Foundation, I am pleased to award this funding for the Grow
Hays Microfactory,” said Adam Erickson, program officer for the Patterson Family Foundation. “
The Patterson Family Foundation looks forward to seeing how the microfactory concept will
drive progress and future growth.”


“We are very grateful for the Patterson Family Foundations' financial
support. We see the microfactory as a unique resource where small manufacturers can grow
their businesses," Williams said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574881377018.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysGrow Hays Inc., a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of
Ellis County, has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. These
funds will go toward the building of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6db85997-dab7-4b6a-b1fb-733d747fd944">Grow Hays MicroFactory, which will be breaking ground
this October in the Heart of America Development on Commerce Parkway.
</a>“In essence, the microfactory is an incubator for
manufacturing companies. It will be a 30,000-square-foot structure divided into four to six areas," said Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams." Once complete, it will house small manufacturers that have an idea or a product they're trying to
bring to the market. Space will be offered at a reduced rental rate to help tenants maximize their
growth potential.”
The Patterson Family Foundation is a family-led foundation extending the legacy of Neal and
Jeanne Patterson. The foundation strives to help lift rural communities through health care,
education, economic opportunity and beyond.
“On behalf of the Patterson Family Foundation, I am pleased to award this funding for the Grow
Hays Microfactory,” said Adam Erickson, program officer for the Patterson Family Foundation. “
The Patterson Family Foundation looks forward to seeing how the microfactory concept will
drive progress and future growth.”
“We are very grateful for the Patterson Family Foundations' financial
support. We see the microfactory as a unique resource where small manufacturers can grow
their businesses," Williams said.

Grow Hays awarded Patterson Family Foundation grant

Hays Community Theatre's "Rats: The Story of the Pied Piper" has shows Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All shows for the annual children's theater are sold out. 

See the end of this story for a complete cast list.

Narrator 1: Ryan Giebler Narrator 2: Annalise Adams Narrator 3: Aspen Brull Narrator 4: Savannah Wittkorn (Narrators double as townspeople) Pied Piper: Jacob Ridgway Mayor: Josiah Hill Quigley: Jack Stoecklein Miss Pennywinkle: Kelsey Robben Rats Ratmarie: Janessa Miller Rhonda Rat: Evie Dietz Ratson: Matthias Miller Ratly: Jensen Miller Ratilla: Gracelyn Inlow Rosie Rat: Reagan Becker Candy Rat: Nora Stoecklein Debbie Rat: Hattie Sander Brandy Rat: Avalea Hill Benjamin "Ben" Rat: Brayden Hept Ramona (Baby) Rat: Olivia Legleiter Townspeople of Hamelin Constable Blarney: Micah Hill Mr. Rye/Mr. Ram: Caden Pinkney Miss Lilyspoon: Nevaeh Duncan Miss Finney: Alicia Windholz Mrs Krinkle: Elizabeth Bergman Mrs. Nob: Evelyn Schmidt Mr. Ripple: Malachi Miller Mrs. Pickle: Riley Becker Mr. Teal: Jadon Conner Children of Hamelin Susan Ripple: Khloe Bartling Billie Ram: Katie Ziegler Jimmy Pickle: Josiah Conner Lisa Teal: Melody Gauger Tammy Nob: Hannah Lohrmeyer Wendy Krinkle: Scarlett Wittkorn Pentopolis "Pennyman" Pickle: Skyler Schmidt Nancy Nob: Claire Lonnon Krystal Krinkle: Willa Hill Rita Rye: Lyla Oller Becky Blarney: Brylie Grove

Hays Community Theatre's "Rats: The Story of the Pied Piper" has shows Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All shows for the annual children's theater are sold out. See the end of this story for a complete cast list.<figure>
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662738282919.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662738304213.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Cast list</h2>Narrator 1: Ryan Giebler Narrator 2: Annalise Adams Narrator 3: Aspen Brull Narrator 4: Savannah Wittkorn (Narrators double as townspeople) Pied Piper: Jacob Ridgway Mayor: Josiah Hill Quigley: Jack Stoecklein Miss Pennywinkle: Kelsey Robben Rats Ratmarie: Janessa Miller Rhonda Rat: Evie Dietz Ratson: Matthias Miller Ratly: Jensen Miller Ratilla: Gracelyn Inlow Rosie Rat: Reagan Becker Candy Rat: Nora Stoecklein Debbie Rat: Hattie Sander Brandy Rat: Avalea Hill Benjamin "Ben" Rat: Brayden Hept Ramona (Baby) Rat: Olivia Legleiter Townspeople of Hamelin Constable Blarney: Micah Hill Mr. Rye/Mr. Ram: Caden Pinkney Miss Lilyspoon: Nevaeh Duncan Miss Finney: Alicia Windholz Mrs Krinkle: Elizabeth Bergman Mrs. Nob: Evelyn Schmidt Mr. Ripple: Malachi Miller Mrs. Pickle: Riley Becker Mr. Teal: Jadon Conner Children of Hamelin Susan Ripple: Khloe Bartling Billie Ram: Katie Ziegler Jimmy Pickle: Josiah Conner Lisa Teal: Melody Gauger Tammy Nob: Hannah Lohrmeyer Wendy Krinkle: Scarlett Wittkorn Pentopolis "Pennyman" Pickle: Skyler Schmidt Nancy Nob: Claire Lonnon Krystal Krinkle: Willa Hill Rita Rye: Lyla Oller Becky Blarney: Brylie Grove

📸 Hays Community Theatre's 'Rats: The Story of the Pied Piper' 

History buffs&nbsp;are&nbsp;always&nbsp;in&nbsp;search&nbsp;for stories of the past. They want to&nbsp;learn&nbsp;about the landscape, animals, people and&nbsp;communities&nbsp;connected to those who came before&nbsp;them. Anytime they take a&nbsp;drive or wander about an old homestead or&nbsp;ghost&nbsp;town, their&nbsp;imaginations&nbsp;go into overdrive, wondering how those&nbsp;people’s&nbsp;lives compare to&nbsp;the&nbsp;modern world. This condition has afflicted me since childhood,&nbsp;and I&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;my husband’s patience as I distract him from looking for&nbsp;wild&nbsp;game to seek out&nbsp;evidence of these tales.&nbsp;

We recently traveled to rural area of SE Wyoming,&nbsp;once a mining and logging empire that evolved into a ranching, tourism, and wind energy&nbsp;driven economy.&nbsp;While there are plenty of updated sights to see, plenty of&nbsp;vintage&nbsp;log, stone, and brick structures remain to remind newcomers of the past.

The&nbsp;ranch&nbsp;where&nbsp;we stayed has modern log cabins with&nbsp;wi-fi, TV,&nbsp;hot and cold running water, and&nbsp;electricity&nbsp;for guests.&nbsp;As a counterbalance, it&nbsp;maintains&nbsp;the&nbsp;old homestead cabin and barn to remind&nbsp;owners and guests&nbsp;of its humble beginnings.&nbsp;

Imagine being one of the earliest pioneers in the Platte Valley where summer is short and winter is long.&nbsp;Settlers&nbsp;required&nbsp;protection from&nbsp;the elements&nbsp;in an area small enough they could&nbsp;readily&nbsp;heat it.&nbsp;As a result, these first cabins are&nbsp;small&nbsp;even though you know some families were large. All required minimal construction,&nbsp;and each has a stove pipe hole or remnants of a stone chimney even if they’re&nbsp;tumbling&nbsp;down. &nbsp;Every ranch we drove past still has original buildings on site.&nbsp;One reason,&nbsp;I’m sure,&nbsp;is for esthetics. Another has to be to remind&nbsp;them&nbsp;how hard life was for their ancestors.&nbsp;

Seeing these&nbsp;historic remnants caused me to&nbsp;compare&nbsp;my&nbsp;Great Plains ancestors to&nbsp;those mountain&nbsp;residents’ forebearers. Just&nbsp;as&nbsp;native people&nbsp;around&nbsp;the world used the resources at hand to construct homes, so did&nbsp;my&nbsp;predecessors. Those who settled mountains had forests to provide logs and rivers where they could access stone building materials. Those of us on the prairie&nbsp;struggled&nbsp;to find&nbsp;enough logs to build an&nbsp;outhouse,&nbsp;let alone a&nbsp;cabin. &nbsp;They left sod and dirt as their construction choices.

For&nbsp;prairie&nbsp;immigrants, rock&nbsp;required&nbsp;first&nbsp;a source,&nbsp;then&nbsp;quarrying, cutting, and hauling, efforts that&nbsp;required&nbsp;time&nbsp;enough&nbsp;it put folks in danger of facing winter without roof&nbsp;or&nbsp;walls. &nbsp;To outwit Mother Nature, inventive ancestors discovered they could&nbsp;build a dugout in a creek bank or&nbsp;cut sod and&nbsp;stack it into walls to build&nbsp;a home that mostly kept weather out until they could build something more substantial.&nbsp;According to family lore,&nbsp;I don’t think&nbsp;these earth dwellings&nbsp;kept out snakes and bugs.

Those first prairie homes didn’t hold up&nbsp;well&nbsp;against weather&nbsp;extremes&nbsp;so we don’t see many&nbsp;remaining&nbsp;on family&nbsp;farm sites.&nbsp;When visiting&nbsp;old homesteads, check for indentions in banks of creeks or sides of hills. &nbsp;Look for&nbsp;piles of melted sod with remnants of stove pipes, wood frames, or odd metal&nbsp;sticking out.&nbsp;Today, those interested in&nbsp;such&nbsp;stories can visit museums&nbsp;with reproduction&nbsp;soddies&nbsp;or look through old&nbsp;family&nbsp;photos to see how&nbsp;prairie&nbsp;relatives&nbsp;fared compared to those who&nbsp;lived&nbsp;back East or in the mountains.

Based on experience,&nbsp;I find&nbsp;it’s easier to&nbsp;find&nbsp;fragments&nbsp;of the past where pioneers built with long lasting resources like rock and wood. However, it’s worth&nbsp;getting permission&nbsp;to walk old farmsteads&nbsp;to find original soddy or dugout&nbsp;sites.&nbsp;Once you discover one, be careful walking around.&nbsp;Spying&nbsp;the&nbsp;lid to an old stove that great great-gramma cooked on is a Eureka moment that memorializes&nbsp;where you came from and&nbsp;the&nbsp;sturdy folk who made you.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662568668351.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINHistory buffs&nbsp;are&nbsp;always&nbsp;in&nbsp;search&nbsp;for stories of the past. They want to&nbsp;learn&nbsp;about the landscape, animals, people and&nbsp;communities&nbsp;connected to those who came before&nbsp;them. Anytime they take a&nbsp;drive or wander about an old homestead or&nbsp;ghost&nbsp;town, their&nbsp;imaginations&nbsp;go into overdrive, wondering how those&nbsp;people’s&nbsp;lives compare to&nbsp;the&nbsp;modern world. This condition has afflicted me since childhood,&nbsp;and I&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;my husband’s patience as I distract him from looking for&nbsp;wild&nbsp;game to seek out&nbsp;evidence of these tales.&nbsp;We recently traveled to rural area of SE Wyoming,&nbsp;once a mining and logging empire that evolved into a ranching, tourism, and wind energy&nbsp;driven economy.&nbsp;While there are plenty of updated sights to see, plenty of&nbsp;vintage&nbsp;log, stone, and brick structures remain to remind newcomers of the past.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;ranch&nbsp;where&nbsp;we stayed has modern log cabins with&nbsp;wi-fi, TV,&nbsp;hot and cold running water, and&nbsp;electricity&nbsp;for guests.&nbsp;As a counterbalance, it&nbsp;maintains&nbsp;the&nbsp;old homestead cabin and barn to remind&nbsp;owners and guests&nbsp;of its humble beginnings.&nbsp;Imagine being one of the earliest pioneers in the Platte Valley where summer is short and winter is long.&nbsp;Settlers&nbsp;required&nbsp;protection from&nbsp;the elements&nbsp;in an area small enough they could&nbsp;readily&nbsp;heat it.&nbsp;As a result, these first cabins are&nbsp;small&nbsp;even though you know some families were large. All required minimal construction,&nbsp;and each has a stove pipe hole or remnants of a stone chimney even if they’re&nbsp;tumbling&nbsp;down. &nbsp;Every ranch we drove past still has original buildings on site.&nbsp;One reason,&nbsp;I’m sure,&nbsp;is for esthetics. Another has to be to remind&nbsp;them&nbsp;how hard life was for their ancestors.&nbsp;Seeing these&nbsp;historic remnants caused me to&nbsp;compare&nbsp;my&nbsp;Great Plains ancestors to&nbsp;those mountain&nbsp;residents’ forebearers. Just&nbsp;as&nbsp;native people&nbsp;around&nbsp;the world used the resources at hand to construct homes, so did&nbsp;my&nbsp;predecessors. Those who settled mountains had forests to provide logs and rivers where they could access stone building materials. Those of us on the prairie&nbsp;struggled&nbsp;to find&nbsp;enough logs to build an&nbsp;outhouse,&nbsp;let alone a&nbsp;cabin. &nbsp;They left sod and dirt as their construction choices.For&nbsp;prairie&nbsp;immigrants, rock&nbsp;required&nbsp;first&nbsp;a source,&nbsp;then&nbsp;quarrying, cutting, and hauling, efforts that&nbsp;required&nbsp;time&nbsp;enough&nbsp;it put folks in danger of facing winter without roof&nbsp;or&nbsp;walls. &nbsp;To outwit Mother Nature, inventive ancestors discovered they could&nbsp;build a dugout in a creek bank or&nbsp;cut sod and&nbsp;stack it into walls to build&nbsp;a home that mostly kept weather out until they could build something more substantial.&nbsp;According to family lore,&nbsp;I don’t think&nbsp;these earth dwellings&nbsp;kept out snakes and bugs.Those first prairie homes didn’t hold up&nbsp;well&nbsp;against weather&nbsp;extremes&nbsp;so we don’t see many&nbsp;remaining&nbsp;on family&nbsp;farm sites.&nbsp;When visiting&nbsp;old homesteads, check for indentions in banks of creeks or sides of hills. &nbsp;Look for&nbsp;piles of melted sod with remnants of stove pipes, wood frames, or odd metal&nbsp;sticking out.&nbsp;Today, those interested in&nbsp;such&nbsp;stories can visit museums&nbsp;with reproduction&nbsp;soddies&nbsp;or look through old&nbsp;family&nbsp;photos to see how&nbsp;prairie&nbsp;relatives&nbsp;fared compared to those who&nbsp;lived&nbsp;back East or in the mountains.Based on experience,&nbsp;I find&nbsp;it’s easier to&nbsp;find&nbsp;fragments&nbsp;of the past where pioneers built with long lasting resources like rock and wood. However, it’s worth&nbsp;getting permission&nbsp;to walk old farmsteads&nbsp;to find original soddy or dugout&nbsp;sites.&nbsp;Once you discover one, be careful walking around.&nbsp;Spying&nbsp;the&nbsp;lid to an old stove that great great-gramma cooked on is a Eureka moment that memorializes&nbsp;where you came from and&nbsp;the&nbsp;sturdy folk who made you.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: The stuff of sturdy folk

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662736676794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are at home for the first time in 2022 as they host the Ellis Railers at Lewis Field.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/426341">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

&nbsp; You can also hear the Monarchs on 99.5 KHAZ or&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KHAZ">HERE&nbsp;</a>starting at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are at home for the first time in 2022 as they host the Ellis Railers at Lewis Field.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/426341">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/426341?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>&nbsp; You can also hear the Monarchs on 99.5 KHAZ or&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KHAZ">HERE&nbsp;</a>starting at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Ellis

The Hays High Indians travel to Great Bend for a rivalry matchup with the Panthers Friday for week two of the high school football season.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/426332">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

&nbsp; You can also listen to the game on 96.9 KFIX or&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE&nbsp;</a>starting at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays High Indians travel to Great Bend for a rivalry matchup with the Panthers Friday for week two of the high school football season.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/426332">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/426332?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>&nbsp; You can also listen to the game on 96.9 KFIX or&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE&nbsp;</a>starting at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High Indians at Great Bend

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The fair is always about tradition and competition. One of the unusual and traditional competitions is the contest to see who can grow the largest pumpkin.&nbsp;

This year, the fair set a new record. Matt Jacobs of Stillwell, Kansas, broke the all-time record for the largest pumpkin, which came in at 1,280 pounds.

Other contests for the fair’s 10-day run include the youth pedal pull championships on Sunday, the best scarecrow contest, a biscuit bake off, best barbecue sauce contest, and a fresh salsa contest.

Those contests go along with the competitive exhibits that include food, photography, quilts, knitting and many other displays. The competitive displays are back in several buildings this year. The handiwork of Kansas residents is found at the Domestic Arts building, the Lake Talbott East and West buildings, the Pride of Kansas building and the Oz Gallery.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662753990108.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The fair is always about tradition and competition. One of the unusual and traditional competitions is the contest to see who can grow the largest pumpkin.&nbsp;This year, the fair set a new record. Matt Jacobs of Stillwell, Kansas, broke the all-time record for the largest pumpkin, which came in at 1,280 pounds.Other contests for the fair’s 10-day run include the youth pedal pull championships on Sunday, the best scarecrow contest, a biscuit bake off, best barbecue sauce contest, and a fresh salsa contest.Those contests go along with the competitive exhibits that include food, photography, quilts, knitting and many other displays. The competitive displays are back in several buildings this year. The handiwork of Kansas residents is found at the Domestic Arts building, the Lake Talbott East and West buildings, the Pride of Kansas building and the Oz Gallery.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

New and unusual record set at fair

On this episode of the Post Podcast Center for Life Experiences executive director Darian Schlegel shares updates from the center.

<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

On this episode of the Post Podcast Center for Life Experiences executive director Darian Schlegel shares updates from the center.<div><iframe title="New director, services at Center for Life Experiences" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9hbrw-12bb657-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: New director, services at Center for Life Experiences

<a></a>Mandy&nbsp;Giess&nbsp;has joined Heartland Credit Union as a Real Estate Lending Consultant.&nbsp;In her role,&nbsp;Giess&nbsp;will serve members, prospective members, builders,&nbsp;developers,&nbsp;and real estate personnel with home loan products and services.

“We’re excited to have someone with&nbsp;Mandy’s&nbsp;experience&nbsp;and connections to the Hays community&nbsp;on our team,” said Michael Lorimor, VP of Real Estate Lending. “Her knowledge of the home loan process&nbsp;and understanding of&nbsp;the local market&nbsp;will help assure our members receive the right loan with the highest level of service.”&nbsp;

Giess&nbsp;brings&nbsp;more than 13&nbsp;years of experience in the home loan industry to HCU. Most recently, she&nbsp;worked at&nbsp;First Assured Mortgage&nbsp;in Hays&nbsp;as a&nbsp;Mortgage&nbsp;Loan&nbsp;Originator.&nbsp;

Giess’&nbsp;office is located at&nbsp;Heartland’s branch in Hays&nbsp;at&nbsp;2825&nbsp;Plaza Ave.

About&nbsp;Heartland&nbsp;Credit Union HCU is headquartered in Hutchinson, KS, with offices in&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;Haven,&nbsp;Newton&nbsp;and Wichita. HCU delivers financial services to members throughout the US. The credit union, with over&nbsp;35,000&nbsp;members and over $550&nbsp;million in assets, was founded as The Hutchinson Teachers Credit Union in 1948. HCU is a leading home&nbsp;lender and&nbsp;offers a broad array of consumer and business services. Our mission is simple: Delivering Solutions, Earning Trust, and Building Relationships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662727606201.jpeg" alt="Mandy Giess" />
 <figcaption>Mandy Giess</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<a></a>Mandy&nbsp;Giess&nbsp;has joined Heartland Credit Union as a Real Estate Lending Consultant.&nbsp;In her role,&nbsp;Giess&nbsp;will serve members, prospective members, builders,&nbsp;developers,&nbsp;and real estate personnel with home loan products and services.“We’re excited to have someone with&nbsp;Mandy’s&nbsp;experience&nbsp;and connections to the Hays community&nbsp;on our team,” said Michael Lorimor, VP of Real Estate Lending. “Her knowledge of the home loan process&nbsp;and understanding of&nbsp;the local market&nbsp;will help assure our members receive the right loan with the highest level of service.”&nbsp;Giess&nbsp;brings&nbsp;more than 13&nbsp;years of experience in the home loan industry to HCU. Most recently, she&nbsp;worked at&nbsp;First Assured Mortgage&nbsp;in Hays&nbsp;as a&nbsp;Mortgage&nbsp;Loan&nbsp;Originator.&nbsp;Giess’&nbsp;office is located at&nbsp;Heartland’s branch in Hays&nbsp;at&nbsp;2825&nbsp;Plaza Ave.About&nbsp;Heartland&nbsp;Credit Union HCU is headquartered in Hutchinson, KS, with offices in&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;Haven,&nbsp;Newton&nbsp;and Wichita. HCU delivers financial services to members throughout the US. The credit union, with over&nbsp;35,000&nbsp;members and over $550&nbsp;million in assets, was founded as The Hutchinson Teachers Credit Union in 1948. HCU is a leading home&nbsp;lender and&nbsp;offers a broad array of consumer and business services. Our mission is simple: Delivering Solutions, Earning Trust, and Building Relationships.

Giess joins Heartland Credit Union's real estate lending team

ELLIS —&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8cb680b9-fc70-4c82-aef8-3bcdba44fd07" target="_blank">A
steady stream of voters entered the VFW Thursday to decide the fate of a $4.55
million bond issue for repairs and renovations in the district's two main buildings,
Washington Elementary and Ellis Jr./Sr. High School.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1e18c07d7daa72b30eae49" target="_blank">And as predicted by a
2020 Docking Institute survey, voters overwhelmingly supported the measure with
preliminary results showing a final vote of 440-98.</a>

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4858/unofficial-results" target="_blank">Out
of 538 votes cast, 81.78 percent voted yes, and 18.22 percent voted no,
according to the Ellis County Clerk website.</a>

Board of Education president
Randy Honas said he was thankful for the support from the community.

He said he had never heard
much opposition but was still pleasantly surprised by the result, calling it a
“good showing and a great turnout.”

“They told us in the Docking
institute Study they would support a bond of this type and this amount,” Honas
said. “That’s what we ran, and they did what they said they would do,
overwhelmingly.”

“I’m just really happy for
the community and really proud of the community to come out and just do what
they said they were going to do,” he continued. “I couldn’t be prouder.”

Superintendent
Janice Wilson said the measure would positively impact the lives of the
students and staff.

“I think this gets Ellis on
the right track to making sure that our facilities are up to date and have the
opportunity to be where everybody else is,” Wilson said. “It’s been a long time
coming, and we are stoked and super excited because it’s important that Ellis
cares about their kids, and this proves it.”

She said the district would
now move into the design phase and find and hire contractors to do the work.

“Hopefully, we are on track
for next summer or even before to get this started,” Wilson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662693130095.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS —&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8cb680b9-fc70-4c82-aef8-3bcdba44fd07" target="_blank">A
steady stream of voters entered the VFW Thursday to decide the fate of a $4.55
million bond issue for repairs and renovations in the district's two main buildings,
Washington Elementary and Ellis Jr./Sr. High School.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1e18c07d7daa72b30eae49" target="_blank">And as predicted by a
2020 Docking Institute survey, voters overwhelmingly supported the measure with
preliminary results showing a final vote of 440-98.</a><a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4858/unofficial-results" target="_blank">Out
of 538 votes cast, 81.78 percent voted yes, and 18.22 percent voted no,
according to the Ellis County Clerk website.</a>Voter turnout was 29.07
percent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662695372331.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Board of Education president
Randy Honas said he was thankful for the support from the community.He said he had never heard
much opposition but was still pleasantly surprised by the result, calling it a
“good showing and a great turnout.”“They told us in the Docking
institute Study they would support a bond of this type and this amount,” Honas
said. “That’s what we ran, and they did what they said they would do,
overwhelmingly.”“I’m just really happy for
the community and really proud of the community to come out and just do what
they said they were going to do,” he continued. “I couldn’t be prouder.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662695418358.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Superintendent
Janice Wilson said the measure would positively impact the lives of the
students and staff.“I think this gets Ellis on
the right track to making sure that our facilities are up to date and have the
opportunity to be where everybody else is,” Wilson said. “It’s been a long time
coming, and we are stoked and super excited because it’s important that Ellis
cares about their kids, and this proves it.”She said the district would
now move into the design phase and find and hire contractors to do the work.“Hopefully, we are on track
for next summer or even before to get this started,” Wilson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662695293553.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis USD 388 bond issue proposal passes by wide margin

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Rush County Grocery has become the latest grocery store to close in rural Kansas, leaving that county without a full-service grocery store.

Rush County becomes the eighth county in northwest Kansas to have some portion categorized as a food desert.

A food desert is an area defined by the United States Department of Agriculture as low income, based on poverty rates and area median income levels. It is also considered low access, an area where people live more than 10 miles from a grocery store in a rural area and more than one mile from a grocery store in an urban area.

The nearest full-service grocery store will now be in Hays, 24 miles away.

Henry Motniel, owner of the store, expressed concern for the community members who now have to travel for food, especially the elderly and people who do not have vehicles.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/055d3db6-ea2f-405a-b860-9af0585281ae">The state closed the store Aug. 30 for the non-payment of taxes.</a>

Montiel took responsibility for the closure, but cited many pressures that have made owning and operating independent groceries in rural communities increasingly more difficult.

Increased competition from chain discount stores, inflation and lack of volume were all challenges, Montiel said.

Montiel had only owned the grocery store for a little more than a year, but had managed it for four years.

&nbsp;The community already had a Dollar General, and a Family Dollar opened within the last year in La Crosse.

"Those corporate businesses can order shiploads of products when us little mom and pops can only order $10,000 per week," Montiel said. "We're limited in what we can bring in."

The margin on groceries is narrow. Most groceries make their profit on volume, so Montiel said it can be challenging to do that in a community such as La Crosse, which has a population of only 1,266 people.

Large discount stores and grocery store chains can also negotiate better prices than independent groceries, also based on volume.

"It's frustrating, Montiel said of the corporate competition. "There's just enough pie to go around for everybody. ...

"Those corporate businesses don't help any local small-town owners. They're just moving in and pushing us out."

Montiel said he also struggled with cooler breakdowns. Most of his coolers were 30 years old. The store had several breakdowns in the four years he managed the store.

"One breakdown can put you upside down in a hurry," he said.

Finding capital was a challenge as well, Montiel said.

"It's a gamble for the banks because we are usually a break-even type of place," he said.

Full-service grocery stores also have high electric costs because of the coolers. The Rush County Grocery's electric bill was running $3,300 to $4,000 month. Montiel said he didn't have the capital to put in new coolers that would be more energy efficient.

John Girard, owner of <a href="https://girardsmarket.com/ads">Girard's IGA</a> in Osborne, replaced his coolers and added roof-top solar panels in attempt to lower his cost. You can read more on his business in the Hays Post 2021 food desert story: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5c441fe1-a349-4de5-9be0-9cc87704ab70">In the land of plenty, food deserts prevalent in western Kansas</a>.

Unlike discount stores, full-service grocery stores are affected more by spoilage because they carry fresh meat, produce, dairy and&nbsp; bread. They often make up for loses on fresh products with higher margins on packaged foods.

However, now many small community grocery stores are now competing against discount stores on those items.

Montiel said as inflation drove up the prices of perishables, the store lost more to spoilage while also facing higher wholesale prices.

Montiel said he was engaged in the community in ways corporate stores are not. He donated to local causes and often let hungry families charge food when they were down on their luck.

"I tried to help my community in any way I could," he said.

Rush County Economic Development Administrator Brad Penka said last week county officials are trying to find a new owner for the grocery store as soon as possible. 

If interested in owning the grocery store, residents can call Rush County Economic Development at 785-222-2808.    

Read more from the Hays Post on food deserts:

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e1b64463-c2bc-4cfe-8371-b1b140eaac76">RELATED STORY: As population shrinks, Morland finds a new way to provide groceries</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/44bebdce-614d-40e6-8d28-de0885eea101">RELATED STORY: Grow local, eat local: Luray fills food void with farmers market</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662039497857.jpeg" alt="The state of Kansas forced the Rush County Grocery in La Crosse to close Aug. 30 due to "failure to keep up on sales tax."" />
 <figcaption>The state of Kansas forced the Rush County Grocery in La Crosse to close Aug. 30 due to "failure to keep up on sales tax."</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Rush County Grocery has become the latest grocery store to close in rural Kansas, leaving that county without a full-service grocery store.Rush County becomes the eighth county in northwest Kansas to have some portion categorized as a food desert. A food desert is an area defined by the United States Department of Agriculture as low income, based on poverty rates and area median income levels. It is also considered low access, an area where people live more than 10 miles from a grocery store in a rural area and more than one mile from a grocery store in an urban area. The nearest full-service grocery store will now be in Hays, 24 miles away.Henry Motniel, owner of the store, expressed concern for the community members who now have to travel for food, especially the elderly and people who do not have vehicles.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/055d3db6-ea2f-405a-b860-9af0585281ae">The state closed the store Aug. 30 for the non-payment of taxes.</a>Montiel took responsibility for the closure, but cited many pressures that have made owning and operating independent groceries in rural communities increasingly more difficult.Increased competition from chain discount stores, inflation and lack of volume were all challenges, Montiel said.Montiel had only owned the grocery store for a little more than a year, but had managed it for four years.&nbsp;The community already had a Dollar General, and a Family Dollar opened within the last year in La Crosse."Those corporate businesses can order shiploads of products when us little mom and pops can only order $10,000 per week," Montiel said. "We're limited in what we can bring in." The margin on groceries is narrow. Most groceries make their profit on volume, so Montiel said it can be challenging to do that in a community such as La Crosse, which has a population of only 1,266 people.Large discount stores and grocery store chains can also negotiate better prices than independent groceries, also based on volume. "It's frustrating, Montiel said of the corporate competition. "There's just enough pie to go around for everybody. ..."Those corporate businesses don't help any local small-town owners. They're just moving in and pushing us out." Montiel said he also struggled with cooler breakdowns. Most of his coolers were 30 years old. The store had several breakdowns in the four years he managed the store. "One breakdown can put you upside down in a hurry," he said.Finding capital was a challenge as well, Montiel said."It's a gamble for the banks because we are usually a break-even type of place," he said. Full-service grocery stores also have high electric costs because of the coolers. The Rush County Grocery's electric bill was running $3,300 to $4,000 month. Montiel said he didn't have the capital to put in new coolers that would be more energy efficient.John Girard, owner of <a href="https://girardsmarket.com/ads">Girard's IGA</a> in Osborne, replaced his coolers and added roof-top solar panels in attempt to lower his cost. You can read more on his business in the Hays Post 2021 food desert story: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5c441fe1-a349-4de5-9be0-9cc87704ab70">In the land of plenty, food deserts prevalent in western Kansas</a>.Unlike discount stores, full-service grocery stores are affected more by spoilage because they carry fresh meat, produce, dairy and&nbsp; bread. They often make up for loses on fresh products with higher margins on packaged foods.However, now many small community grocery stores are now competing against discount stores on those items. Montiel said as inflation drove up the prices of perishables, the store lost more to spoilage while also facing higher wholesale prices.Montiel said he was engaged in the community in ways corporate stores are not. He donated to local causes and often let hungry families charge food when they were down on their luck."I tried to help my community in any way I could," he said. Rush County Economic Development Administrator Brad Penka said last week county officials are trying to find a new owner for the grocery store as soon as possible. If interested in owning the grocery store, residents can call Rush County Economic Development at 785-222-2808. Read more from the Hays Post on food deserts:<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e1b64463-c2bc-4cfe-8371-b1b140eaac76">RELATED STORY: As population shrinks, Morland finds a new way to provide groceries</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/44bebdce-614d-40e6-8d28-de0885eea101">RELATED STORY: Grow local, eat local: Luray fills food void with farmers market</a>

La Crosse grocery not alone in struggle to stay open in rural Kansas

The newly formed Hays High bowling team has set a fundraiser bowling tournament to outfit the team, and they hope community members will join them.

The Unified Bowling Roll-Off will be Sunday, Sept. 18, at Centennial Lanes in Hays. Check in will be at noon with the scrimmage starting at 12:30 p.m.

This will be the first season for bowling at HHS. Students will be able to participate in two seasons. The fall season is for unified teams. The regular season kicks off after winter break.

The regular season has six tournaments set with the possibility of two more, not including regionals or state.

During the unified season, students with intellectual disabilities are paired with general education students. Richard Hodges, coach, said this will allow students of all abilities to compete on the team. The team will take freshmen through seniors.

The unified team has at least three tournaments guaranteed, and Hodges is hoping for two more. That does not count the roll-off or post-season.

Bowling is the only sport at HHS in which students with intellectual disabilities compete along side their peers in this way, Hodges said.

"It is showing the importance of getting everybody together on the same level at the same time," he said. "We are showing the importance of truly making everybody equal."

Bowling is more of a mental sport than a physical game, Hodges said. It can accommodate students who may not be able to throw a ball or run fast. It also can be a lifetime activity.

Teams of four are being formed for the roll-off fundraiser. The teams will consist of a sponsor member, member of a local bowling league, a general education student and an intellectually disabled student. 

Since the bowling team tryouts won't be until after the roll-off, any students can participate in the fundraiser.

The interest in the new sport at HHS has been huge, Hodges said. Sixty-four students signed up to participate on the team during a recent informational meeting. Tryouts for the unified team will be Sept. 26.

However, the team is starting from scratch in terms of equipment. The team needs balls, shoes, bags and uniforms. 

Hodges said using house equipment is comparable to PGA golfers using putt-putt golf clubs. Using plastic balls and rented shoes would put all the team's bowlers at a great disadvantage, he said.

Hodges said he hopes to accommodate as many students as possible, especially during the unified season. He would like to be able to have at least 30 students outfitted for the unified season with the ability to take 24 students plus alternates to each tournament.

School district funds to outfit the team are limited, so Hodges said he is hoping for 25 to 30 teams and to raise at least $5,000 through the upcoming roll off.

You can sponsor the team for $125. That includes T-shirts and your business's logo on a banner and/or participation in the roll-off scrimmage.

Local league bowlers can participate in the roll-off for $25. 

However, Hodges said no donation is too small. Anyone interested in donating to the team, becoming a sponsor or participating in the roll-off can contact Hodges at r.hodges@USD489.com. You can also call the high school at 785-623-2600.

Hodges also encouraged parents and members of the community to come out and watch the teams during the scrimmage on Sept. 18.

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe newly formed Hays High bowling team has set a fundraiser bowling tournament to outfit the team, and they hope community members will join them.The Unified Bowling Roll-Off will be Sunday, Sept. 18, at Centennial Lanes in Hays. Check in will be at noon with the scrimmage starting at 12:30 p.m.This will be the first season for bowling at HHS. Students will be able to participate in two seasons. The fall season is for unified teams. The regular season kicks off after winter break.The regular season has six tournaments set with the possibility of two more, not including regionals or state. During the unified season, students with intellectual disabilities are paired with general education students. Richard Hodges, coach, said this will allow students of all abilities to compete on the team. The team will take freshmen through seniors.The unified team has at least three tournaments guaranteed, and Hodges is hoping for two more. That does not count the roll-off or post-season. Bowling is the only sport at HHS in which students with intellectual disabilities compete along side their peers in this way, Hodges said."It is showing the importance of getting everybody together on the same level at the same time," he said. "We are showing the importance of truly making everybody equal."Bowling is more of a mental sport than a physical game, Hodges said. It can accommodate students who may not be able to throw a ball or run fast. It also can be a lifetime activity.Teams of four are being formed for the roll-off fundraiser. The teams will consist of a sponsor member, member of a local bowling league, a general education student and an intellectually disabled student. Since the bowling team tryouts won't be until after the roll-off, any students can participate in the fundraiser.The interest in the new sport at HHS has been huge, Hodges said. Sixty-four students signed up to participate on the team during a recent informational meeting. Tryouts for the unified team will be Sept. 26. However, the team is starting from scratch in terms of equipment. The team needs balls, shoes, bags and uniforms. Hodges said using house equipment is comparable to PGA golfers using putt-putt golf clubs. Using plastic balls and rented shoes would put all the team's bowlers at a great disadvantage, he said. Hodges said he hopes to accommodate as many students as possible, especially during the unified season. He would like to be able to have at least 30 students outfitted for the unified season with the ability to take 24 students plus alternates to each tournament.School district funds to outfit the team are limited, so Hodges said he is hoping for 25 to 30 teams and to raise at least $5,000 through the upcoming roll off. You can sponsor the team for $125. That includes T-shirts and your business's logo on a banner and/or participation in the roll-off scrimmage.Local league bowlers can participate in the roll-off for $25. However, Hodges said no donation is too small. Anyone interested in donating to the team, becoming a sponsor or participating in the roll-off can contact Hodges at r.hodges@USD489.com. You can also call the high school at 785-623-2600.Hodges also encouraged parents and members of the community to come out and watch the teams during the scrimmage on Sept. 18. Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay

Hays High bowling sets community tournament to outfit new team

The Bennington State Bank has hired Chris Yohe as Salina market president. 

Yohe
 will assist with administering agricultural and commercial based credit
 needs and opportunities by serving and maintaining strong relationships
 with the Bennington State Bank Salina market. Yohe is an experienced 
lender and most recently served as central Kansas market president for 
BANK VI, a division of Plains State Bank, working there since 2019. Yohe
 earned his B.A. in finance from Fort Hays State University.

“We
 are excited to have Chris join the BSB team, we value his leadership 
and contributions to our community”, said Brett Mitchell, Bennington 
State Bank chief banking officer.

“BSB is fortunate to add someone of Chris’ deep experience and community standing. We look forward to his many contributions to our community focused organization,” said Darren Gragg, president and CEO of The Bennington State Bank.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662743696244.jpeg" alt="Yohe" />
 <figcaption>Yohe</figcaption>
 </figure>BSBThe Bennington State Bank has hired Chris Yohe as Salina market president. Yohe
 will assist with administering agricultural and commercial based credit
 needs and opportunities by serving and maintaining strong relationships
 with the Bennington State Bank Salina market. Yohe is an experienced 
lender and most recently served as central Kansas market president for 
BANK VI, a division of Plains State Bank, working there since 2019. Yohe
 earned his B.A. in finance from Fort Hays State University.“We
 are excited to have Chris join the BSB team, we value his leadership 
and contributions to our community”, said Brett Mitchell, Bennington 
State Bank chief banking officer.“BSB is fortunate to add someone of Chris’ deep experience and community standing. We look forward to his many contributions to our community focused organization,” said Darren Gragg, president and CEO of The Bennington State Bank.

Fort Hays State alum takes reins of Salina bank

Thomas More Prep-Marian High School is going back to the
 future with the piloting of a new boarding program for its students on 
the campus of Fort Hays State University. TMP-Marian previously 
housed boarding students for over 80 years until 2014 when the decision 
was made to close the Catholic secondary school's dormitories.

The pilot program is starting small with just three students. While 
these three students live off campus, they attend&nbsp;classes at TMP-Marian 
during the school day.

"Our students and families are always excited to welcome students 
from out of the area, out of the state, and even out of the country," Principal Chad Meitner said. "The school's long tradition of 
welcoming&nbsp;students from all cultures and faiths is part of our mission 
to extend God's love to the world."

The program was formed to create additional&nbsp;opportunities to bring 
more secondary students to the Hays area.&nbsp;

"This program expands access 
for out-of-town students," Meitner said.

As the pilot year progresses, the program will be evaluated by both 
FHSU and TMP-Marian to determine whether it is in the best 
interest of both institutions to continue.

"Currently, TMP-Marian houses students with local host families, and 
this has been very successful," Meitner said. "The host family model will continue, and 
we hope to supplement it with a small boarding program as well, meeting 
the needs of a larger number of applicants."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662571805879.png" alt="TMP-M courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>TMP-M courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MThomas More Prep-Marian High School is going back to the
 future with the piloting of a new boarding program for its students on 
the campus of Fort Hays State University. TMP-Marian previously 
housed boarding students for over 80 years until 2014 when the decision 
was made to close the Catholic secondary school's dormitories.The pilot program is starting small with just three students. While 
these three students live off campus, they attend&nbsp;classes at TMP-Marian 
during the school day."Our students and families are always excited to welcome students 
from out of the area, out of the state, and even out of the country," Principal Chad Meitner said. "The school's long tradition of 
welcoming&nbsp;students from all cultures and faiths is part of our mission 
to extend God's love to the world."The program was formed to create additional&nbsp;opportunities to bring 
more secondary students to the Hays area.&nbsp;"This program expands access 
for out-of-town students," Meitner said.As the pilot year progresses, the program will be evaluated by both 
FHSU and TMP-Marian to determine whether it is in the best 
interest of both institutions to continue."Currently, TMP-Marian houses students with local host families, and 
this has been very successful," Meitner said. "The host family model will continue, and 
we hope to supplement it with a small boarding program as well, meeting 
the needs of a larger number of applicants."

Off-campus housing: TMP-Marian pilots boarding program

In an effort to promote shopping local this holiday season, the Hays Chamber is preparing a 2022 Holiday Coupon book featuring area businesses and specials.

“It’s just a fun way to remind our local population to shop and dine local for the holidays,” said Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership.

The book will be 6-by4 inches and sell for $10 each. They are expected to be available for purchase in late October.

But now is the time for businesses to purchase space in the book. Spaces run from interior spots for $40 to the back cover for $250, according to&nbsp;Mariah Legleiter, vice president of marketing and communications.&nbsp;

While the effort has just begun to create the book, she said spots have already been sold.

“You need to let us know as soon as possible if you would like to have a space in the book,” Legleiter said. “And we ask that your artwork and payment be delivered to the chamber no later than Sept. 30 by the end of the day ... because we're going to really have to hit the ground running and work with our other business partners to kind of get those printed and distributed.”

Following the deadline, Meyerhoff said they should be able to let people know the value of the savings in the listings.

While those details are yet to be determined, she said using the book helps those local businesses that support the community.

“Something that we really just hope, again, to remind people is to keep money in the community,” Meyerhoff said. “Who pays for your kids' sporting shirts, or who helps to sponsor the yearbook or all those different things that we ask our locals to sponsor? It's really important for us to remember to buy from them locally so they can do those things. They like to do those things, but they can only do what they can do. So that'll help keep some money in the community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646435925841.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIn an effort to promote shopping local this holiday season, the Hays Chamber is preparing a 2022 Holiday Coupon book featuring area businesses and specials.“It’s just a fun way to remind our local population to shop and dine local for the holidays,” said Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership.The book will be 6-by4 inches and sell for $10 each. They are expected to be available for purchase in late October.But now is the time for businesses to purchase space in the book. Spaces run from interior spots for $40 to the back cover for $250, according to&nbsp;Mariah Legleiter, vice president of marketing and communications.&nbsp;While the effort has just begun to create the book, she said spots have already been sold.“You need to let us know as soon as possible if you would like to have a space in the book,” Legleiter said. “And we ask that your artwork and payment be delivered to the chamber no later than Sept. 30 by the end of the day ... because we're going to really have to hit the ground running and work with our other business partners to kind of get those printed and distributed.”Following the deadline, Meyerhoff said they should be able to let people know the value of the savings in the listings.While those details are yet to be determined, she said using the book helps those local businesses that support the community.“Something that we really just hope, again, to remind people is to keep money in the community,” Meyerhoff said. “Who pays for your kids' sporting shirts, or who helps to sponsor the yearbook or all those different things that we ask our locals to sponsor? It's really important for us to remember to buy from them locally so they can do those things. They like to do those things, but they can only do what they can do. So that'll help keep some money in the community.”“And oftentimes, you can find stuff that's unique to our community,” Legleiter said. “You find really community-specific items, and I think that is something super cool that we sometimes forget about is that going into that store, they're going to have all kinds of stuff that you can find that you might not be able to find somewhere else.”<a href="https://hayschamber.com/sites/default/files/shophaysadflyer.pdf">For more information about the Shop Hays for the Holidays coupon book, visit the Chamber website, hayschamber.com</a>