By BECKY KISER Hays Post

As the temperature began warming up last month for the summer season, the city of Hays turned its focus to outdoor projects for many departments.

An unwanted consequence of the hotter weather is water leaks.

Water leaks last month resulted in the replacement of street concrete and bricks in several areas of town.

"Obviously, when it's very warm the ground shifts which often creates breaks in the water lines. It's not uncommon at all, unfortunately," said Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, during the June progress report to city commissioners.

Bielser ran through some of the June projects and work highlights by city departments.

In addition to hosting an open house about the new fire station to be built at 1732 W. 41st, the Hays Fire Department members underwent training for trench collapse rescue, along with Ellis County rural firefighters, and live fire fighting during June.

East Frontier Park has a new parking lot, including drainage for stormwater runoff.

A new batting cage outside the Larks Park spectator area has been constructed. The Hays Baseball Association provided $20,000 in funding for the project.&nbsp;

Prior to the Hays Larks season opening, artificial turf was replaced at the pitcher's mound and the catcher's receiving area.

Two Hays police officers, Cpl. Brandon Bell and Sgt. Jason Bonczynski, were recognized for their lifesaving actions.

The stormwater division of the Department of Water Resources has a new mascot, "Stormwater Dog Chetolah." The furry blue dog is named after Chetolah Creek which runs through Hays and who will appear alongside "WaterSmart Wally" in promoting water conservation at various public events and in schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657574361928.jpeg" alt="Dept. of Water Resources employees repair a water leak at 12th and Vine last month in Hays. (Photo by City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Dept. of Water Resources employees repair a water leak at 12th and Vine last month in Hays. (Photo by City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAs the temperature began warming up last month for the summer season, the city of Hays turned its focus to outdoor projects for many departments.An unwanted consequence of the hotter weather is water leaks.Water leaks last month resulted in the replacement of street concrete and bricks in several areas of town."Obviously, when it's very warm the ground shifts which often creates breaks in the water lines. It's not uncommon at all, unfortunately," said Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, during the June progress report to city commissioners.Bielser ran through some of the June projects and work highlights by city departments.<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Mon Jul 11 2022 15:13:36 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="June Progress Report"/><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/hN0A4OzL-1920.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/hN0A4OzL-AMBVbJQD.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/hN0A4OzL-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="June Progress Report" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657573569733.jpeg" alt="Hays Fire Dept. trench collapse rescue training (Photos by City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Hays Fire Dept. trench collapse rescue training (Photos by City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to hosting an open house about the new fire station to be built at 1732 W. 41st, the Hays Fire Department members underwent training for trench collapse rescue, along with Ellis County rural firefighters, and live fire fighting during June.East Frontier Park has a new parking lot, including drainage for stormwater runoff.A new batting cage outside the Larks Park spectator area has been constructed. The Hays Baseball Association provided $20,000 in funding for the project.&nbsp;Prior to the Hays Larks season opening, artificial turf was replaced at the pitcher's mound and the catcher's receiving area.Two Hays police officers, Cpl. Brandon Bell and Sgt. Jason Bonczynski, were recognized for their lifesaving actions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657573439643.jpeg" alt="WaterSmart Willy and Stormwater Dog Chetolah at Larks Park. (Photos by City of Hays)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>WaterSmart Willy and Stormwater Dog Chetolah at Larks Park. (Photos by City of Hays)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The stormwater division of the Department of Water Resources has a new mascot, "Stormwater Dog Chetolah." The furry blue dog is named after Chetolah Creek which runs through Hays and who will appear alongside "WaterSmart Wally" in promoting water conservation at various public events and in schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥 Hot temps create water leaks in Hays streets last month

TOPEKA – The Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board will hold its initial organizational meeting on Thursday to begin discussion of the process for distributing funds to combat opioid and other addictions in Kansas, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said.

Under the Kansas Fights Addiction Act, proposed by Schmidt and enacted last year by the state legislature, money recovered by the attorney general pursuant to opioid litigation will be used to address substance abuse and help ensure addiction services are provided throughout the state. Funding will be available through the grant review board created by the statute. State agencies, local governments and not-for-profit entities operating within the state may apply for funding for addiction treatment and abatement through the board.

Schmidt has appointed Pat George of Dodge City, a former state representative and commerce secretary, to chair the board. George also previously served as president and CEO of Valley Hope, an addiction treatment organization based in Norton. Additional members of the board have been appointed by other state leaders and organizations, in accordance with the Kansas Fights Addiction Act and are listed on the website linked below.

The board will meet on July 14, at 1 p.m. in the auditorium of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation Forensic Science Center, 2001 SW Washburn Avenue, Topeka. The organizational meeting will inform the board members of their statutory charge and begin discussion of the grant process. Additional information on the grant application and review process will be announced at a later date.

Schmidt’s office has negotiated settlements resulting in nearly $200 million related to unlawful opioid manufacturing, marketing and distribution, to be paid in installments over the next several years. Under the provisions of the Kansas Fights Addiction Act, a portion of the settlements will be distributed directly to local Kansas jurisdictions, with the remaining funds to be distributed by the grant review board.

More information about the Kansas Fights Addiction Act, the board and the opioid litigation is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/opioids" target="_blank">https://www.ag.ks.gov/opioids</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645113218229.png" alt="Oxycodone pills (Photo courtesy U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration)" />
 <figcaption>Oxycodone pills (Photo courtesy U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration)</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseTOPEKA – The Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board will hold its initial organizational meeting on Thursday to begin discussion of the process for distributing funds to combat opioid and other addictions in Kansas, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said.Under the Kansas Fights Addiction Act, proposed by Schmidt and enacted last year by the state legislature, money recovered by the attorney general pursuant to opioid litigation will be used to address substance abuse and help ensure addiction services are provided throughout the state. Funding will be available through the grant review board created by the statute. State agencies, local governments and not-for-profit entities operating within the state may apply for funding for addiction treatment and abatement through the board.Schmidt has appointed Pat George of Dodge City, a former state representative and commerce secretary, to chair the board. George also previously served as president and CEO of Valley Hope, an addiction treatment organization based in Norton. Additional members of the board have been appointed by other state leaders and organizations, in accordance with the Kansas Fights Addiction Act and are listed on the website linked below.The board will meet on July 14, at 1 p.m. in the auditorium of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation Forensic Science Center, 2001 SW Washburn Avenue, Topeka. The organizational meeting will inform the board members of their statutory charge and begin discussion of the grant process. Additional information on the grant application and review process will be announced at a later date.Schmidt’s office has negotiated settlements resulting in nearly $200 million related to unlawful opioid manufacturing, marketing and distribution, to be paid in installments over the next several years. Under the provisions of the Kansas Fights Addiction Act, a portion of the settlements will be distributed directly to local Kansas jurisdictions, with the remaining funds to be distributed by the grant review board.More information about the Kansas Fights Addiction Act, the board and the opioid litigation is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/opioids" target="_blank">https://www.ag.ks.gov/opioids</a>.

Former Valley Hope CEO to chair Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board 

Hays Rec looking for fall/winter season class instructors

Crude-oil prices rose two dollars on Friday, and dropped about two dollars Monday. In midday trading, the benchmark Nymex crude contract was hovering near $103 per barrel after dropping below $100 last week. London Brent was also lower Monday, trading under $106 by lunchtime. Prices in McPherson for Kansas Common crude averaged over $104 per barrel in June, the best monthly average since August of 2008. Kansas prices last week dipped into the upper 80s, but then regained some lost ground. As of Friday, the posted price for Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson was $95 a barrel. Gasoline prices continue to drop. The auto club Triple-A says the national average pump price for regular gasoline on Monday was four sixty-seven per gallon, down 13 cents from last week, and 23 cents lower than a month ago. Kansas prices average four forty-six per gallon, down nearly twenty cents from last month. The U.S. Energy Information Administration says it has fixed most the systems issues that delayed data publications for several weeks. But the agency announces the hardware failure that sparked the problems in late June continues to cause problems with data on diesel fuel prices, delaying weekly publications on that subject since June 13th. The agency last week came through with several publications, including its monthly petroleum supply report for April. Crude output in the US and in Kansas declined slightly. US operators pumped nearly 349 million barrels, or 11.62 million barrels per day, down about 60,000 barrels per day from the month before. Kansas output was also down slightly, to about 76,000 barrels per day in April. EIA reports domestic crude inventories increased by 8.2 million barrels last week. At 423.8 million barrels, stockpiles on July 1 were about ten percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles dropped by 2.5 million barrels and are about eight percent below the five-year seasonal average. US crude-oil imports rose 800,000 barrels per day last week to 6.8 million barrels per day. The four-week rolling average is less than one percent ahead of last year at this time. US crude production dipped slightly, with average daily output down 23,000 barrels per day to just over 12.1 million.&nbsp; US Oil-by-rail tallies for the week through July 2nd were up 222 carloads over the week before. The Association of American Railroads says that's about one percent higher than a year earlier. Canadian traffic is up 13% over last year. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes noted 752 active drilling rigs across the US, an increase of two oil rigs. The counts in Texas and Louisiana were each up one from a week ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly, with 23 active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, down one, and 30 west of Wichita, which is down two. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 38 completed wells across the state in the week through July 7th. There were 18 in Western Kansas, including three in Barton County, and one each in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties. New drilling permits were okayed in Barton, Russell and Stafford counties last week. Kansas regulators okayed 46 new drilling locations statewide. That's 847 so far this year, compared to 515 through the first week in July last year. The oil patch in Texas continues to set tax-revenue records. Oil production taxes in June, a whopping $679 million, increased more than $84 million from the month before, the previous record, and nearly doubled the collections from June 2021. The State Comptroller says natural gas producers also paid record production taxes in June, a total of $439 million. The Midland Reporter-Telegram newspaper reports the nearly $1.12 BILLION paid in just one month tops some annual collections from a few years ago.

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude-oil prices rose two dollars on Friday, and dropped about two dollars Monday. In midday trading, the benchmark Nymex crude contract was hovering near $103 per barrel after dropping below $100 last week. London Brent was also lower Monday, trading under $106 by lunchtime. Prices in McPherson for Kansas Common crude averaged over $104 per barrel in June, the best monthly average since August of 2008. Kansas prices last week dipped into the upper 80s, but then regained some lost ground. As of Friday, the posted price for Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson was $95 a barrel. Gasoline prices continue to drop. The auto club Triple-A says the national average pump price for regular gasoline on Monday was four sixty-seven per gallon, down 13 cents from last week, and 23 cents lower than a month ago. Kansas prices average four forty-six per gallon, down nearly twenty cents from last month. The U.S. Energy Information Administration says it has fixed most the systems issues that delayed data publications for several weeks. But the agency announces the hardware failure that sparked the problems in late June continues to cause problems with data on diesel fuel prices, delaying weekly publications on that subject since June 13th. The agency last week came through with several publications, including its monthly petroleum supply report for April. Crude output in the US and in Kansas declined slightly. US operators pumped nearly 349 million barrels, or 11.62 million barrels per day, down about 60,000 barrels per day from the month before. Kansas output was also down slightly, to about 76,000 barrels per day in April. EIA reports domestic crude inventories increased by 8.2 million barrels last week. At 423.8 million barrels, stockpiles on July 1 were about ten percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles dropped by 2.5 million barrels and are about eight percent below the five-year seasonal average. US crude-oil imports rose 800,000 barrels per day last week to 6.8 million barrels per day. The four-week rolling average is less than one percent ahead of last year at this time. US crude production dipped slightly, with average daily output down 23,000 barrels per day to just over 12.1 million.&nbsp; US Oil-by-rail tallies for the week through July 2nd were up 222 carloads over the week before. The Association of American Railroads says that's about one percent higher than a year earlier. Canadian traffic is up 13% over last year. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes noted 752 active drilling rigs across the US, an increase of two oil rigs. The counts in Texas and Louisiana were each up one from a week ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly, with 23 active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, down one, and 30 west of Wichita, which is down two. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 38 completed wells across the state in the week through July 7th. There were 18 in Western Kansas, including three in Barton County, and one each in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties. New drilling permits were okayed in Barton, Russell and Stafford counties last week. Kansas regulators okayed 46 new drilling locations statewide. That's 847 so far this year, compared to 515 through the first week in July last year. The oil patch in Texas continues to set tax-revenue records. Oil production taxes in June, a whopping $679 million, increased more than $84 million from the month before, the previous record, and nearly doubled the collections from June 2021. The State Comptroller says natural gas producers also paid record production taxes in June, a total of $439 million. The Midland Reporter-Telegram newspaper reports the nearly $1.12 BILLION paid in just one month tops some annual collections from a few years ago.

News From the Oil Patch: Kan. June crude prices best since 2008

The Hays area will get a brief respite from the extreme heat to start the work week, with a high of 94 projected Monday, a high of 88 on Tuesday, and a high of 93 Wednesday.

There is a slight chance of thunderstorms overnight, mainly between 2 and 3 a.m. Tuesday, although the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported only a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms.&nbsp;

The extreme heat is projected to return Thursday, with highs between 99 and 104 predicted through the weekend.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657557994871.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays area will get a brief respite from the extreme heat to start the work week, with a high of 94 projected Monday, a high of 88 on Tuesday, and a high of 93 Wednesday.There is a slight chance of thunderstorms overnight, mainly between 2 and 3 a.m. Tuesday, although the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported only a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms.&nbsp;The extreme heat is projected to return Thursday, with highs between 99 and 104 predicted through the weekend.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Isolated to scattered thunderstorms will be possible early this evening. A few of the stronger thunderstorms this evening may be capable of producing wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/3ywFfhlKvB">pic.twitter.com/3ywFfhlKvB</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1546477528331665410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Relief from heat, slight chance of storms for Hays area

The Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals will meet at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main Street.

Agenda items include a request for a public hearing&nbsp;by Justin MacDonald for a 14-inch variance to allow a
66-inch tall fence within the front setback at 1303 Tallgrass Dr.

The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06082022-1349">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals will meet at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main Street.Agenda items include a request for a public hearing&nbsp;by Justin MacDonald for a 14-inch variance to allow a
66-inch tall fence within the front setback at 1303 Tallgrass Dr.The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06082022-1349">here</a>.&nbsp;

Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals meets Wednesday morning

Fort Hays State University,&nbsp;Boot Hill Distillery and Affinity Licensing have partnered to launch Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey, the officially licensed whiskey of Tiger Nation. Bottles of the new Kansas-made whiskey are available now in stores across the state.

“We are thrilled to work with Hayes, the Boot Hill Distillery staff, and our Affinity Licensing partners to develop this new spirit,” said FHSU Chief Communications Officer Scott Cason. “We hope Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey becomes an essential part of gatherings among the FHSU Tiger faithful for years to come.”&nbsp;

With a unique mash bill of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley, Victor E. Bourbon is bottled at 80 proof and aged at least two years. It boasts notes of vanilla, cedar, toasted marshmallow, and strawberry shortcake on the nose, and kettle corn, sugar cookie, baked pie dough, baking spice, and petrichor on the palate.&nbsp;

“Bourbon is a great way to celebrate achievements and bring friends and family together,” Boot Hill Distillery CEO Hayes Kelman said. “FHSU fans and alumni alike will enjoy this bourbon made especially for them.”

“This is a unique and exciting collaboration to promote the FHSU brand,” says Wil Spires of Affinity Licensing, FHSU’s official collegiate licensing partner.&nbsp;Affinity worked with the Boot Hill team to design the crisp black and gold label and create the whiskey’s distinctive tag line, “Pour the Roar!”&nbsp; Tiger fans are encouraged to visit their local liquor stores throughout Kansas and purchase a bottle while initial supplies last. Distributed in Kansas by Standard Beverage, Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey will also be available in bars and restaurants within the state and for purchase online for out-of-state fans.

Boot Hill Distillery distills its spirits from grain grown on their Kansas farm. Kelman purchased the dilapidated city municipal building atop the footprint of Boot Hill Cemetery in Dodge City. After extensive restoration, BHD opened its doors in 2016 as a destination location for locals and visitors alike, where the “Soil to Sip” spirits are distilled, aged, and bottled.

For more information on this special release and a continually updated list of carriers, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtGGwzL-2BSnxz-2BvWBl2QP0d8fLhZfA8FJTXsascKWQx1FMODdeMqEgvF4mbYmPvOjTR8nwJuxlz2Jr0Y8T9qnX-2FJ4-3DFY0w_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnKIIZGqVRiBXxBc5aS6sFPzxhRWHnqQQizfRCoCKupo8riLUdX2clWI2V7mcYtUf5d65AUB5mnf-2BYyeOb1DdoGx1RGTH0pYmcLG3bbMZIaZ60K5LT-2BOjZyu1-2BZZlJYEWqa7cUxZIjDDBJBdVVHhkn0w2mUiK-2BDBYUKxGezJLu7GU866bMKR0HWch8gD2fuaFo6bCPKyli-2FmHFs7QBB8ZkpSd9U2qHGrZoXHjy8j8GAOVmJ2D2IKs58r5fzDSEPEI">https://www.boothilldistillery.com/fort-hays-state-university-bourbon</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657213457921.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University,&nbsp;Boot Hill Distillery and Affinity Licensing have partnered to launch Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey, the officially licensed whiskey of Tiger Nation. Bottles of the new Kansas-made whiskey are available now in stores across the state.“We are thrilled to work with Hayes, the Boot Hill Distillery staff, and our Affinity Licensing partners to develop this new spirit,” said FHSU Chief Communications Officer Scott Cason. “We hope Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey becomes an essential part of gatherings among the FHSU Tiger faithful for years to come.”&nbsp;With a unique mash bill of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley, Victor E. Bourbon is bottled at 80 proof and aged at least two years. It boasts notes of vanilla, cedar, toasted marshmallow, and strawberry shortcake on the nose, and kettle corn, sugar cookie, baked pie dough, baking spice, and petrichor on the palate.&nbsp;“Bourbon is a great way to celebrate achievements and bring friends and family together,” Boot Hill Distillery CEO Hayes Kelman said. “FHSU fans and alumni alike will enjoy this bourbon made especially for them.”“This is a unique and exciting collaboration to promote the FHSU brand,” says Wil Spires of Affinity Licensing, FHSU’s official collegiate licensing partner.&nbsp;Affinity worked with the Boot Hill team to design the crisp black and gold label and create the whiskey’s distinctive tag line, “Pour the Roar!”&nbsp; Tiger fans are encouraged to visit their local liquor stores throughout Kansas and purchase a bottle while initial supplies last. Distributed in Kansas by Standard Beverage, Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey will also be available in bars and restaurants within the state and for purchase online for out-of-state fans.Boot Hill Distillery distills its spirits from grain grown on their Kansas farm. Kelman purchased the dilapidated city municipal building atop the footprint of Boot Hill Cemetery in Dodge City. After extensive restoration, BHD opened its doors in 2016 as a destination location for locals and visitors alike, where the “Soil to Sip” spirits are distilled, aged, and bottled.For more information on this special release and a continually updated list of carriers, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtGGwzL-2BSnxz-2BvWBl2QP0d8fLhZfA8FJTXsascKWQx1FMODdeMqEgvF4mbYmPvOjTR8nwJuxlz2Jr0Y8T9qnX-2FJ4-3DFY0w_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BnKIIZGqVRiBXxBc5aS6sFPzxhRWHnqQQizfRCoCKupo8riLUdX2clWI2V7mcYtUf5d65AUB5mnf-2BYyeOb1DdoGx1RGTH0pYmcLG3bbMZIaZ60K5LT-2BOjZyu1-2BZZlJYEWqa7cUxZIjDDBJBdVVHhkn0w2mUiK-2BDBYUKxGezJLu7GU866bMKR0HWch8gD2fuaFo6bCPKyli-2FmHFs7QBB8ZkpSd9U2qHGrZoXHjy8j8GAOVmJ2D2IKs58r5fzDSEPEI">https://www.boothilldistillery.com/fort-hays-state-university-bourbon</a>.

FHSU announces Victor E. Bourbon Whiskey partnership

Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Thu Jun 23 2022 15:45:49 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Leo Jiminian"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/un5ikset-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/un5ikset-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/un5ikset-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Leo Jiminian" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Leo Jiminian

MANHATTAN — Public hearings will be conducted in western Kansas on July 26 and 27 to consider the proposed renewal of two Local Enhanced Management Area (LEMA) management plans in the region. The hearings by the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Division of Water Resources will provide the opportunity for in-person oral statements, and written comments may be submitted prior to the hearings.

A LEMA is a tool that allows local groundwater management districts (GMDs) to set goals and corrective control measures to aid in water conservation.

The Sheridan 6 LEMA was established in a designated area in Sheridan and Thomas counties in 2013 and extended in 2017. 

The GMD 4 LEMA was established in a designated area in Cheyenne, Decatur, Rawlins, Gove, Graham, Logan, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas and Wallace counties in 2018.

For both LEMAs, the plans for proposed renewal were previously submitted to the chief engineer by GMD No. 4 and were found to be acceptable for further consideration.

The chief engineer will serve as the presiding officer at both hearings and will consider the effectiveness of the current LEMA plans’ provisions in meeting those plans’ stated goals. The chief engineer will also consider whether conditions within the LEMA boundaries continue to warrant the designation of a LEMA and whether the corrective controls proposed by the LEMA plans are in the public interest, and will ultimately determine whether the LEMA plans should be renewed as proposed.

Anyone may submit written or oral statements to be included in the record of the hearings. Oral comments will be accepted only in person at the public hearings. Written comments may be submitted at the public hearings or sent to KDA, labeled either “Sheridan 6 LEMA” or “GMD 4 LEMA,” or c/o Ronda Hutton; 1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, faxed to 785-564-6777, or e-mailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov" target="_blank">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>. Written comments will be accepted if delivered on or before August 9 (Sheridan 6) or August 10 (GMD 4), 2022.

More details about the hearings including a copy of the proposed plan and related documents are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MDguNjA1MDk3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9MRU1BP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.pPTktRM3IJeAyjnJBXkGIsJw6PeV-H_r27iWrqdKwZs/s/1377890594/br/137176039569-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/LEMA</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576097995550.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy USDA)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy USDA)</figcaption>
 </figure>KDAMANHATTAN — Public hearings will be conducted in western Kansas on July 26 and 27 to consider the proposed renewal of two Local Enhanced Management Area (LEMA) management plans in the region. The hearings by the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Division of Water Resources will provide the opportunity for in-person oral statements, and written comments may be submitted prior to the hearings.<ul>
 <li>Sheridan 6 LEMA hearing:&nbsp;Tuesday, July 26, 2022, 2:00 p.m. at the Sheridan County Courthouse, 926 9th&nbsp;Street in Hoxie.</li><li>GMD 4 LEMA hearing:&nbsp;Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 10:00 a.m. at the City Limits Convention Center, 2227 S. Range Avenue in Colby.</li>
 </ul>A LEMA is a tool that allows local groundwater management districts (GMDs) to set goals and corrective control measures to aid in water conservation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657360874029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Sheridan 6 LEMA was established in a designated area in Sheridan and Thomas counties in 2013 and extended in 2017. The GMD 4 LEMA was established in a designated area in Cheyenne, Decatur, Rawlins, Gove, Graham, Logan, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas and Wallace counties in 2018.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657361197294.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For both LEMAs, the plans for proposed renewal were previously submitted to the chief engineer by GMD No. 4 and were found to be acceptable for further consideration.The chief engineer will serve as the presiding officer at both hearings and will consider the effectiveness of the current LEMA plans’ provisions in meeting those plans’ stated goals. The chief engineer will also consider whether conditions within the LEMA boundaries continue to warrant the designation of a LEMA and whether the corrective controls proposed by the LEMA plans are in the public interest, and will ultimately determine whether the LEMA plans should be renewed as proposed.Anyone may submit written or oral statements to be included in the record of the hearings. Oral comments will be accepted only in person at the public hearings. Written comments may be submitted at the public hearings or sent to KDA, labeled either “Sheridan 6 LEMA” or “GMD 4 LEMA,” or c/o Ronda Hutton; 1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, faxed to 785-564-6777, or e-mailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov" target="_blank">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>. Written comments will be accepted if delivered on or before August 9 (Sheridan 6) or August 10 (GMD 4), 2022.More details about the hearings including a copy of the proposed plan and related documents are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MDguNjA1MDk3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9MRU1BP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.pPTktRM3IJeAyjnJBXkGIsJw6PeV-H_r27iWrqdKwZs/s/1377890594/br/137176039569-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/LEMA</a>.

Hearings scheduled in Hoxie, Colby for renewal of LEMA plans

<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/2022/7/1657301658508.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

We are looking for CDL Drivers (A or B with a hazmat endorsement, or 
ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would 
also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job 
will require rigging for wireline operations.&nbsp;

Applicants should 
be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical
 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and 
occasional travel out of state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning 
and mechanical work of vehicles &amp; equipment is also involved. 24/7 
on-call rotation is also a requirement of this position.

Benefits 
include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 
401K, and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays, 
Kansas. If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 
67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642173081488.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We are looking for CDL Drivers (A or B with a hazmat endorsement, or 
ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would 
also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job 
will require rigging for wireline operations.&nbsp;Applicants should 
be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical
 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and 
occasional travel out of state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning 
and mechanical work of vehicles &amp; equipment is also involved. 24/7 
on-call rotation is also a requirement of this position.Benefits 
include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 
401K, and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays, 
Kansas. If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 
67601.

🎙Post Podcast: Water usage rights play big role in area economies

VICTORIA — During the June meeting of the Victoria City Council, Options
Options Domestic&nbsp;and Sexual&nbsp;Violence&nbsp;Services Executive Director
Jennifer Hecker and Operations Specialist Anna Townes shared an annual update
with the council.

While Hecker had positive updates on the organization's work
to assist those in need, she said the need for their services grew substantially.

“We are seeing a tragic increase in the incidence of
domestic violence in the last few years,” Hecker said. “That trend is
continuing to move upward.”

In the last year, she said 167 domestic violence incidents
were reported to law enforcement in Ellis County, resulting in 127 arrests.

“That is an excellent arrest ratio, particularly in a state
that has a shall-arrest mandate,” Hecker said. “You can see that's almost twice
as high as the state average of arrests versus reports.”

In total, she said the group provided around 3,200 domestic
violence services to Ellis County residents.

Hecker then shared work the group completed to enhance its ability to assist domestic violence victims.

“Last year, we were talking about a brand new service, our
global advocacy services, that we were just rolling out,” Hecker said. “Options
became the first domestic and sexual violence program in the state of Kansas to
offer a free texting helpline.”

The service provides different ways to reach out for help,
she said, by using a mobile phone app, &nbsp;standard text messaging, and messaging to their
website. 

“Last year, when we came, we had just launched that service,”
Hecker said. “We've had about 46 people reaching out. This year that grew about
3,000 percent. We had over 1,200 people utilizing our texting feature. And so we
know that it's going to grow.”

This year, she said there was more demand for safety planning
than ever before.

Demand for shelter is also higher than ever.

While the need is up, she said the shelter is running at
only 50 percent capacity due to COVID concerns.

“And so because we have a policy to never turn anyone away,
if it is within our power to do so, we will overflow folks into a hotel,”
Hecker said. “And so when our shelter is full, those expenses have been growing
pretty exponentially in the last several years.”

Last year, $25,000 was spent on shelter services, up from
$16,000 the year before, she said.

“That's just the full cost of when we're putting people in
hotels that cost us three or four times as much … [than] to care for them in a
shelter itself,” Hecker said. “And so when budgets are tight, and you're not
able to utilize the capacity that you have, and things are costing four times
as much, it gets pretty challenging to make sure that we're still able to
provide those services.”

While she shared appreciation for the support area
governments provided, the increased demand and changes to federal-level
policies mean local funding is more critical than ever.

“Your support really does help make sure that we can
continue to give everyone the services that they need, we don't have to turn
anyone away from service that and there's shelter available for everyone
whenever they need it,” Hecker said.

Hecker also shared with the council recent efforts to create
a Student Advisory Board that will expand to Victoria High School.

“I know that our outreach advocate has been working with
talking with some of the counselors at the school about how to get those
students involved in understanding healthy relationships,” Hecker said. “So
far, our teen advisory board is working on a teen safety plan — for teens, by
teens, around how to be safe in a dating relationship, if things are not going
well, and how to safety plan if you're experiencing domestic violence in your
home.

“They've also done Human Trafficking Awareness law,” she
continued. “Several other things too. So they're very, very engaged. And we're
excited to expand that into Victoria High School. So stay tuned. I think we've
done almost 500 hours of volunteering this year alone. Great future leaders for
our community, for sure.”

At the conclusion of the report, council member Ryan Lichter
said he would support an increase in support for the group.

“I feel the need to maybe offer a little bit more than what
we have in the past due to the fact that everything we're going through is more,”
he said. “I mean, if you're already meeting your budget, the way it is right
now, a little bit more assistance would be beneficial.”

“We definitely put it to very good use, for sure,” Hecker
said.

Lichter proposed doubling support funding to a total of
$2,000. Council member Harland Rupp made a motion on the issue, and Lichter made
a second. 

The increase was passed by the council unanimously.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657305534581.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostVICTORIA — During the June meeting of the Victoria City Council, Options
Options Domestic&nbsp;and Sexual&nbsp;Violence&nbsp;Services Executive Director
Jennifer Hecker and Operations Specialist Anna Townes shared an annual update
with the council.While Hecker had positive updates on the organization's work
to assist those in need, she said the need for their services grew substantially.“We are seeing a tragic increase in the incidence of
domestic violence in the last few years,” Hecker said. “That trend is
continuing to move upward.”In the last year, she said 167 domestic violence incidents
were reported to law enforcement in Ellis County, resulting in 127 arrests.“That is an excellent arrest ratio, particularly in a state
that has a shall-arrest mandate,” Hecker said. “You can see that's almost twice
as high as the state average of arrests versus reports.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594750953193.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In total, she said the group provided around 3,200 domestic
violence services to Ellis County residents.Hecker then shared work the group completed to enhance its ability to assist domestic violence victims.“Last year, we were talking about a brand new service, our
global advocacy services, that we were just rolling out,” Hecker said. “Options
became the first domestic and sexual violence program in the state of Kansas to
offer a free texting helpline.”The service provides different ways to reach out for help,
she said, by using a mobile phone app, &nbsp;standard text messaging, and messaging to their
website. “Last year, when we came, we had just launched that service,”
Hecker said. “We've had about 46 people reaching out. This year that grew about
3,000 percent. We had over 1,200 people utilizing our texting feature. And so we
know that it's going to grow.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618435118295.jpeg" alt="Jennifer Hecker / File photo" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Hecker / File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>This year, she said there was more demand for safety planning
than ever before.Demand for shelter is also higher than ever.While the need is up, she said the shelter is running at
only 50 percent capacity due to COVID concerns.“And so because we have a policy to never turn anyone away,
if it is within our power to do so, we will overflow folks into a hotel,”
Hecker said. “And so when our shelter is full, those expenses have been growing
pretty exponentially in the last several years.”Last year, $25,000 was spent on shelter services, up from
$16,000 the year before, she said.“That's just the full cost of when we're putting people in
hotels that cost us three or four times as much … [than] to care for them in a
shelter itself,” Hecker said. “And so when budgets are tight, and you're not
able to utilize the capacity that you have, and things are costing four times
as much, it gets pretty challenging to make sure that we're still able to
provide those services.”While she shared appreciation for the support area
governments provided, the increased demand and changes to federal-level
policies mean local funding is more critical than ever.“Your support really does help make sure that we can
continue to give everyone the services that they need, we don't have to turn
anyone away from service that and there's shelter available for everyone
whenever they need it,” Hecker said.Hecker also shared with the council recent efforts to create
a Student Advisory Board that will expand to Victoria High School.“I know that our outreach advocate has been working with
talking with some of the counselors at the school about how to get those
students involved in understanding healthy relationships,” Hecker said. “So
far, our teen advisory board is working on a teen safety plan — for teens, by
teens, around how to be safe in a dating relationship, if things are not going
well, and how to safety plan if you're experiencing domestic violence in your
home.“They've also done Human Trafficking Awareness law,” she
continued. “Several other things too. So they're very, very engaged. And we're
excited to expand that into Victoria High School. So stay tuned. I think we've
done almost 500 hours of volunteering this year alone. Great future leaders for
our community, for sure.”At the conclusion of the report, council member Ryan Lichter
said he would support an increase in support for the group.“I feel the need to maybe offer a little bit more than what
we have in the past due to the fact that everything we're going through is more,”
he said. “I mean, if you're already meeting your budget, the way it is right
now, a little bit more assistance would be beneficial.”“We definitely put it to very good use, for sure,” Hecker
said.Lichter proposed doubling support funding to a total of
$2,000. Council member Harland Rupp made a motion on the issue, and Lichter made
a second. The increase was passed by the council unanimously.

Victoria council hears need for domestic violence services increasing; approves additional funding

COLBY — Colby Community College conferred 268 degrees and certificates on May 13 during the 57th&nbsp;annual commencement ceremony at the Colby Event Center.&nbsp;

Hometowns are published as indicated by the student. Kansas residents are arranged by city, out-of-state residents are listed by city and state, and international students by country. By request, some names are not disclosed.

Alva, Okla.:&nbsp;Rozlynn Murrow.&nbsp;Basehor:&nbsp;Taylor Shiner.&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Jacson Clymer, Leslie Swenson.&nbsp;Castle Rock, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennifer Hansen.&nbsp;Chanute:&nbsp;Abigale Reaves.&nbsp;Cimarron:&nbsp;Morgan Clinesmith.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Chamekia Cole, Meghann Elling, Danielle Isham, Haylee Long, Brooklyn Shubert.&nbsp;Culbertson, Neb.:&nbsp;Jordan Fritsch-Dutcher.&nbsp;Douglass:&nbsp;Stella Norton.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Destiny Barrett.&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Alissa Byerly.&nbsp;Hays:&nbsp;Angeline Bryant.&nbsp;Hazelton:&nbsp;Cody Jahay.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello.&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Kylie Bell, Austin Patmon.&nbsp;Jennings:&nbsp;Clayton Miller.&nbsp;&nbsp;Las Animas, Colo.:&nbsp;Joslin Martin.&nbsp;McDonald:&nbsp;Kassandra Binning.&nbsp;McPherson:&nbsp;Natalie Hedlund.&nbsp;Morehead, Ky.:&nbsp;Lorae Hessler.&nbsp;North Platte, Neb.:&nbsp;Kamryn Hughes.&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Kayle Holsman, Emily Rogers, Amy Wentz.&nbsp;Olathe:&nbsp;Grace Hickert.&nbsp;Omaha, Neb.:&nbsp;Samantha Uttecht.&nbsp;Parks, Neb.:&nbsp;Michelle Baney.&nbsp;Peck:&nbsp;Lauren Patrick.&nbsp;Pendleton, Ore.&nbsp;Madison Hays.&nbsp;Selden: Benina Soriano. Shawnee:&nbsp;Skyler Reichley.&nbsp;Stratton, Colo.:&nbsp;Josephine Hornung.&nbsp;Towanda:&nbsp;Kayla Griffin.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Natalie Wilson.&nbsp;Winfield:&nbsp;Jenna Pfaff.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Arvada, Colo.:&nbsp;Dean Killion.&nbsp;Ashland:&nbsp;Sarah Mills.&nbsp;Australia:&nbsp;Nicholas Hosie.&nbsp;Bazine:&nbsp;Dawn Harrison.&nbsp;Benkelman, Neb.:&nbsp;Rex Stamm.&nbsp;Berea, Ohio:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.&nbsp;Bird City:&nbsp;Domenic Baldwin.&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Lyndzee Fellhoelter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Broomfield, Colo.:&nbsp;Blake Labuda.&nbsp;Caldwell:&nbsp;Rylee Baker.&nbsp;Canada:&nbsp;Jared Arnold, Kyle Froehlich, Joel McGrath, Liam Vulcano.&nbsp;Cedaredge, Colo.:&nbsp;Summer Young.&nbsp;Chapman:&nbsp;McKenna Kirkpatrick.&nbsp;Cheyenne, Wyo.:&nbsp;Travis Onisto.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Justice Barrett, Carissa Brogan, Shaylynn Campbell, Joshua Cole, Konnor Griffin, Emma Maier, Rosalba Mendoza-Morales, Laurel Myers, Aaron Platt, Abigail Rascon-Hernandez, Isaac Rosales, Gayneil Sands, Lacy Weigel, Jacob Wetter, Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;Colo.:&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs, Colo.:&nbsp;Henry Hutcheon, Jenna Ruggaber, Colton Stegman.Dresden:&nbsp;Candace Taylor.&nbsp;Elizabeth, Colo.:&nbsp;Jerranda Van Eaton.&nbsp;Englewood, Colo.:&nbsp;James Sharp.&nbsp;Erie, Colo.:&nbsp;Kaylee Armstrong.&nbsp;Fort Collins, Colo.:&nbsp;Anthony Cortese.&nbsp;Fort Morgan, Colo.:&nbsp;John Hamer, Jacob Ortega.&nbsp;Fort Worth, Texas:&nbsp;Kiarra Henderson.&nbsp;Garden City:&nbsp;Shaylin Russell.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Ellie Keen, Colby Perryman.&nbsp;Greenfield Center, N.Y.:&nbsp;Ashley Nisen.&nbsp;Greensburg:&nbsp;Makenna Merhoff.&nbsp;Hill City:&nbsp;Bryce Ashbaugh.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello, Stephen Rutherford.&nbsp;Italy:&nbsp;Silvia Bonsanti.&nbsp;Jackson, Mich.:&nbsp;Jada Moorehead.&nbsp;Junction City:&nbsp;Savannah Adams.&nbsp;Kearney, Neb.:&nbsp;Lucas Jones.&nbsp;Kennesaw, Ga.:&nbsp;Ahmad Johnson.&nbsp;Kit Carson, Colo.:&nbsp;Joseph Bryan.&nbsp;La Junta, Colo.:&nbsp;Brooklyn Mueller.&nbsp;Lewis:&nbsp;Angelica Burnett.&nbsp;Liberal:&nbsp;Sarah Mein.&nbsp;Loveland, Colo.:&nbsp;Allison Westbrook.&nbsp;Lyman, Neb.:&nbsp;Laura Sherrod.&nbsp;Meade:&nbsp;Tyrik King.&nbsp;Monument:&nbsp;Jonathan Hopson.&nbsp;New Rochelle, N.Y.:&nbsp;Ahmad Galimore.&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Shelby Amlong.Overbrook:&nbsp;Bonnie Young.&nbsp;Parker, Colo.:&nbsp;Grant Biggins, Griffin Bruder.&nbsp;Pembroke Pines, Fla.:&nbsp;Chelsey Grant.&nbsp;Philadelphia, Pa.&nbsp;Ronald Mitchell.Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Gracie Jessup, Makenzie Storz.&nbsp;Pierce, Colo.:&nbsp;Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp;Plainville:&nbsp;Justina Palmberg.&nbsp;Poland:&nbsp;Marta Roicka.&nbsp;Pratt:&nbsp;Jarrett Bates.&nbsp;Prescott Valley, Ariz.&nbsp;Jake Ticer.&nbsp;Richmond, Texas:&nbsp;Da'Jah Vigilante, De'Jah Vigilante.&nbsp;Saint Francis:&nbsp;Seth Mills.&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Kearston Buffington, Ednna Peregrino, Charity Weeks.&nbsp;Spring, Texas:&nbsp;Katelyn Alatini.&nbsp;Tooele, Utah:&nbsp;Alexis Bender.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Adelaide Harrold.&nbsp;West Valley City, Utah:&nbsp;Grace Jenkins.&nbsp;Woodland Park, Colo.:&nbsp;Jada Boddy.

Albuquerque, N.M.:&nbsp;Mariza Trujillo.&nbsp;Arvada, Colo.:&nbsp;Dean Killion.&nbsp;Ashland:&nbsp;Mary Mills.&nbsp;Australia:&nbsp;Nicholas Hosie.&nbsp;Bazine:&nbsp;Dawn Harrison.&nbsp;Benkelman, Neb.:&nbsp;Rex Stamm.&nbsp;Berea, Ohio:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.&nbsp;Bird City:&nbsp;Domenic Baldwin.&nbsp;Broomfield, Colo.:&nbsp;Blake Labuda.&nbsp;Burlington, Colo.:&nbsp;Lora Richards.&nbsp;Caldwell:&nbsp;Rylee Baker.&nbsp;Canada:&nbsp;Jared Arnold, Kyle Froehlich, Joel McGrath, Cleary Simpson.&nbsp;Cedaredge, Colo.:&nbsp;Summer Young.&nbsp;Chapman:&nbsp;McKenna Kirkpatrick.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cimarron:Morgan Clinesmith.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Konnor Griffin, Aaron Platt, Jacob Wetter, Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;Colorado Springs, Colo.:&nbsp;Henry Hutcheon, Jenna Ruggaber, Colton Stegman.&nbsp;Edgar, Wis.:&nbsp;Teneille Savka.&nbsp;Erie, Colo.:&nbsp;Kaylee Armstrong. Fort Collins, Colo.:&nbsp;Anthony Cortese.&nbsp;Fort Morgan, Colo.:&nbsp;Jacob Ortega.&nbsp;Garden City:&nbsp;Shaylin Russell.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Colby Perryman.&nbsp;Greensburg:&nbsp;Makenna Merhoff.&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Jordan Ostmeyer.&nbsp;Hill City:&nbsp;Bryce Ashbaugh.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello.Jackson, Mich.:&nbsp;Jada Moorehead.&nbsp;Kit Carson, Colo.:&nbsp;Joseph Bryan.&nbsp;La Junta, Colo.:&nbsp;Brooklyn Mueller.&nbsp;Larned:&nbsp;Cierra Nord.&nbsp;Lenexa:&nbsp;Olivia Goebel.&nbsp;Liberal:&nbsp;Sarah Mein.&nbsp;Littleton, Colo.:&nbsp;Logan Van Wyk.&nbsp;Loveland, Colo.:&nbsp;Allison Westbrook.&nbsp;Lyman, Neb.:&nbsp;Regan Hodsden, Laura Sherrod.&nbsp;Meade:&nbsp;Tyrik King.&nbsp;New Rochelle, N.Y.:&nbsp;Ahmad Galimore.&nbsp;Oakley:&nbsp;Triston Swart.&nbsp;Overbrook:&nbsp;Bonnie Young.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peyton, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennifer Williams.&nbsp;Philadelphia, Pa.:&nbsp;Ronald Mitchell.&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Gracie Jessup, Makenzie Storz.&nbsp;Pierce, Colo.:&nbsp;Courtney Carr, Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp;Plattsmouth, Neb.:&nbsp;Alexis Penke.&nbsp;Richmond, Texas:&nbsp;Da'Jah Vigilante, De'Jah Vigilante.&nbsp;Saint Francis:&nbsp;Seth Mills.&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Ednna Peregrino.&nbsp;Sharon Springs:&nbsp;Lakin Perry.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Adelaide Harrold.&nbsp;West Valley City, Utah:&nbsp;Grace Jenkins.&nbsp;Woodland Park, Colo.:&nbsp;Jada Boddy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Arapahoe, Neb.:&nbsp;Bar-Lee Klein.&nbsp;Axson, Ga.:&nbsp;Lyndsey Mancil.&nbsp;Basehor:&nbsp;Taylor Shiner.&nbsp;Beaver City, Neb.:&nbsp;Janae Castillo, Madison Woodring.&nbsp;Belleville:&nbsp;Karlie Strutt.&nbsp;Benkelman, Neb.:&nbsp;Allie Behlke.&nbsp;Bermuda:&nbsp;Vanessa Cardoza.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Jacson Clymer.&nbsp;Castle Rock, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennifer Hansen.&nbsp;Codell:&nbsp;Grace Werner.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Breon Barton, Samantha Brenn, Jacob Edmondson, Meghann Elling, Jayla Helus, Danielle Isham, Haylee Long, Adam Schacher, Morgan Voss.&nbsp;Emporia:&nbsp;Annisa Lord.&nbsp;Eskridge:&nbsp;Mary Shults.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Sara Salcedo.&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Regan Lewis.&nbsp;Hazelton:&nbsp;Cody Jahay.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello.&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Austin Patmon, Jeremy Sekavec.&nbsp;Hutchinson:&nbsp;Mya Tritsch.&nbsp;Junction City:&nbsp;Ariel Wylie.&nbsp;Laurel Hill, N.C.:&nbsp;Cassidy Buffington.&nbsp;Leavenworth:&nbsp;Aaron Heintzelman.&nbsp;Leoti:&nbsp;Dora Langdon-Seaton.&nbsp;Logan:&nbsp;Melissa Leiker.&nbsp;Lyman, Neb.:&nbsp;Laura Sherrod.&nbsp;Marion:&nbsp;Michael Calhoun.&nbsp;Morehead, Ky.:&nbsp;Lorae Hessler.&nbsp;Morland:&nbsp;Amanda Hamilton.&nbsp;North Platte, Neb.:&nbsp;Kamryn Hughes.&nbsp;Oakley:&nbsp;Brandi Horton, Triston Swart.&nbsp;Osage City:&nbsp;Madison Smitha.&nbsp;Palisade, Neb.:&nbsp;Catherine Burton.&nbsp;Paola:&nbsp;Selah Hadle.&nbsp;Pendleton, Ore.:&nbsp;Madison Hays.&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Natasha Craig.&nbsp;Plainville:&nbsp;Shandra Griffin.&nbsp;Prairie Village:&nbsp;Holly Goodman.&nbsp;Rexford:&nbsp;Drestin Ter Haar.&nbsp;Stockton:&nbsp;Ashley Earl.&nbsp;Sweet Home, Ore.:&nbsp;Kylie Campbell.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Isaac Terrazas.&nbsp;Wauchula, Fla.:&nbsp;Tyler Steedley.&nbsp;Winfield:&nbsp;Jenna Pfaff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College conferred 268 degrees and certificates on May 13 during the 57th&nbsp;annual commencement ceremony at the Colby Event Center.&nbsp;Hometowns are published as indicated by the student. Kansas residents are arranged by city, out-of-state residents are listed by city and state, and international students by country. By request, some names are not disclosed.<h2>Associate of Applied Science</h2>Alva, Okla.:&nbsp;Rozlynn Murrow.&nbsp;Basehor:&nbsp;Taylor Shiner.&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Jacson Clymer, Leslie Swenson.&nbsp;Castle Rock, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennifer Hansen.&nbsp;Chanute:&nbsp;Abigale Reaves.&nbsp;Cimarron:&nbsp;Morgan Clinesmith.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Chamekia Cole, Meghann Elling, Danielle Isham, Haylee Long, Brooklyn Shubert.&nbsp;Culbertson, Neb.:&nbsp;Jordan Fritsch-Dutcher.&nbsp;Douglass:&nbsp;Stella Norton.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Destiny Barrett.&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Alissa Byerly.&nbsp;Hays:&nbsp;Angeline Bryant.&nbsp;Hazelton:&nbsp;Cody Jahay.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello.&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Kylie Bell, Austin Patmon.&nbsp;Jennings:&nbsp;Clayton Miller.&nbsp;&nbsp;Las Animas, Colo.:&nbsp;Joslin Martin.&nbsp;McDonald:&nbsp;Kassandra Binning.&nbsp;McPherson:&nbsp;Natalie Hedlund.&nbsp;Morehead, Ky.:&nbsp;Lorae Hessler.&nbsp;North Platte, Neb.:&nbsp;Kamryn Hughes.&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Kayle Holsman, Emily Rogers, Amy Wentz.&nbsp;Olathe:&nbsp;Grace Hickert.&nbsp;Omaha, Neb.:&nbsp;Samantha Uttecht.&nbsp;Parks, Neb.:&nbsp;Michelle Baney.&nbsp;Peck:&nbsp;Lauren Patrick.&nbsp;Pendleton, Ore.&nbsp;Madison Hays.&nbsp;Selden: Benina Soriano. Shawnee:&nbsp;Skyler Reichley.&nbsp;Stratton, Colo.:&nbsp;Josephine Hornung.&nbsp;Towanda:&nbsp;Kayla Griffin.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Natalie Wilson.&nbsp;Winfield:&nbsp;Jenna Pfaff.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Associate of Arts</h2>Arvada, Colo.:&nbsp;Dean Killion.&nbsp;Ashland:&nbsp;Sarah Mills.&nbsp;Australia:&nbsp;Nicholas Hosie.&nbsp;Bazine:&nbsp;Dawn Harrison.&nbsp;Benkelman, Neb.:&nbsp;Rex Stamm.&nbsp;Berea, Ohio:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.&nbsp;Bird City:&nbsp;Domenic Baldwin.&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Lyndzee Fellhoelter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Broomfield, Colo.:&nbsp;Blake Labuda.&nbsp;Caldwell:&nbsp;Rylee Baker.&nbsp;Canada:&nbsp;Jared Arnold, Kyle Froehlich, Joel McGrath, Liam Vulcano.&nbsp;Cedaredge, Colo.:&nbsp;Summer Young.&nbsp;Chapman:&nbsp;McKenna Kirkpatrick.&nbsp;Cheyenne, Wyo.:&nbsp;Travis Onisto.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Justice Barrett, Carissa Brogan, Shaylynn Campbell, Joshua Cole, Konnor Griffin, Emma Maier, Rosalba Mendoza-Morales, Laurel Myers, Aaron Platt, Abigail Rascon-Hernandez, Isaac Rosales, Gayneil Sands, Lacy Weigel, Jacob Wetter, Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;Colo.:&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs, Colo.:&nbsp;Henry Hutcheon, Jenna Ruggaber, Colton Stegman.Dresden:&nbsp;Candace Taylor.&nbsp;Elizabeth, Colo.:&nbsp;Jerranda Van Eaton.&nbsp;Englewood, Colo.:&nbsp;James Sharp.&nbsp;Erie, Colo.:&nbsp;Kaylee Armstrong.&nbsp;Fort Collins, Colo.:&nbsp;Anthony Cortese.&nbsp;Fort Morgan, Colo.:&nbsp;John Hamer, Jacob Ortega.&nbsp;Fort Worth, Texas:&nbsp;Kiarra Henderson.&nbsp;Garden City:&nbsp;Shaylin Russell.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Ellie Keen, Colby Perryman.&nbsp;Greenfield Center, N.Y.:&nbsp;Ashley Nisen.&nbsp;Greensburg:&nbsp;Makenna Merhoff.&nbsp;Hill City:&nbsp;Bryce Ashbaugh.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello, Stephen Rutherford.&nbsp;Italy:&nbsp;Silvia Bonsanti.&nbsp;Jackson, Mich.:&nbsp;Jada Moorehead.&nbsp;Junction City:&nbsp;Savannah Adams.&nbsp;Kearney, Neb.:&nbsp;Lucas Jones.&nbsp;Kennesaw, Ga.:&nbsp;Ahmad Johnson.&nbsp;Kit Carson, Colo.:&nbsp;Joseph Bryan.&nbsp;La Junta, Colo.:&nbsp;Brooklyn Mueller.&nbsp;Lewis:&nbsp;Angelica Burnett.&nbsp;Liberal:&nbsp;Sarah Mein.&nbsp;Loveland, Colo.:&nbsp;Allison Westbrook.&nbsp;Lyman, Neb.:&nbsp;Laura Sherrod.&nbsp;Meade:&nbsp;Tyrik King.&nbsp;Monument:&nbsp;Jonathan Hopson.&nbsp;New Rochelle, N.Y.:&nbsp;Ahmad Galimore.&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Shelby Amlong.Overbrook:&nbsp;Bonnie Young.&nbsp;Parker, Colo.:&nbsp;Grant Biggins, Griffin Bruder.&nbsp;Pembroke Pines, Fla.:&nbsp;Chelsey Grant.&nbsp;Philadelphia, Pa.&nbsp;Ronald Mitchell.Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Gracie Jessup, Makenzie Storz.&nbsp;Pierce, Colo.:&nbsp;Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp;Plainville:&nbsp;Justina Palmberg.&nbsp;Poland:&nbsp;Marta Roicka.&nbsp;Pratt:&nbsp;Jarrett Bates.&nbsp;Prescott Valley, Ariz.&nbsp;Jake Ticer.&nbsp;Richmond, Texas:&nbsp;Da'Jah Vigilante, De'Jah Vigilante.&nbsp;Saint Francis:&nbsp;Seth Mills.&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Kearston Buffington, Ednna Peregrino, Charity Weeks.&nbsp;Spring, Texas:&nbsp;Katelyn Alatini.&nbsp;Tooele, Utah:&nbsp;Alexis Bender.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Adelaide Harrold.&nbsp;West Valley City, Utah:&nbsp;Grace Jenkins.&nbsp;Woodland Park, Colo.:&nbsp;Jada Boddy.<h2>Associate of Science</h2>Albuquerque, N.M.:&nbsp;Mariza Trujillo.&nbsp;Arvada, Colo.:&nbsp;Dean Killion.&nbsp;Ashland:&nbsp;Mary Mills.&nbsp;Australia:&nbsp;Nicholas Hosie.&nbsp;Bazine:&nbsp;Dawn Harrison.&nbsp;Benkelman, Neb.:&nbsp;Rex Stamm.&nbsp;Berea, Ohio:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.&nbsp;Bird City:&nbsp;Domenic Baldwin.&nbsp;Broomfield, Colo.:&nbsp;Blake Labuda.&nbsp;Burlington, Colo.:&nbsp;Lora Richards.&nbsp;Caldwell:&nbsp;Rylee Baker.&nbsp;Canada:&nbsp;Jared Arnold, Kyle Froehlich, Joel McGrath, Cleary Simpson.&nbsp;Cedaredge, Colo.:&nbsp;Summer Young.&nbsp;Chapman:&nbsp;McKenna Kirkpatrick.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cimarron:Morgan Clinesmith.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Konnor Griffin, Aaron Platt, Jacob Wetter, Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;Colorado Springs, Colo.:&nbsp;Henry Hutcheon, Jenna Ruggaber, Colton Stegman.&nbsp;Edgar, Wis.:&nbsp;Teneille Savka.&nbsp;Erie, Colo.:&nbsp;Kaylee Armstrong. Fort Collins, Colo.:&nbsp;Anthony Cortese.&nbsp;Fort Morgan, Colo.:&nbsp;Jacob Ortega.&nbsp;Garden City:&nbsp;Shaylin Russell.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Colby Perryman.&nbsp;Greensburg:&nbsp;Makenna Merhoff.&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Jordan Ostmeyer.&nbsp;Hill City:&nbsp;Bryce Ashbaugh.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello.Jackson, Mich.:&nbsp;Jada Moorehead.&nbsp;Kit Carson, Colo.:&nbsp;Joseph Bryan.&nbsp;La Junta, Colo.:&nbsp;Brooklyn Mueller.&nbsp;Larned:&nbsp;Cierra Nord.&nbsp;Lenexa:&nbsp;Olivia Goebel.&nbsp;Liberal:&nbsp;Sarah Mein.&nbsp;Littleton, Colo.:&nbsp;Logan Van Wyk.&nbsp;Loveland, Colo.:&nbsp;Allison Westbrook.&nbsp;Lyman, Neb.:&nbsp;Regan Hodsden, Laura Sherrod.&nbsp;Meade:&nbsp;Tyrik King.&nbsp;New Rochelle, N.Y.:&nbsp;Ahmad Galimore.&nbsp;Oakley:&nbsp;Triston Swart.&nbsp;Overbrook:&nbsp;Bonnie Young.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peyton, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennifer Williams.&nbsp;Philadelphia, Pa.:&nbsp;Ronald Mitchell.&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Gracie Jessup, Makenzie Storz.&nbsp;Pierce, Colo.:&nbsp;Courtney Carr, Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp;Plattsmouth, Neb.:&nbsp;Alexis Penke.&nbsp;Richmond, Texas:&nbsp;Da'Jah Vigilante, De'Jah Vigilante.&nbsp;Saint Francis:&nbsp;Seth Mills.&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Ednna Peregrino.&nbsp;Sharon Springs:&nbsp;Lakin Perry.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Adelaide Harrold.&nbsp;West Valley City, Utah:&nbsp;Grace Jenkins.&nbsp;Woodland Park, Colo.:&nbsp;Jada Boddy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Certificates</h2>Arapahoe, Neb.:&nbsp;Bar-Lee Klein.&nbsp;Axson, Ga.:&nbsp;Lyndsey Mancil.&nbsp;Basehor:&nbsp;Taylor Shiner.&nbsp;Beaver City, Neb.:&nbsp;Janae Castillo, Madison Woodring.&nbsp;Belleville:&nbsp;Karlie Strutt.&nbsp;Benkelman, Neb.:&nbsp;Allie Behlke.&nbsp;Bermuda:&nbsp;Vanessa Cardoza.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Jacson Clymer.&nbsp;Castle Rock, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennifer Hansen.&nbsp;Codell:&nbsp;Grace Werner.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Breon Barton, Samantha Brenn, Jacob Edmondson, Meghann Elling, Jayla Helus, Danielle Isham, Haylee Long, Adam Schacher, Morgan Voss.&nbsp;Emporia:&nbsp;Annisa Lord.&nbsp;Eskridge:&nbsp;Mary Shults.&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Sara Salcedo.&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Regan Lewis.&nbsp;Hazelton:&nbsp;Cody Jahay.&nbsp;Houston, Texas:&nbsp;Hagen Barcello.&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Austin Patmon, Jeremy Sekavec.&nbsp;Hutchinson:&nbsp;Mya Tritsch.&nbsp;Junction City:&nbsp;Ariel Wylie.&nbsp;Laurel Hill, N.C.:&nbsp;Cassidy Buffington.&nbsp;Leavenworth:&nbsp;Aaron Heintzelman.&nbsp;Leoti:&nbsp;Dora Langdon-Seaton.&nbsp;Logan:&nbsp;Melissa Leiker.&nbsp;Lyman, Neb.:&nbsp;Laura Sherrod.&nbsp;Marion:&nbsp;Michael Calhoun.&nbsp;Morehead, Ky.:&nbsp;Lorae Hessler.&nbsp;Morland:&nbsp;Amanda Hamilton.&nbsp;North Platte, Neb.:&nbsp;Kamryn Hughes.&nbsp;Oakley:&nbsp;Brandi Horton, Triston Swart.&nbsp;Osage City:&nbsp;Madison Smitha.&nbsp;Palisade, Neb.:&nbsp;Catherine Burton.&nbsp;Paola:&nbsp;Selah Hadle.&nbsp;Pendleton, Ore.:&nbsp;Madison Hays.&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Natasha Craig.&nbsp;Plainville:&nbsp;Shandra Griffin.&nbsp;Prairie Village:&nbsp;Holly Goodman.&nbsp;Rexford:&nbsp;Drestin Ter Haar.&nbsp;Stockton:&nbsp;Ashley Earl.&nbsp;Sweet Home, Ore.:&nbsp;Kylie Campbell.&nbsp;Ulysses:&nbsp;Isaac Terrazas.&nbsp;Wauchula, Fla.:&nbsp;Tyler Steedley.&nbsp;Winfield:&nbsp;Jenna Pfaff.

Colby CC spring graduates announced 

I’m a dog walker and bicycle commuter, so I spend a lot of time on residential streets at less than highway speed. One result of this is that I notice and pay attention to campaign yard signs. As the vote over the proposed anti-abortion amendment approaches, that attention is paying off.

Yard signs get little respect. People say they’re meaningless, yet quickly complain if they suspect efforts to steal them. They’re too basic to share any information besides a single name or message, and so are presumed to have no persuasive impact—but if one candidate distributes signs and their opponents do not, many fear that voters will assume the cause is hopeless, which is the last thing any campaign wants.

In truth, yard signs are a classic 20th-century election tool--and like direct mailing (not yet entirely replaced by e-mailing and texting), door-knocking, or phone-banking, they still play a role. Studies have shown that an effective yard sign effort can impact the behavior of close to 2% of voters—a small amount, but one that might make a difference in a close election. And since the majority of that 2% will likely be clustered around specific residences (the signs you see in your neighborhood have a greater impact on you than those you see on the street), the placement of signs, however seemingly unimportant, may be a signal worth thinking about.

What signal that can be discerned from the yard signs around Kansas for the amendment vote? Going solely off my own limited observations here in Wichita, I can guess at a few.

Pro-amendment signs outnumber anti-amendment signs, but not overwhelmingly—less than the two-to-one Republican-Democratic ratio of campaign signs I’m used to. Also, the correlation between homes where I usually see Republican or Democratic signs and where I’m now seeing pro- or anti-amendment signs is strong, but not total (particularly on the anti-amendment side).

The pro-amendment signs are almost entirely identical—the purple and white image of a mother and child—reflecting the centralized planning, funding, and distribution networks behind the pro-amendment message. The anti-amendment yard signs are more diverse (within a mile of my home I count five different types, and I’ve seen more elsewhere), reflecting the various groups with slightly different messages which many of them prefer to emphasize.

Most striking is the clustering. I’ll see a lone home with a pro- or anti-amendment sign, and a week later they’ve been joined by those on either side, making three amendment signs all in a row. Or a pro-amendment sign goes up, and an anti-amendment sign pops up directly across the street from it, and then another pro-amendment sign appears just two doors down. And so forth.

These observations can’t compare with solid polling, of course. Still, it makes me suspect there is a good deal of discussion, argument, and recruitment taking place behind the doors of the homes where these signs are appearing—certainly more than is typical for an August election anyway.

Yard signs today, whatever their overall impact, are more reflective of personal communication than in years past. The era of operatives marching out to deliver signs in mass to the homes of party or church or club members is a thing of the past. If your neighbor has a sign supporting or opposing the amendment in their yard, the odds are that they bought it themselves, really believe in it, and might even talk about it. That can give neighbors pause, even cause them to rethink. And it is in those realizations and exchanges where close elections can be won or lost.&nbsp;

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583339056495.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>I’m a dog walker and bicycle commuter, so I spend a lot of time on residential streets at less than highway speed. One result of this is that I notice and pay attention to campaign yard signs. As the vote over the proposed anti-abortion amendment approaches, that attention is paying off.Yard signs get little respect. People say they’re meaningless, yet quickly complain if they suspect efforts to steal them. They’re too basic to share any information besides a single name or message, and so are presumed to have no persuasive impact—but if one candidate distributes signs and their opponents do not, many fear that voters will assume the cause is hopeless, which is the last thing any campaign wants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In truth, yard signs are a classic 20th-century election tool--and like direct mailing (not yet entirely replaced by e-mailing and texting), door-knocking, or phone-banking, they still play a role. Studies have shown that an effective yard sign effort can impact the behavior of close to 2% of voters—a small amount, but one that might make a difference in a close election. And since the majority of that 2% will likely be clustered around specific residences (the signs you see in your neighborhood have a greater impact on you than those you see on the street), the placement of signs, however seemingly unimportant, may be a signal worth thinking about.What signal that can be discerned from the yard signs around Kansas for the amendment vote? Going solely off my own limited observations here in Wichita, I can guess at a few.Pro-amendment signs outnumber anti-amendment signs, but not overwhelmingly—less than the two-to-one Republican-Democratic ratio of campaign signs I’m used to. Also, the correlation between homes where I usually see Republican or Democratic signs and where I’m now seeing pro- or anti-amendment signs is strong, but not total (particularly on the anti-amendment side).The pro-amendment signs are almost entirely identical—the purple and white image of a mother and child—reflecting the centralized planning, funding, and distribution networks behind the pro-amendment message. The anti-amendment yard signs are more diverse (within a mile of my home I count five different types, and I’ve seen more elsewhere), reflecting the various groups with slightly different messages which many of them prefer to emphasize.Most striking is the clustering. I’ll see a lone home with a pro- or anti-amendment sign, and a week later they’ve been joined by those on either side, making three amendment signs all in a row. Or a pro-amendment sign goes up, and an anti-amendment sign pops up directly across the street from it, and then another pro-amendment sign appears just two doors down. And so forth.These observations can’t compare with solid polling, of course. Still, it makes me suspect there is a good deal of discussion, argument, and recruitment taking place behind the doors of the homes where these signs are appearing—certainly more than is typical for an August election anyway.Yard signs today, whatever their overall impact, are more reflective of personal communication than in years past. The era of operatives marching out to deliver signs in mass to the homes of party or church or club members is a thing of the past. If your neighbor has a sign supporting or opposing the amendment in their yard, the odds are that they bought it themselves, really believe in it, and might even talk about it. That can give neighbors pause, even cause them to rethink. And it is in those realizations and exchanges where close elections can be won or lost.&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Abortion amendment battle, one yard at a time

🎥 Green & Growing: Strawberries

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657301619186.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>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for&nbsp;the city of Smith Center public water supply system.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on July 9 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a water line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and result in bacterial contamination.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-282-3812, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MDkuNjA1NDEzMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi80NjgvQ29uc3VtZXItSW5mb3JtYXRpb24tUmVnYXJkaW5nLWEtRGlzcnVwdD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.3z2jaEuaV98qkpeT74y9I1CRfa1cWc6IH-zO6SECXgY/s/1305913623/br/137481881879-l">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

KDHETOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for&nbsp;the city of Smith Center public water supply system.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on July 9 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a water line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and result in bacterial contamination.Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-282-3812, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MDkuNjA1NDEzMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi80NjgvQ29uc3VtZXItSW5mb3JtYXRpb24tUmVnYXJkaW5nLWEtRGlzcnVwdD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.3z2jaEuaV98qkpeT74y9I1CRfa1cWc6IH-zO6SECXgY/s/1305913623/br/137481881879-l">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil order issued for Smith Center

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with Lisa Karlin, Internship Career Advisor with FHSU Career Services share details about an upcoming job fair.

<div><iframe title="FHSU to host job fair" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=m92jh-126c0ed-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with Lisa Karlin, Internship Career Advisor with FHSU Career Services share details about an upcoming job fair.<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: FHSU to host job fair

Hays city commissioners got their first glance at the proposed 2023 budget Thursday evening.

"The budget's balanced. We've put money into reserves. The 25 mill levy is maintained," said Toby Dougherty, city manager, in a review of the budget highlights. "These are things we try to achieve every year."

The city's mill levy has remained the same the past 13 years.

Something new in 2023 is the plan to hire two additional employees.

Those two positions would be for maintenance workers - one in the solid waste department, the other in the department of water resources' production and distribution division.&nbsp;

The number of solid waste customer accounts has grown, Dougherty explained, and there's also been growth in the water resources system.&nbsp;

"Jeff Crispin (water resources director) can get by now with his crew, but he has a hard time being proactive, and as you know, if you're not proactive it's going to cost you more money eventually."

"I like that we're having growth and need more employees," said Reese Barrick, commissioner.&nbsp;

All 184 city employees are slated for a cost of living increase in 2023. The budget will continue including $11,000 per employee for health insurance.&nbsp;

City services, such as fire and police protection, parks, and public works are financed in the general fund. Most of the money comes from the city's sales tax.

Sales tax revenues are expected to be up 10% this year compared to 2021, and are projected to be up 5% in 2023.&nbsp;

Part of the revenue comes from the city's portion of the recently passed Ellis County quarter-cent sales tax, estimated at $1.1 million dollars.

Dougherty noted the $7.6 million transfer to commission capital reserves is "quite large" due to several factors.

A big portion of that is federal relief the city received through the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) ACT during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"The commission capital reserve is your savings account that allows you to pay cash for projects."

Hays is believed to be the only city in Kansas which pays for cash for its projects, according to Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser, which results in interest payment savings.

Also in the general fund are requests for monies from outside agencies, including the CARE Council which funds a number of social services, along economic development dollars requested from the city's scholarship program at Fort Hays State University, Grow Hays, and the Hays Chamber of Commerce. This is the first time the chamber has requested city funding.

Other non-profit quality-of-life groups have requested funding in 2023 through the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Those are the Ellis County Historical Society, Hays Arts Council, Wild West Festival, Downtown Hays Development Corporation and Sister Cities.

The total amount requested by the groups - $556,116 - is nearly $72,000 more than what was allocated last year.&nbsp;

"The budget (for outside agencies funding) is the same as it was last year, so the commission will have to have a discussion on that," Dougherty said.

Assessed valuation for Hays, as determined by the county, is up 12% at $267.2 million dollars.

Just like everyone else's budget, adjustments have been made for rising fuel prices. The city's allocation for fuel has increased by $70,000.&nbsp;

Commissioners will review the proposal in more detail July 21 and again August 4, which will focus on the funding requests from the outside agencies.

"We always give the commission some time to review, absorb, think about the budget and talk about it before asking about outside agency funding requests."

The 2023 capital improvement plan includes an extra $1 million for improvements to East 13th Street, anticipating more traffic as USD 489 begins its planned construction of a new high school east of the current building.

Also in capital improvements is $9 million dollars for design of the R9 Ranch long-term water supply project.

Hays Post will have an update on the long-awaited project next week.&nbsp;

Commissioner Shaun Musil thanked city staff for their work on the budget.

"Seems like we're continuing to stay aggressive with street maintenance, water," Musil said. "I like it that we stay ahead instead of behind like a lot of communities do."&nbsp;

"I like that we're staying ahead while still putting money into the reserves fund," agreed Commissioner Barrick.

The budget hearing and subsequent adoption is scheduled for September 8.

Although Commissioner Sandy Jacobs was absent from Thursday's meeting, Dougherty said he had already reviewed the budget proposal with her individually.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657359548888.jpeg" alt="Valuation for the city of Hays in 2023 is up 12% at $267,220,217.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Valuation for the city of Hays in 2023 is up 12% at $267,220,217.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays city commissioners got their first glance at the proposed 2023 budget Thursday evening."The budget's balanced. We've put money into reserves. The 25 mill levy is maintained," said Toby Dougherty, city manager, in a review of the budget highlights. "These are things we try to achieve every year."The city's mill levy has remained the same the past 13 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657356510234.jpeg" alt="The city of Hays mill levy in the 2023 draft budget remains at 25 mills for the 13th year.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The city of Hays mill levy in the 2023 draft budget remains at 25 mills for the 13th year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Something new in 2023 is the plan to hire two additional employees.Those two positions would be for maintenance workers - one in the solid waste department, the other in the department of water resources' production and distribution division.&nbsp;The number of solid waste customer accounts has grown, Dougherty explained, and there's also been growth in the water resources system.&nbsp;"Jeff Crispin (water resources director) can get by now with his crew, but he has a hard time being proactive, and as you know, if you're not proactive it's going to cost you more money eventually.""I like that we're having growth and need more employees," said Reese Barrick, commissioner.&nbsp;All 184 city employees are slated for a cost of living increase in 2023. The budget will continue including $11,000 per employee for health insurance.&nbsp;City services, such as fire and police protection, parks, and public works are financed in the general fund. Most of the money comes from the city's sales tax.Sales tax revenues are expected to be up 10% this year compared to 2021, and are projected to be up 5% in 2023.&nbsp;Part of the revenue comes from the city's portion of the recently passed Ellis County quarter-cent sales tax, estimated at $1.1 million dollars.Dougherty noted the $7.6 million transfer to commission capital reserves is "quite large" due to several factors.A big portion of that is federal relief the city received through the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) ACT during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;"The commission capital reserve is your savings account that allows you to pay cash for projects."Hays is believed to be the only city in Kansas which pays for cash for its projects, according to Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser, which results in interest payment savings.Also in the general fund are requests for monies from outside agencies, including the CARE Council which funds a number of social services, along economic development dollars requested from the city's scholarship program at Fort Hays State University, Grow Hays, and the Hays Chamber of Commerce. This is the first time the chamber has requested city funding.Other non-profit quality-of-life groups have requested funding in 2023 through the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Those are the Ellis County Historical Society, Hays Arts Council, Wild West Festival, Downtown Hays Development Corporation and Sister Cities.The total amount requested by the groups - $556,116 - is nearly $72,000 more than what was allocated last year.&nbsp;"The budget (for outside agencies funding) is the same as it was last year, so the commission will have to have a discussion on that," Dougherty said.Assessed valuation for Hays, as determined by the county, is up 12% at $267.2 million dollars.Just like everyone else's budget, adjustments have been made for rising fuel prices. The city's allocation for fuel has increased by $70,000.&nbsp;Commissioners will review the proposal in more detail July 21 and again August 4, which will focus on the funding requests from the outside agencies."We always give the commission some time to review, absorb, think about the budget and talk about it before asking about outside agency funding requests."The 2023 capital improvement plan includes an extra $1 million for improvements to East 13th Street, anticipating more traffic as USD 489 begins its planned construction of a new high school east of the current building.Also in capital improvements is $9 million dollars for design of the R9 Ranch long-term water supply project.Hays Post will have an update on the long-awaited project next week.&nbsp;<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sat Jul 09 2022 04:35:32 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="2023 Hays Budget Preview"/><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/HQwWp5ss-1920.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/HQwWp5ss-AMBVbJQD.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/HQwWp5ss-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="2023 Hays Budget Preview" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Commissioner Shaun Musil thanked city staff for their work on the budget."Seems like we're continuing to stay aggressive with street maintenance, water," Musil said. "I like it that we stay ahead instead of behind like a lot of communities do."&nbsp;"I like that we're staying ahead while still putting money into the reserves fund," agreed Commissioner Barrick.The budget hearing and subsequent adoption is scheduled for September 8.Although Commissioner Sandy Jacobs was absent from Thursday's meeting, Dougherty said he had already reviewed the budget proposal with her individually.

🎥 Hays' 2023 budget draft remains at 25 mills, including employee pay raises 

Since its founding in 1947 by the late Harold G. Palmer, thousands of students have attended High Plains Music Camp on the campus of Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Seventy-five years later, the camp continues to offer students an unmatched opportunity to study with outstanding musicians and build new friendships with other young musicians.&nbsp;

This year’s camp begins on Sunday, July 10, and runs through July 16.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Students who attend this annual camp enjoy a week of stimulating, concentrated study with nationally recognized musicians, teachers, and conductors. Performances, concerts, and recreational and social camp life experiences bring many campers back year after year.&nbsp;

The camp agenda includes nightly performances of professional concerts for the campers and the public to enjoy.&nbsp;

For a preview of the 75th annual High Plains Music Camp, watch this story by SN TV’s Avery Osen for their Good Morning Kansas program:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtBrFdb6SLDNgufwbcc8U9Oe4I6pjR1mlu8ePPHDspiOBXm9wXaHDpcoZzu-2FRq5BjfFCzktj-2B7gC4XhvhDsQvMsp3c8oROnq6Uu48edR1mWzbO5Fo_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemxo0ho0TPEh0GDhBcxgjte27Oh4jBs-2B66L44z-2Bcl8PgOdBmVdO3li8CEPnCpEyOCDMAy-2BbULjhhpuU96ewoCiTE8McTArlO0oIjVYrQBWa-2Fqg50oH7nQJuTTXkv1iUfMdDJcKpV7Ba5YQDb8UlC2ZpGsuoADTTrs6Zay6PUSGxsLM9jSywawvDcVQURZxlT3TW-2FecIkPzQD7wIPgnneMxmBC-2Brvt-2FyHW4gW3j-2Fnc9nXHszWc7FdlDyPfL-2BsQDf-2Bo-2BOBOR5RXHdlKDEV09LXRhCg-3D-3D">https://www.ksn.com/gooddaykansas/fort-hays-state-university-high-plains-music-camp/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657288158263.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsSince its founding in 1947 by the late Harold G. Palmer, thousands of students have attended High Plains Music Camp on the campus of Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Seventy-five years later, the camp continues to offer students an unmatched opportunity to study with outstanding musicians and build new friendships with other young musicians.&nbsp;This year’s camp begins on Sunday, July 10, and runs through July 16.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students who attend this annual camp enjoy a week of stimulating, concentrated study with nationally recognized musicians, teachers, and conductors. Performances, concerts, and recreational and social camp life experiences bring many campers back year after year.&nbsp;The camp agenda includes nightly performances of professional concerts for the campers and the public to enjoy.&nbsp;For a preview of the 75th annual High Plains Music Camp, watch this story by SN TV’s Avery Osen for their Good Morning Kansas program:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtBrFdb6SLDNgufwbcc8U9Oe4I6pjR1mlu8ePPHDspiOBXm9wXaHDpcoZzu-2FRq5BjfFCzktj-2B7gC4XhvhDsQvMsp3c8oROnq6Uu48edR1mWzbO5Fo_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemxo0ho0TPEh0GDhBcxgjte27Oh4jBs-2B66L44z-2Bcl8PgOdBmVdO3li8CEPnCpEyOCDMAy-2BbULjhhpuU96ewoCiTE8McTArlO0oIjVYrQBWa-2Fqg50oH7nQJuTTXkv1iUfMdDJcKpV7Ba5YQDb8UlC2ZpGsuoADTTrs6Zay6PUSGxsLM9jSywawvDcVQURZxlT3TW-2FecIkPzQD7wIPgnneMxmBC-2Brvt-2FyHW4gW3j-2Fnc9nXHszWc7FdlDyPfL-2BsQDf-2Bo-2BOBOR5RXHdlKDEV09LXRhCg-3D-3D">https://www.ksn.com/gooddaykansas/fort-hays-state-university-high-plains-music-camp/</a>

High Plains Music Camp celebrates 75th anniversary

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

“My doctor said I need glasses (so I got wineglasses…).”&nbsp;

That’s a paraphrase of a light-hearted saying posted on a sign in a winetasting room in rural Kansas, where an innovative family is producing wine and using it to create new opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Allen Schmidt and family are owners and founders of Resurrection Vineyard near Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vineyard is located on the fifth generation family dairy farm where Schmidt grew up.&nbsp;&nbsp;He went to the University of Kansas then earned a masters degree in school psychology at Fort Hays State before joining the Army and earning a masters from the U.S. Army War College.&nbsp;

Schmidt served in the Army Medical Service Corps for 32 years, including 12 years in the Army Reserve, and retired as a colonel.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schmidt left the service in 1981, returned to run the dairy, and then was recalled to the Army. He completed his active duty career as the deputy commander for readiness of the Army Reserve Medical Command, with responsibility for 27,000 soldiers in 165 locations.&nbsp;

After his second stint in the Army, Schmidt and his wife Ellen returned to Ellis County permanently. They have nine children and 21 grandchildren with more on the way. Schmidt served in the Kansas Senate and on the Kansas Board of Regents, among other organizations.&nbsp;

He now serves part-time as planned giving officer for Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, a non-profit charity that serves persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information on that, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dsnwk.org/">www.dsnwk.org</a>.&nbsp;

The family dairy closed in 1995 but family members continued to live on the place while renting out the farm ground. Schmidt’s son Brett lives there with his wife Ashley and their children. Brett founded an intergenerational day care in Hays.&nbsp;

One day Brett came to Allen and told him that he would like to raise grapes and make wine on the farm. Allen wasn’t sure at first, but then he thought about how this could restore activity on the farm while preserving its rustic culture.&nbsp;

“It’s bringing the farm back to life,” Allen Schmidt said. With that in mind, and as a faith-based family, they chose the name Resurrection Vineyard. The winery opened as a commercial operation in 2017.&nbsp;

The old dairy barn has been converted to the winery. Even the previous dairy equipment is being used, in some cases. A former milk weigh jar, for example, is now used in bottling wine. The milking parlor has been converted to the bottling facility with modern bottling and labeling equipment. “Brett is the winemaker,” Allen said.&nbsp;

The bulk tank room has been converted and used for wine-tastings, which Allen and Ellen host by appointment. Resurrection Vineyard offers five dry wines – a Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling – and seven sweet wines:&nbsp;&nbsp;Moscato, Risen Red, Blueberry Pinot Noir, Sweet Legacy, Misty White, Strawberry Sunrise and Apple Blast.&nbsp;

Allen Schmidt and his family are remaking the farmstead as well. Two grain bins have been ingeniously converted to housing. A new structure will incorporate another grain bin and will provide lodging, beginning with the grandkids. “That’s been my dream, having a place where the family can gather,” Schmidt said. He already conducts a grandkids camp in the summer, where the kids can get outside to play and learn on the farm.&nbsp;

Resurrection Vineyard wine is available online and through local stores. It is offered in traditional bottles and resealable plastic containers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The vineyard is located in a rural area just north of Hays in Buckeye Township, which has a population of 391 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

“We came back to develop a gathering place for family, friends, and community,” Schmidt said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have a lot of fun.”&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.resurrectionvineyard.com/">www.resurrectionvineyard.com</a>.&nbsp;

We commend Allen and Ellen Schmidt, Brett and Ashley Schmidt, and all those involved with Resurrection Vineyard for making a difference by revitalizing the farm and creating this new winery. As another saying goes: “Wine a little, laugh a lot.”&nbsp;

And there’s more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Remember the son’s intergenerational day care?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657121458606.png" alt="Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;“My doctor said I need glasses (so I got wineglasses…).”&nbsp;That’s a paraphrase of a light-hearted saying posted on a sign in a winetasting room in rural Kansas, where an innovative family is producing wine and using it to create new opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allen Schmidt and family are owners and founders of Resurrection Vineyard near Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vineyard is located on the fifth generation family dairy farm where Schmidt grew up.&nbsp;&nbsp;He went to the University of Kansas then earned a masters degree in school psychology at Fort Hays State before joining the Army and earning a masters from the U.S. Army War College.&nbsp;Schmidt served in the Army Medical Service Corps for 32 years, including 12 years in the Army Reserve, and retired as a colonel.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Schmidt left the service in 1981, returned to run the dairy, and then was recalled to the Army. He completed his active duty career as the deputy commander for readiness of the Army Reserve Medical Command, with responsibility for 27,000 soldiers in 165 locations.&nbsp;After his second stint in the Army, Schmidt and his wife Ellen returned to Ellis County permanently. They have nine children and 21 grandchildren with more on the way. Schmidt served in the Kansas Senate and on the Kansas Board of Regents, among other organizations.&nbsp;He now serves part-time as planned giving officer for Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, a non-profit charity that serves persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information on that, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dsnwk.org/">www.dsnwk.org</a>.&nbsp;The family dairy closed in 1995 but family members continued to live on the place while renting out the farm ground. Schmidt’s son Brett lives there with his wife Ashley and their children. Brett founded an intergenerational day care in Hays.&nbsp;One day Brett came to Allen and told him that he would like to raise grapes and make wine on the farm. Allen wasn’t sure at first, but then he thought about how this could restore activity on the farm while preserving its rustic culture.&nbsp;“It’s bringing the farm back to life,” Allen Schmidt said. With that in mind, and as a faith-based family, they chose the name Resurrection Vineyard. The winery opened as a commercial operation in 2017.&nbsp;The old dairy barn has been converted to the winery. Even the previous dairy equipment is being used, in some cases. A former milk weigh jar, for example, is now used in bottling wine. The milking parlor has been converted to the bottling facility with modern bottling and labeling equipment. “Brett is the winemaker,” Allen said.&nbsp;The bulk tank room has been converted and used for wine-tastings, which Allen and Ellen host by appointment. Resurrection Vineyard offers five dry wines – a Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling – and seven sweet wines:&nbsp;&nbsp;Moscato, Risen Red, Blueberry Pinot Noir, Sweet Legacy, Misty White, Strawberry Sunrise and Apple Blast.&nbsp;Allen Schmidt and his family are remaking the farmstead as well. Two grain bins have been ingeniously converted to housing. A new structure will incorporate another grain bin and will provide lodging, beginning with the grandkids. “That’s been my dream, having a place where the family can gather,” Schmidt said. He already conducts a grandkids camp in the summer, where the kids can get outside to play and learn on the farm.&nbsp;Resurrection Vineyard wine is available online and through local stores. It is offered in traditional bottles and resealable plastic containers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The vineyard is located in a rural area just north of Hays in Buckeye Township, which has a population of 391 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;“We came back to develop a gathering place for family, friends, and community,” Schmidt said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have a lot of fun.”&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.resurrectionvineyard.com/">www.resurrectionvineyard.com</a>.&nbsp;We commend Allen and Ellen Schmidt, Brett and Ashley Schmidt, and all those involved with Resurrection Vineyard for making a difference by revitalizing the farm and creating this new winery. As another saying goes: “Wine a little, laugh a lot.”&nbsp;And there’s more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Remember the son’s intergenerational day care?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Allen Schmidt, Resurrection Vineyard 

LENORA — Nex-Tech announced its acquisition of Moundridge Communications Network closed Friday. Founded in 1904, Moundridge Communications Network is a broadband and telephone service provider for customers in the Kansas communities of Moundridge and Goessel. Family-owned and operated, the Weelborg and Smith families have owned the company since 2016.   &nbsp;

Through this acquisition, new business technologies including Cloud Phone, Managed I.T., Security and Surveillance, hardware and software, and backup services will be available to Moundridge customers and customers in the surrounding areas.  &nbsp;

The Moundridge Communications Network local office will continue to operate with existing staff in their current positions.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601562391147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLENORA — Nex-Tech announced its acquisition of Moundridge Communications Network closed Friday. Founded in 1904, Moundridge Communications Network is a broadband and telephone service provider for customers in the Kansas communities of Moundridge and Goessel. Family-owned and operated, the Weelborg and Smith families have owned the company since 2016.   &nbsp;Through this acquisition, new business technologies including Cloud Phone, Managed I.T., Security and Surveillance, hardware and software, and backup services will be available to Moundridge customers and customers in the surrounding areas.  &nbsp;The Moundridge Communications Network local office will continue to operate with existing staff in their current positions.&nbsp;