Three-day weather outlook

Click <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/jobs.aspx">HERE</a> to visit the Ellis County Employment Opportunities page.

The Human Resources Coordinator 
is responsible for the major areas of employee recruitment, selection, 
and retention through employee relations, compensation, professional 
development, and benefits. This position will manage processes for new 
employee orientation as well as employee transfers and terminations.&nbsp; 
The Human Resources Coordinator has considerable latitude for 
independent judgment and initiative within established policies and 
procedures when determining work priorities.&nbsp; This employee handles 
confidential information when working with personnel records and will 
ensure the privacy of all protected information in compliance with 
federal and state laws.&nbsp; A resume will be required to be submitted with 
application.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $27.71 per hour with a pay raise at 6 
months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per 
year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.

This 
employee is responsible for the bookkeeping and clerical duties, as well
 as coordinating environmental activities with the Environmental 
Associate. The Environmental Technician routinely acts in implementing 
and monitoring Ellis County environmental programs. This employee may 
assist with field testing and review, perform site inspections under 
supervision, and develop database programs in relation to environmental 
activities.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and two years of clerical and 
bookkeeping experience are preferred.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $16.05 per hour 
with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days 
paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two 
years, and health insurance paid at 86%.

Under 
the supervision of the Shop Foreman, the Mechanic performs semi-skilled 
and skilled mechanical work on equipment and vehicles assigned to the 
Ellis County Public Works Department. The employee in this position is 
responsible for performing the required maintenance and repair of 
vehicles and equipment for the Public Works Department. &nbsp;High School 
diploma or GED and two years of mechanic experience is required. A class
 B commercial driver's license with tanker endorsement is required. 
Successful applicant will be required to participate in the FHWA (CDL) 
drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $17.34 per hour with a pay raise 
at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per
 year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.

Ellis County Public 
Works is accepting applications for the full time position of Truck 
Driver in the Road and Bridge division.&nbsp; This employee hauls material to
 the job site for the repair and construction of roads within Ellis 
County.&nbsp; The truck driver also performs routine manual work in the 
operation of light and heavy equipment for loading and transporting 
materials.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and one year truck driving 
experience are required.&nbsp; A class B commercial drivers license with 
tanker endorsement is required.&nbsp; Successful applicant will be required 
to participate in the FHWA (CDL) drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is 
$14.25 per hour with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid 
holidays and 21 days paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity
 bonus after two years, and health insurance paid at 86%.

A
 paid-per-call firefighters respond to fires, rescues, medical assists, 
hazardous conditions, and other related emergencies. It requires a 
significant amount of teamwork when working on emergency scenes to 
conducting regular fire company activities. Our firefighters work under 
the direct supervision of company officers to include a company chief.

Each
 firefighter understands they represent a larger ECFD organization and 
shall act, train, perform duties in such a way that they demonstrate 
pride and ownership in their department. An ECFD firefighter should have
 excellent interpersonal communication skills as they are expected to 
have direct contact with different public safety officials, the 
community, as well as fire and rescue victims. ECFD firefighters must be
 able to make quick decisions, take calculated risks, and take immediate
 actions on emergency scenes while maintaining safety in these actions.

Firefighters
 are required to complete basic NIMS courses, maintain CPR/First aid 
certification, hazardous materials awareness, attend 75% of scheduled 
monthly trainings, and report to their assigned companies when available
 for emergency responses. ECFD firefighters must read, understand, and 
abide by the ECFD standard operating procedures. Before firefighters are
 able to respond and/or drive apparatus to emergencies, firefighters are
 to complete an in-house training program. ECFD firefighters must be 18 
years of age with a valid driver’s license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626273354523.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/jobs.aspx">HERE</a> to visit the Ellis County Employment Opportunities page.<h2>Human Resources Coordinator</h2>The Human Resources Coordinator 
is responsible for the major areas of employee recruitment, selection, 
and retention through employee relations, compensation, professional 
development, and benefits. This position will manage processes for new 
employee orientation as well as employee transfers and terminations.&nbsp; 
The Human Resources Coordinator has considerable latitude for 
independent judgment and initiative within established policies and 
procedures when determining work priorities.&nbsp; This employee handles 
confidential information when working with personnel records and will 
ensure the privacy of all protected information in compliance with 
federal and state laws.&nbsp; A resume will be required to be submitted with 
application.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $27.71 per hour with a pay raise at 6 
months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per 
year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Environmental Technician</h2>This 
employee is responsible for the bookkeeping and clerical duties, as well
 as coordinating environmental activities with the Environmental 
Associate. The Environmental Technician routinely acts in implementing 
and monitoring Ellis County environmental programs. This employee may 
assist with field testing and review, perform site inspections under 
supervision, and develop database programs in relation to environmental 
activities.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and two years of clerical and 
bookkeeping experience are preferred.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $16.05 per hour 
with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days 
paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two 
years, and health insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Mechanic</h2>Under 
the supervision of the Shop Foreman, the Mechanic performs semi-skilled 
and skilled mechanical work on equipment and vehicles assigned to the 
Ellis County Public Works Department. The employee in this position is 
responsible for performing the required maintenance and repair of 
vehicles and equipment for the Public Works Department. &nbsp;High School 
diploma or GED and two years of mechanic experience is required. A class
 B commercial driver's license with tanker endorsement is required. 
Successful applicant will be required to participate in the FHWA (CDL) 
drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $17.34 per hour with a pay raise 
at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per
 year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Truck Driver</h2>Ellis County Public 
Works is accepting applications for the full time position of Truck 
Driver in the Road and Bridge division.&nbsp; This employee hauls material to
 the job site for the repair and construction of roads within Ellis 
County.&nbsp; The truck driver also performs routine manual work in the 
operation of light and heavy equipment for loading and transporting 
materials.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and one year truck driving 
experience are required.&nbsp; A class B commercial drivers license with 
tanker endorsement is required.&nbsp; Successful applicant will be required 
to participate in the FHWA (CDL) drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is 
$14.25 per hour with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid 
holidays and 21 days paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity
 bonus after two years, and health insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Paid Per Call Firefighter</h2>A
 paid-per-call firefighters respond to fires, rescues, medical assists, 
hazardous conditions, and other related emergencies. It requires a 
significant amount of teamwork when working on emergency scenes to 
conducting regular fire company activities. Our firefighters work under 
the direct supervision of company officers to include a company chief.Each
 firefighter understands they represent a larger ECFD organization and 
shall act, train, perform duties in such a way that they demonstrate 
pride and ownership in their department. An ECFD firefighter should have
 excellent interpersonal communication skills as they are expected to 
have direct contact with different public safety officials, the 
community, as well as fire and rescue victims. ECFD firefighters must be
 able to make quick decisions, take calculated risks, and take immediate
 actions on emergency scenes while maintaining safety in these actions.Firefighters
 are required to complete basic NIMS courses, maintain CPR/First aid 
certification, hazardous materials awareness, attend 75% of scheduled 
monthly trainings, and report to their assigned companies when available
 for emergency responses. ECFD firefighters must read, understand, and 
abide by the ECFD standard operating procedures. Before firefighters are
 able to respond and/or drive apparatus to emergencies, firefighters are
 to complete an in-house training program. ECFD firefighters must be 18 
years of age with a valid driver’s license.

Portion of Ellis Avenue will be closed this week

Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. announced today that its Sharing Success Fund, managed by the Scott Community Foundation, has awarded a $1,000 grant to the Cottonwood Extension District in Great Bend.

The Sharing Success grant funds will be used toward the purchase of appliances for a meeting room in the new Extension District office. The meeting room will be used to create an area where youth and adult groups alike can learn nutrition and food preparation, says Donna Krug, district director. As Krug explains, a variety of other classes taught at the Cottonwood Extension District require the use of a stove and refrigerator, such as Babysitting 101, that strive to improve the quality of life for low-income families in Barton County.

The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund from non-profit organizations on December 1, 2012. Wheatland Electric and CoBank have each contributed $10,000 this year to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted.

Non-profit groups interested in receiving funding from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Manager of Member Services &amp; Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.

About Us Our Mission: Delivering Energy for Life – Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., a member owned distribution cooperative headquartered in Scott City, KS, was established in 1948 as a distribution and power cooperative, in the state of Kansas. Today, Wheatland Electric serves more than 33,000 electric meters in 14 Kansas counties and 3 Colorado counties and maintains over 4,000 miles of distribution power lines across western, southcentral Kansas and eastern Colorado. Together, with the help of our members, we are committed to building a better and stronger rural America. Visit www.weci.net for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627390307174.jpeg" alt="Alli Conine (right), manager of member services &amp; corporate communications at Wheatland Electric, presents a $1,000 Sharing Success grant to staff of the Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Alli Conine (right), manager of member services &amp; corporate communications at Wheatland Electric, presents a $1,000 Sharing Success grant to staff of the Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSWheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. announced today that its Sharing Success Fund, managed by the Scott Community Foundation, has awarded a $1,000 grant to the Cottonwood Extension District in Great Bend.The Sharing Success grant funds will be used toward the purchase of appliances for a meeting room in the new Extension District office. The meeting room will be used to create an area where youth and adult groups alike can learn nutrition and food preparation, says Donna Krug, district director. As Krug explains, a variety of other classes taught at the Cottonwood Extension District require the use of a stove and refrigerator, such as Babysitting 101, that strive to improve the quality of life for low-income families in Barton County.The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund from non-profit organizations on December 1, 2012. Wheatland Electric and CoBank have each contributed $10,000 this year to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted.Non-profit groups interested in receiving funding from the Wheatland Electric Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Manager of Member Services &amp; Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.About Us Our Mission: Delivering Energy for Life – Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., a member owned distribution cooperative headquartered in Scott City, KS, was established in 1948 as a distribution and power cooperative, in the state of Kansas. Today, Wheatland Electric serves more than 33,000 electric meters in 14 Kansas counties and 3 Colorado counties and maintains over 4,000 miles of distribution power lines across western, southcentral Kansas and eastern Colorado. Together, with the help of our members, we are committed to building a better and stronger rural America. Visit www.weci.net for more information.

Cottonwood Extension receives $1K grant from Wheatland Electric

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares updates from the chamber.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber welcomes new members" 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=dkw4s-109ca1b-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares updates from the chamber.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber welcomes new members

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association released its 2021 Preseason Polls for football on Tuesday, July 27 at its annual Football Media Day in Kansas City. The Tigers tied Central Missouri for second in the Coaches Poll, each with 105 points, while the Tigers received a third-place selection in the Media Poll. Northwest Missouri State was a strong for first place in both polls. Fort Hays State matched Central Missouri in the Coaches Poll in vote count, and both received a first-place vote. The Tigers were four total points behind the Mules in the Media Poll, though both also received one first-place vote in that poll. Northwest Missouri State received 10 first-place votes in both polls. The upper third of the Media Poll looks pretty similar to the 2019 final MIAA standings. Northwest Missouri State and Central Missouri shared the regular season title in 2019, each at 10-1 in conference play, while Fort Hays State and Missouri Western tied for third at 8-3 in conference play. Nebraska-Kearney shakes up the top four in the Coaches Poll with a fourth-place nod. The improved Lopers posted big wins in 2019, including an upset of Northwest Missouri State, a dominant 28-point win over Missouri Western, and a win over Winona State in the Mineral Water Bowl. They could be a team to watch this upcoming season with their steady rise of success the past three seasons. The Lopers lost by six to FHSU and seven to Central Missouri in 2019. UNK was only one voting point shy of Missouri Western in the Media Poll. Fort Hays State returns four starters from 2019 on each side of the ball.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6146">Chance Fuller</a>&nbsp;(QB),&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6154">Ted Hessing</a>&nbsp;(OL), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6120">Amari Angram-Boldin</a>&nbsp;(OL) are returning starters that received All-MIAA selections in 2019, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6188">Jordan Starks</a>&nbsp;(DB) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6180">Javaris Sanders</a>&nbsp;(DL) received all-conference nods as defensive starters for the Tigers in 2019. Hessing and Angram-Boldin helped Fuller throw for a school-record 35 touchdowns in 2019, while racking up 3,344 passing yards.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6174">Manny Ramsey</a>, one of Fuller's top targets and an All-MIAA pick in 2019, also returns after a breakout season that saw him collect 47 passes for 808 yards and 10 touchdowns. Starks, a safety, is the top returning tackler for the Tigers after recording 78 in 2019, while also tying for a team-best three interceptions. With high picks in the polls, several eyes will be on Hays in the first week of play. Northwest Missouri State travels to Fort Hays State for the season opener on September 2, a 7 pm kickoff at Lewis Field Stadium. The last three contests between the Tigers and Bearcats have been decided by a total of five points with FHSU claiming 1-point wins in both 2017 and 2018, then Northwest Missouri State claiming an overtime win by 3 points in 2019. Get your season tickets today by contacting the FHSU Athletic Department at (785) 628-4050 or drop by the office in person. The Tigers play at home six times in 2021 and reserved chairback seats are available for $90 per seat. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2021 Fort Hays State Football Schedule</a> Below are the 2021 MIAA Football Coaches and Media Polls. 2021 MIAA Football Preseason Coaches Poll Rank Team (1stPlace Votes)Points 1. Northwest Missouri (10) 120 T2. Fort Hays State (1) 105 T2. Central Missouri (1) 105 4. Nebraska-Kearney 86 5. Missouri Western 71 6. Washburn 69 7. Pittsburg State 66 8. Emporia State 55 9. Central Oklahoma 52 T10. Missouri Southern 24 T10. Northeastern State 24 12. Lincoln 15 Coaches are not allowed to vote for their own team. 2021 MIAA Football Preseason Media Poll Rank Team (1stPlace Votes)Points 1. Northwest Missouri (10) 142 2. Central Missouri (1) 124 3. Fort Hays State (1) 120 4. Missouri Western 99 5. Nebraska Kearney 98 6. Pittsburg State 91 7. Washburn 70 8. Central Oklahoma 62 9. Emporia State 56 10. Missouri Southern 33 11. Northeastern State 25 12. Lincoln 16

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627397291266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association released its 2021 Preseason Polls for football on Tuesday, July 27 at its annual Football Media Day in Kansas City. The Tigers tied Central Missouri for second in the Coaches Poll, each with 105 points, while the Tigers received a third-place selection in the Media Poll. Northwest Missouri State was a strong for first place in both polls. Fort Hays State matched Central Missouri in the Coaches Poll in vote count, and both received a first-place vote. The Tigers were four total points behind the Mules in the Media Poll, though both also received one first-place vote in that poll. Northwest Missouri State received 10 first-place votes in both polls. The upper third of the Media Poll looks pretty similar to the 2019 final MIAA standings. Northwest Missouri State and Central Missouri shared the regular season title in 2019, each at 10-1 in conference play, while Fort Hays State and Missouri Western tied for third at 8-3 in conference play. Nebraska-Kearney shakes up the top four in the Coaches Poll with a fourth-place nod. The improved Lopers posted big wins in 2019, including an upset of Northwest Missouri State, a dominant 28-point win over Missouri Western, and a win over Winona State in the Mineral Water Bowl. They could be a team to watch this upcoming season with their steady rise of success the past three seasons. The Lopers lost by six to FHSU and seven to Central Missouri in 2019. UNK was only one voting point shy of Missouri Western in the Media Poll. Fort Hays State returns four starters from 2019 on each side of the ball.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6146">Chance Fuller</a>&nbsp;(QB),&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6154">Ted Hessing</a>&nbsp;(OL), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6120">Amari Angram-Boldin</a>&nbsp;(OL) are returning starters that received All-MIAA selections in 2019, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6188">Jordan Starks</a>&nbsp;(DB) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6180">Javaris Sanders</a>&nbsp;(DL) received all-conference nods as defensive starters for the Tigers in 2019. Hessing and Angram-Boldin helped Fuller throw for a school-record 35 touchdowns in 2019, while racking up 3,344 passing yards.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6174">Manny Ramsey</a>, one of Fuller's top targets and an All-MIAA pick in 2019, also returns after a breakout season that saw him collect 47 passes for 808 yards and 10 touchdowns. Starks, a safety, is the top returning tackler for the Tigers after recording 78 in 2019, while also tying for a team-best three interceptions. With high picks in the polls, several eyes will be on Hays in the first week of play. Northwest Missouri State travels to Fort Hays State for the season opener on September 2, a 7 pm kickoff at Lewis Field Stadium. The last three contests between the Tigers and Bearcats have been decided by a total of five points with FHSU claiming 1-point wins in both 2017 and 2018, then Northwest Missouri State claiming an overtime win by 3 points in 2019. Get your season tickets today by contacting the FHSU Athletic Department at (785) 628-4050 or drop by the office in person. The Tigers play at home six times in 2021 and reserved chairback seats are available for $90 per seat. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2021 Fort Hays State Football Schedule</a> Below are the 2021 MIAA Football Coaches and Media Polls. 2021 MIAA Football Preseason Coaches Poll Rank Team (1stPlace Votes)Points 1. Northwest Missouri (10) 120 T2. Fort Hays State (1) 105 T2. Central Missouri (1) 105 4. Nebraska-Kearney 86 5. Missouri Western 71 6. Washburn 69 7. Pittsburg State 66 8. Emporia State 55 9. Central Oklahoma 52 T10. Missouri Southern 24 T10. Northeastern State 24 12. Lincoln 15 Coaches are not allowed to vote for their own team. 2021 MIAA Football Preseason Media Poll Rank Team (1stPlace Votes)Points 1. Northwest Missouri (10) 142 2. Central Missouri (1) 124 3. Fort Hays State (1) 120 4. Missouri Western 99 5. Nebraska Kearney 98 6. Pittsburg State 91 7. Washburn 70 8. Central Oklahoma 62 9. Emporia State 56 10. Missouri Southern 33 11. Northeastern State 25 12. Lincoln 16

🏈 Tigers picked 2nd and 3rd in MIAA football preseason polls

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A group of Ellis County residents hope their passion and
dedication will lead to the revival of the Ellis County Historical Society.

In March, Amanda Rupp was appointed the interim director of
the Ellis County Historical Society and Amanda Unrein and Adam Conkey were
hired part-time. The board also expanded to 16 members in an effort to get
new faces involved in the historical society’s efforts.

Rupp, who worked at the historical society with for Director
Donald Westfall from 2012 to 2015, took on the role of director as a volunteer
after the previous director left amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

On top of the pandemic that forced the historical
society to close its doors to the public, it is also dealing with structural
issues and a lack of space.

In 2019, the historical society was forced to close the historic
First Presbyterian Church, at the corner of Seventh and Main streets, because
of a mold issue. The building has also suffered water and other structural
damage. 

Rupp said they are now in the process of moving artifacts
that were stored at two locations off campus back to the historical society campus
because they can no longer use those storage locations.

“Because of the pandemic, and because of structural
difficulties and because a loss of staffing, it feels a little bit like we’re
starting over,” Rupp said.

Rupp said the board has looked at several ideas to help the historical
society rebound but, for one reason or another, those ideas, many of which she
called great, have fallen short of expectations.

“It’s time to make some action. There’s no other way to go,”
Rupp said. “This just can’t sit here. It deserves a future.”

Rupp said because several artifacts and pieces of the
historical society’s collection have been moved around, they are focused on
getting everything back in one location.

“Our first priority is getting our collection under one roof
and accessing what we have,” Rupp said.

Once they have everything collected and stored in one
location, Rupp said they can begin talking about space.

Amanda Unrein said she knows that that may be difficult for
people to understand.

“It’s all behind-the-scenes work that we are doing,” Unrein
said. “A lot is happening. It’s not stuff you can physically see unless you’re
behind the scenes.”

The historical society was a topic of discussion at a pair
of Ellis County Commission budget hearings earlier this year. 

The group requested the same funding as in prior years,
$72,000, as instructed by the commission. Commission Chairman
Butch Schlyer said that money “just allows you to crash and burn” and
“that’s throwing good money after bad money.”

Unrein said, “It’s hard for us to put a number on that
because we’re only four to five months in a this point so we don’t know,” she
added. “I know that’s not an answer that anybody wants to hear that’s just the
reality of it.”

The commission has since agreed to provide the funding for
2022 but only if the historical society board provides monthly updates to the
commission through the rest of the year.

After receiving just $3,000 from the City of Hays for budget year 2021, the historical society requested $20,899 for 2022. They
received $12,000 in 2020. The city will hold budget discussions in August
before finalizing the 2022 budget in September.

Because of the structural issues of the church there are
questions about its viability. In 2019, Rupp said they received an estimate of
$1.6 million to fix the building. That did not include the costs of remodeling
the building and bringing it up to ADA compliance.

The historical society owns the entire lot from Main Street
west to Fort Street, and Rupp said the board has considered building an entire
campus to go along with the three buildings on site, but the cost was estimated
at more than $16 million.

Rupp said they understand that the historical society cannot
rely fully on funding from public entities to operate. 

“We understand the challenges, that an entity like this
cannot sustain itself from public funding along,” Rupp said. “It has to have a
revenue source.”

Rupp said, “This year we’re putting in a maximum amount of
elbow grease and to do so what we need is a little bit more operating costs
funds.”

Rupp said they hope to increase the two new employees' paid
hours from 10 to 20 hours.

She added that the most recent directors did a great job of
taking care of the programming and “front of house” issues but she believes
more attention needs to be paid to the “back of house” issues.

“That’s what the historical society has going for it right
now,” Rupp said. “They already have a massive, amazing collection and now they
have a good strong board that is willing to work together and three fresh
faces, young enough to maybe put some back work into it, that are part of this
community that want to see it through for pride.”

The board purchased a cataloging system a few years ago, and
they really have not gotten to use it to its full capacity, according to
Rupp, so they are planning on using it to better the experience as they get
everything located and properly stored.

This year marks the 50th year for the historical
society, and Rupp said she plans to reach out to founding members and volunteers
to talk about the early years because of all the issues they are dealing with,
“it feels a little bit like we’re starting over,” Rupp said. 

Another focus for the group will be raising funds. They are
hoping to increase their sponsorship numbers after they have dwindled in recent
years. 

Unrein said they are also working on grants and fundraising
opportunities in the future in hopes of helping with the budget.

“We realize that we can’t sustain ourselves on public
funding,” Unrein said. “So, we are going out there and we are doing the leg work.”

Rupp and Unrein said they are also urging members of the
community and service groups who are interested helping through volunteer work
to reach out.

Unrein said they also welcome help and input from the
community.

Both Rupp and Unrein said despite the challenges and some of
the negativity they have encountered so far, they are determined to
succeed.

“We’re going to focus our attention on our priorities,”
Unrein said. “However, another one of our priorities is to definitely
make sure that the community knows we’re here, knows we’re getting work done,
knows we’re moving forward. That we are here (and) we’re not going anywhere."

You can find more information on the historical society through
their Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310408956.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA group of Ellis County residents hope their passion and
dedication will lead to the revival of the Ellis County Historical Society.In March, Amanda Rupp was appointed the interim director of
the Ellis County Historical Society and Amanda Unrein and Adam Conkey were
hired part-time. The board also expanded to 16 members in an effort to get
new faces involved in the historical society’s efforts.Rupp, who worked at the historical society with for Director
Donald Westfall from 2012 to 2015, took on the role of director as a volunteer
after the previous director left amid the COVID-19 pandemic.On top of the pandemic that forced the historical
society to close its doors to the public, it is also dealing with structural
issues and a lack of space.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310500467.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In 2019, the historical society was forced to close the historic
First Presbyterian Church, at the corner of Seventh and Main streets, because
of a mold issue. The building has also suffered water and other structural
damage. Rupp said they are now in the process of moving artifacts
that were stored at two locations off campus back to the historical society campus
because they can no longer use those storage locations.“Because of the pandemic, and because of structural
difficulties and because a loss of staffing, it feels a little bit like we’re
starting over,” Rupp said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310556666.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rupp said the board has looked at several ideas to help the historical
society rebound but, for one reason or another, those ideas, many of which she
called great, have fallen short of expectations.“It’s time to make some action. There’s no other way to go,”
Rupp said. “This just can’t sit here. It deserves a future.”Rupp said because several artifacts and pieces of the
historical society’s collection have been moved around, they are focused on
getting everything back in one location.“Our first priority is getting our collection under one roof
and accessing what we have,” Rupp said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310606833.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Once they have everything collected and stored in one
location, Rupp said they can begin talking about space.Amanda Unrein said she knows that that may be difficult for
people to understand.“It’s all behind-the-scenes work that we are doing,” Unrein
said. “A lot is happening. It’s not stuff you can physically see unless you’re
behind the scenes.”The historical society was a topic of discussion at a pair
of Ellis County Commission budget hearings earlier this year. The group requested the same funding as in prior years,
$72,000, as instructed by the commission. Commission Chairman
Butch Schlyer said that money “just allows you to crash and burn” and
“that’s throwing good money after bad money.”Unrein said, “It’s hard for us to put a number on that
because we’re only four to five months in a this point so we don’t know,” she
added. “I know that’s not an answer that anybody wants to hear that’s just the
reality of it.”The commission has since agreed to provide the funding for
2022 but only if the historical society board provides monthly updates to the
commission through the rest of the year.After receiving just $3,000 from the City of Hays for budget year 2021, the historical society requested $20,899 for 2022. They
received $12,000 in 2020. The city will hold budget discussions in August
before finalizing the 2022 budget in September.Because of the structural issues of the church there are
questions about its viability. In 2019, Rupp said they received an estimate of
$1.6 million to fix the building. That did not include the costs of remodeling
the building and bringing it up to ADA compliance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310846339.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The historical society owns the entire lot from Main Street
west to Fort Street, and Rupp said the board has considered building an entire
campus to go along with the three buildings on site, but the cost was estimated
at more than $16 million.Rupp said they understand that the historical society cannot
rely fully on funding from public entities to operate. “We understand the challenges, that an entity like this
cannot sustain itself from public funding along,” Rupp said. “It has to have a
revenue source.”Rupp said, “This year we’re putting in a maximum amount of
elbow grease and to do so what we need is a little bit more operating costs
funds.”Rupp said they hope to increase the two new employees' paid
hours from 10 to 20 hours.She added that the most recent directors did a great job of
taking care of the programming and “front of house” issues but she believes
more attention needs to be paid to the “back of house” issues.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310916677.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“That’s what the historical society has going for it right
now,” Rupp said. “They already have a massive, amazing collection and now they
have a good strong board that is willing to work together and three fresh
faces, young enough to maybe put some back work into it, that are part of this
community that want to see it through for pride.”The board purchased a cataloging system a few years ago, and
they really have not gotten to use it to its full capacity, according to
Rupp, so they are planning on using it to better the experience as they get
everything located and properly stored.This year marks the 50th year for the historical
society, and Rupp said she plans to reach out to founding members and volunteers
to talk about the early years because of all the issues they are dealing with,
“it feels a little bit like we’re starting over,” Rupp said. Another focus for the group will be raising funds. They are
hoping to increase their sponsorship numbers after they have dwindled in recent
years. Unrein said they are also working on grants and fundraising
opportunities in the future in hopes of helping with the budget.“We realize that we can’t sustain ourselves on public
funding,” Unrein said. “So, we are going out there and we are doing the leg work.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627310979765.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rupp and Unrein said they are also urging members of the
community and service groups who are interested helping through volunteer work
to reach out.Unrein said they also welcome help and input from the
community.Both Rupp and Unrein said despite the challenges and some of
the negativity they have encountered so far, they are determined to
succeed.“We’re going to focus our attention on our priorities,”
Unrein said. “However, another one of our priorities is to definitely
make sure that the community knows we’re here, knows we’re getting work done,
knows we’re moving forward. That we are here (and) we’re not going anywhere."You can find more information on the historical society through
their Facebook page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311035793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311059259.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311073504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311087199.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311108224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311123243.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627311143718.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County Historical Society faces challenges with new strategies

Crude futures at lunchtime Monday were down slightly from the opening. The near-month Nymex contract for &nbsp;light sweet crude was going for $71.66, down 41 cents per barrel. London Brent was down a dime at $74.01. Crude prices in Kansas are slightly higher than a week ago, but down from the first of the month. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $62.25 per barrel.&nbsp; A selloff followed the announcement of an OPEC-Plus compromise, sending crude-oil prices tumbling around the world. But by Friday prices were posting weekly gains. The settlement price last Monday (7/19) for the Nymex benchmark crude contract was down more than five dollars from the previous session and nearly eight dollars lower than a week earlier. But Friday's settlement (7/23) was over $72 per barrel, a gain of 26 cents per barrel over a week earlier. Baker Hughes added seven oil rigs for a total of 491 active rigs on its weekly Rotary Rig Count. Texas was up six rigs; Utah was up two. The weekly Rig Count in Kansas from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported a slight uptick in eastern Kansas with eight active rigs, while the count west of Wichita was unchanged at 22. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Barton County, and drilling was about to commence on a lease in Ellis County and two in Stafford County. Kansas regulators okayed 21 new drilling permits last week, with seven east of Wichita and 15 in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. That's 556 new permits so far this year, compared to just 245 by this time last year. Add six new well-completions this week for a total of 421 so far this year. That's down from 564 last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports new well-completions in Barton Ellis and Russell counties. A government report showed the first increase in U.S. crude-oil stockpiles since May. The Energy Information Administration said during the week through July 16, inventories increased just over two million barrels to nearly 438 Million. Domestic stocks are still about seven percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Total motor gasoline inventories decreased by 100,000 barrels and are right at the five year seasonal average. Crude production in the United States dropped last week compared to the week before by 56,000 barrels per day . EIA said current output is nearly 11.4 million barrels per day, more than a quarter-million barrels per day higher than the report from a year ago. The government said U.S. crude imports rose by nearly one million barrels, to 7.1 million per day. Imports averaged 6.4 million barrels per day over the last four weeks, a nearly three percent increase over the same period last year. Oil-by-rail shipments increased last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,518 petroleum tankers on the rails during the week through July 17. That's up more than 700 tankers from the week before, and a nearly two-percent increase over the same week last year. Canadian oil-by-rail is up more than 22% from a year ago. North Dakota operators increased output in May by about 4,000 barrels per day over April. Regulators in the number-two crude producing state say they pumped nearly 35 million barrels for the month, or over 1.12 million barrels per day. As production continues to increase in North Dakota, so does the amount of natural gas being flared or vented. The Department of Mineral Resources reported a gas-capture rate of 92%, compared to 93% the month before. That means eight percent of the gas produced at oil wells was burned or vented into the air. Colorado regulators have delayed public hearings on a very expensive new proposal for the oil patch. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission will now hear from the public early next year on a new set of rules relating to the financial assurance, or bonding of each well. The state wants to require guarantees for the cost of plugging each new oil well, $78,000 each. That could cost the industry nearly $4 BILLION statewide. Such guarantees were mandated under the landmark law passed in Colorado over two years ago, requiring focus on health and environment by energy regulators. The Commission is now expected to consider several rounds of staff revisions for the rest of this year, before opening the process to the public in January. That means that if approved the effective date of the new rules would be pushed back to April. Under current rules, the state's operators can post a "blanket bond" of $60000 to cover up to 100 wells, and $100,000 for more than that. A study produced for the American Petroleum Institute shows the oil and gas industry was responsible for more than 11 million jobs across the U.S., 2.5 million of them in Texas. That means oil-patch jobs made up more than five percent of total U.S. employment and pumped out labor income totaling more than $890 BILLION in 2019. The study, by Price Waterhouse Coopers, shows that the industry directly and indirectly supported at least 100,000 jobs in each of 31 states. The Kansas patch accounted for between five and eight percent of all jobs here.

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude futures at lunchtime Monday were down slightly from the opening. The near-month Nymex contract for &nbsp;light sweet crude was going for $71.66, down 41 cents per barrel. London Brent was down a dime at $74.01. Crude prices in Kansas are slightly higher than a week ago, but down from the first of the month. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $62.25 per barrel.&nbsp; A selloff followed the announcement of an OPEC-Plus compromise, sending crude-oil prices tumbling around the world. But by Friday prices were posting weekly gains. The settlement price last Monday (7/19) for the Nymex benchmark crude contract was down more than five dollars from the previous session and nearly eight dollars lower than a week earlier. But Friday's settlement (7/23) was over $72 per barrel, a gain of 26 cents per barrel over a week earlier. Baker Hughes added seven oil rigs for a total of 491 active rigs on its weekly Rotary Rig Count. Texas was up six rigs; Utah was up two. The weekly Rig Count in Kansas from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported a slight uptick in eastern Kansas with eight active rigs, while the count west of Wichita was unchanged at 22. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Barton County, and drilling was about to commence on a lease in Ellis County and two in Stafford County. Kansas regulators okayed 21 new drilling permits last week, with seven east of Wichita and 15 in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. That's 556 new permits so far this year, compared to just 245 by this time last year. Add six new well-completions this week for a total of 421 so far this year. That's down from 564 last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports new well-completions in Barton Ellis and Russell counties. A government report showed the first increase in U.S. crude-oil stockpiles since May. The Energy Information Administration said during the week through July 16, inventories increased just over two million barrels to nearly 438 Million. Domestic stocks are still about seven percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Total motor gasoline inventories decreased by 100,000 barrels and are right at the five year seasonal average. Crude production in the United States dropped last week compared to the week before by 56,000 barrels per day . EIA said current output is nearly 11.4 million barrels per day, more than a quarter-million barrels per day higher than the report from a year ago. The government said U.S. crude imports rose by nearly one million barrels, to 7.1 million per day. Imports averaged 6.4 million barrels per day over the last four weeks, a nearly three percent increase over the same period last year. Oil-by-rail shipments increased last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,518 petroleum tankers on the rails during the week through July 17. That's up more than 700 tankers from the week before, and a nearly two-percent increase over the same week last year. Canadian oil-by-rail is up more than 22% from a year ago. North Dakota operators increased output in May by about 4,000 barrels per day over April. Regulators in the number-two crude producing state say they pumped nearly 35 million barrels for the month, or over 1.12 million barrels per day. As production continues to increase in North Dakota, so does the amount of natural gas being flared or vented. The Department of Mineral Resources reported a gas-capture rate of 92%, compared to 93% the month before. That means eight percent of the gas produced at oil wells was burned or vented into the air. Colorado regulators have delayed public hearings on a very expensive new proposal for the oil patch. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission will now hear from the public early next year on a new set of rules relating to the financial assurance, or bonding of each well. The state wants to require guarantees for the cost of plugging each new oil well, $78,000 each. That could cost the industry nearly $4 BILLION statewide. Such guarantees were mandated under the landmark law passed in Colorado over two years ago, requiring focus on health and environment by energy regulators. The Commission is now expected to consider several rounds of staff revisions for the rest of this year, before opening the process to the public in January. That means that if approved the effective date of the new rules would be pushed back to April. Under current rules, the state's operators can post a "blanket bond" of $60000 to cover up to 100 wells, and $100,000 for more than that. A study produced for the American Petroleum Institute shows the oil and gas industry was responsible for more than 11 million jobs across the U.S., 2.5 million of them in Texas. That means oil-patch jobs made up more than five percent of total U.S. employment and pumped out labor income totaling more than $890 BILLION in 2019. The study, by Price Waterhouse Coopers, shows that the industry directly and indirectly supported at least 100,000 jobs in each of 31 states. The Kansas patch accounted for between five and eight percent of all jobs here.

News from the Oil Patch: Prices erase $8 drop in one week

COLBY — Many might think a bicycle is a leisurely mode of transportation from childhood, or as adults, a tool used for exercise. But for students in Colby Community College adult education classes, a bike can be a means for changing lives.&nbsp;

Instructors noticed a transportation need during classes with CCC adult education financial literacy students at the Hays location. If those without a vehicle are unable to walk to their destination, they rely on friends and relatives or pay for public transportation and taxi services. Depending on the schedules of others often creates challenges to consistently arrive at work on time, attend required community corrections o@fficer meetings, go to the grocery store for necessities, or spend time with family and friends.

Adult Education director Nance Munderloh and her staff discussed solutions.&nbsp;

"While working at the Norton Correctional Facility, we became aware of the Wheels for the World project that refurbishes bikes and provides them to those who will benefit, children and adults alike," she said.

Instructors visited with Northwest Kansas Community Corrections Director Erin Geist about having bikes available for clients.&nbsp;&nbsp;From that discussion came a collaboration between Colby Community College Adult Education, Northwest Kansas Community Corrections (NWKCC), Norton Correctional Facility Wheels for the World, and KansasWorks in Hays. 

The partners identify appropriate candidates who work hard to progress in the classroom and meet their corrections requirements. Then they evaluate the students' work, personal needs, and available resources before determining who should receive a bike. To date, bikes have been provided to 10 students.

Noel Morales said his bike made an impact on his financial situation.

"I figured out that it saves me a minimum of $10 per day, for sure $300 a month. That is a lot," he said. "Now I have a bit of savings to fall back on."

Aside from the monetary benefits of the bike, Morales said he also has control of his life.

"I am able to plan my day and be independent. I have more options.&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides work, I can go to the store, my required meetings, and places I like to go for myself, like the park.&nbsp;&nbsp;I am proud to ride the bike and usually have front-row parking! This has been such a blessing in my life.&nbsp;&nbsp;The people here have cared about me and given me opportunities and help. I am so grateful."&nbsp;

Morales observed the staff has been there to assist him and help make life better, and the key was him wanting to take their direction and put forth the effort to change.

Another bike recipient saves money that she previously spent on cabs and will eventually purchase a vehicle. She is excited at the thought of reaching her goal and returning the bike so another student can benefit.

Munderloh believes the cooperation between local and state organizations to acquire bikes underscores the purpose of why each entity exists.

"Colby Community College Adult Education is privileged to have partners who care and work together to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581529246979.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCC Public RelationsCOLBY — Many might think a bicycle is a leisurely mode of transportation from childhood, or as adults, a tool used for exercise. But for students in Colby Community College adult education classes, a bike can be a means for changing lives.&nbsp;Instructors noticed a transportation need during classes with CCC adult education financial literacy students at the Hays location. If those without a vehicle are unable to walk to their destination, they rely on friends and relatives or pay for public transportation and taxi services. Depending on the schedules of others often creates challenges to consistently arrive at work on time, attend required community corrections o@fficer meetings, go to the grocery store for necessities, or spend time with family and friends.Adult Education director Nance Munderloh and her staff discussed solutions.&nbsp;"While working at the Norton Correctional Facility, we became aware of the Wheels for the World project that refurbishes bikes and provides them to those who will benefit, children and adults alike," she said.Instructors visited with Northwest Kansas Community Corrections Director Erin Geist about having bikes available for clients.&nbsp;&nbsp;From that discussion came a collaboration between Colby Community College Adult Education, Northwest Kansas Community Corrections (NWKCC), Norton Correctional Facility Wheels for the World, and KansasWorks in Hays. The partners identify appropriate candidates who work hard to progress in the classroom and meet their corrections requirements. Then they evaluate the students' work, personal needs, and available resources before determining who should receive a bike. To date, bikes have been provided to 10 students.Noel Morales said his bike made an impact on his financial situation."I figured out that it saves me a minimum of $10 per day, for sure $300 a month. That is a lot," he said. "Now I have a bit of savings to fall back on."Aside from the monetary benefits of the bike, Morales said he also has control of his life."I am able to plan my day and be independent. I have more options.&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides work, I can go to the store, my required meetings, and places I like to go for myself, like the park.&nbsp;&nbsp;I am proud to ride the bike and usually have front-row parking! This has been such a blessing in my life.&nbsp;&nbsp;The people here have cared about me and given me opportunities and help. I am so grateful."&nbsp;Morales observed the staff has been there to assist him and help make life better, and the key was him wanting to take their direction and put forth the effort to change.Another bike recipient saves money that she previously spent on cabs and will eventually purchase a vehicle. She is excited at the thought of reaching her goal and returning the bike so another student can benefit.Munderloh believes the cooperation between local and state organizations to acquire bikes underscores the purpose of why each entity exists."Colby Community College Adult Education is privileged to have partners who care and work together to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colby CC, prison partnership provides life-changing transportation

MANHATTAN — On July 22, the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission's Board of Directors elected Kevin Kniebel, White City, as Chairman of&nbsp;the Board. Kniebel assumes the leadership post from Stephen Bigge, Stockton, who has chaired the Commission since&nbsp;2015. 

Bigge&nbsp;will finish out his term as Vice Chairman. Nathan Larson, Riley, was reelected&nbsp;Secretary and Treasurer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627052709732.jpeg" alt="Kevin Kniebel &amp; Stephen Bigge&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Kniebel &amp; Stephen Bigge&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — On July 22, the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission's Board of Directors elected Kevin Kniebel, White City, as Chairman of&nbsp;the Board. Kniebel assumes the leadership post from Stephen Bigge, Stockton, who has chaired the Commission since&nbsp;2015. Bigge&nbsp;will finish out his term as Vice Chairman. Nathan Larson, Riley, was reelected&nbsp;Secretary and Treasurer.— Submitted

NW Kan. man passes torch for Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission

Newly planted trees have not established the extensive root system needed to absorb enough water during hot, dry, windy summers. Even trees two or three years old should receive special care. Deep, infrequent watering and mulching can help trees become established. Newly transplanted trees need at least 10 gallons of water per week, and on sandy soils, they will need that much applied twice a week. The secret is getting that water to soak deeply into the soil, so it evaporates more slowly and is available to the tree’s roots longer. One way to do this is to drill a 1/8" hole in the side of a 5-gallon bucket and fill it with water. The hole should be near the bottom of the bucket. &nbsp;Let the water dribble out slowly next to the tree. Refill the bucket once after moving it to the opposite side of the tree. &nbsp;After this bucket empties, you have applied 10 gallons. Very large transplanted trees and trees that were transplanted two to three years ago will require more water. A perforated soaker hose or drip irrigation can be used to water a newly established bed or foundation planting. In sunbaked soil, you may need to rough up the surface with a hoe or tiller to get water to infiltrate easily. It may be helpful to set the kitchen oven timer, so you remember to move the hose or shut off the faucet. If you are seeing surface runoff, reduce the flow, or build a berm with at least a 4-foot &nbsp;diameter around the base of the tree to allow the water to percolate down through the soil, instead of spreading out. Regardless of the method used, the soil should be wet at least 12 inches deep. Use a metal rod, wooden dowel, electric fence post, or something similar to check depth. Dry soil is much harder to push through than wet. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Newly planted trees have not established the extensive root system needed to absorb enough water during hot, dry, windy summers. Even trees two or three years old should receive special care. Deep, infrequent watering and mulching can help trees become established. Newly transplanted trees need at least 10 gallons of water per week, and on sandy soils, they will need that much applied twice a week. The secret is getting that water to soak deeply into the soil, so it evaporates more slowly and is available to the tree’s roots longer. One way to do this is to drill a 1/8" hole in the side of a 5-gallon bucket and fill it with water. The hole should be near the bottom of the bucket. &nbsp;Let the water dribble out slowly next to the tree. Refill the bucket once after moving it to the opposite side of the tree. &nbsp;After this bucket empties, you have applied 10 gallons. Very large transplanted trees and trees that were transplanted two to three years ago will require more water. A perforated soaker hose or drip irrigation can be used to water a newly established bed or foundation planting. In sunbaked soil, you may need to rough up the surface with a hoe or tiller to get water to infiltrate easily. It may be helpful to set the kitchen oven timer, so you remember to move the hose or shut off the faucet. If you are seeing surface runoff, reduce the flow, or build a berm with at least a 4-foot &nbsp;diameter around the base of the tree to allow the water to percolate down through the soil, instead of spreading out. Regardless of the method used, the soil should be wet at least 12 inches deep. Use a metal rod, wooden dowel, electric fence post, or something similar to check depth. Dry soil is much harder to push through than wet. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Watering newly planted trees and shrubs

LOGAN COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 3:30a.m. Monday in Logan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2015 Jeep Wrangler driven by Raymond H. Kennedy, 45, Glendale, Arizona, was eastbound on U.S. 40 eight miles west of the Kansas 25 Junction.&nbsp; The Jeep collided with a cow that was on the roadway. 

The driver attempted to brake to miss the cow. The Jeep swerved, entered the north ditch and rolled.

Kennedy and a passenger Brenda G.&nbsp;Carrasco, 54, Peoria, Arizona, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Baalmann Mortuary. They were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

LOGAN COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 3:30a.m. Monday in Logan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2015 Jeep Wrangler driven by Raymond H. Kennedy, 45, Glendale, Arizona, was eastbound on U.S. 40 eight miles west of the Kansas 25 Junction.&nbsp; The Jeep collided with a cow that was on the roadway. The driver attempted to brake to miss the cow. The Jeep swerved, entered the north ditch and rolled.Kennedy and a passenger Brenda G.&nbsp;Carrasco, 54, Peoria, Arizona, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Baalmann Mortuary. They were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

2 dead after Jeep strikes a cow on NW Kan. highway

THOMAS COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Monday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F350 driven by Terry L. Overton, 50, Colby, was eastbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of the Kansas 25 Junction. 

Due to uneven weight distribution, the pickup shifted and the driver lost control of vehicle. 

The pickup entered the south ditch and rolled onto its side.

EMS transported Overton to the hospital in Colby. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Monday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F350 driven by Terry L. Overton, 50, Colby, was eastbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of the Kansas 25 Junction. Due to uneven weight distribution, the pickup shifted and the driver lost control of vehicle. The pickup entered the south ditch and rolled onto its side.EMS transported Overton to the hospital in Colby. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after pickup overturns

Today is the registration deadline for Backpacks For Kids. Students in need, grades Pre-K through high school who reside and attend school in Ellis County can register to receive a new backpack filled with school supplies and a hygiene bag. 

You can register over the phone at 785-623-2800 or stop in First Call For Help until 4:30 p.m. or you can register online at<a href="http://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">www.firstcallelliscounty.com</a>&nbsp;until midnight tonight.

Today is the registration deadline for Backpacks For Kids. Students in need, grades Pre-K through high school who reside and attend school in Ellis County can register to receive a new backpack filled with school supplies and a hygiene bag. You can register over the phone at 785-623-2800 or stop in First Call For Help until 4:30 p.m. or you can register online at<a href="http://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">www.firstcallelliscounty.com</a>&nbsp;until midnight tonight.

Back for Kids deadline is today for Ellis County school kids

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported no new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.&nbsp;

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

As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,785 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627325923993.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported no new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,785 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

KDHE: No new virus cases in Ellis Co. since Friday

The Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment has issued a Boil Water Advisory for Rural Water District 1c in Ellis County.

This includes the community of Antonino but does not include the city of Hays. This advisory is not related to COVID-19. Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice: &nbsp; * If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears. &nbsp; * Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water. &nbsp; * Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker. &nbsp; * Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water. &nbsp; * Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians. The advisory took effect on Monday and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.

KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the system due to a scheduled valve replacement. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory. For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s P<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">WS Consumer Information webpage</a>. Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety and lodging program at&nbsp; kda.fsl@ks.gov or call 785-564-6767.

The Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment has issued a Boil Water Advisory for Rural Water District 1c in Ellis County.This includes the community of Antonino but does not include the city of Hays. This advisory is not related to COVID-19. Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice: &nbsp; * If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears. &nbsp; * Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water. &nbsp; * Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker. &nbsp; * Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water. &nbsp; * Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians. The advisory took effect on Monday and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the system due to a scheduled valve replacement. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory. For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s P<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">WS Consumer Information webpage</a>. Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety and lodging program at&nbsp; kda.fsl@ks.gov or call 785-564-6767.

Boil water advisory issued for Rural Water Dist. 1C in Ellis County

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams talks about the economic impact of the availability of daycare locally and beyond.

<div><iframe title="Availably of daycare impacts workforce" 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=sjdwg-109b241-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams talks about the economic impact of the availability of daycare locally and beyond. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Availably of daycare impacts workforce

WICHITA – A significant increase in the time it is taking the U.S. State Department to process passports is forcing many travelers to postpone previously booked vacations. 

With that in mind, AAA is urging anyone planning or hoping to travel out of the United States this year or next to initiate the passport process now or risk having those plans derailed by the delays.

“At AAA, we are seeing travelers, sometimes entire families, that have been forced to cancel or postpone their trips because passport processing has taken longer than they anticipated,” said Matt Bert, travel advisor for AAA Kansas. “One of the first questions we are now asking our clients is about the passport status of all travelers.”

At this time, the State Department says passport application is taking more than four months (18 weeks). And, ‘expedited’ service may only shorten the wait to three months.

AAA travel advisors say passport processing times are&nbsp;three times as long as the average wait time prior to the pandemic. The&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445311&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">State Department website</a>&nbsp;indicates the dramatic delays&nbsp;are the result of COVID-related issues and high demand.

“Some travelers with bookings&nbsp;this summer have already had to postpone until next year,” Bert added. “And, for those who are uninsured for such a change in plans, the cancellation is much more than an inconvenience. It’s a costly miscalculation.”

The passport delay issue is not just affecting those applying for new passports or renewing passports set to expire. AAA is reminding travelers that many countries now require the passport expiration date to be at least six months after the date of return travel so anyone planning travel through 2022 is strongly urged to begin the passport renewal process now.

●Check passport status of everyone with whom you plan to travel. 

●Share passport status information with your travel advisor. 

●Book travel that ensures your return date is at least six months before passport expiration. 

●Initiate passport processing&nbsp;for:

-Passports that have expired or are set to expire within 6 months of travel

Visit your nearest AAA office for your passport photo,&nbsp;application and instructions. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445310&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA Passport Services</a>.

About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 62&nbsp;million members nationwide and more than three&nbsp;hundred fifty thousand&nbsp;members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445309&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445308&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445307&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445306&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627262146028.jpeg" alt="AAA urges those considering international travel through 2022 to initiate passport processing now.&nbsp;

Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/cytis-1661754/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2642172">cytis</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2642172">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>AAA urges those considering international travel through 2022 to initiate passport processing now.&nbsp;

Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/cytis-1661754/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2642172">cytis</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2642172">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – A significant increase in the time it is taking the U.S. State Department to process passports is forcing many travelers to postpone previously booked vacations. With that in mind, AAA is urging anyone planning or hoping to travel out of the United States this year or next to initiate the passport process now or risk having those plans derailed by the delays.“At AAA, we are seeing travelers, sometimes entire families, that have been forced to cancel or postpone their trips because passport processing has taken longer than they anticipated,” said Matt Bert, travel advisor for AAA Kansas. “One of the first questions we are now asking our clients is about the passport status of all travelers.”At this time, the State Department says passport application is taking more than four months (18 weeks). And, ‘expedited’ service may only shorten the wait to three months.AAA travel advisors say passport processing times are&nbsp;three times as long as the average wait time prior to the pandemic. The&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445311&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">State Department website</a>&nbsp;indicates the dramatic delays&nbsp;are the result of COVID-related issues and high demand.“Some travelers with bookings&nbsp;this summer have already had to postpone until next year,” Bert added. “And, for those who are uninsured for such a change in plans, the cancellation is much more than an inconvenience. It’s a costly miscalculation.”The passport delay issue is not just affecting those applying for new passports or renewing passports set to expire. AAA is reminding travelers that many countries now require the passport expiration date to be at least six months after the date of return travel so anyone planning travel through 2022 is strongly urged to begin the passport renewal process now.Passport tips for travelers●Check passport status of everyone with whom you plan to travel. ●Share passport status information with your travel advisor. ●Book travel that ensures your return date is at least six months before passport expiration. ●Initiate passport processing&nbsp;for:-New passport applicants-Passports that have expired or are set to expire within 6 months of travel-Passports that require a name change. Visit your nearest AAA office for your passport photo,&nbsp;application and instructions. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445310&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA Passport Services</a>.About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 62&nbsp;million members nationwide and more than three&nbsp;hundred fifty thousand&nbsp;members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445309&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445308&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445307&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b3893-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=445306&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>.

AAA: Passport processing delays disrupting travel plans

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hispanic Hays residents in a recent survey said they would be more likely to participate in community events and shop locally if they had access to Spanish translations.

The United Way of Ellis County is planning an event they hope will unite the Hays Hispanic population with the greater community and offer some needed translation to overcome that language barrier.

The Tardeada, which is a Mexican American word meaning to party in the afternoon, will include booths from community services and businesses. Literature and posters will be available in Spanish and English, and Spanish interpreters will be available.

The event will be from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the Downtown Pavilion, 10th and Main, Hays.

Bingo with prizes will be offered for adults, and face painting and piñatas will be offered for children between 2 and 6 p.m.&nbsp; A dance featuring Latin and country music will be from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Pavilion.

"It's for the whole community," Jacome said, "so we want more than just the Hispanic population to come to the dance. ... [People] can network and get together and learn about each other and the different styles of dance too."

Tacos will be served, and cultural booths will offer information about the Hispanic culture.

Meleny Jacome, United Way intern, has helped organize the project. She&nbsp;and Olivia Albrecht, United Way administrative assistant, surveyed 58 members of the Hays Hispanic community in June to determine how better businesses and non-profits could connect with Hispanic residents.

Jacome, who is a senior in organizational leadership at Fort Hays State University, found language and lack of information were two significant barriers in connecting Hispanic individuals with the community.&nbsp;

"They are not being targeted by the Hays community," she said, "and that is something that I would like to see change, so they can be brought in and really feel part of the community.

"The language barrier is a big thing, becuase even if they did get the information, how do they read it? How do they understand it?"

Because businesses and non-profit agencies don't have interpreters or materials available in Spanish, Hispanic families are going as far as Garden City for services and to shop.

"I don't think it is on purpose," she said, "but there has been definitely a lack of inclusion here in Hays."

Ninety-six percent of survey respondents said they would like businesses to display signs in Spanish. The same percentage said they would shop more in Hays if&nbsp;business signs and materials were offered in Spanish. 

Jacome also encouraged businesses to look to FHSU to find workers who are bilingual.

Seventy percent of the survey respondents said they felt welcome to participate in community events, but 84 percent of the respondents said they are not aware of community events.

Most of the Hispanic families who are involved in community events are involved in events through their children's school, Jacome said.

"New couples, couples who don't have kids, they just assume Hays doesn't have anything," Jacome said. "Me and you know there is something going on every single day, every single weekend, but for them nothing is going on."

Ninety percent of survey respondents said they would be more likely to participate in community events if the events were bilingual.&nbsp;

Ninety-eight percent of respondents said they would like to see a yearly event that celebrated minority cultures.

Ninety-one percent of Hispanic community members surveyed also expressed a desire for English classes for both adults and children.&nbsp;

When Spanish-speaking children enter the Hays school system, they learn English, but they are also required to learn all of their other subjects in English while they are learning to write and speak English, Jacome said.

"I think that is something that needs to be explored by the schools," she said. "Are they serving their second-language students? Are they doing their best to make sure these students are successful moving forward, or are they just passing them on while they are trying to learn English?"

The parents she spoke with hoped an English class or classes could be offered during the evenings, as to not to conflict with other school or work obligations.

Jacome said she wants the event on Saturday to help connect all people in the community.

"It's nobody's fault. 18,700 people [in Hays] are Caucasian. They don't know a lot about different cultures," she said. "[Minorities] are very small, but they're here. Naturally there is going to be some ignorance and stereotyping.

"What I would like to do with the cultural booths is help people learn a little bit about what the cultural is, the food, what we celebrate."

She said she hopes community members take the opportunity to talk and network with some of the bilingual Hispanic members of the community at this event.

"It is meant to be an event that creates unity within the community," Jacome said. "Maybe after this event we can work on getting things translated over to Spanish and English."

She also said she hopes this could be a first step in recruiting more Hispanic students to FHSU — students who may choose to stay and work in the community.

You can find a complete copy Jacome and Albrecht's <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/hispanic-survey-report">Hispanic Community Action Plan survey </a>on the United Way website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627063911961.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHispanic Hays residents in a recent survey said they would be more likely to participate in community events and shop locally if they had access to Spanish translations.The United Way of Ellis County is planning an event they hope will unite the Hays Hispanic population with the greater community and offer some needed translation to overcome that language barrier.The Tardeada, which is a Mexican American word meaning to party in the afternoon, will include booths from community services and businesses. Literature and posters will be available in Spanish and English, and Spanish interpreters will be available.The event will be from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the Downtown Pavilion, 10th and Main, Hays.Bingo with prizes will be offered for adults, and face painting and piñatas will be offered for children between 2 and 6 p.m.&nbsp; A dance featuring Latin and country music will be from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Pavilion."It's for the whole community," Jacome said, "so we want more than just the Hispanic population to come to the dance. ... [People] can network and get together and learn about each other and the different styles of dance too."Tacos will be served, and cultural booths will offer information about the Hispanic culture.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627070333931.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Meleny Jacome, United Way intern, has helped organize the project. She&nbsp;and Olivia Albrecht, United Way administrative assistant, surveyed 58 members of the Hays Hispanic community in June to determine how better businesses and non-profits could connect with Hispanic residents.Jacome, who is a senior in organizational leadership at Fort Hays State University, found language and lack of information were two significant barriers in connecting Hispanic individuals with the community.&nbsp;"They are not being targeted by the Hays community," she said, "and that is something that I would like to see change, so they can be brought in and really feel part of the community."The language barrier is a big thing, becuase even if they did get the information, how do they read it? How do they understand it?"Because businesses and non-profit agencies don't have interpreters or materials available in Spanish, Hispanic families are going as far as Garden City for services and to shop."I don't think it is on purpose," she said, "but there has been definitely a lack of inclusion here in Hays."Ninety-six percent of survey respondents said they would like businesses to display signs in Spanish. The same percentage said they would shop more in Hays if&nbsp;business signs and materials were offered in Spanish. Jacome also encouraged businesses to look to FHSU to find workers who are bilingual.Seventy percent of the survey respondents said they felt welcome to participate in community events, but 84 percent of the respondents said they are not aware of community events.Most of the Hispanic families who are involved in community events are involved in events through their children's school, Jacome said."New couples, couples who don't have kids, they just assume Hays doesn't have anything," Jacome said. "Me and you know there is something going on every single day, every single weekend, but for them nothing is going on."Ninety percent of survey respondents said they would be more likely to participate in community events if the events were bilingual.&nbsp;Ninety-eight percent of respondents said they would like to see a yearly event that celebrated minority cultures.Ninety-one percent of Hispanic community members surveyed also expressed a desire for English classes for both adults and children.&nbsp;When Spanish-speaking children enter the Hays school system, they learn English, but they are also required to learn all of their other subjects in English while they are learning to write and speak English, Jacome said."I think that is something that needs to be explored by the schools," she said. "Are they serving their second-language students? Are they doing their best to make sure these students are successful moving forward, or are they just passing them on while they are trying to learn English?"The parents she spoke with hoped an English class or classes could be offered during the evenings, as to not to conflict with other school or work obligations.Jacome said she wants the event on Saturday to help connect all people in the community."It's nobody's fault. 18,700 people [in Hays] are Caucasian. They don't know a lot about different cultures," she said. "[Minorities] are very small, but they're here. Naturally there is going to be some ignorance and stereotyping."What I would like to do with the cultural booths is help people learn a little bit about what the cultural is, the food, what we celebrate."She said she hopes community members take the opportunity to talk and network with some of the bilingual Hispanic members of the community at this event."It is meant to be an event that creates unity within the community," Jacome said. "Maybe after this event we can work on getting things translated over to Spanish and English."She also said she hopes this could be a first step in recruiting more Hispanic students to FHSU — students who may choose to stay and work in the community.You can find a complete copy Jacome and Albrecht's <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/hispanic-survey-report">Hispanic Community Action Plan survey </a>on the United Way website.

Tardeada seeks to overcome Hispanic language, cultural barriers

Board and staff members of nonprofit organizations in Northwest Kansas have an opportunity next month to improve their fundraising skills thanks to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.

The Foundation is offering access to a four-part virtual course entitled “Raise Money: The Guide to Unapologetic Fundraising for Your Nonprofit” at no cost to any board or staff member of a nonprofit organization in the 26 counties it serves. A one-hour virtual coaching session will be held at 1:30 p.m. every Thursday in August. In addition, participants will have access to a library of fundraising videos full of tips and ideas that are practical and easy to implement.

The course and videos are by Nancy Jackson and Jenna Goodman, founders of Generous Change, a Lawrence-based company focused on assisting all kinds of nonprofit organizations and universities with fundraising.&nbsp;

The course will include a total of 20 videos, each with a “Do One Thing!” challenge. Jackson and Goodman will share new tools and tweaks to existing practices to make fundraising more fun and more effective. During the interactive coaching sessions, the two will answer questions and suggest solutions for tough fundraising challenges.

Module 1 covers fundraising fundamentals and how to make time for fundraising. Module 2 is about the art of conversation with donors. Module 3 addresses how to ask for support from different types of donors. Module 4 covers the need to plan and persist and includes step-by-step instructions for creating an annual fundraising plan.

Participants will also have ongoing access to the library of videos that address questions about development and working with donors.

Jackson and Goodman have a combined 30 years of fundraising experience. As staff and volunteers, they have personally raised more than $70 million for arts, education, and environmental causes.&nbsp;

To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://danehansenfoundation.org/">danehansenfoundation.org</a>.

To participate, sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://danehansenfoundation.org/raise-money">danehansenfoundation.org/raise-money</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575649739391.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseBoard and staff members of nonprofit organizations in Northwest Kansas have an opportunity next month to improve their fundraising skills thanks to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.The Foundation is offering access to a four-part virtual course entitled “Raise Money: The Guide to Unapologetic Fundraising for Your Nonprofit” at no cost to any board or staff member of a nonprofit organization in the 26 counties it serves. A one-hour virtual coaching session will be held at 1:30 p.m. every Thursday in August. In addition, participants will have access to a library of fundraising videos full of tips and ideas that are practical and easy to implement.The course and videos are by Nancy Jackson and Jenna Goodman, founders of Generous Change, a Lawrence-based company focused on assisting all kinds of nonprofit organizations and universities with fundraising.&nbsp;The course will include a total of 20 videos, each with a “Do One Thing!” challenge. Jackson and Goodman will share new tools and tweaks to existing practices to make fundraising more fun and more effective. During the interactive coaching sessions, the two will answer questions and suggest solutions for tough fundraising challenges.Module 1 covers fundraising fundamentals and how to make time for fundraising. Module 2 is about the art of conversation with donors. Module 3 addresses how to ask for support from different types of donors. Module 4 covers the need to plan and persist and includes step-by-step instructions for creating an annual fundraising plan.Participants will also have ongoing access to the library of videos that address questions about development and working with donors.Jackson and Goodman have a combined 30 years of fundraising experience. As staff and volunteers, they have personally raised more than $70 million for arts, education, and environmental causes.&nbsp;To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://danehansenfoundation.org/">danehansenfoundation.org</a>.To participate, sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://danehansenfoundation.org/raise-money">danehansenfoundation.org/raise-money</a>.

Free fundraising course offered to area nonprofits

COLBY — Colby Community College conferred 225 degrees and certificates on May 15 during the 56th annual commencement ceremony at the Colby Community Building. Transcripts have been verified as having met all requirements.&nbsp;

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

Abilene:&nbsp;Destiny Calvin, Kristopher Shatto.&nbsp;

Brewster:&nbsp;Talen Quenzer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bridgeport, Neb.:&nbsp;Casey Clinger.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colby:&nbsp;Elizabeth Barrett, Anthony Gines, Courtney Reilley, Stephanie Velasquez, Baylee Weinmann.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eureka:&nbsp;Alixandria Butler.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Goodland:&nbsp;Alexandria Huff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grand Island, Neb.:&nbsp;Leslie Harmon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays:&nbsp;Sarah Malott.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hill City:&nbsp;Shelby Thomas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoxie:&nbsp;Gannon Spresser.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Idalia, Colo.:&nbsp;Kehlsie Juhnke.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College conferred 225 degrees and certificates on May 15 during the 56th annual commencement ceremony at the Colby Community Building. Transcripts have been verified as having met all requirements.&nbsp;Hometowns are published as indicated by the student. Kansas residents are arranged by city, out-of-state residents are listed by city and state, and international students by country. By request, some names are not disclosed.<h2>Associate of Applied Science</h2>Abilene:&nbsp;Destiny Calvin, Kristopher Shatto.&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Talen Quenzer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bridgeport, Neb.:&nbsp;Casey Clinger.&nbsp;&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Elizabeth Barrett, Anthony Gines, Courtney Reilley, Stephanie Velasquez, Baylee Weinmann.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Eureka:&nbsp;Alixandria Butler.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Alexandria Huff.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grand Island, Neb.:&nbsp;Leslie Harmon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hays:&nbsp;Sarah Malott.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hill City:&nbsp;Shelby Thomas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Gannon Spresser.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idalia, Colo.:&nbsp;Kehlsie Juhnke.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kanopolis:&nbsp;Taylor Hoffman.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lamar, Colo.:&nbsp;Kameron Farmer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leoti:&nbsp;Paige Baum.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Liberal:&nbsp;Odra Bustillos.Lincoln, Neb.:&nbsp;Katelyn Foutz.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ludell:&nbsp;Megan Rippe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Minden, Neb.:&nbsp;Riki Foos, Aiden Smith.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oakley:&nbsp;Rachel Parker.Olathe:&nbsp;Lindsey Marcus.Oshkosh, Neb.:&nbsp;Kristine Elliott.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Perry:&nbsp;Megan Spreer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Tanya Guthrie, Samantha Pakkebier.&nbsp;&nbsp;Plainville:&nbsp;Brianna Becker.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Plattsmouth, Neb.:&nbsp;Alexis Penke.Scott City:&nbsp;Breanna Emahizer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Selden:&nbsp;Dulce Soto.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Springs:&nbsp;Kara Peters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Syracuse:&nbsp;Emeny Olivares.&nbsp;&nbsp;Victoria:&nbsp;Ashley Lang.Wichita:&nbsp;Allyson Applegate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Winona:&nbsp;Taryn Stramel.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yuma, Colo.:&nbsp;Jaden Hansen.<h2>Associate of Arts</h2>Arapahoe, Colo.:&nbsp;Jacelyn Allen.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Aurora, Colo.:&nbsp;Ronan Walsh.Blackwell, Okla.:&nbsp;Jesse Quilimaco.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brighton, Colo.:&nbsp;Savanna Anderson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bronx, N.Y.:&nbsp;Bradley Allen.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Burlington, Colo.:&nbsp;Crystal Arias, Victoria Robles.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Canada:&nbsp;Tyler McWillie, Zachary Olson.&nbsp;&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Danae Berkgren, Faith Brackett, Tucker Branum, Alixus Call, Wendy Chavez, Samantha Coulter, Bryce Fortin, James Jay, Kelvin Kipchirchir, Jillian Niblock, Kailey Shields, Micah Too, Ryan Voss, Abigail Wetter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fort Morgan, Colo.:&nbsp;Madison Griffith.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;France:&nbsp;Claire Choloux.Girard:&nbsp;Laney Shireman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Kimberly Burgett.Grainfield:&nbsp;Andrew Taylor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Grinnell:&nbsp;Jordyn Vincent.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gypsum:&nbsp;Eleanor Wiles.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Holcomb:&nbsp;Paden Cornelsen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Zayetsy Gomez-Alcaraz, Crystal Kaur.&nbsp;&nbsp;Idalia, Colo.:&nbsp;Daniel Perez.&nbsp;&nbsp;Karval, Colo.:&nbsp;Aubrey Lindt.Lithonia, Ga.:&nbsp;Kerrigan Johnson.McCook, Neb.:&nbsp;Kody Hahn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Montrose, Colo.:&nbsp;Elle Edeker.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Ryan Blecha.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nunn, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennasi Fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Osborne:&nbsp;Sarah Seifert.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oskaloosa:&nbsp;Megan Miller.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Parks, Neb.:&nbsp;Ashlyn Wiese.Philadelphia, Pa.:&nbsp;Matthew McFarlane.&nbsp;&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Elyzabeth Gourdon, Anahy Sandoval-Sanchez, Kristen Wells.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phoenix, Ariz.:&nbsp;Dymitrea Finley.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rhame, N.D.:&nbsp;Abbigale Steeke.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rigby, Idaho:&nbsp;Taylor Sheppard.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Riverton, Wyo.:&nbsp;Darryl Baldes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sandusky, Ohio:&nbsp;Jayrese Williams.Scott City:&nbsp;Jera Drohman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seibert, Colo.:&nbsp;Abigail Pond.Sharon Springs:&nbsp;Zackary Box.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South Jordan, Utah:&nbsp;Sydnee Hoffman.&nbsp;&nbsp;Spring, Texas:&nbsp;Dylan Simmons.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Francis:&nbsp;Emily Mullins.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sterling:&nbsp;Skylar Eidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Syracuse:&nbsp;Mazie Cole.Ulysses:&nbsp;Sydnee Hale.Walsilla, Alaska:&nbsp;Rush Fannon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;West Haven, Utah:&nbsp;Maysa Averett.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Worton, Md.:&nbsp;Teira Johnson.<h2>Associate of Science</h2>Almena:&nbsp;Samantha Engelhardt.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Athol:&nbsp;Kyle Sasse.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Belton, Mo.:&nbsp;Brenna Zuniga.Brewster:&nbsp;Weston Schmidt.Brighton, Colo.:&nbsp;Savanna Anderson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bronx, N.Y.:&nbsp;Bradley Allen.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Burlington, Colo.:&nbsp;Kayla Robles, Victoria Robles.Canada:&nbsp;Matthew Dobberthien, Tyler McWillie, Ataru Yamaguchi.Clay Center:&nbsp;Reegan Geer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;James Bomba, Alixus Call, Wendy Chavez, Bryce Fortin, Abigael Kemboi, Claire Kimutai, Kelvin Kipchirchir, Adriana Mendez, Olivia Navarro-Alsina, Jillian Niblock, Flavia Ruiz, Kailey Shields, Abigail Wetter, Kassidy White.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fort Morgan, Colo.:&nbsp;Madison Griffith.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;France:&nbsp;Claire Choloux.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fruita, Colo.:&nbsp;Emma Hough.Garden City:&nbsp;Nyeli Urrutia.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Girard:&nbsp;Laney Shireman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodland:&nbsp;Danielle Black, Kimberly Burgett.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Grainfield:&nbsp;Andrew Taylor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoxie:&nbsp;Zayetsy Gomez-Alcaraz.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idalia, Colo.:&nbsp;Kehlsie Juhnke.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Johnstown, Colo.:&nbsp;Sophie Supernor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lakewood, Colo.:&nbsp;Reece Noel.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lithonia, Ga.:&nbsp;Kerrigan Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lucas:&nbsp;Yasmin Etienne.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;McCook, Neb.:&nbsp;Kody Hahn.&nbsp;&nbsp;McLouth:&nbsp;Emma Jolley.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Montrose, Colo.:&nbsp;Elle Edeker.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nunn, Colo.:&nbsp;Jennasi Fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Osborne:&nbsp;Sarah Seifert.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oskaloosa:&nbsp;Megan Miller.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Palmer:&nbsp;Kamryn Smith.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Elyzabeth Gourdon, Kenda Reimer, Anahy Sandoval-Sanchez, Kristen Wells.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rhame, N.D.:&nbsp;Abbigale Steeke.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Kylee Logan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Springs:&nbsp;Zackary Box.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South Jordan, Utah:&nbsp;Sydnee Hoffman.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sterling:&nbsp;Skylar Eidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wellsville:&nbsp;Sage Schaller.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;West Haven, Utah:&nbsp;Maysa Averett.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Certificates</h2>Alton:&nbsp;Dakota Boland.Atwood:&nbsp;Ericka Herrera-Castro.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beatrice, Neb.:&nbsp;Lacey Haughton.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brewster:&nbsp;Talen Quenzer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bridgeport, Neb.:&nbsp;Casey Clinger.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chanute:&nbsp;Abigale Reaves.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Colby:&nbsp;Jacob Edmondson, Baylei Kraft, Landon Rinehart.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dakota, Minn:&nbsp;Zoe Krageschmidt.Effingham:&nbsp;Allison Collins. Ellis:&nbsp;Katera Love.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fort Wayne, Ind.:&nbsp;Kailie Coplin.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Grovetown, Ga.:&nbsp;Lindsay Patrick.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hays:&nbsp;Sarah Malott.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hutchinson:&nbsp;Grace Hickert.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City:&nbsp;Abigail Piercy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lamar, Colo.:&nbsp;Kameron Farmer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Macksville:&nbsp;Kimber Duncan.Minden, Neb.:&nbsp;Aiden Smith.Mount Hope:&nbsp;Trinity Schwind.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newton, Iowa:&nbsp;&nbsp;Abigail Chiles. Norton:&nbsp;Jeremy Bell, Keith Conner, Andy Duarte, Emanuel Langston, Ivan Lopez, Jose Martinez, Brandon Rietcheck.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oberlin:&nbsp;Cerys Davies.Ottawa, Ohio:&nbsp;Brooke Kruse.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Kaycee Campbell, April Gendoes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Jose Garcia.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Springs:&nbsp;Kayla Tatman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawnee:&nbsp;Skyler Reichley.&nbsp;&nbsp;Syracuse:&nbsp;&nbsp;Emeny Olivares.&nbsp;&nbsp;Valley Center:&nbsp;Korin Bogle. Wakefield:&nbsp;Yesenia Summerson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yuma, Colo.:&nbsp;Jaden Hansen.

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