By Becky KISER Hays Post

By paying off some economic development bonds early, the city of Hays will save about $32,000 in interest and return sales tax monies to the general fund, approximately $200,000 per year.

City commissioners Thursday night unanimously approved the expenditure of $407,709 from city commission
capital reserves to redeem the September 2022 and September 2024 bonds in the
2004-A Series, to be replenished from the Home Depot economic development bonds
fund 2023 budget.

The debt service for this series is funded by the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) well as 0.5% of the city’s retail sales tax in the Home Depot area which also includes I-HOP, Travel Plaza, Hampton Inn and TownePlace Suites by Marriott.

In addition to the $32,000 interest savings, "it also puts that half-cent, which averages about $200,000 annually, back into the general fund," explained Kim Rupp, Hays finance director. "That's one of the bigger benefits, all happening about 18 months from now.

"The area is performing better than originally projected, the TIF and the sales tax."&nbsp;

Rupp told commissioners he noticed cash was building in the fund.

"I got to thinking, 18 months down the road, we don't want to have all that cash. That cash can be used now."

Rupp consulted with the city's bond counsel who ran some number projections that supported Rupp's suggestion an early payoff would be financially beneficial.&nbsp;

"This will be a nice shot in the arm coming back on the tax rolls for us," said Shaun Musil, commissioner.&nbsp;

General fund monies are generated primarily by the city's sales tax. It pays for police and fire protection, parks, and public works.&nbsp;

"We all appreciate how you keep your eye on those things," Commissioner Sandy Jacobs said to Rupp.&nbsp;

The commission also unanimously approved a pay raise for city employees.

The $2,000 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is pro-rated for 2022 and effective with the next payroll.

Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser noted the nation's record high inflation and its effect on employees' wages.

"When factoring in the COLA provided in the 2022 budget, city employees
are currently 8.93 percent below where they were in 2020," Bielser told commissioners.

"I think it's important we do this and to take care of the employees. As everybody knows it costs money to retrain people," Musil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Vice-Mayor Michael Berges said he's seen private companies in Hays make similar moves recently, "so I don't think it's out of line for the city."

"The greatest investment we can do is in our employees," he said. "They keep Hays running, even though people might not always see it."

In other business, commissioners approved renewal of the city's 2022/2023 property/liability insurance coverage with Midwest Public Risk (MPR) for $292,679. The premium is up 11 percent from last year, primarily based on the city's added values/exposures. Insurance Planning, Hays, is the city's insurance broker.

A resolution was also approved setting a July 28 public hearing for establishment of the RHID (Rural Housing Improvement District) and development plan for 4th and Fort.

 The developer, Turn-Key Properties,&nbsp;wants to construct four structures with 36 apartment units directly west of the former Washington Elementary School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656112517728.png" alt="(City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>(City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Becky KISER Hays PostBy paying off some economic development bonds early, the city of Hays will save about $32,000 in interest and return sales tax monies to the general fund, approximately $200,000 per year.City commissioners Thursday night unanimously approved the expenditure of $407,709 from city commission
capital reserves to redeem the September 2022 and September 2024 bonds in the
2004-A Series, to be replenished from the Home Depot economic development bonds
fund 2023 budget.The debt service for this series is funded by the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) well as 0.5% of the city’s retail sales tax in the Home Depot area which also includes I-HOP, Travel Plaza, Hampton Inn and TownePlace Suites by Marriott.In addition to the $32,000 interest savings, "it also puts that half-cent, which averages about $200,000 annually, back into the general fund," explained Kim Rupp, Hays finance director. "That's one of the bigger benefits, all happening about 18 months from now."The area is performing better than originally projected, the TIF and the sales tax."&nbsp;<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Fri Jun 24 2022 19:41:02 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Rupp Early Bond Payoff"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H2M28S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/wOTwrW05-960.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/wOTwrW05-pBJeDI6y.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/wOTwrW05-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Rupp Early Bond Payoff" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Rupp told commissioners he noticed cash was building in the fund."I got to thinking, 18 months down the road, we don't want to have all that cash. That cash can be used now."Rupp consulted with the city's bond counsel who ran some number projections that supported Rupp's suggestion an early payoff would be financially beneficial.&nbsp;"This will be a nice shot in the arm coming back on the tax rolls for us," said Shaun Musil, commissioner.&nbsp;General fund monies are generated primarily by the city's sales tax. It pays for police and fire protection, parks, and public works.&nbsp;"We all appreciate how you keep your eye on those things," Commissioner Sandy Jacobs said to Rupp.&nbsp;The commission also unanimously approved a pay raise for city employees.The $2,000 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is pro-rated for 2022 and effective with the next payroll.Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser noted the nation's record high inflation and its effect on employees' wages."When factoring in the COLA provided in the 2022 budget, city employees
are currently 8.93 percent below where they were in 2020," Bielser told commissioners."I think it's important we do this and to take care of the employees. As everybody knows it costs money to retrain people," Musil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Vice-Mayor Michael Berges said he's seen private companies in Hays make similar moves recently, "so I don't think it's out of line for the city."Mayor Mason Ruder agreed."The greatest investment we can do is in our employees," he said. "They keep Hays running, even though people might not always see it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656115942651.png" alt="(City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>(City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>In other business, commissioners approved renewal of the city's 2022/2023 property/liability insurance coverage with Midwest Public Risk (MPR) for $292,679. The premium is up 11 percent from last year, primarily based on the city's added values/exposures. Insurance Planning, Hays, is the city's insurance broker.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656116221228.png" alt="Washington Apartments concept plan for 4th and Fort in Hays. (Courtesy Driggs Design Group)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Washington Apartments concept plan for 4th and Fort in Hays. (Courtesy Driggs Design Group)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A resolution was also approved setting a July 28 public hearing for establishment of the RHID (Rural Housing Improvement District) and development plan for 4th and Fort. The developer, Turn-Key Properties,&nbsp;wants to construct four structures with 36 apartment units directly west of the former Washington Elementary School.

🎥 Early Home Depot bond payoff puts $200K back into Hays' general fund

Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Fri Jun 17 2022 10:04:54 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Coby Grimsley"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/m9txsyeK-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/m9txsyeK-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/m9txsyeK-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Coby Grimsley" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Coby Grimsley

COLBY — Colby Community College biology program director Dr. Jeffrey Sekavec was awarded a grant to attend the American Society for Microbiology Conference for Undergraduate Educators on July 11 through 15.&nbsp;The award came from the conference planning committee.

Educators worldwide will gather online for an opportunity of live, interactive programming to learn classroom strategies, hear biology education research updates and meet new colleagues who teach the same classes. Throughout the conference, ASMCUE will offer more than 150 talks.

Sekavec is attending the conference for the first time. He said he joined the American Society for Microbiology in 2014 because of a shared interest with his graduate advisor at Fort Hays State University.

"Dr. Eric Gillock, a leading virologist in the United States, got me involved given our published research into antibiotic resistance and discovery of a novel resistance to a select antimicrobial never before seen in the US."

ASM is one of the largest life science societies in the world, with nearly 30,000 members consisting of researchers, educators and health professionals. In addition to several global professional branches, the organization is planning to begin student chapters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1654012081115.jpeg" alt="Sekavec" />
 <figcaption>Sekavec</figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College biology program director Dr. Jeffrey Sekavec was awarded a grant to attend the American Society for Microbiology Conference for Undergraduate Educators on July 11 through 15.&nbsp;The award came from the conference planning committee.Educators worldwide will gather online for an opportunity of live, interactive programming to learn classroom strategies, hear biology education research updates and meet new colleagues who teach the same classes. Throughout the conference, ASMCUE will offer more than 150 talks.Sekavec is attending the conference for the first time. He said he joined the American Society for Microbiology in 2014 because of a shared interest with his graduate advisor at Fort Hays State University."Dr. Eric Gillock, a leading virologist in the United States, got me involved given our published research into antibiotic resistance and discovery of a novel resistance to a select antimicrobial never before seen in the US."ASM is one of the largest life science societies in the world, with nearly 30,000 members consisting of researchers, educators and health professionals. In addition to several global professional branches, the organization is planning to begin student chapters.

Colby CC instructor receives grant to attend conference

<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/2022/6/1656092955571.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

There is a&nbsp;big wooden&nbsp;street light pole midway between our driveway and the neighbors.&nbsp;Every&nbsp;morning for the past&nbsp;couple years,&nbsp;at least&nbsp;one of the&nbsp;Mississippi Kites&nbsp;here in town could be found&nbsp;perched on the top of that pole, calmly surveying the surroundings as life went-on beneath&nbsp;it. This year, though, not so much, and today&nbsp;I discovered why.&nbsp;The&nbsp;metal pipe&nbsp;that extends the light out over the street fastens to the pole with a metal bracket formed in the shape of a “u.” For the&nbsp;second&nbsp;time in a few years, a pair of western kingbirds have claimed that metal bracket for themselves and built a nest cradled in its&nbsp;interior. Our first impression of their chosen “digs” was “Why on earth right there, of all places,&nbsp;when there is a fine&nbsp;oak&nbsp;tree just a few yards&nbsp;away that would provide much more cover and protection.”&nbsp;

The answer to our bewilderment lies in the fact that kingbirds are classified as&nbsp;“tyrant&nbsp;flycatchers.”&nbsp;Birds classified as flycatchers hunt and feed by snatching insects&nbsp;in midair, known as “aerial hawking,” or&nbsp;while hovering, often returning to the same perch time and again with their catch. Because of their mode of hunting, they need large open areas nearby to accommodate their hunting style, thus,nesting in the open on that&nbsp;light pole makes perfect&nbsp;sense to them.&nbsp;Plus,&nbsp;the street light&nbsp;beside them will attract a buffet of insects every night.&nbsp;The&nbsp;“tyrant”&nbsp;part of their classification is earned because they aggressively defend their nest and territory against intruders, often succeeding in driving away much larger birds like hawks and owls&nbsp;(which explains the absence of the Kites.)&nbsp;That was evident the other evening as I watched them from the front porch. Both parents were at the nest, but were very nervous.&nbsp;They are used to watching us putter&nbsp;around in the nearby flowerbed or pull weeds beneath their pole, so I wondered why they seemed so on-edge. Then I looked to the sky and noticed several of our&nbsp;big&nbsp;local Mississippi Kites soaring around on the updrafts high above. They were no threat, but had the kingbirds on alert nonetheless.&nbsp;Western kingbirds&nbsp;are a species that have benefitted from man’s acts of planting trees and erecting light and power poles.

Kingbirds make a kind of jabbering, twittering sound and we often see them hovering above the nest while making that noise. They are masters of hovering by flapping their outstretched wings but remaining in one spot above us. They are also known to be masters of great acrobatic maneuvers while&nbsp;hunting, although we have not yet&nbsp;been treated to that.&nbsp;Kingbird’s&nbsp;breed and nest&nbsp;all across the western half of&nbsp;the United States and winter in Mexico and South&nbsp;America. They have a small topknot that usually lies flat unless agitated, but their&nbsp;pale-yellow&nbsp;breast is&nbsp;probably&nbsp;what&nbsp;distinguishes&nbsp;them the most.&nbsp;

We enjoy watching our kingbird pair; one is always on the nest, only visible from our vantage point on the ground by either a head or a tail sticking over the side of the nest. The other is usually near, either perched on the metal pipe holding the light or flitting around, always greeting our presence with their jabbering song. It will be fun to watch them&nbsp;raise their chicks high on that light pole; yet another way to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>There is a&nbsp;big wooden&nbsp;street light pole midway between our driveway and the neighbors.&nbsp;Every&nbsp;morning for the past&nbsp;couple years,&nbsp;at least&nbsp;one of the&nbsp;Mississippi Kites&nbsp;here in town could be found&nbsp;perched on the top of that pole, calmly surveying the surroundings as life went-on beneath&nbsp;it. This year, though, not so much, and today&nbsp;I discovered why.&nbsp;The&nbsp;metal pipe&nbsp;that extends the light out over the street fastens to the pole with a metal bracket formed in the shape of a “u.” For the&nbsp;second&nbsp;time in a few years, a pair of western kingbirds have claimed that metal bracket for themselves and built a nest cradled in its&nbsp;interior. Our first impression of their chosen “digs” was “Why on earth right there, of all places,&nbsp;when there is a fine&nbsp;oak&nbsp;tree just a few yards&nbsp;away that would provide much more cover and protection.”&nbsp;The answer to our bewilderment lies in the fact that kingbirds are classified as&nbsp;“tyrant&nbsp;flycatchers.”&nbsp;Birds classified as flycatchers hunt and feed by snatching insects&nbsp;in midair, known as “aerial hawking,” or&nbsp;while hovering, often returning to the same perch time and again with their catch. Because of their mode of hunting, they need large open areas nearby to accommodate their hunting style, thus,nesting in the open on that&nbsp;light pole makes perfect&nbsp;sense to them.&nbsp;Plus,&nbsp;the street light&nbsp;beside them will attract a buffet of insects every night.&nbsp;The&nbsp;“tyrant”&nbsp;part of their classification is earned because they aggressively defend their nest and territory against intruders, often succeeding in driving away much larger birds like hawks and owls&nbsp;(which explains the absence of the Kites.)&nbsp;That was evident the other evening as I watched them from the front porch. Both parents were at the nest, but were very nervous.&nbsp;They are used to watching us putter&nbsp;around in the nearby flowerbed or pull weeds beneath their pole, so I wondered why they seemed so on-edge. Then I looked to the sky and noticed several of our&nbsp;big&nbsp;local Mississippi Kites soaring around on the updrafts high above. They were no threat, but had the kingbirds on alert nonetheless.&nbsp;Western kingbirds&nbsp;are a species that have benefitted from man’s acts of planting trees and erecting light and power poles.Kingbirds make a kind of jabbering, twittering sound and we often see them hovering above the nest while making that noise. They are masters of hovering by flapping their outstretched wings but remaining in one spot above us. They are also known to be masters of great acrobatic maneuvers while&nbsp;hunting, although we have not yet&nbsp;been treated to that.&nbsp;Kingbird’s&nbsp;breed and nest&nbsp;all across the western half of&nbsp;the United States and winter in Mexico and South&nbsp;America. They have a small topknot that usually lies flat unless agitated, but their&nbsp;pale-yellow&nbsp;breast is&nbsp;probably&nbsp;what&nbsp;distinguishes&nbsp;them the most.&nbsp;We enjoy watching our kingbird pair; one is always on the nest, only visible from our vantage point on the ground by either a head or a tail sticking over the side of the nest. The other is usually near, either perched on the metal pipe holding the light or flitting around, always greeting our presence with their jabbering song. It will be fun to watch them&nbsp;raise their chicks high on that light pole; yet another way to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Kings of the neighborhood

KANSAS CITY – Hunters and anglers will now benefit from a new-and-improved system designed to make accessing public lands in Kansas easier than ever. As part of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ (KDWP) all-new licensing purchase system – Go Outdoors KS – outdoor recreationalists will not need a separate login to “check in” and out of KDWP-managed properties, as the Go Outdoors KS licensing system and mobile app is fully integrated.

“We’re thrilled to offer an improved customer experience for our constituents, especially in advance of our fall seasons this year,” said Shanda Knapic, chief of licensing for KDWP. “Go Outdoors KS is a critical tool for hunters and anglers to safely, legally, and easily enjoy outdoor recreation in our state, and it can be accessed right from a smartphone or mobile device.”

Hunters and anglers who are familiar with KDWP’s previous licensing solution, and check-in system, will notice:

Those wishing to explore KDWP’s new-and-improved hunting and fishing licensing system may do so from any web browser or smart device. Here’s how:

“This isn’t a ‘one and done’ project for us or for our contract vendor,” added Knapic. “We’re committed to ensuring that outdoor access, and making hunting- and fishing-related purchases, remains easy and enjoyable for everyone wishing to Go Outdoors in Kansas.”

KDWP’s state park reservation system remains unchanged by the Go Outdoors KS launch. Campers in Kansas can still access the same great features they’re accustomed to – whether purchasing a daily vehicle entrance permit or securing a campsite with water and electric – by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjQuNTk4ODIxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmNhbXBpdGtzLmNvbSJ9.44QJy6WmlM0SYKpVKeGlMnqL4cWaos9FDTcZT3m7ZQk/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">www.campitks.com</a>.

To purchase a Kansas hunting or fishing license, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjQuNTk4ODIxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvb3V0ZG9vcnNrYW5zYXMuY29tIn0.FTfB81ARUOYe-flAW0E4q5-n0KkMS5OhJT2PvspF5gc/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKansas.com</a>&nbsp;or download the “Go Outdoors KS” mobile app today.

To make a campsite reservation or state park-related purchase, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjQuNTk4ODIxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Jlc2VydmVhbWVyaWNhLmNvbSJ9.aboeuFQ8-2v6FFqd1pUpCj8d2lLhFaaHBeUU-uZOWRM/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">ReserveAmerica.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656127406176.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPKANSAS CITY – Hunters and anglers will now benefit from a new-and-improved system designed to make accessing public lands in Kansas easier than ever. As part of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ (KDWP) all-new licensing purchase system – Go Outdoors KS – outdoor recreationalists will not need a separate login to “check in” and out of KDWP-managed properties, as the Go Outdoors KS licensing system and mobile app is fully integrated.“We’re thrilled to offer an improved customer experience for our constituents, especially in advance of our fall seasons this year,” said Shanda Knapic, chief of licensing for KDWP. “Go Outdoors KS is a critical tool for hunters and anglers to safely, legally, and easily enjoy outdoor recreation in our state, and it can be accessed right from a smartphone or mobile device.”Hunters and anglers who are familiar with KDWP’s previous licensing solution, and check-in system, will notice:<ul>
 <li>A single sign-in feature, eliminating the need to remember multiple logins</li><li>All-in-one access, as customers may now access license purchases and check-ins from the same location</li><li>Greater ease of use, as the customer experience remained “top of mind” throughout the system’s development</li>
 </ul>Those wishing to explore KDWP’s new-and-improved hunting and fishing licensing system may do so from any web browser or smart device. Here’s how:Check-in/Check-out on The Web<ol>
 <li>Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.5cm7bf6IxGv91yKFRvOfPNZSsLZ7Zr6id10g3dEKtns/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin</a></li><li>Click the “Check-in/Check-out” link in the top menu</li>
 </ol>Check-in/Check-out on The App<ol>
 <li>Download “Go Outdoors KS” from the Apple or Google Play store</li><li>Click “Check-in/Check-out”</li><li>Select a location</li><li>Login with KDWP credentials</li><li>Complete and submit “Check-in form</li>
 </ol>“This isn’t a ‘one and done’ project for us or for our contract vendor,” added Knapic. “We’re committed to ensuring that outdoor access, and making hunting- and fishing-related purchases, remains easy and enjoyable for everyone wishing to Go Outdoors in Kansas.”KDWP’s state park reservation system remains unchanged by the Go Outdoors KS launch. Campers in Kansas can still access the same great features they’re accustomed to – whether purchasing a daily vehicle entrance permit or securing a campsite with water and electric – by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjQuNTk4ODIxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmNhbXBpdGtzLmNvbSJ9.44QJy6WmlM0SYKpVKeGlMnqL4cWaos9FDTcZT3m7ZQk/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">www.campitks.com</a>.To purchase a Kansas hunting or fishing license, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjQuNTk4ODIxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvb3V0ZG9vcnNrYW5zYXMuY29tIn0.FTfB81ARUOYe-flAW0E4q5-n0KkMS5OhJT2PvspF5gc/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKansas.com</a>&nbsp;or download the “Go Outdoors KS” mobile app today.To make a campsite reservation or state park-related purchase, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjQuNTk4ODIxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Jlc2VydmVhbWVyaWNhLmNvbSJ9.aboeuFQ8-2v6FFqd1pUpCj8d2lLhFaaHBeUU-uZOWRM/s/1303161001/br/134042026658-l" target="_blank">ReserveAmerica.com</a>.

Accessing public lands for hunting, fishing just got easier

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares updates from the housing development at 22nd and Wheatland.

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

<div><iframe title="Phase one sold out in Hays housing development" 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=v9jkb-125b36d-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 Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares updates from the housing development at 22nd and Wheatland. <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: Phase one sold out in Hays housing development

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two athletes and two coaches from Hays were part of the Kansas contingent who traveled June 4 to 12 to compete in the Special Olympics U.S.A games in Orlando, Fla.

Kacey Dannels competed in track and field and Ryan Hoag competed in bowling. Brent Kaiser coached track and field and Noalee McDonald-Augustine assisted both the tennis and track and field teams.

&nbsp;Four athletes from Kansas competed in the track and field portion of the event. Just less than 100 athletes from Kansas competed in the games. All the Kansas track athletes won medals.

Kaiser said the heat was a factor in the competition, but everyone did very well. 

Dannels brought home a silver in the shot put, a bronze in the 4X100 relay and bronze in the 400 meters. 

"It's a blast because you get to participate in all different events," Dannels said of track and field. "I just like to run. I like to run shorter distances."

Hoag, 38, placed sixth in singles bowling, fourth in doubles and sixth in team bowling.

Hoag and Dannels both said their favorite aspect of attending the games was meeting other athletes.

"Just getting to see different states and getting to make new friends and getting to experience a once-in-a-lifetime thing," Dannels said.

Dannels said she also enjoyed watching other athletes compete in softball and volleyball.

This was Dannels' second trip to Special Olympics USA. She also attended the national event in 2018 in Seattle.

Dannels participates in Special Olympics activities year-round, including bowling, softball, volleyball, as well as track and field.

Regional, state and national Special Olympics were placed on hold during the pandemic for the protection of the athletes.

"It was a great time to be back doing what we all love," Dannels said.

Kaiser of Hays is a former employee of the Arc of the Central Plains and now is a development and sports coordinator for Special Olympics Kansas.

Kaiser said it was important for the athletes to be able to reconnect with friends this year.

"Our athletes haven't been able to see some of their friends from around the state that they normally get to see," he said. "They had all become accustomed to seeing each other. 

"Special Olympics Kansas is really just a big community. Everybody really gets along and knows each other. It was really cool to get everybody back together.

"I was really proud of how our Hays athletes and coaches represented themselves while they were there," Kaiser said. "Everybody really had a good time. They met new people, which I think is big. The social side of it is a huge part of it."

The local athletes also visited Disney's Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom while they were in Orlando.

Textron provided a private jet in cooperation with Garmin as part of the Special Olympics Airlift to fly the Hays Special Olympics athletes from Wichita to Orlando. Kaiser said a large contingent was on hand to cheer the athletes as they left from Wichita and when they arrived back from Orlando.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655913961335.jpeg" alt="From left, all from Hays, Special Olympics U.S.A. coach Noalee McDonald-Augustine, athlete Kacey Dannels, athlete Ryan Hoag and coach Brent Kaiser at the games in early June in Orlando. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>From left, all from Hays, Special Olympics U.S.A. coach Noalee McDonald-Augustine, athlete Kacey Dannels, athlete Ryan Hoag and coach Brent Kaiser at the games in early June in Orlando. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo athletes and two coaches from Hays were part of the Kansas contingent who traveled June 4 to 12 to compete in the Special Olympics U.S.A games in Orlando, Fla.Kacey Dannels competed in track and field and Ryan Hoag competed in bowling. Brent Kaiser coached track and field and Noalee McDonald-Augustine assisted both the tennis and track and field teams.&nbsp;Four athletes from Kansas competed in the track and field portion of the event. Just less than 100 athletes from Kansas competed in the games. All the Kansas track athletes won medals. Kaiser said the heat was a factor in the competition, but everyone did very well. Dannels brought home a silver in the shot put, a bronze in the 4X100 relay and bronze in the 400 meters. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655914224944.jpeg" alt="Special Olympics coach Brent Kaiser gets a hug from one of his track and field athletes at the Special Olympics U.S.A. Also pictured middle is Kacey Dannels of Hays, a member of the 4X100 relay team. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Special Olympics coach Brent Kaiser gets a hug from one of his track and field athletes at the Special Olympics U.S.A. Also pictured middle is Kacey Dannels of Hays, a member of the 4X100 relay team. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure>"It's a blast because you get to participate in all different events," Dannels said of track and field. "I just like to run. I like to run shorter distances." Hoag, 38, placed sixth in singles bowling, fourth in doubles and sixth in team bowling.Hoag and Dannels both said their favorite aspect of attending the games was meeting other athletes."Just getting to see different states and getting to make new friends and getting to experience a once-in-a-lifetime thing," Dannels said.Dannels said she also enjoyed watching other athletes compete in softball and volleyball. This was Dannels' second trip to Special Olympics USA. She also attended the national event in 2018 in Seattle.Dannels participates in Special Olympics activities year-round, including bowling, softball, volleyball, as well as track and field.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655914446033.jpeg" alt="Ryan Hoag of Hays, far left, with his Special Olympics U.S.A. games bowling team. The team placed sixth in the games. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Ryan Hoag of Hays, far left, with his Special Olympics U.S.A. games bowling team. The team placed sixth in the games. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Regional, state and national Special Olympics were placed on hold during the pandemic for the protection of the athletes."It was a great time to be back doing what we all love," Dannels said. Kaiser of Hays is a former employee of the Arc of the Central Plains and now is a development and sports coordinator for Special Olympics Kansas. Kaiser said it was important for the athletes to be able to reconnect with friends this year."Our athletes haven't been able to see some of their friends from around the state that they normally get to see," he said. "They had all become accustomed to seeing each other. "Special Olympics Kansas is really just a big community. Everybody really gets along and knows each other. It was really cool to get everybody back together."I was really proud of how our Hays athletes and coaches represented themselves while they were there," Kaiser said. "Everybody really had a good time. They met new people, which I think is big. The social side of it is a huge part of it."The local athletes also visited Disney's Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom while they were in Orlando. Textron provided a private jet in cooperation with Garmin as part of the Special Olympics Airlift to fly the Hays Special Olympics athletes from Wichita to Orlando. Kaiser said a large contingent was on hand to cheer the athletes as they left from Wichita and when they arrived back from Orlando.

Hays Special Olympics athletes bring home medals from USA games

So far this year, 27 people were killed and 56 injured in school shootings.&nbsp; Of those killed 24 were students or other children and three were adults, according to Education Week.

At this writing, a bipartisan bill to reduce gun violence is on its way in Washington. The bill includes funds for school shooting prevention and safety training for students and educators.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As part of the Kansas education budget, school safety will be upgraded this year by $5 million to fortify school facilities and security systems plus hire school resource officers. The Topeka Capital Journal reports that early requests to the Kansas State Department of Education for funding from 139 districts add up to around $10 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An alternative to safety funding is to arm teachers, as 28 states, not including Kansas, have done.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The three Republican primary candidates for Kansas Attorney General—the state's chief legal officer and top law enforcement official—Kris Kobach, Tony Mattivi, and Kellie Warren have each declared support for arming teachers.

Not everyone thinks this is a good idea.&nbsp;

The National Education Association and its Kansas affiliates advocate for schools to be gun-free.

Will arming teachers stop school shootings?&nbsp; Let’s consider how that might play out.

First, not all school personnel will be willing or able to carry firearms.&nbsp; Of those who are willing, many are handgun and shotgun owners like me.&nbsp; Hardly a match for an active shooter with military-grade fire power.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To win a gun fight, almost always the defender must be better prepared and more skillful.&nbsp; Would we expect armed teachers to undergo SWAT-level training, access AR-15 style weapons and wear body armor and helmets at school activities including bus transportation?

Active shooters typically confront small, isolated groups of students.&nbsp; Could armed teachers communicate with unarmed teachers in another part of the school and get to the shooter before it’s too late?&nbsp;&nbsp;

The effect on students when educators carry guns is a basic concern.&nbsp; Since 18-years-old kids may be gun owners, could schools deny students be armed if teachers are?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Teachers have voiced through national reports that their students feel less safe when teachers carry guns.&nbsp; Certainly, there is less teaching going on when teachers are tasked with the extra burden of fire-power readiness.&nbsp;

It’s conceivable to provide a mix of armed teachers, school-based security personnel and licensed peace officers in all schools, but the result wouldn’t make schools fully safe.&nbsp; Examples of school shootings elsewhere prove this.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Moreover, in a largely rural state like Kansas it may be possible to get local police to a school quickly but virtually impossible to get especially trained, tactical law enforcement assistance to each school quickly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The reality is—we may feel better by putting guns in teachers’ hands—but it won’t make our schools safer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What will make our schools safer is for our elective Congress persons and candidates for governor and attorney general to put Kansas kids’ safety first.&nbsp;

We need to push our Congressional and state legislators for laws and funding that will keep school invaders out.

We need to elect an attorney general in November who will enforce a statewide, widely publicized plan for increasing communication, training and coordination of law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;

We need to protect Kansas students both rural and urban.&nbsp;

The threat of school shootings is significant and increasing.&nbsp; It’s time for voters to act now.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>So far this year, 27 people were killed and 56 injured in school shootings.&nbsp; Of those killed 24 were students or other children and three were adults, according to Education Week.At this writing, a bipartisan bill to reduce gun violence is on its way in Washington. The bill includes funds for school shooting prevention and safety training for students and educators.&nbsp;&nbsp;As part of the Kansas education budget, school safety will be upgraded this year by $5 million to fortify school facilities and security systems plus hire school resource officers. The Topeka Capital Journal reports that early requests to the Kansas State Department of Education for funding from 139 districts add up to around $10 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;An alternative to safety funding is to arm teachers, as 28 states, not including Kansas, have done.&nbsp;&nbsp;The three Republican primary candidates for Kansas Attorney General—the state's chief legal officer and top law enforcement official—Kris Kobach, Tony Mattivi, and Kellie Warren have each declared support for arming teachers.Not everyone thinks this is a good idea.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Education Association and its Kansas affiliates advocate for schools to be gun-free.Will arming teachers stop school shootings?&nbsp; Let’s consider how that might play out.First, not all school personnel will be willing or able to carry firearms.&nbsp; Of those who are willing, many are handgun and shotgun owners like me.&nbsp; Hardly a match for an active shooter with military-grade fire power.&nbsp;&nbsp;To win a gun fight, almost always the defender must be better prepared and more skillful.&nbsp; Would we expect armed teachers to undergo SWAT-level training, access AR-15 style weapons and wear body armor and helmets at school activities including bus transportation?Active shooters typically confront small, isolated groups of students.&nbsp; Could armed teachers communicate with unarmed teachers in another part of the school and get to the shooter before it’s too late?&nbsp;&nbsp;The effect on students when educators carry guns is a basic concern.&nbsp; Since 18-years-old kids may be gun owners, could schools deny students be armed if teachers are?&nbsp;&nbsp;Teachers have voiced through national reports that their students feel less safe when teachers carry guns.&nbsp; Certainly, there is less teaching going on when teachers are tasked with the extra burden of fire-power readiness.&nbsp;It’s conceivable to provide a mix of armed teachers, school-based security personnel and licensed peace officers in all schools, but the result wouldn’t make schools fully safe.&nbsp; Examples of school shootings elsewhere prove this.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, in a largely rural state like Kansas it may be possible to get local police to a school quickly but virtually impossible to get especially trained, tactical law enforcement assistance to each school quickly.&nbsp;&nbsp;The reality is—we may feel better by putting guns in teachers’ hands—but it won’t make our schools safer.&nbsp;&nbsp;What will make our schools safer is for our elective Congress persons and candidates for governor and attorney general to put Kansas kids’ safety first.&nbsp;We need to push our Congressional and state legislators for laws and funding that will keep school invaders out.We need to elect an attorney general in November who will enforce a statewide, widely publicized plan for increasing communication, training and coordination of law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;We need to protect Kansas students both rural and urban.&nbsp;The threat of school shootings is significant and increasing.&nbsp; It’s time for voters to act now.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Arming teachers won’t increase school safety

🎥 Green & Growing: Watering on vacation

RUSSELL — The next art show at the Deines Cultural Center opens on Sunday with a reception from 2-4 p.m.. This special invitational show celebrates the warm breezes, wild flowers, and green pastures of the season. 

Fourteen Kansas artists have contributed their expressions of summer. 

Paintings, mixed media, ceramics, and jewelry is shown by artists Krystal Barnes, David Friday,&nbsp;Tracy Hanzlick, Mick Jilg, Hays,&nbsp;Joyce Jilg, Hays, Robert Joy, Cally Krallman, Kathleen Kuchar, Hays, Cal Mahin, Angela Muller, Barbara Stevens, Nicole Thibodeau, and Shannon Trevethan can be see at the Deines Cultural Center June 26th&nbsp;through August 3rd.

The Deines Cultural Center is located in downtown Russell at 820 N. Main Street. Admission to the galleries is free and everyone is welcome. 

Follow us on Facebook or call 785-483-3742 for exhibit and event information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655930363555.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedRUSSELL — The next art show at the Deines Cultural Center opens on Sunday with a reception from 2-4 p.m.. This special invitational show celebrates the warm breezes, wild flowers, and green pastures of the season. Fourteen Kansas artists have contributed their expressions of summer. Paintings, mixed media, ceramics, and jewelry is shown by artists Krystal Barnes, David Friday,&nbsp;Tracy Hanzlick, Mick Jilg, Hays,&nbsp;Joyce Jilg, Hays, Robert Joy, Cally Krallman, Kathleen Kuchar, Hays, Cal Mahin, Angela Muller, Barbara Stevens, Nicole Thibodeau, and Shannon Trevethan can be see at the Deines Cultural Center June 26th&nbsp;through August 3rd.The Deines Cultural Center is located in downtown Russell at 820 N. Main Street. Admission to the galleries is free and everyone is welcome. Follow us on Facebook or call 785-483-3742 for exhibit and event information.

Invitational exhibit at Deines Cultural Center includes Hays artists

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656092922375.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>

GREAT BEND — Barton Community College has named 229 students to the Dean’s List for the spring 2022 semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.99 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.

Area students earning the honor include:&nbsp;

Claflin Brooke Farmer Wyatt Letourneau Hannah Redetzke&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellinwood Michael Bitter Megan Clemons Gage Hosman Cameron Stevenson Haley Troyer&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellis Rebecca Hillman&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Rylee Ayon Thain Bowman Maleny Carrasco Devin Christiansen Stacy Davis Trevor DeLong Christy Esquivel Mariah Felder Israel Franco Karla Garcia Hailey Gross Breana Hearn Ashley Herrman Elle Hutchinson Jacob Kennedy Teegan Krol Colter Maldonado Austin Miller Elias Moreno Samantha Nicholson Shaylee Patterson Giselle Sanchez Kayci Stevenson Mariah Thomas Ailyn Urias Cora Usoro Brooke Vratil Cedric Williams Isabelle Willms Keeley Wolf&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays Emily Christensen Adisyn Jacobs&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoisington Isabell Gonzalez Shaiann Montoya Jarrett Shives Ashley Slemp Dayne Yott&nbsp;&nbsp;

La Crosse Kaden Depperschmidt&nbsp;&nbsp;

Larned Roy Arnold Seth Duque Jacob Grosfield Jessica Grosfield Richard Manion Matthew Neumann Tyson Nicholson Kaden Pontius Ruthie Webster David Widmer&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ness City Jason Foos&nbsp;&nbsp;

Osborne Charlie Seifert&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russell Caden Sutter&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Community College has named 247 students to the President’s List for the spring 2022 semester. To qualify for this honor students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 4.0 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.

&nbsp;Claflin Callie Zink&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellinwood Jodi Ledesma Mya Maxwell&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellsworth Keenan Davenport Zachary Garrett Kyler Milbrandt Nya Rippert&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Jaime Arellanes Jordan&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Avila Caden Bieker Sage Cauley Addison Crites Ashton Ensley Dylan Graham Jaci Guthrie Wittney Hammeke Kendyl Henning Braeden Hopkins Madison Huslig Jayce Kohls Sydney Mason Aiden Miller Austin Moore Raegan Moore Kelci Popp Nautika Richards Jesus Sanchez Brandi Sander Ashton Smith Karter Smith&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays Michael Chappell Tasiah Nunnery&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoisington Sarah Bray Brayden Copp Camille Dolechek Chandra Ehler Gabriel Hipp Jennah Jeffrey Tori Mitchell Addison Smith&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kirwin Brittany Atchison&nbsp;&nbsp;

La Crosse Kara Lonnon&nbsp;&nbsp;

Larned Terry Adams Sarah Macmahon Juan Murillo Savannah Racette Zedrick Spencer Joseph Theis&nbsp;&nbsp;

Norton Brandon Quintana&nbsp;&nbsp;

Phillipsburg Evelyn Ebner Jacie Roth&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plainville Cael Dobson&nbsp;&nbsp;

Smith Center Jaden Boden Kandis Frydendall&nbsp;&nbsp;

WaKeeney Lili Shubert&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613590329847.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseGREAT BEND — Barton Community College has named 229 students to the Dean’s List for the spring 2022 semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.99 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.Area students earning the honor include:&nbsp; Claflin Brooke Farmer Wyatt Letourneau Hannah Redetzke&nbsp;&nbsp; Ellinwood Michael Bitter Megan Clemons Gage Hosman Cameron Stevenson Haley Troyer&nbsp;&nbsp;Ellis Rebecca Hillman&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend Rylee Ayon Thain Bowman Maleny Carrasco Devin Christiansen Stacy Davis Trevor DeLong Christy Esquivel Mariah Felder Israel Franco Karla Garcia Hailey Gross Breana Hearn Ashley Herrman Elle Hutchinson Jacob Kennedy Teegan Krol Colter Maldonado Austin Miller Elias Moreno Samantha Nicholson Shaylee Patterson Giselle Sanchez Kayci Stevenson Mariah Thomas Ailyn Urias Cora Usoro Brooke Vratil Cedric Williams Isabelle Willms Keeley Wolf&nbsp;&nbsp;Hays Emily Christensen Adisyn Jacobs&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoisington Isabell Gonzalez Shaiann Montoya Jarrett Shives Ashley Slemp Dayne Yott&nbsp;&nbsp;La Crosse Kaden Depperschmidt&nbsp;&nbsp;Larned Roy Arnold Seth Duque Jacob Grosfield Jessica Grosfield Richard Manion Matthew Neumann Tyson Nicholson Kaden Pontius Ruthie Webster David Widmer&nbsp;&nbsp;Ness City Jason Foos&nbsp;&nbsp;Osborne Charlie Seifert&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell Caden Sutter&nbsp;&nbsp;Barton Community College has named 247 students to the President’s List for the spring 2022 semester. To qualify for this honor students must have been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours and maintained a grade point average of 4.0 on a 4.0 or "A" letter scale.Area students earning the honor include:Albert Thomas Bahr&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Claflin Callie Zink&nbsp;&nbsp;Ellinwood Jodi Ledesma Mya Maxwell&nbsp;&nbsp;Ellsworth Keenan Davenport Zachary Garrett Kyler Milbrandt Nya Rippert&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend Jaime Arellanes Jordan&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Avila Caden Bieker Sage Cauley Addison Crites Ashton Ensley Dylan Graham Jaci Guthrie Wittney Hammeke Kendyl Henning Braeden Hopkins Madison Huslig Jayce Kohls Sydney Mason Aiden Miller Austin Moore Raegan Moore Kelci Popp Nautika Richards Jesus Sanchez Brandi Sander Ashton Smith Karter Smith&nbsp;&nbsp;Hays Michael Chappell Tasiah Nunnery&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoisington Sarah Bray Brayden Copp Camille Dolechek Chandra Ehler Gabriel Hipp Jennah Jeffrey Tori Mitchell Addison Smith&nbsp;&nbsp;Kirwin Brittany Atchison&nbsp;&nbsp;La Crosse Kara Lonnon&nbsp;&nbsp;Larned Terry Adams Sarah Macmahon Juan Murillo Savannah Racette Zedrick Spencer Joseph Theis&nbsp;&nbsp;Norton Brandon Quintana&nbsp;&nbsp;Phillipsburg Evelyn Ebner Jacie Roth&nbsp;&nbsp;Plainville Cael Dobson&nbsp;&nbsp;Smith Center Jaden Boden Kandis Frydendall&nbsp;&nbsp;Timken Sean Kelly&nbsp;&nbsp;WaKeeney Lili Shubert&nbsp;&nbsp;

NW Kansas students earn Barton CC academic honors

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Fire Department chief Ryan Hagans shares some safety tips while using fireworks.

<div><iframe title="Fireworks risk decreased with common sense measures" 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=i63d7-125b384-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 Fire Department chief Ryan Hagans shares some safety tips while using fireworks. <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: Fireworks risk decreased with common sense measures

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Public Works Department officially has a
future home north of Hays. 

After nearly seven months of searching for locations and
negotiating sale prices, the Ellis County Commission, in a special meeting
Wednesday, agreed to purchase 75 acres of land in the 1700 block of 250th
Avenue north of Hays.

Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers said, during those seven
months, they talked to several landowners and real estate agents in search of a location that
was both affordable and had a location that fit county needs.

Myers said there are multiple reasons the county needs a new
public works location.

“The current location out there is landlocked. There is just
under 10 acres of land (and) to the north of their shop facility is all
residential. Can’t expand to north and to the south of it is a small piece of
land owned by Union Pacific,” Myers said.

Myers said they looked into leasing the Union Pacific land
to the south but the company wanted a price that did not work for the county.

“Plus we’d still have ... an estimated $3 million in
renovations to our current facility,” Myers said.

The current public works facility, 1195 280th
Ave., is over 60 years old and is showing its age.

“They literally have markings on the floors to put buckets
every time it rains so that way when it rains to pours into the buckets,” Myers
said.

But Myers said the biggest reason public works needs a new
facility is that the current one does not work with operations today. 

“They currently have that facility, but they also a facility over
in Ellis, so ever time they need to have bulk material storage or have an asphalt
lay down yard or mixing yard, everything has to go to Ellis and they then have
to haul it," Myers said.

He added, “Keeping something centrally located in the county
is very import for efficiencies into the future.”

Public Works Director Brendon Mackay said the location is
good for the future of the department.

“It sets us up (for the future) because it will be centrally
located for the county,” Mackay said. “It will be on your way in when you come
into the big town. You’ll see us right from the roadway.”

Another bonus of the new property was that it is located in
an industrial area. The current facility is located in a more residential area
of the county.

“It will be in an area most part industrial,” said Mackay. “It’s
not like we’re in a housing development anymore where we have dust and noises,
and we don’t want to be the ones doing that.”

Mackay added that the new location will also allow them to
help maintain the Northwest Business Coordinator.

County Commissioner Neal Younger said, “it’s a very good
location.”

The purchase price was $475,000, with all the money coming
from the capital improvement fund within the budget.

Myers said that equals out to less than $7,000 per acre
while most properties they looked at were closed to $15-20,000 per acre.

The property does come with the mineral rights, which will
help repay on the property. There is already a water well on the property.

“When you take the long view, this is the best financial
decision that can be made for the public works department and the county,”
Commissioner Joe Leroux said.

The county will begin looking at working with architects in the
coming weeks and have options to present to the commission in early July, according
Myers.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Public Works Department officially has a
future home north of Hays. After nearly seven months of searching for locations and
negotiating sale prices, the Ellis County Commission, in a special meeting
Wednesday, agreed to purchase 75 acres of land in the 1700 block of 250th
Avenue north of Hays.Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers said, during those seven
months, they talked to several landowners and real estate agents in search of a location that
was both affordable and had a location that fit county needs.Myers said there are multiple reasons the county needs a new
public works location.“The current location out there is landlocked. There is just
under 10 acres of land (and) to the north of their shop facility is all
residential. Can’t expand to north and to the south of it is a small piece of
land owned by Union Pacific,” Myers said.Myers said they looked into leasing the Union Pacific land
to the south but the company wanted a price that did not work for the county.“Plus we’d still have ... an estimated $3 million in
renovations to our current facility,” Myers said.The current public works facility, 1195 280th
Ave., is over 60 years old and is showing its age.“They literally have markings on the floors to put buckets
every time it rains so that way when it rains to pours into the buckets,” Myers
said.But Myers said the biggest reason public works needs a new
facility is that the current one does not work with operations today. “They currently have that facility, but they also a facility over
in Ellis, so ever time they need to have bulk material storage or have an asphalt
lay down yard or mixing yard, everything has to go to Ellis and they then have
to haul it," Myers said.He added, “Keeping something centrally located in the county
is very import for efficiencies into the future.”Public Works Director Brendon Mackay said the location is
good for the future of the department.“It sets us up (for the future) because it will be centrally
located for the county,” Mackay said. “It will be on your way in when you come
into the big town. You’ll see us right from the roadway.”Another bonus of the new property was that it is located in
an industrial area. The current facility is located in a more residential area
of the county.“It will be in an area most part industrial,” said Mackay. “It’s
not like we’re in a housing development anymore where we have dust and noises,
and we don’t want to be the ones doing that.”Mackay added that the new location will also allow them to
help maintain the Northwest Business Coordinator.County Commissioner Neal Younger said, “it’s a very good
location.”The purchase price was $475,000, with all the money coming
from the capital improvement fund within the budget.Myers said that equals out to less than $7,000 per acre
while most properties they looked at were closed to $15-20,000 per acre.The property does come with the mineral rights, which will
help repay on the property. There is already a water well on the property.“When you take the long view, this is the best financial
decision that can be made for the public works department and the county,”
Commissioner Joe Leroux said.The county will begin looking at working with architects in the
coming weeks and have options to present to the commission in early July, according
Myers.

Ellis County approves land purchase for future public works site

By ED CROSS Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association

Debate continues across the country on our nation’s energy future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The competing visions, however, are not just philosophical arguments. &nbsp;There are real differences between these two visions and their outcomes on our economy, on consumers, and on our way of life.

​On one hand, we have&nbsp;the&nbsp;energy reality&nbsp;that the U.S. can lead&nbsp;the world in production of oil and natural gas and consumers enjoy almost unprecedented energy security.&nbsp;As recent as 2019 gasoline prices averaged $2.60 per gallon. &nbsp;This pro-energy vision means energy from all sources, including oil and natural gas, generate economic growth and reduce carbon emissions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the other hand,&nbsp;extreme&nbsp;environmental activists work to obstruct energy development and infrastructure projects, reducing our energy options under a false belief that oil and natural gas production and use are incompatible with environmental progress. &nbsp;Their vision is one of constrained energy choices, with less certainty and reliability, less assurance on affordable power and higher energy costs.

Fact is the U.S. leads the world in reduction of carbon emissions. &nbsp;From 2005 to 2018, total U.S. energy-related CO2&nbsp;emissions fell 12% while global energy-related emissions increased nearly 24%. &nbsp;Since 2005, national greenhouse gas emissions fell by 10%, and power sector emissions fell by 27% - as the U.S. economy grew by 25%.

The oil and natural gas industry has proven that over the long-term it is possible to lead in energy production&nbsp;AND&nbsp;in environmental stewardship. &nbsp;Those are the facts.

Cutting&nbsp;American&nbsp;oil and natural gas production&nbsp;would take us back to last century’s era of energy dependency. &nbsp;The U.S. economy would lose a projected 5.9 million jobs. &nbsp;But the vision of extreme environmental activists would take us there again, plunging the economy into persistent recession-level unemployment through&nbsp;2040. &nbsp;Lower U.S. energy production and higher energy prices could reduce cumulative GDP by $11.8 trillion.

Those who oppose American energy development at the state and national level are using environmental and regulatory issues to disrupt orderly oil and natural gas development and influence policymakers. &nbsp;They use these issues not to make energy development better, but to impede or stop oil and natural gas development. &nbsp;They have shown a propensity to align themselves rhetorically with public sentiment for more American energy development even as they espouse policies that would put that goal farther and farther out of reach.

History has shown that increasing taxes on oil and natural gas development negatively affects consumers, businesses, and the economy. &nbsp;Imposing new duplicative federal regulations when the industry is already well-regulated by the states will not put America on a path of preparing for its real energy future. &nbsp;

Contrary to claims from environmental activists, cutting U.S. oil and natural gas production would not magically reduce world energy demand. &nbsp;But it could raise costs significantly for American families and manufacturers, profoundly damage the U.S. economy, diminish our geopolitical influence, and severely weaken our energy security. &nbsp;That’s where&nbsp;Biden’s energy policies&nbsp;lead, and it is not a path most Americans want to take.

The most pressing risks facing U.S. companies in the foreseeable future are unlikely to be those arising from climate change or an energy transition. &nbsp;Rather, the factors to watch are more apt to be inflation, rising energy costs, and national security threats. &nbsp;The Biden Administration is too focused on climate change to anticipate or deter these significant real threats.

Today’s sky-high gasoline prices were a policy choice, not an unavoidable accident. &nbsp;No matter how many misleading statistics White House officials and congressional liberals try to throw at the people, the blame for high energy costs rests with them.

While claiming to fight to bring energy prices down, President Biden has made the wrong move at every turn. &nbsp;It is time for President Biden to recognize the strategic importance of American energy production. &nbsp;He should abandon his quixotic energy strategy immediately. &nbsp;Nothing less than total reversal of his approach is necessary.

President Biden and all federal and state policymakers should prioritize advancing American energy leadership with policies that encourage development of responsibly produced energy here at home. &nbsp;These policies should recognize the volatile world we live in and the long-term impacts of returning to the days of foreign energy dependency. &nbsp;

Ed Cross is president of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584027001010.png" alt="Ed Cross" />
 <figcaption>Ed Cross</figcaption>
 </figure>By ED CROSS Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas AssociationDebate continues across the country on our nation’s energy future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The competing visions, however, are not just philosophical arguments. &nbsp;There are real differences between these two visions and their outcomes on our economy, on consumers, and on our way of life.​On one hand, we have&nbsp;the&nbsp;energy reality&nbsp;that the U.S. can lead&nbsp;the world in production of oil and natural gas and consumers enjoy almost unprecedented energy security.&nbsp;As recent as 2019 gasoline prices averaged $2.60 per gallon. &nbsp;This pro-energy vision means energy from all sources, including oil and natural gas, generate economic growth and reduce carbon emissions. &nbsp;&nbsp;On the other hand,&nbsp;extreme&nbsp;environmental activists work to obstruct energy development and infrastructure projects, reducing our energy options under a false belief that oil and natural gas production and use are incompatible with environmental progress. &nbsp;Their vision is one of constrained energy choices, with less certainty and reliability, less assurance on affordable power and higher energy costs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fact is the U.S. leads the world in reduction of carbon emissions. &nbsp;From 2005 to 2018, total U.S. energy-related CO2&nbsp;emissions fell 12% while global energy-related emissions increased nearly 24%. &nbsp;Since 2005, national greenhouse gas emissions fell by 10%, and power sector emissions fell by 27% - as the U.S. economy grew by 25%.The oil and natural gas industry has proven that over the long-term it is possible to lead in energy production&nbsp;AND&nbsp;in environmental stewardship. &nbsp;Those are the facts.Cutting&nbsp;American&nbsp;oil and natural gas production&nbsp;would take us back to last century’s era of energy dependency. &nbsp;The U.S. economy would lose a projected 5.9 million jobs. &nbsp;But the vision of extreme environmental activists would take us there again, plunging the economy into persistent recession-level unemployment through&nbsp;2040. &nbsp;Lower U.S. energy production and higher energy prices could reduce cumulative GDP by $11.8 trillion.Those who oppose American energy development at the state and national level are using environmental and regulatory issues to disrupt orderly oil and natural gas development and influence policymakers. &nbsp;They use these issues not to make energy development better, but to impede or stop oil and natural gas development. &nbsp;They have shown a propensity to align themselves rhetorically with public sentiment for more American energy development even as they espouse policies that would put that goal farther and farther out of reach.History has shown that increasing taxes on oil and natural gas development negatively affects consumers, businesses, and the economy. &nbsp;Imposing new duplicative federal regulations when the industry is already well-regulated by the states will not put America on a path of preparing for its real energy future. &nbsp;Contrary to claims from environmental activists, cutting U.S. oil and natural gas production would not magically reduce world energy demand. &nbsp;But it could raise costs significantly for American families and manufacturers, profoundly damage the U.S. economy, diminish our geopolitical influence, and severely weaken our energy security. &nbsp;That’s where&nbsp;Biden’s energy policies&nbsp;lead, and it is not a path most Americans want to take.The most pressing risks facing U.S. companies in the foreseeable future are unlikely to be those arising from climate change or an energy transition. &nbsp;Rather, the factors to watch are more apt to be inflation, rising energy costs, and national security threats. &nbsp;The Biden Administration is too focused on climate change to anticipate or deter these significant real threats.Today’s sky-high gasoline prices were a policy choice, not an unavoidable accident. &nbsp;No matter how many misleading statistics White House officials and congressional liberals try to throw at the people, the blame for high energy costs rests with them.While claiming to fight to bring energy prices down, President Biden has made the wrong move at every turn. &nbsp;It is time for President Biden to recognize the strategic importance of American energy production. &nbsp;He should abandon his quixotic energy strategy immediately. &nbsp;Nothing less than total reversal of his approach is necessary.President Biden and all federal and state policymakers should prioritize advancing American energy leadership with policies that encourage development of responsibly produced energy here at home. &nbsp;These policies should recognize the volatile world we live in and the long-term impacts of returning to the days of foreign energy dependency. &nbsp;Ed Cross is president of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

CROSS: What’s next for our energy future?

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

In&nbsp;about&nbsp;one month, the Ellis County Fair will be up and going. If you have never bothered to come out to the fair I would ask that you give it a try, just once.&nbsp;Who knows you might see a long-forgotten friend or even the next-door neighbor.&nbsp;And have a good visit,&nbsp;while eating some of the county fair cuisine and listening to some music on the Midway. There are several free events and entertainment to take in each year and as always,&nbsp;you can wander around at your leisure and see the exhibits that 4-Hers and the general public have made and grown. If you have young children or grandkids&nbsp;the poultry, rabbits and livestock are always a hit and it might bring back some memories of your own of days gone by.&nbsp;

​There will be flyers and brochures&nbsp;distributed&nbsp;around&nbsp;town in local businesses highlighting the fair events.&nbsp;Local media outlets will be advertising the fair, and the Ellis County Fair Board has a&nbsp;web site&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ellisco.net/">www.ellisco.net&nbsp;</a>then hold your cursor on the Government tab.&nbsp;

One of the&nbsp;culminating&nbsp;events to cap off the fair is always the 4-H&nbsp;Premium&nbsp;Livestock Sale in which the 4-Hers sell their Market Animals and Champion Food items to the public.&nbsp;If you have never experienced fresh home fed beef, pork, mutton,&nbsp;poultryand even rabbit and goat you are missing something.&nbsp;The champion baked items are always a&nbsp;delight.

Anyone whether you are a business owner or individual can come out to the fair and support the local 4-Hers by purchasing,&nbsp;partnering with&nbsp;others&nbsp;to purchase&nbsp;or adding money onto any sale&nbsp;animal&nbsp;or baked good.&nbsp;If you just want to support a 4-Her and don’t want or need the fresh meat, no problem.&nbsp;You can bid on the animal and pay a premium price at the sale for the animal and the animal is still the responsibility of the 4-Her.

​If you think about it,&nbsp;everyone is a winner in this situation. The buyer can have abasket full of baked goods or a&nbsp;freezer full of fresh meat that has been raised with some&nbsp;extra&nbsp;TLC and&nbsp;also receive recognition for supporting our youth!

The youth of the county can use this money towards eventual college&nbsp;tuition, the purchase of an&nbsp;automobile;&nbsp;school clothes&nbsp;the next project animal and feed, etc. I think you&nbsp;can&nbsp;see where this is going,&nbsp;in other words--the hard-earned money by the kids will show back up in the county and state&nbsp;economy. Sounds like&nbsp;local and state economic stimulus as well as making you feel good&nbsp;about&nbsp;supporting the&nbsp;efforts of the&nbsp;youth of Ellis County!

​&nbsp;The Ellis County 4-H Livestock Sale will be held on&nbsp;Saturday, July 23rd&nbsp;at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;A livestock purchasers’&nbsp;meal will be provided at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;If you need more information on the sale contact the Ellis County&nbsp;Fair Board&nbsp;President Jill Pfannenstiel 785-639-2177&nbsp;or&nbsp;Vice-President&nbsp;Justin Scheck&nbsp;785-650-9969.&nbsp;As with everything else purchasing animal projects and feeding them has increased in price for the 4-Hers as well. So please come and support the youth of Ellis County!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581374358501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIn&nbsp;about&nbsp;one month, the Ellis County Fair will be up and going. If you have never bothered to come out to the fair I would ask that you give it a try, just once.&nbsp;Who knows you might see a long-forgotten friend or even the next-door neighbor.&nbsp;And have a good visit,&nbsp;while eating some of the county fair cuisine and listening to some music on the Midway. There are several free events and entertainment to take in each year and as always,&nbsp;you can wander around at your leisure and see the exhibits that 4-Hers and the general public have made and grown. If you have young children or grandkids&nbsp;the poultry, rabbits and livestock are always a hit and it might bring back some memories of your own of days gone by.&nbsp;​There will be flyers and brochures&nbsp;distributed&nbsp;around&nbsp;town in local businesses highlighting the fair events.&nbsp;Local media outlets will be advertising the fair, and the Ellis County Fair Board has a&nbsp;web site&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ellisco.net/">www.ellisco.net&nbsp;</a>then hold your cursor on the Government tab.&nbsp;One of the&nbsp;culminating&nbsp;events to cap off the fair is always the 4-H&nbsp;Premium&nbsp;Livestock Sale in which the 4-Hers sell their Market Animals and Champion Food items to the public.&nbsp;If you have never experienced fresh home fed beef, pork, mutton,&nbsp;poultryand even rabbit and goat you are missing something.&nbsp;The champion baked items are always a&nbsp;delight.Anyone whether you are a business owner or individual can come out to the fair and support the local 4-Hers by purchasing,&nbsp;partnering with&nbsp;others&nbsp;to purchase&nbsp;or adding money onto any sale&nbsp;animal&nbsp;or baked good.&nbsp;If you just want to support a 4-Her and don’t want or need the fresh meat, no problem.&nbsp;You can bid on the animal and pay a premium price at the sale for the animal and the animal is still the responsibility of the 4-Her.​If you think about it,&nbsp;everyone is a winner in this situation. The buyer can have abasket full of baked goods or a&nbsp;freezer full of fresh meat that has been raised with some&nbsp;extra&nbsp;TLC and&nbsp;also receive recognition for supporting our youth!The youth of the county can use this money towards eventual college&nbsp;tuition, the purchase of an&nbsp;automobile;&nbsp;school clothes&nbsp;the next project animal and feed, etc. I think you&nbsp;can&nbsp;see where this is going,&nbsp;in other words--the hard-earned money by the kids will show back up in the county and state&nbsp;economy. Sounds like&nbsp;local and state economic stimulus as well as making you feel good&nbsp;about&nbsp;supporting the&nbsp;efforts of the&nbsp;youth of Ellis County!​&nbsp;The Ellis County 4-H Livestock Sale will be held on&nbsp;Saturday, July 23rd&nbsp;at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;A livestock purchasers’&nbsp;meal will be provided at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;If you need more information on the sale contact the Ellis County&nbsp;Fair Board&nbsp;President Jill Pfannenstiel 785-639-2177&nbsp;or&nbsp;Vice-President&nbsp;Justin Scheck&nbsp;785-650-9969.&nbsp;As with everything else purchasing animal projects and feeding them has increased in price for the 4-Hers as well. So please come and support the youth of Ellis County!&nbsp;