The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported three new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County in the last week.

KDHE now reports updated case numbers weekly on Fridays.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

On March 30, the Kansas Hospital Association reported 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (5 and older) are considered fully vaccinated — a figure that has remained constant for several weeks.

Since reporting began, there have been 7,136 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE also discontinued county-by-county death totals as of Friday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649437990161.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported three new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County in the last week.KDHE now reports updated case numbers weekly on Fridays.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.On March 30, the Kansas Hospital Association reported 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (5 and older) are considered fully vaccinated — a figure that has remained constant for several weeks.Since reporting began, there have been 7,136 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE also discontinued county-by-county death totals as of Friday.&nbsp;

KDHE: Three new COVID cases in Ellis Co. over last week

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University assistant professor of history, Amber Nickell.&nbsp; She lived in Ukraine as a Fulbright Scholar.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: FHSU professor and historian Amber Nickell" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=n5vdn-11f3cac-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University assistant professor of history, Amber Nickell.&nbsp; She lived in Ukraine as a Fulbright Scholar.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU professor Amber Nickell on Ukraine

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It was a short 18-minute work session for Hays city commissioners Thursday night.

The two agenda items for discussion were presented by Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.&nbsp;

Crispin presented a recommended bid award for the 2022 manhole rehabilitation program. The city is in its fifth year of the program, averaging about 50 manholes each year.

This year, the project will perform rehabilitation on
manholes that were found to have crumbling or soft concrete, according to Crispin. The 50
manholes are located south of 6th Street between
Elm and Milner.

The low bid of $83,558 was submitted by Mayer Specialty Services, Wichita. 

Due to the favorable bid, Crispin recommended awarding the project in an amount not to exceed the budgeted amount of
$125,000. Additional manholes for rehabilitation have been identified to the
north of the project area.

"They did our work in 2019, 2020, and 2021," Crispin said, "and the work has been excellent."

The project includes lining manholes with a cement-based
mix that includes an alkaline-resistant fiberglass reinforcement called MS-2A.&nbsp; A strong geopolymer product will also be used
in higher corrosion environment manholes.&nbsp;

There are approximately 2,400 manholes in Hays. The city plan is to rehab about 50 manholes every year in a 50-year schedule.

Also presented was a low bid recommendation of $26,426 by Sidner Environmental Services, St. Louis, for a replacement water production soda ash feeder.&nbsp; The current feeder, which helps control alkalinity in the water softening process, is 48 years old.

Both bid award recommendations will be voted upon at the city commission's regular meeting next week.&nbsp;

A discussion of a proposed city "streatery" policy was postponed.&nbsp;

Vice-mayor Michael Berges and commissioner Shaun Musil were absent from the work session.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649385379402.png" alt="The cost to rehab a manhole averages between $1,500 and $3,000. Replacement cost is approximately $15,000. The city of Hays has about 2,400 manholes. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The cost to rehab a manhole averages between $1,500 and $3,000. Replacement cost is approximately $15,000. The city of Hays has about 2,400 manholes. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt was a short 18-minute work session for Hays city commissioners Thursday night.The two agenda items for discussion were presented by Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.&nbsp;Crispin presented a recommended bid award for the 2022 manhole rehabilitation program. The city is in its fifth year of the program, averaging about 50 manholes each year.This year, the project will perform rehabilitation on
manholes that were found to have crumbling or soft concrete, according to Crispin. The 50
manholes are located south of 6th Street between
Elm and Milner.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649382428898.png" alt="The 50 manholes to be rehabbed this year are south of 6th Street between Elm and Milner. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The 50 manholes to be rehabbed this year are south of 6th Street between Elm and Milner. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>The low bid of $83,558 was submitted by Mayer Specialty Services, Wichita. Due to the favorable bid, Crispin recommended awarding the project in an amount not to exceed the budgeted amount of
$125,000. Additional manholes for rehabilitation have been identified to the
north of the project area."They did our work in 2019, 2020, and 2021," Crispin said, "and the work has been excellent."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l8kQZHL7OyY"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The project includes lining manholes with a cement-based
mix that includes an alkaline-resistant fiberglass reinforcement called MS-2A.&nbsp; A strong geopolymer product will also be used
in higher corrosion environment manholes.&nbsp;There are approximately 2,400 manholes in Hays. The city plan is to rehab about 50 manholes every year in a 50-year schedule.Also presented was a low bid recommendation of $26,426 by Sidner Environmental Services, St. Louis, for a replacement water production soda ash feeder.&nbsp; The current feeder, which helps control alkalinity in the water softening process, is 48 years old.Both bid award recommendations will be voted upon at the city commission's regular meeting next week.&nbsp;A discussion of a proposed city "streatery" policy was postponed.&nbsp;Vice-mayor Michael Berges and commissioner Shaun Musil were absent from the work session.&nbsp;

🎥 City discusses continuation of manhole rehabilitation project

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 has hired Chris Sramek as the new Roosevelt Elementary School principal starting July 1.

She will be replacing Keri Peterson, who is leaving the district to pursue other opportunities.

Sramek, 42, is currently the school psychologist at Roosevelt.

This is Sramek's third year with the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, which includes Hays. 

Prior to Hays, she was a school psychologist in Great Bend for 14 years. She served students in grades K-12 during her time in the special education cooperative in Great Bend, which also serves Ellinwood, Hoisington and Otis-Bison.

Sramek is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with bachelor's and master's degrees in school psychology. She additionally has an education specialist certification, which is required for school psychologists, and an education administration endorsement.

Sramek said she wanted to pursue a leadership position in education. She considered applying for a position as a special education director. However, she decided she wanted to continue to work closely with children, and a principal position would allow her to do that.

Sramek is a native of Walker and a graduate of Victoria High School. 

"Our motto this year has been going from good to great," Sramek said of Roosevelt. "My goal is to move our building to great. We have a lot of different changes going on in the district with MTSS and other initiatives, so I really want to get those going."

MTSS, which stands for multi-tiered systems of support, is a program that identifies and offers additional support to students who need it to meet their learning goals.

Sramek is a member of the Kansas Association of School Psychologists, has helped with the Suicide Prevention Walk in Hays and also volunteers to help her niece with 4-H projects.

Sramek lives in Hays with her husband, Ryan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649347500428.jpeg" alt="Chris Sramek" />
 <figcaption>Chris Sramek</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 has hired Chris Sramek as the new Roosevelt Elementary School principal starting July 1.She will be replacing Keri Peterson, who is leaving the district to pursue other opportunities.Sramek, 42, is currently the school psychologist at Roosevelt.This is Sramek's third year with the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, which includes Hays. Prior to Hays, she was a school psychologist in Great Bend for 14 years. She served students in grades K-12 during her time in the special education cooperative in Great Bend, which also serves Ellinwood, Hoisington and Otis-Bison.Sramek is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with bachelor's and master's degrees in school psychology. She additionally has an education specialist certification, which is required for school psychologists, and an education administration endorsement. Sramek said she wanted to pursue a leadership position in education. She considered applying for a position as a special education director. However, she decided she wanted to continue to work closely with children, and a principal position would allow her to do that.Sramek is a native of Walker and a graduate of Victoria High School. "Our motto this year has been going from good to great," Sramek said of Roosevelt. "My goal is to move our building to great. We have a lot of different changes going on in the district with MTSS and other initiatives, so I really want to get those going."MTSS, which stands for multi-tiered systems of support, is a program that identifies and offers additional support to students who need it to meet their learning goals.Sramek is a member of the Kansas Association of School Psychologists, has helped with the Suicide Prevention Walk in Hays and also volunteers to help her niece with 4-H projects. Sramek lives in Hays with her husband, Ryan.

Sramek to become new Roosevelt Elementary principal

Fort Hays State University's Department of Social Work will host its annual JV Caprez Social Work Field Day Friday, April 15. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Memorial Union's Fort Hays Ballroom as well as on Zoom.

The event was named in honor of Judy Caprez, an assistant professor and director of FHSU's social work program for 23 years, who died in November of 2020. There will be a tribute service from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. to honor Caprez. Those planning to attend should register at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtA-2BRLrAisBlFjxOUYo4Y8tAxG77cvWtSSBVeNBP99fs0mIs9_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemXmTD-2BCqJE1erXRgiWF-2FXVCcTgXSNGkKpOyOY5QwE-2FDWhlfXBOGZwZd19iBdABcnYjvusEo3GDzq6qr1TSmAB9eY1txPTU4dP-2BVh69X3LzhpQWIdP-2B4jNWo79U1GoW01iZ8zXb05foqiseyXGY38Z6wPZM9ykb1qaL0Braegc8-2BHA4sVnVOobf4WAk-2Fnjaoftt089O-2BxE2mi8dSvvL4OtOZ0XkTLCVOTbcIlcN164Vv-2BA4b6fvC-2BGb2flmVPppN3ba4v2YEp14SXRlRYMZJMqKA-3D-3D">https://forms.gle/StQPKSWT1m6GMKuy5.</a>&nbsp;Anyone unable to attend in person can register there, too, and a Zoom link will be sent. &nbsp;

Speakers for the field day will be Laurie Doehass-Imel, a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor from Garden City, as well as Janet Williams, Erica Bates, and Daniel Kennedy from Minds Matter, LLC.

The morning session will feature topics about how the digital world affects families,&nbsp;personal technology use, family technology evaluations, positive and negative effects of technology, brain development and technology, and the professional values and ethics around technology as practitioners.

The afternoon session topics focus on the&nbsp;Minds Matter organization, including&nbsp;Kansas Brain Injury waiver services, community resources, ethics, ADA compliance, and more.&nbsp;There will also be a guest speaker who will discuss their own experience dealing with brain injury.

Morning session (9 a.m. to noon):&nbsp;Making tech wise families

Afternoon session (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.):&nbsp;Minds Matter

The event is free, open to the public, and offers face-to-face and Zoom options. If requesting a continuing education credit (CEU), the cost is $20 per individual session.&nbsp;Registration is non-refundable. If a participant registers as a zoom attendee, the Zoom link will be emailed prior to the event.&nbsp;Attendees will receive CEU certificates after the event.

Parking: Please park in&nbsp;lot A2 or lot A3 by the Memorial Union and behind the president's house/Stroup Hall.

Food: Lunch will be on your own, and there are multiple options in the Memorial Union (Starbucks, Grab and Go, Pizza Hut, Salad Bar, Burger Shop on the main floor, and Mondo's Subs in the basement). Follow this link,&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtJiB4OpUaXqh6FzMEmTVeXo8HZwldZ6YFjD0Ezf2mMMEwBbsGwfEXibS5Muxzz5CMQ-3D-3DRZF8_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemXmTD-2BCqJE1erXRgiWF-2FXVCcTgXSNGkKpOyOY5QwE-2FDWhlfXBOGZwZd19iBdABcnYjvusEo3GDzq6qr1TSmAB9fEkbPJUg-2Bp-2BNNxuVrcuLcAb5zJbRXbO9JDPp9DiZyAfGVs27Hh2ljToY0IPESiTGSskAMIFZ3mo9hVMWQ9Ah04liuge4j2drVvRLJNTy7Tg047r7Nzkj5gTTW-2Bj2RzARE2sM-2Ba7h4hD5g8rkEbWv6LiposNdxJD0q0fohu-2FXzF4ibuiR2QeXTIlwarJormWXw-3D-3D">https://webapps.fhsu.edu/Socialwork/default.aspx</a>, to complete your 2022 JV Caprez Social Work Field Day registration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Any questions about Field Day? Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:socialwork@fhsu.edu">socialwork@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649278405742.jpeg" alt="Caprez" />
 <figcaption>Caprez</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University's Department of Social Work will host its annual JV Caprez Social Work Field Day Friday, April 15. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Memorial Union's Fort Hays Ballroom as well as on Zoom.The event was named in honor of Judy Caprez, an assistant professor and director of FHSU's social work program for 23 years, who died in November of 2020. There will be a tribute service from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. to honor Caprez. Those planning to attend should register at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtA-2BRLrAisBlFjxOUYo4Y8tAxG77cvWtSSBVeNBP99fs0mIs9_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemXmTD-2BCqJE1erXRgiWF-2FXVCcTgXSNGkKpOyOY5QwE-2FDWhlfXBOGZwZd19iBdABcnYjvusEo3GDzq6qr1TSmAB9eY1txPTU4dP-2BVh69X3LzhpQWIdP-2B4jNWo79U1GoW01iZ8zXb05foqiseyXGY38Z6wPZM9ykb1qaL0Braegc8-2BHA4sVnVOobf4WAk-2Fnjaoftt089O-2BxE2mi8dSvvL4OtOZ0XkTLCVOTbcIlcN164Vv-2BA4b6fvC-2BGb2flmVPppN3ba4v2YEp14SXRlRYMZJMqKA-3D-3D">https://forms.gle/StQPKSWT1m6GMKuy5.</a>&nbsp;Anyone unable to attend in person can register there, too, and a Zoom link will be sent. &nbsp;Speakers for the field day will be Laurie Doehass-Imel, a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor from Garden City, as well as Janet Williams, Erica Bates, and Daniel Kennedy from Minds Matter, LLC.The morning session will feature topics about how the digital world affects families,&nbsp;personal technology use, family technology evaluations, positive and negative effects of technology, brain development and technology, and the professional values and ethics around technology as practitioners.The afternoon session topics focus on the&nbsp;Minds Matter organization, including&nbsp;Kansas Brain Injury waiver services, community resources, ethics, ADA compliance, and more.&nbsp;There will also be a guest speaker who will discuss their own experience dealing with brain injury.Morning session (9 a.m. to noon):&nbsp;Making tech wise familiesAfternoon session (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.):&nbsp;Minds MatterThe event is free, open to the public, and offers face-to-face and Zoom options. If requesting a continuing education credit (CEU), the cost is $20 per individual session.&nbsp;Registration is non-refundable. If a participant registers as a zoom attendee, the Zoom link will be emailed prior to the event.&nbsp;Attendees will receive CEU certificates after the event.Parking: Please park in&nbsp;lot A2 or lot A3 by the Memorial Union and behind the president's house/Stroup Hall. Food: Lunch will be on your own, and there are multiple options in the Memorial Union (Starbucks, Grab and Go, Pizza Hut, Salad Bar, Burger Shop on the main floor, and Mondo's Subs in the basement). Follow this link,&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtJiB4OpUaXqh6FzMEmTVeXo8HZwldZ6YFjD0Ezf2mMMEwBbsGwfEXibS5Muxzz5CMQ-3D-3DRZF8_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemXmTD-2BCqJE1erXRgiWF-2FXVCcTgXSNGkKpOyOY5QwE-2FDWhlfXBOGZwZd19iBdABcnYjvusEo3GDzq6qr1TSmAB9fEkbPJUg-2Bp-2BNNxuVrcuLcAb5zJbRXbO9JDPp9DiZyAfGVs27Hh2ljToY0IPESiTGSskAMIFZ3mo9hVMWQ9Ah04liuge4j2drVvRLJNTy7Tg047r7Nzkj5gTTW-2Bj2RzARE2sM-2Ba7h4hD5g8rkEbWv6LiposNdxJD0q0fohu-2FXzF4ibuiR2QeXTIlwarJormWXw-3D-3D">https://webapps.fhsu.edu/Socialwork/default.aspx</a>, to complete your 2022 JV Caprez Social Work Field Day registration.&nbsp;&nbsp;Any questions about Field Day? Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:socialwork@fhsu.edu">socialwork@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;

FHSU to host annual JV Caprez Social Work Field Day

<a href="https://www.blackengineer.com/news/david-l-steward-legacy-award-recipient-dedicates-award-to-is-parents/">US Black Engineer</a>

Named for the 2012 Black Engineer of the Year, David L. Steward, the founding chairman of World Wide Technology, the BEYA David L. Steward Legacy Award was established in 2015 to provide recognition for a collaborative leader and successful innovator in the tech sector.

This year’s recipient, Demetrias “Mitch” Jones, an information 
technology (IT) manager at Textron Aviation IT, shares the honor with 
past winners such as Ramon Richards, currently chief information officer
 at Fannie Mae.

Jones has worked to push the needle forward and enhance the 
technology experience of all 11,000 Textron Aviation employees. He 
earned his bachelor’s degree in information systems from Fort Hays State
 University in Kansas and started working for Textron Aviation. During 
his six years with the company, he has held multiple roles of increasing
 responsibility including his current role as IT manager, where he 
oversees the success of nine other team members.

“Two amazing people led me to this recognition: my parents,” Demetrias said during the awards ceremony held at the Historically Black College and University Engineering Deans event at the 36th annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards in February. “They showed me that I could be so much more than what I saw. They instilled in me a work ethic, perseverance, and the courage to always do and be better. That’s why I’m accepting the David L. Steward Legacy Award in their honor. Because of them, I know not to let a moment drown or define me. I thank them, my Textron Aviation family for their constant support, and congratulations to the other honorees.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649341026054.png" alt="Courtesy US Black Engineer" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy US Black Engineer</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.blackengineer.com/news/david-l-steward-legacy-award-recipient-dedicates-award-to-is-parents/">US Black Engineer</a>Named for the 2012 Black Engineer of the Year, David L. Steward, the founding chairman of World Wide Technology, the BEYA David L. Steward Legacy Award was established in 2015 to provide recognition for a collaborative leader and successful innovator in the tech sector.This year’s recipient, Demetrias “Mitch” Jones, an information 
technology (IT) manager at Textron Aviation IT, shares the honor with 
past winners such as Ramon Richards, currently chief information officer
 at Fannie Mae.Jones has worked to push the needle forward and enhance the 
technology experience of all 11,000 Textron Aviation employees. He 
earned his bachelor’s degree in information systems from Fort Hays State
 University in Kansas and started working for Textron Aviation. During 
his six years with the company, he has held multiple roles of increasing
 responsibility including his current role as IT manager, where he 
oversees the success of nine other team members.“Two amazing people led me to this recognition: my parents,” Demetrias said during the awards ceremony held at the Historically Black College and University Engineering Deans event at the 36th annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards in February. “They showed me that I could be so much more than what I saw. They instilled in me a work ethic, perseverance, and the courage to always do and be better. That’s why I’m accepting the David L. Steward Legacy Award in their honor. Because of them, I know not to let a moment drown or define me. I thank them, my Textron Aviation family for their constant support, and congratulations to the other honorees.”

Fort Hays State grad named Black Engineer of the Year

For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649359777993.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

Three-day weather outlook

I encourage you to vote in favor of the USD 489 bond issue that is going to be put before&nbsp;you. As a&nbsp;homeowner and business owner I know the financial impact that there is going to be, but I also know the need there is to improve our school facilities. &nbsp;I came to Hays 25 years ago and in that&nbsp;time,&nbsp;it has grown&nbsp;a&nbsp;fair amount. The schools have not grown with it.&nbsp;I have two girls in the district and my wife is employed by the district. &nbsp;I hear especially from my oldest daughter, who is a senior, and my wife, who is at the middle school, how full classrooms are and the need to increase space in both facilities to make for a more opportune learning environment.

We have&nbsp;not passed the previous bonds that have been on the&nbsp;ballot,&nbsp;and I feel the time is now. The longer we put it off the&nbsp;cost will only increase. This will be a benefit to students, staff, and the community. When families look to relocate, one of the key factors is the schools. We have traveled to many schools following our&nbsp;girls and&nbsp;most of&nbsp;the schools have changed and updated in the previous years&nbsp;with the community support through a bond. It is time for our community to do the same.&nbsp;

We have a great community, and let’s keep it that way with a VOTE YES!

To the citizens and voters of USD 489,I encourage you to vote in favor of the USD 489 bond issue that is going to be put before&nbsp;you. As a&nbsp;homeowner and business owner I know the financial impact that there is going to be, but I also know the need there is to improve our school facilities. &nbsp;I came to Hays 25 years ago and in that&nbsp;time,&nbsp;it has grown&nbsp;a&nbsp;fair amount. The schools have not grown with it.&nbsp;I have two girls in the district and my wife is employed by the district. &nbsp;I hear especially from my oldest daughter, who is a senior, and my wife, who is at the middle school, how full classrooms are and the need to increase space in both facilities to make for a more opportune learning environment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We have&nbsp;not passed the previous bonds that have been on the&nbsp;ballot,&nbsp;and I feel the time is now. The longer we put it off the&nbsp;cost will only increase. This will be a benefit to students, staff, and the community. When families look to relocate, one of the key factors is the schools. We have traveled to many schools following our&nbsp;girls and&nbsp;most of&nbsp;the schools have changed and updated in the previous years&nbsp;with the community support through a bond. It is time for our community to do the same.&nbsp;We have a great community, and let’s keep it that way with a VOTE YES!Thank you. Josh Zweifel, Hays

LETTER: Keep the community great by voting yes on 489 bond

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* Inspiring mission – make your career meaningful!

* KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees

* Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays

* 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match

* A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count

* Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion

* Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; get-togethers

* Ongoing training and learning opportunities

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647899492930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KVC HOSPITALS/HAYS SEEKING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIANS, LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES AND R.N'SKVC HOSPITALS HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. KVC IS HIRING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIANS, LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES, REGISTERED NURSES AND MORE POSITIONS. KVC HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF. MOST OF ALL, KVC HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION – FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER. APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT KVC.ORG AND SEARCH CAREERS AND JOIN THE KVC TEAM.&nbsp; KVC HOSPITALS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERKVC BENEFITS:* Inspiring mission – make your career meaningful!* Competitive pay for the industry* KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees* Free dental insurance* Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays* 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match* A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count* A strong focus on promoting internally* Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion* Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; get-togethers* Ongoing training and learning opportunitiesAND MUCH MORE!

Driver hospitalized after wind blows semi off I-70

Clarification: The initial picture used as the thumbnail image for the story was a Hays Post file photo, and not a photo of students enrolled in this program. Hays Post apologizes for any confusion.

Four students at Hays High School who were in danger of not graduating will be walking across the stage to get their diplomas on May 15 thanks to a new credit recovery program.

This spring HHS implemented the Boost program. It allows students to fulfill requirements for a class they previously failed.

To enter the Boost program, students have to have earned a 57 to 62 percent in the course they are hoping to recover. Passing is a 63 percent.

Assistant Principal Fred Winter said many of the students in the boost program were freshmen, who may have had difficulty in transition to the high school.

Regaining those credits keeps those students on the right track toward graduation and encourages them to put in the work to pass their classes in the first place, he said.

"To not start in the hole is a huge thing too," Winter said.

Students and their parents have to sign a memorandum of understanding that they will follow the guidelines and expectations of the Boost program.

"The students had to commit," said Melanie McDonough, HHS computer-based learning teacher. "They had to believe in this. They had to do the work. They had to put that time in."

The students receive an incomplete for the course and have about a month to complete the work necessary to pass the course.

The district's computer-based learning program Edgenuity can be used for students to complete the coursework.

Although the passed class counts toward graduation, it does not count toward KHSAA requirements for activity participation.

Forty-eight students with a total of 52 courses participated in the program this spring. Students were able to pass 42 of the 52 courses. 

Nine students will need to attend summer school to complete their courses.

 McDonough said students are not only gaining credit needed to graduate, but they are also learning life lessons about time management, accountability, communication and understanding contracts.

"Not only did they have to carry their regular load, but now they had something on top of it, so that time manage piece was important," she said. 

McDonough said the program is something to celebrate.

"Students are catching up with their peers. They are starting to have the idea they can do hard things. They know 'I can do this. It's just going to take some work,'" she said.

The program will be offered again after the spring semester. The program will begin within two and half weeks of school letting out, and school officials said they hope it will reduce the number of students who need to attend summer school.

Clarification: The initial picture used as the thumbnail image for the story was a Hays Post file photo, and not a photo of students enrolled in this program. Hays Post apologizes for any confusion.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFour students at Hays High School who were in danger of not graduating will be walking across the stage to get their diplomas on May 15 thanks to a new credit recovery program.This spring HHS implemented the Boost program. It allows students to fulfill requirements for a class they previously failed.To enter the Boost program, students have to have earned a 57 to 62 percent in the course they are hoping to recover. Passing is a 63 percent.Assistant Principal Fred Winter said many of the students in the boost program were freshmen, who may have had difficulty in transition to the high school.Regaining those credits keeps those students on the right track toward graduation and encourages them to put in the work to pass their classes in the first place, he said."To not start in the hole is a huge thing too," Winter said. Students and their parents have to sign a memorandum of understanding that they will follow the guidelines and expectations of the Boost program."The students had to commit," said Melanie McDonough, HHS computer-based learning teacher. "They had to believe in this. They had to do the work. They had to put that time in."The students receive an incomplete for the course and have about a month to complete the work necessary to pass the course.The district's computer-based learning program Edgenuity can be used for students to complete the coursework. Although the passed class counts toward graduation, it does not count toward KHSAA requirements for activity participation. Forty-eight students with a total of 52 courses participated in the program this spring. Students were able to pass 42 of the 52 courses. Nine students will need to attend summer school to complete their courses. McDonough said students are not only gaining credit needed to graduate, but they are also learning life lessons about time management, accountability, communication and understanding contracts."Not only did they have to carry their regular load, but now they had something on top of it, so that time manage piece was important," she said. McDonough said the program is something to celebrate."Students are catching up with their peers. They are starting to have the idea they can do hard things. They know 'I can do this. It's just going to take some work,'" she said. The program will be offered again after the spring semester. The program will begin within two and half weeks of school letting out, and school officials said they hope it will reduce the number of students who need to attend summer school. Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Hays High Boost program gives students a second chance to pass courses

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Courtesy Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND —&nbsp;The University of Kansas Health System has welcomed Erica Seger, APRN, a 
family nurse practitioner, to the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic care 
team. She joined The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend 
because “the health system has so many great providers and I wanted to 
be part of a team like that.”

As a family nurse practitioner, she 
enjoys identifying the best treatments for the many patient concerns she
 sees working in convenient care. “I always try to be the patient’s 
advocate,” said Seger. “I look at the whole system of the patient and 
find the best and most up-to-date care available for them.”

Seger 
earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Fort Hays State University, as a
 member of the first class of BSN to DNP students. Seger chose to pursue
 a Doctor of Nursing Practice and become a nurse practitioner after 
seeing how much nurse practitioners she worked with cared for their 
patients. She looks forward to serving the Great Bend community.

The
 Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic treats minor injuries and illness 7 
a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. No 
appointment is needed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649170174540.jpeg" alt="Erica Seger, APRN" />
 <figcaption>Erica Seger, APRN</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Courtesy Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND —&nbsp;The University of Kansas Health System has welcomed Erica Seger, APRN, a 
family nurse practitioner, to the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic care 
team. She joined The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend 
because “the health system has so many great providers and I wanted to 
be part of a team like that.”As a family nurse practitioner, she 
enjoys identifying the best treatments for the many patient concerns she
 sees working in convenient care. “I always try to be the patient’s 
advocate,” said Seger. “I look at the whole system of the patient and 
find the best and most up-to-date care available for them.”Seger 
earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Fort Hays State University, as a
 member of the first class of BSN to DNP students. Seger chose to pursue
 a Doctor of Nursing Practice and become a nurse practitioner after 
seeing how much nurse practitioners she worked with cared for their 
patients. She looks forward to serving the Great Bend community.The
 Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic treats minor injuries and illness 7 
a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. No 
appointment is needed.

FHSU alum joins staff of Great Bend medical clinic

By FRANK MORRIS <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-04-06/stephanie-grisham-worked-in-trumps-white-house-she-works-against-him-from-deep-red-kansas">Kansas News Service</a>

PLAINVILLE&nbsp;— Stephanie Grisham has the distinction of serving as a White House press secretary who never held a press conference.

And who ultimately turned on the former chief executive who brought her into the West Wing.

Now
 she lives in a deep-red part of west-central Kansas — surrounded by 
Americans where Donald Trump remains a political savior and from where 
she’s coordinating with Republicans across the country determined that 
he never return to the Oval Office.

“She hides in plain sight here,” says Lauren Mack, veterinarian to the town of about 1,750 people.

Six
 years ago, she viewed the New York real estate man and reality TV star 
the same way as so many of her new Midwestern neighbors do today. She 
saw him as a straight-shooting antidote capable of draining a swamp of 
graft and self-dealing in Washington.

Grisham became determined to
 make America great again by working for Trump’s 2016 presidential 
campaign. She rose high enough in the campaign that after Trump was 
elected, she became First Lady Melania Trump’s spokeswoman.

And late in the administration, she took over the job as the president’s press secretary.

But
 her view from inside the Trump White House made her lose faith. And 
when, during the Jan. 6 insurrection, Melania Trump refused to OK a 
tweet condemning the violence on Capitol Hill, Grisham quit.

Like a handful of other Trump acolytes-turned-antagonists, she wrote a
 book. It was not kind to the man who was once her hero. It cast Trump 
as an angry man-child with a special love of dictators.

Grisham 
has become one of the more visible Republicans fighting against Trump, 
appearing on national TV and working with other disaffected former Trump
 staffers on a plan to make sure her former boss stays out of public 
office.

She’s doing that from an old house in the ranching-and-oil town Plainville in a county where Trump won 86% of the vote in 2020.

“I’ve
 had absolutely no problems,” Grisham said. “Everybody’s kind to me. 
There are a couple of people who, I think, give me looks that aren’t 
super pleasant. But well, you know, maybe they’re just having a bad 
day.”

People who aren’t immediately recognizable in Plainville 
stand out. Some don’t know who Grisham is. For a lot of people in 
Plainville, the most important thing is that a relatively young person 
(Grisham is 45) has moved to this shrinking town and fixed up an old 
house.

Others, though, call Grisham a traitor, someone who double-crossed Trump to make a buck. And they adore Donald Trump.

“He’s it,” said Candace Rachel, long-time editor of the Plainville Times. “A lot of people in this town think he’s the savior.”

Grisham
 said it’s unlikely she would ever have set foot in the place if her 
sister hadn’t married a Plainville native. But Grisham came out for a 
visit, and wound up staying for three weeks.

“We would sit on the patio and it’s so quiet,” recalls Grisham. “And at night you can see all the stars.”

That
 was during the pandemic lockdown, when Grisham was working remotely 
anyway. She would steal away from Washington for long visits to 
Plainville and eventually bought a house across the street from her 
sister’s place.

“It was just this really peaceful place that I thought would be a perfect place to kind of get over Trumpworld,” Grisham said.

After she resigned on the day of the Capitol insurrection, Grisham’s 
Plainville place became the base for writing her book, “I’ll Take Your 
Questions Now.” In it, she calls the Trump administration a “clown car 
on fire running full speed into a warehouse full of fireworks” and 
chronicles childish, needy and dishonest behavior on the part of her 
former boss.

“I kept thinking like, ‘Oh, what’s going to happen 
here?’” Grisham said. “This is a very big Second Amendment part of the 
country and, I’m not going to lie, I thought, ‘Should I learn to shoot a
 gun myself? Am I going to need protection?’”

The answer was no. 
The book came out, but it’s hard to find anyone in Plainville who’s 
actually read it. And Grisham said she tends to keep her ideas about 
Trump to herself when she’s out around town.

That may change 
because Grisham feels a special responsibility to tell her fellow 
pro-gun, anti-immigrant neighbors that Trump is not the best guy to get 
the job done.

“He’s not your savior and he’s not looking out for 
you. And I am saying that as somebody who really thought he was,” she 
said. “I’ve got to try to figure out a way to express that to people.”

She wants to craft a message that respects that devotion, rather than ridiculing it.

“He’s
 the ultimate con man,” Grisham said. “I … feel the responsibility to 
try to talk to the people I talk to all the time who think he's amazing.
 And I wanna say, ‘I understand that. I thought he was amazing.” But I 
promise you, he’s not in your corner. He’s in Donald Trump’s corner. 
Period.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649348436825.png" alt="Plainville, population 1,746, is the largest town in Rooks County, Kansas, where Trump took 86% of the vote in 2020. Frank Morris / KCUR" />
 <figcaption>Plainville, population 1,746, is the largest town in Rooks County, Kansas, where Trump took 86% of the vote in 2020. Frank Morris / KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure>By FRANK MORRIS <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-04-06/stephanie-grisham-worked-in-trumps-white-house-she-works-against-him-from-deep-red-kansas">Kansas News Service</a>PLAINVILLE&nbsp;— Stephanie Grisham has the distinction of serving as a White House press secretary who never held a press conference.And who ultimately turned on the former chief executive who brought her into the West Wing.Now
 she lives in a deep-red part of west-central Kansas — surrounded by 
Americans where Donald Trump remains a political savior and from where 
she’s coordinating with Republicans across the country determined that 
he never return to the Oval Office.“She hides in plain sight here,” says Lauren Mack, veterinarian to the town of about 1,750 people.Six
 years ago, she viewed the New York real estate man and reality TV star 
the same way as so many of her new Midwestern neighbors do today. She 
saw him as a straight-shooting antidote capable of draining a swamp of 
graft and self-dealing in Washington.Grisham became determined to
 make America great again by working for Trump’s 2016 presidential 
campaign. She rose high enough in the campaign that after Trump was 
elected, she became First Lady Melania Trump’s spokeswoman.And late in the administration, she took over the job as the president’s press secretary.But
 her view from inside the Trump White House made her lose faith. And 
when, during the Jan. 6 insurrection, Melania Trump refused to OK a 
tweet condemning the violence on Capitol Hill, Grisham quit.Like a handful of other Trump acolytes-turned-antagonists, she wrote a
 book. It was not kind to the man who was once her hero. It cast Trump 
as an angry man-child with a special love of dictators.Grisham 
has become one of the more visible Republicans fighting against Trump, 
appearing on national TV and working with other disaffected former Trump
 staffers on a plan to make sure her former boss stays out of public 
office.She’s doing that from an old house in the ranching-and-oil town Plainville in a county where Trump won 86% of the vote in 2020.And, so far, so good.“I’ve
 had absolutely no problems,” Grisham said. “Everybody’s kind to me. 
There are a couple of people who, I think, give me looks that aren’t 
super pleasant. But well, you know, maybe they’re just having a bad 
day.”People who aren’t immediately recognizable in Plainville 
stand out. Some don’t know who Grisham is. For a lot of people in 
Plainville, the most important thing is that a relatively young person 
(Grisham is 45) has moved to this shrinking town and fixed up an old 
house.Others, though, call Grisham a traitor, someone who double-crossed Trump to make a buck. And they adore Donald Trump.“He’s it,” said Candace Rachel, long-time editor of the Plainville Times. “A lot of people in this town think he’s the savior.” <h2>Why Plainville?&nbsp;</h2>Grisham
 said it’s unlikely she would ever have set foot in the place if her 
sister hadn’t married a Plainville native. But Grisham came out for a 
visit, and wound up staying for three weeks.“We would sit on the patio and it’s so quiet,” recalls Grisham. “And at night you can see all the stars.”That
 was during the pandemic lockdown, when Grisham was working remotely 
anyway. She would steal away from Washington for long visits to 
Plainville and eventually bought a house across the street from her 
sister’s place.“It was just this really peaceful place that I thought would be a perfect place to kind of get over Trumpworld,” Grisham said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649348536412.png" alt="Stephanie Grisham holds a memento from her years working for the Trumps, a photo taken on Air Force One. Frank Morris / KCUR" />
 <figcaption>Stephanie Grisham holds a memento from her years working for the Trumps, a photo taken on Air Force One. Frank Morris / KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure>After she resigned on the day of the Capitol insurrection, Grisham’s 
Plainville place became the base for writing her book, “I’ll Take Your 
Questions Now.” In it, she calls the Trump administration a “clown car 
on fire running full speed into a warehouse full of fireworks” and 
chronicles childish, needy and dishonest behavior on the part of her 
former boss.“I kept thinking like, ‘Oh, what’s going to happen 
here?’” Grisham said. “This is a very big Second Amendment part of the 
country and, I’m not going to lie, I thought, ‘Should I learn to shoot a
 gun myself? Am I going to need protection?’”The answer was no. 
The book came out, but it’s hard to find anyone in Plainville who’s 
actually read it. And Grisham said she tends to keep her ideas about 
Trump to herself when she’s out around town.That may change 
because Grisham feels a special responsibility to tell her fellow 
pro-gun, anti-immigrant neighbors that Trump is not the best guy to get 
the job done.“He’s not your savior and he’s not looking out for 
you. And I am saying that as somebody who really thought he was,” she 
said. “I’ve got to try to figure out a way to express that to people.”She wants to craft a message that respects that devotion, rather than ridiculing it.“He’s
 the ultimate con man,” Grisham said. “I … feel the responsibility to 
try to talk to the people I talk to all the time who think he's amazing.
 And I wanna say, ‘I understand that. I thought he was amazing.” But I 
promise you, he’s not in your corner. He’s in Donald Trump’s corner. 
Period.”

She worked in Trump's White House. She now works against him from Plainville

The
 Hays Police Department Special Situation Response Team will conduct training from 1 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at 523 West 19th.&nbsp;

Police officers will be training with special tactical equipment. This training is being done with great care and safety.&nbsp;

As
 a home or business owner, you may see law enforcement officers move 
through your area. There is no need to be alarmed. The officers are 
merely conducting a realistic training exercise and there is no danger 
to the community.

If you have any questions or 
concerns, you may contact the on-site supervisor (Team Commander Tim 
Greenwood), or Chief Don Scheibler at 785-625-1030.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633024031174.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPDThe
 Hays Police Department Special Situation Response Team will conduct training from 1 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at 523 West 19th.&nbsp;Police officers will be training with special tactical equipment. This training is being done with great care and safety.&nbsp;As
 a home or business owner, you may see law enforcement officers move 
through your area. There is no need to be alarmed. The officers are 
merely conducting a realistic training exercise and there is no danger 
to the community.If you have any questions or 
concerns, you may contact the on-site supervisor (Team Commander Tim 
Greenwood), or Chief Don Scheibler at 785-625-1030.

Hays PD tactical teams will train Thursday

UPDATED 10 a.m.&nbsp; Thursday

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous&nbsp;Occupation Safety Training in&nbsp;Agriculture or&nbsp;Tractor and Farm Safety Course&nbsp;on Saturday,&nbsp;April 30th&nbsp;from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Hill City at the Graham County Fairgrounds 4-H Building.&nbsp;

The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents.&nbsp; However, there are several cases where youth may be required to take the training even though they are working on the “family farm.”&nbsp; For instance, if the parent is a partner or member of a farm corporation or if the youth is legally employed by grandparents, the law requires youth participate in the course.&nbsp; Any employer who plans to hire youth under 16 years of age must make sure they attend this tractor and farm safety course.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following. Attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14).&nbsp; There is a $10 fee to attend and&nbsp;RSVP is requested by Friday, April 22nd.&nbsp;Thank you to our lunch and refreshment sponsor, People’s State Bank!&nbsp;This program is being offered and taught by Extension Agents in the&nbsp;Cottonwood,&nbsp;Twin Creeks, Golden Prairie and Phillips/Rooks Extension Districts. &nbsp;To register contact any of the above Extension Districts by&nbsp;Saturday,&nbsp;<a></a>April 22 to register and pickup study materials before-hand.&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

UPDATED 10 a.m.&nbsp; ThursdayBy STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictSeveral K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous&nbsp;Occupation Safety Training in&nbsp;Agriculture or&nbsp;Tractor and Farm Safety Course&nbsp;on Saturday,&nbsp;April 30th&nbsp;from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Hill City at the Graham County Fairgrounds 4-H Building.&nbsp;The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents.&nbsp; However, there are several cases where youth may be required to take the training even though they are working on the “family farm.”&nbsp; For instance, if the parent is a partner or member of a farm corporation or if the youth is legally employed by grandparents, the law requires youth participate in the course.&nbsp; Any employer who plans to hire youth under 16 years of age must make sure they attend this tractor and farm safety course.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following. Attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14).&nbsp; There is a $10 fee to attend and&nbsp;RSVP is requested by Friday, April 22nd.&nbsp;Thank you to our lunch and refreshment sponsor, People’s State Bank!&nbsp;This program is being offered and taught by Extension Agents in the&nbsp;Cottonwood,&nbsp;Twin Creeks, Golden Prairie and Phillips/Rooks Extension Districts. &nbsp;To register contact any of the above Extension Districts by&nbsp;Saturday,&nbsp;<a></a>April 22 to register and pickup study materials before-hand.&nbsp; Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

UPDATE: Tractor and farm safety course scheduled this month

In a news release Tuesday, sitting Hays City Commissioner Michael Berges announced he has filed to run for the Ellis County Commission First District seat.

The seat is currently held by Butch Schlyer, who has yet to file for re-election.

Berges will seek the Republican nomination in the August primary and to then fill the four-year term during the November general election. &nbsp;The First District represents a portion of Hays and the northwest part of Ellis County, including&nbsp;the city of Ellis.

“I was encouraged to run by many that know my interest in keeping current on issues&nbsp;about our communities and county as a whole," Berges said. "There are large projects involving housing, road/bridge construction, and facility plans among other topics that need a sound&nbsp;commission focused on growth and improvement.”

Berges is employed by Development Services of Northwest Kansas and currently serves as treasurer on the board for the ARC of Central Plains, chair of the Tiger Takedown Club and current vice-mayor for the city of Hays. He is a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and participates at First United Methodist Church as well, where his wife, Erica, is a member.&nbsp;

“I believe the county continued focus on improving infrastructure and providing quality emergency services will help advance economic vitality and innovation for the citizens of Ellis County," he said.&nbsp; "To reach our goals, it takes a cooperative effort from&nbsp;many entities throughout Ellis County and I enjoy being a part of those efforts”

Berges is a 2004 graduate of Fort Hays State University with a degree in political science. His and his wife, Erica, director of the United Way of Ellis County, have three sons — Jackson, 10, Noah, 6, and Isaac, 4.

“My family and I feel fortunate to live and work in Hays. We’ve both kind of found a niche calling of working for nonprofits that help so many individuals and organizations throughout Ellis County and western Kansas," Berges said. "We have a lot of first-hand&nbsp;conversations about the impact local decisions make on everyday life.

“It would be a tremendous honor to serve the people of Ellis County as commissioner. We have great communities and I look forward to introducing myself to voters in the coming months.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649176038808.jpeg" alt="Michael Berges" />
 <figcaption>Michael Berges</figcaption>
 </figure>In a news release Tuesday, sitting Hays City Commissioner Michael Berges announced he has filed to run for the Ellis County Commission First District seat.The seat is currently held by Butch Schlyer, who has yet to file for re-election.Berges will seek the Republican nomination in the August primary and to then fill the four-year term during the November general election. &nbsp;The First District represents a portion of Hays and the northwest part of Ellis County, including&nbsp;the city of Ellis.“I was encouraged to run by many that know my interest in keeping current on issues&nbsp;about our communities and county as a whole," Berges said. "There are large projects involving housing, road/bridge construction, and facility plans among other topics that need a sound&nbsp;commission focused on growth and improvement.”Berges is employed by Development Services of Northwest Kansas and currently serves as treasurer on the board for the ARC of Central Plains, chair of the Tiger Takedown Club and current vice-mayor for the city of Hays. He is a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and participates at First United Methodist Church as well, where his wife, Erica, is a member.&nbsp;“I believe the county continued focus on improving infrastructure and providing quality emergency services will help advance economic vitality and innovation for the citizens of Ellis County," he said.&nbsp; "To reach our goals, it takes a cooperative effort from&nbsp;many entities throughout Ellis County and I enjoy being a part of those efforts”Berges is a 2004 graduate of Fort Hays State University with a degree in political science. His and his wife, Erica, director of the United Way of Ellis County, have three sons — Jackson, 10, Noah, 6, and Isaac, 4.“My family and I feel fortunate to live and work in Hays. We’ve both kind of found a niche calling of working for nonprofits that help so many individuals and organizations throughout Ellis County and western Kansas," Berges said. "We have a lot of first-hand&nbsp;conversations about the impact local decisions make on everyday life.“It would be a tremendous honor to serve the people of Ellis County as commissioner. We have great communities and I look forward to introducing myself to voters in the coming months.”

Hays commissioner announces run for Ellis County seat

BUNKER HILL — "The Kansas Legislature," a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature state Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and state Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, at 7 p.m. Friday.

"The Kansas Legislature" is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.  During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions. "The Kansas Legislature" is hosted by Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post and Eagle Radio. 

Streaming is available for each episode on the <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel. </a> A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at www.SmokyHillsPBS.org.

"The Kansas Legislature" is made possible in part by ITC Great Plains and through a partnership with the Docking Institute of Public Affairs, Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBSBUNKER HILL — "The Kansas Legislature," a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature state Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and state Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, at 7 p.m. Friday."The Kansas Legislature" is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues. During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions. "The Kansas Legislature" is hosted by Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post and Eagle Radio. Streaming is available for each episode on the <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel. </a> A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at www.SmokyHillsPBS.org. "The Kansas Legislature" is made possible in part by ITC Great Plains and through a partnership with the Docking Institute of Public Affairs, Fort Hays State University.

Wasinger, Rahjes to appear on 'The Kansas Legislature'

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649268055652.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

🎥 SPONSORED: A look at your Hays Public Library

I recently had a neat opportunity to attend the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education&nbsp;awards banquet.&nbsp;In cooperation with members of the K-State&nbsp;Watershed staff, Hays Water Department, and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, a group of young people dove into a journey last year and that work of establishing a 4-H2O Ambassador program was recognized by KACEE.&nbsp;

Helping youth to find their spark is invigorating and provides opportunities to help make our world better in&nbsp;so&nbsp;many ways.&nbsp;Sparks are skills, talents, and interests that motivate a young person to change or improve themselves and the world around them by giving them a sense of direction and encouraging&nbsp;goal setting!

This&nbsp;program started in&nbsp;late&nbsp;2020&nbsp;with four young people from Barton and Ellis counties who spent two days learning about water treatment, management, and&nbsp;conservation. While increasing their knowledge&nbsp;of all things water, they also honed their presentation skills to prepare for working with the public at a variety of events.&nbsp;

Those initial four did a great job of helping at multiple events at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and in Hays. They&nbsp;have family-friendly and youth-focused learning activities for these events.

In 2022, the first four returned and we added three additional youth to the group. They have been through two days of training and work diligently to improve their presentation skills for events. If you would like for the 4-H2O Ambassadors to speak to your group, contact the Cottonwood Extension District in either the Barton or Ellis County offices, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, or Holly Dickman with the City of Hays.&nbsp;We will open applications in the fall for a new class of Ambassadors and they don’t need to be enrolled in 4-H!

Programs like the 4-H2O Ambassadors are one of my favorite things about working in 4-H!&nbsp;4-H offers nearly 40 different project areas from Art to Woodworking and each area has the potential to create a spark. Some 4-H members may try a dozen different projects over a few years before finding 3 or 4 that really resonate.&nbsp;Others may find a couple of project areas that they are&nbsp;passionate about very early&nbsp;and&nbsp;work and learn in that area over eight to ten years.

Is there a young person in your world who is looking for their spark? If so, give me a call!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I recently had a neat opportunity to attend the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education&nbsp;awards banquet.&nbsp;In cooperation with members of the K-State&nbsp;Watershed staff, Hays Water Department, and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, a group of young people dove into a journey last year and that work of establishing a 4-H2O Ambassador program was recognized by KACEE.&nbsp;Helping youth to find their spark is invigorating and provides opportunities to help make our world better in&nbsp;so&nbsp;many ways.&nbsp;Sparks are skills, talents, and interests that motivate a young person to change or improve themselves and the world around them by giving them a sense of direction and encouraging&nbsp;goal setting!This&nbsp;program started in&nbsp;late&nbsp;2020&nbsp;with four young people from Barton and Ellis counties who spent two days learning about water treatment, management, and&nbsp;conservation. While increasing their knowledge&nbsp;of all things water, they also honed their presentation skills to prepare for working with the public at a variety of events.&nbsp;Those initial four did a great job of helping at multiple events at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and in Hays. They&nbsp;have family-friendly and youth-focused learning activities for these events.In 2022, the first four returned and we added three additional youth to the group. They have been through two days of training and work diligently to improve their presentation skills for events. If you would like for the 4-H2O Ambassadors to speak to your group, contact the Cottonwood Extension District in either the Barton or Ellis County offices, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, or Holly Dickman with the City of Hays.&nbsp;We will open applications in the fall for a new class of Ambassadors and they don’t need to be enrolled in 4-H!Programs like the 4-H2O Ambassadors are one of my favorite things about working in 4-H!&nbsp;4-H offers nearly 40 different project areas from Art to Woodworking and each area has the potential to create a spark. Some 4-H members may try a dozen different projects over a few years before finding 3 or 4 that really resonate.&nbsp;Others may find a couple of project areas that they are&nbsp;passionate about very early&nbsp;and&nbsp;work and learn in that area over eight to ten years.Is there a young person in your world who is looking for their spark? If so, give me a call!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H20 Ambassador program

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 International semi driven by Patrick A. Desorme, 29, Kansas City, Mo. was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Brewster exit.&nbsp; 

The wind blew the semi truck and trailer were blown over. The vehicle&nbsp; came to rest in the south ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Desorme to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649271026835.png" alt="Trucks on I-70 just after 1:45p.m. Wednesday - KanDrive camera" />
 <figcaption>Trucks on I-70 just after 1:45p.m. Wednesday - KanDrive camera</figcaption>
 </figure>THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 International semi driven by Patrick A. Desorme, 29, Kansas City, Mo. was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Brewster exit.&nbsp; The wind blew the semi truck and trailer were blown over. The vehicle&nbsp; came to rest in the south ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Desorme to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A lot of bird watchers from around the state and the region are pulling
into the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and Cheyenne Bottoms, just northeast
of Great Bend. The peak of the spring migration will occur over the next month
as thousands of birds make a stop at the wetlands as they travel north. 

KWEC
Director Curtis Wolf said if people want to see a lot of birds, this is the
time to visit Cheyenne Bottoms.


"Ducks and water fowl are the real big thing right now," said Wolf. "About every species of duck that could be there is there in great numbers. The colors are phenomenal."

Over 20 species of duck have been spotted recently at the wetlands. Wolf said
there are also pelicans, Great Blue Herons, cormorants and coots. While several
Whooping Cranes have made their way through the area, most of them don’t stay
long.


"It's very typical behavior of the Whooping Cranes to come in, they might be seen in the evening as they come in to roost and by mid-morning the next day they're gone," said Wolf. "They don't tend to stick around very long. It's such a chance event where you have to be there at the right time and place."

The KWEC is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday
from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645201349759.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA lot of bird watchers from around the state and the region are pulling
into the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and Cheyenne Bottoms, just northeast
of Great Bend. The peak of the spring migration will occur over the next month
as thousands of birds make a stop at the wetlands as they travel north. KWEC
Director Curtis Wolf said if people want to see a lot of birds, this is the
time to visit Cheyenne Bottoms.
"Ducks and water fowl are the real big thing right now," said Wolf. "About every species of duck that could be there is there in great numbers. The colors are phenomenal."Over 20 species of duck have been spotted recently at the wetlands. Wolf said
there are also pelicans, Great Blue Herons, cormorants and coots. While several
Whooping Cranes have made their way through the area, most of them don’t stay
long.
"It's very typical behavior of the Whooping Cranes to come in, they might be seen in the evening as they come in to roost and by mid-morning the next day they're gone," said Wolf. "They don't tend to stick around very long. It's such a chance event where you have to be there at the right time and place."The KWEC is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday
from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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