By BECKY KISER Hays Post

There is just one item on Thursday's short <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09162021-1295">agenda</a> for the Hays city commission work session, and it may merit a long discussion.

Atchison developer Justin Pregont is requesting financial incentives for redevelopment of the former St. Joseph's School and Parish Center,&nbsp;210 W. 13th Street, according to Collin Bielser, asst. city manager.&nbsp;

"The developer is proposing to redevelop the property into a 12-unit multi-family complex that would target moderate income housing," Bielser said.

The project is estimated to cost about $2.2 million.

St. Joseph’s Apartments, LLC, is "requesting financial incentives from the city, including a Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) as well as a resolution of support for a Moderate Income Housing Grant (MIHG) from the Kansas Housing Resource&nbsp; Corporation (KHRC).

"Only cities or counties can serve as the applicant for the Moderate Income Housing, so that's why the city has to pass that resolution and then it's all upon the developer to follow through then," Bielser said.

The three-story historic limestone building has been empty for about five years.

 The RHID would capture all eligible incremental property tax revenues within the RHID. Those revenues would be used to reimburse the developer for RHID-eligible expenses, an estimated $1.78 million, on a&nbsp;pay-as-you-go basis for a maximum term of 20 years.

The city would not issue any bonds in connection with the RHID.

St. Joseph School was listed in the National Register of Historic&nbsp;Places, along with St. Joseph Church across the street, in 2008.

Construction on the project would begin early next year if the state grant is received.

Hays-based Paul Wertenberger Construction, Hays, has been selected by the developer as the general contractor.

City commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning request last week from Public Institutional District to Multi-Family District for the property.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qGrXonRTnp0"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThere is just one item on Thursday's short <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09162021-1295">agenda</a> for the Hays city commission work session, and it may merit a long discussion.Atchison developer Justin Pregont is requesting financial incentives for redevelopment of the former St. Joseph's School and Parish Center,&nbsp;210 W. 13th Street, according to Collin Bielser, asst. city manager.&nbsp;"The developer is proposing to redevelop the property into a 12-unit multi-family complex that would target moderate income housing," Bielser said.The project is estimated to cost about $2.2 million.St. Joseph’s Apartments, LLC, is "requesting financial incentives from the city, including a Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) as well as a resolution of support for a Moderate Income Housing Grant (MIHG) from the Kansas Housing Resource&nbsp; Corporation (KHRC)."Only cities or counties can serve as the applicant for the Moderate Income Housing, so that's why the city has to pass that resolution and then it's all upon the developer to follow through then," Bielser said.The three-story historic limestone building has been empty for about five years. The RHID would capture all eligible incremental property tax revenues within the RHID. Those revenues would be used to reimburse the developer for RHID-eligible expenses, an estimated $1.78 million, on a&nbsp;pay-as-you-go basis for a maximum term of 20 years.The city would not issue any bonds in connection with the RHID.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631741063112.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph School was listed in the National Register of Historic&nbsp;Places, along with St. Joseph Church across the street, in 2008.Construction on the project would begin early next year if the state grant is received.Hays-based Paul Wertenberger Construction, Hays, has been selected by the developer as the general contractor.City commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning request last week from Public Institutional District to Multi-Family District for the property.&nbsp;

🎥 City commission to review financial incentives requested by St. Joseph redevelopment

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Discussions about a future bond issue for Hays USD 489 on Monday and Tuesday focused on space.

Members of the community bond committee Tuesday viewed examples of other schools that its architect, DLR Group, has built or renovated recently.

They also discussed priorities for Hays schools.

Among some of the priorities listed by the group included adaptable spaces, flexible furniture, maker spaces, group spaces (an auditorium), media labs and learning suites.&nbsp;

Some community members also emphasized the need to create space that can be used by the community during non-school hours.

Much of the discussion Tuesday night revolved around what new or renovated buildings in Hays could look like.

Ian Kilpatrick, DLR K-12 design leader, shared photos from DLR projects in Kansas and across the country.

Kilpatrick said catering to individual variability accounts for 50 percent of student success. The physical environment accounts for 16 percent with 37 percent being attributed to teacher effectiveness.

Diverse spaces are needed for diverse learners, he said.

"I use the analogy that no one wants a house with 11 bedrooms and nothing else," he said. "You want a house with diverse spaces, because no one wants to cook breakfast in a bedroom. Schools are no different.&nbsp;

"We want to make sure they have all the environments whether it's career and tech, whether it's collaborative learning, whether it's that social collision space for our learners and our educators to be supported in their day to day,"&nbsp;Kilpatrick said.

Kilpatrick said school rooms need to be designed with adequate space and furniture to facilitate their functions.

"Hands-on learning is critical to [students'] learning and their launch into the real world," he said.

This is why some schools are establishing labs where students can create projects, as well as work with technology and robotics.&nbsp;

Other design considerations include sightlines, acoustics, doors and furniture.

Furniture is something every single student touches every day and can be an inexpensive way to adapt spaces, Kilpatrick said.

Kilpatrick said everyone is a different size and improperly sized seating can affect student learning.

Kilpatrick said if students have a sense of ownership at their school they are more likely to engage in their learning.

"Sense of ownership — we've talked about this at the high school," he said. "How do students have ownership of their space? How can they have pride in their space? How can the community have pride?&nbsp;

"That goes a lot to the diverse environments that we spoke to earlier," he said. "You want to make sure there's a space where every learner feels comfortable and feels engaged and owns that space in a really prideful way."

Kilpatrick said DLR conducts research on student engagement before and after bond projects and has found engagement increased for both students and teachers after new schools were built or schools were renovated.

DLR discussed other schools in the state who have passed bonds in the last 10 years. In the Western Athletic Conference, which Hays is a member, three of the five schools — Dodge City, Garden City and Liberal — have passed bonds in the last 10 years. Great Bend is currently working on a bond. It last passed a bond about 12 years ago.

Below is a list of 5A schools. All of those in red have also passed bonds in the last 10 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631733525981.jpeg" alt="Members of the Hays community bond committee discuss priorities for new or renovated spaces that could be included in a bond issue. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Members of the Hays community bond committee discuss priorities for new or renovated spaces that could be included in a bond issue. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDiscussions about a future bond issue for Hays USD 489 on Monday and Tuesday focused on space.Members of the community bond committee Tuesday viewed examples of other schools that its architect, DLR Group, has built or renovated recently.They also discussed priorities for Hays schools.Among some of the priorities listed by the group included adaptable spaces, flexible furniture, maker spaces, group spaces (an auditorium), media labs and learning suites.&nbsp;Some community members also emphasized the need to create space that can be used by the community during non-school hours.Much of the discussion Tuesday night revolved around what new or renovated buildings in Hays could look like.Ian Kilpatrick, DLR K-12 design leader, shared photos from DLR projects in Kansas and across the country.<h2>Recent bond improvements at peer schools</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631727872672.png" alt="Garden City auditorium.&nbsp;Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Garden City auditorium.&nbsp;Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631727954020.png" alt="Dodge City athletic complex.&nbsp;Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Dodge City athletic complex.&nbsp;Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631727993992.png" alt="Dodge City small group workspaces.&nbsp;Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Dodge City small group workspaces.&nbsp;Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Diverse spaces for diverse kids</h2>Kilpatrick said catering to individual variability accounts for 50 percent of student success. The physical environment accounts for 16 percent with 37 percent being attributed to teacher effectiveness.Diverse spaces are needed for diverse learners, he said."I use the analogy that no one wants a house with 11 bedrooms and nothing else," he said. "You want a house with diverse spaces, because no one wants to cook breakfast in a bedroom. Schools are no different.&nbsp;"We want to make sure they have all the environments whether it's career and tech, whether it's collaborative learning, whether it's that social collision space for our learners and our educators to be supported in their day to day,"&nbsp;Kilpatrick said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631729256071.png" alt="Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kilpatrick said school rooms need to be designed with adequate space and furniture to facilitate their functions."Hands-on learning is critical to [students'] learning and their launch into the real world," he said.This is why some schools are establishing labs where students can create projects, as well as work with technology and robotics.&nbsp;Other design considerations include sightlines, acoustics, doors and furniture.Furniture is something every single student touches every day and can be an inexpensive way to adapt spaces, Kilpatrick said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631729950312.png" alt="This is a small group workroom at a school in Baton Rouge. The walls and tabletop in this room are made of whiteboard material and can be written on. Photo courtesy of DLR" />
 <figcaption>This is a small group workroom at a school in Baton Rouge. The walls and tabletop in this room are made of whiteboard material and can be written on. Photo courtesy of DLR</figcaption>
 </figure>Kilpatrick said everyone is a different size and improperly sized seating can affect student learning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631730424730.png" alt="Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kilpatrick said if students have a sense of ownership at their school they are more likely to engage in their learning."Sense of ownership — we've talked about this at the high school," he said. "How do students have ownership of their space? How can they have pride in their space? How can the community have pride?&nbsp;"That goes a lot to the diverse environments that we spoke to earlier," he said. "You want to make sure there's a space where every learner feels comfortable and feels engaged and owns that space in a really prideful way."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631730791100.png" alt="This is a classroom in a Kearney, Neb., middle school that had been padlocked and was no longer in use. Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>This is a classroom in a Kearney, Neb., middle school that had been padlocked and was no longer in use. Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631730908606.png" alt="The renovation of the space cost about $1 million, most of which was spent on an elevator and stairs. Students and teachers like the new space so much they don't want to use their regular classrooms, Ian&nbsp;Kilpatrick, DLR designer, said. Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>The renovation of the space cost about $1 million, most of which was spent on an elevator and stairs. Students and teachers like the new space so much they don't want to use their regular classrooms, Ian&nbsp;Kilpatrick, DLR designer, said. Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631732048531.png" alt="Ottawa High School before renovation. Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Ottawa High School before renovation. Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631732111498.png" alt="Ottawa High School after renovation. The Ottawa bond cost $6 3 million and included a new elementary school, renovations at their high school and security upgrades. Photo courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Ottawa High School after renovation. The Ottawa bond cost $6 3 million and included a new elementary school, renovations at their high school and security upgrades. Photo courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kilpatrick said DLR conducts research on student engagement before and after bond projects and has found engagement increased for both students and teachers after new schools were built or schools were renovated.<h2>Hays falls behind peers</h2>DLR discussed other schools in the state who have passed bonds in the last 10 years. In the Western Athletic Conference, which Hays is a member, three of the five schools — Dodge City, Garden City and Liberal — have passed bonds in the last 10 years. Great Bend is currently working on a bond. It last passed a bond about 12 years ago.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631727521457.png" alt="The schools in red have passed bonds in the last 10 years. Great Bend passed a bond about 12 years ago and is working on another bond proposal now." />
 <figcaption>The schools in red have passed bonds in the last 10 years. Great Bend passed a bond about 12 years ago and is working on another bond proposal now.</figcaption>
 </figure>Below is a list of 5A schools. All of those in red have also passed bonds in the last 10 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631721708743.jpeg" alt="A list of 5A schools. The schools listed in red have passed bond issues in the last 10 years." />
 <figcaption>A list of 5A schools. The schools listed in red have passed bond issues in the last 10 years.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays bond committee gets glimpse of how new, renovated schools could look

Homecoming week at Fort Hays State University is planned for Monday, Sept. 27, through Saturday, Oct. 2.

With the imminent changing of seasons comes some of Fort Hays State’s favorite autumn activities. The fall semester is well on its way, football games are back in full swing, and FHSU’s 101st Homecoming is right around the corner. After cancelling most Homecoming events in 2020 and pivoting others to virtual platforms, the university is excited to announce that Homecoming 2021 events will all be held in-person.

Check out the packed schedule of Homecoming events where there is something for everyone. Tiger fans should start making plans now as some events require advance registration with a registration deadline of Friday, Sept. 24. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJA6MjaWeqoDUbKcvth11PAkQhwgFXWArJhHYmfMmAbS2xBlh_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemU4SkkP0kI6Ob8Jy3J3nZ0niEt8nyvWXDEOfn7zIxBQ1-2B-2BXdNzbU20kbDRMQCcwYb-2FNPLr9RaWLKvK1HkIMx9Hsq8OyiX6yLMhiVRM5ZlcmWHFCVVmaB8R6ZD6YlnnoFM5QOGrUGvBqpduzKUof5Nu3TSCd4AkDKxSktpBca4-2FXRuch-2FvqRCCbDieWoojYXbRjC5DnF-2BwYdEexWqw68SfvffrWHXKu4xSGRrVCrpfEUU5C-2Bmkl4-2FF3uipKEDAcuAkahXzTN73Q40-2FDQhANv0UFw-3D-3D">www.FHSUHomecoming.com</a>&nbsp;for a full schedule of events, to register for activities, and for any updates or additional information.

According to the 1939 “Reveille,” FHSU’s longtime yearbook, the university’s first official Homecoming was celebrated on Thanksgiving Day in 1920 – back when the college was known as&nbsp;Fort Hays Kansas State Normal School. Since then, Homecoming events have evolved, but the values and pride for the university have remained the same.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631640424717.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsHomecoming week at Fort Hays State University is planned for Monday, Sept. 27, through Saturday, Oct. 2.With the imminent changing of seasons comes some of Fort Hays State’s favorite autumn activities. The fall semester is well on its way, football games are back in full swing, and FHSU’s 101st Homecoming is right around the corner. After cancelling most Homecoming events in 2020 and pivoting others to virtual platforms, the university is excited to announce that Homecoming 2021 events will all be held in-person. Check out the packed schedule of Homecoming events where there is something for everyone. Tiger fans should start making plans now as some events require advance registration with a registration deadline of Friday, Sept. 24. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJA6MjaWeqoDUbKcvth11PAkQhwgFXWArJhHYmfMmAbS2xBlh_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemU4SkkP0kI6Ob8Jy3J3nZ0niEt8nyvWXDEOfn7zIxBQ1-2B-2BXdNzbU20kbDRMQCcwYb-2FNPLr9RaWLKvK1HkIMx9Hsq8OyiX6yLMhiVRM5ZlcmWHFCVVmaB8R6ZD6YlnnoFM5QOGrUGvBqpduzKUof5Nu3TSCd4AkDKxSktpBca4-2FXRuch-2FvqRCCbDieWoojYXbRjC5DnF-2BwYdEexWqw68SfvffrWHXKu4xSGRrVCrpfEUU5C-2Bmkl4-2FF3uipKEDAcuAkahXzTN73Q40-2FDQhANv0UFw-3D-3D">www.FHSUHomecoming.com</a>&nbsp;for a full schedule of events, to register for activities, and for any updates or additional information.Monday, Sept. 27<ul>
 <li>Homecoming royalty meet and greet (Memorial Union north patio) – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Tuesday, Sept. 28<ul>
 <li>Amazing Race around FHSU and Hays (in-person and online) – Clues will be shared via Student Engagement social media.</li>
 </ul> Wednesday, Sept. 29<ul>
 <li>Make Your Own Pennant with Forsyth Library (both on-campus and online students)</li>
 </ul>Thursday, Sept. 30<ul>
 <li>Homecoming Golf Tournament (Smoky Hill Country Club) – Registration closed; wait list for additional participants/teams</li><li>Coach’s Corner (Smoky Hill Country Club) – Lunch with Tiger football coach Chris Brown – Noon (Registration deadline Sept. 24)</li><li>Tiger bonfire (Robbins Center) – Food trucks open at 7 p.m., bonfire and pep rally at 7:30</li>
 </ul>Friday, Oct. 1<ul>
 <li>Homecoming registration (Robbins Center lobby) – 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.</li><li>Ribbon cutting for Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success – 9 a.m.</li><li>Oktoberfest (Municipal Park) – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – The Volga German Society Oktoberfest celebration of German Russians in Ellis County. Oktoberfest includes activities, musical entertainment, and booths offering crafts, food, and beverages.</li><li>Campus walking tour (Memorial Union Sunset Atrium) – 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.</li><li>Half Century Club Luncheon and Induction (Memorial Union) – 11 a.m. social and noon luncheon – Induction of classes of 1970 and 1971 – (Registration deadline Sept. 24)</li><li>Class reunion campus/Hays bus tour (Memorial Union Sunset Atrium) – 2:30 p.m.</li><li>Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet (Memorial Union) – 6 p.m. reception and 7 p.m. banquet – (Registration deadline Sept. 24)</li>
 </ul>Saturday, Oct. 2<ul>
 <li>Homecoming registration (Memorial Union Sunset Atrium) – 8 to 11 a.m.</li><li>Breakfast with the President (Memorial Union) – 8:30 a.m. (Registration deadline Sept. 24)</li><li>Class of 1961 &amp; 1960 Reunion Breakfast (Memorial Union) – 8:30 a.m. (Registration deadline Sept. 24)</li><li>Class of 1971 &amp; 1970 Reunion Breakfast (Memorial Union) – 8:30 a.m. (Registration deadline Sept. 24)</li><li>FHSU Homecoming parade (Main Street) – 11 a.m.</li><li>Oktoberfest (Municipal Park) – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – The German celebration continues with a second day of activities and vendor booths.</li><li>FHSU vs University of Nebraska-Kearney football game – 6:30 p.m. pre-game ceremonies and 7 p.m. game kickoff (Lewis Field Stadium)</li>
 </ul>According to the 1939 “Reveille,” FHSU’s longtime yearbook, the university’s first official Homecoming was celebrated on Thanksgiving Day in 1920 – back when the college was known as&nbsp;Fort Hays Kansas State Normal School. Since then, Homecoming events have evolved, but the values and pride for the university have remained the same.

Fort Hays State announces lineup of Homecoming 2021 events

ELLIS — On Monday, the Ellis USD 388 Board of Education approved a change in the district's COVID-19 mitigation strategy after nearly a quarter of students in the combined junior/senior high school were quarantined last week.

The concern with the old policy boiled down to the length — 10 days — of a quarantine when a student is deemed a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case.

Over 40 students, including football team members, were quarantined last week in the district.

"That ended up putting a big impact on us this last week because we ended up getting a couple of positive student cases that were on an activities team, and then we got another case positive on that team," said Superintendent Corey Burton.

With three cases in the one group, he said the Ellis County Health Services Department&nbsp;quarantines the whole group.

"That ended up having a huge impact on us," Burton said. "Those three cases ended up putting over 40 kids, about 45 kids, in&nbsp;quarantine for the week. And that is a lot of missed class time."

He said the much larger Hays district was also seeing the same impact and implemented the suggested plan from the health department earlier in the day Monday.

The new plan is designed to help lessen the impact of the number of students in quarantine at any given time while continuing to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

In essence, the new plan implements stronger mitigation strategies based upon the number of active cases in the district, with mask mandates and quarantine policy becoming more strict should case numbers increase.

But it also implements the ability for students that are deemed close contacts to return to school if masks are worn, and the district monitors for symptoms or the students receive a negative COVID-19 test after day five of the&nbsp;quarantine.

The new policy would be enacted district-wide, with Burton saying implementing the procedures by building would create a system that was incredibly difficult to track compared to the policy in place last year.

"Keeping track of all this is already a nightmare," Burton said. "The more caveats we're going to put to this, the more difficult it is to try to keep track of."

Burton also told the board that setting different policies for vaccinated and unvaccinated students would add significantly more tracking.

The district learned that a vaccinated student had tested positive earlier in the day, with contact tracing set to begin.

"We could say a vaccinated student doesn't need to wear a mask," Burton said. "But it will create another layer of things that we have to keep track of, and I'm telling you, we have our first case of a vaccinated student that has tested positive that we will be close contact tracing."

Vaccinated or not, Burton said mask protection only works to stop large amounts of quarantine if both parties are masked up.&nbsp;

But the potential of district-wide mask mandates was not readily accepted by the board, with almost an hour's worth of discussion before the measure would be voted on.

One of the most discussed aspects of the proposed plan was the lack of consideration for vaccination status.

"To me that just, again, let's say we get to that seven active cases and it's a district-wide mask mandate, I sure would like it to be an option for our teachers to not be in a mask, or our vaccinated kids, that are fully vaccinated for them not to be in a mask," said board member&nbsp;Jared Schiel.

"We could do that," Burton said. "By what Jason (Kennedy, director, Ellis County Health Services) said he would recommend we not, but we could do that."

Last year, board member&nbsp;Cindy Hertel noted that the district was highly successful in stopping transmission through wearing masks and social distancing measures.

"I hate wearing masks, but we were really successful last year before the vaccine ever came into existence," she said. "So I would rather say somebody had to wear a mask."

She also noted the mask would help protect those that choose not to get vaccinated.

"We can't say you have to get a vaccine, but the mask is something that you don't have to put in your body if you don't believe in that," Hertel said. "But I know it is not easy to do either."

Board member&nbsp;Marty Hollern&nbsp;shared concern with a different policy for vaccinated and unvaccinated.

"I don't want to identify kids, you're vaccinated, you're not vaccinated," he said. "I have concerns," later noting vaccinated and unvaccinated can spread the virus.

"I think we need to treat them the same if they are going to mask up,"&nbsp;Hollern&nbsp;said.

But it's not just the students that would be affected.

Schiel&nbsp;noted that the policy will also affect teachers and might cause consternation.

"If you're a teacher and you got vaccinated because you didn't want to worry about wearing a mask teaching, we're telling you now that you have got to wear a mask because we are not going to treat your vaccination status any differently," he said.

While the plan would potentially bring masks back into the schools to help stop the high number of students from being quarantined, another critical component is testing.

The district has access to some rapid testing, Burton said, with results coming in as little as 15 minutes.

Results from the more accurate PCR testing, like currently used in local clinics, comes in around 24 hours.

With either, a negative test would end a close contact quarantine after day five with the new plan.

Although the tests will be available, Burton warned the amount of time needed to do full-scale testing could be problematic.

"If we get to the point that we have to start testing a lot of people, we would have to staff up more," Burton said.

Either test would be accepted in the new plan after the mandatory five-day quarantine.

Funding for tests will come from grants under the test-to-know program.

"So if somebody wants to know and we need to know ... we will have the ability to test them," Burton said.

While masks, testing and quarantines were all considered, Burton said the ultimate goal is keeping children in classrooms as much as possible.

"The key is, we need kids in school," he said. "We would rather have them in the building, and there are things we can do to keep them in our building. ... I think that is a positive for the education of our kids."

"The big thing is we have to avoid a situation like we had last week," Schiel said.&nbsp;

Burton said last year there were several examples in the district of students required to complete a quarantine several times due to being close to a positive case.

"It's hard on any kid to get quarantined," Burton said. "You miss 20-30 days of school that's hard."&nbsp;

Before the board voted on the measure, he reminded the board, the policy could be changed at any time, but as written, would apply through the end of the academic year.

The board passed the measure 6-1, with Hollern voting against.

Schiel and Hertel, along with board members Brian Shannon,&nbsp;Dean Gottschalk, Randy Honas and DJ Fischer, voted in favor of the policy.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jRo0iI07E08" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — On Monday, the Ellis USD 388 Board of Education approved a change in the district's COVID-19 mitigation strategy after nearly a quarter of students in the combined junior/senior high school were quarantined last week.The concern with the old policy boiled down to the length — 10 days — of a quarantine when a student is deemed a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case.Over 40 students, including football team members, were quarantined last week in the district.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631305133592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"That ended up putting a big impact on us this last week because we ended up getting a couple of positive student cases that were on an activities team, and then we got another case positive on that team," said Superintendent Corey Burton.With three cases in the one group, he said the Ellis County Health Services Department&nbsp;quarantines the whole group."That ended up having a huge impact on us," Burton said. "Those three cases ended up putting over 40 kids, about 45 kids, in&nbsp;quarantine for the week. And that is a lot of missed class time."He said the much larger Hays district was also seeing the same impact and implemented the suggested plan from the health department earlier in the day Monday.The new plan is designed to help lessen the impact of the number of students in quarantine at any given time while continuing to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631652469266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In essence, the new plan implements stronger mitigation strategies based upon the number of active cases in the district, with mask mandates and quarantine policy becoming more strict should case numbers increase.But it also implements the ability for students that are deemed close contacts to return to school if masks are worn, and the district monitors for symptoms or the students receive a negative COVID-19 test after day five of the&nbsp;quarantine.The new policy would be enacted district-wide, with Burton saying implementing the procedures by building would create a system that was incredibly difficult to track compared to the policy in place last year."Keeping track of all this is already a nightmare," Burton said. "The more caveats we're going to put to this, the more difficult it is to try to keep track of."Burton also told the board that setting different policies for vaccinated and unvaccinated students would add significantly more tracking.The district learned that a vaccinated student had tested positive earlier in the day, with contact tracing set to begin."We could say a vaccinated student doesn't need to wear a mask," Burton said. "But it will create another layer of things that we have to keep track of, and I'm telling you, we have our first case of a vaccinated student that has tested positive that we will be close contact tracing."Vaccinated or not, Burton said mask protection only works to stop large amounts of quarantine if both parties are masked up.&nbsp;But the potential of district-wide mask mandates was not readily accepted by the board, with almost an hour's worth of discussion before the measure would be voted on.One of the most discussed aspects of the proposed plan was the lack of consideration for vaccination status."To me that just, again, let's say we get to that seven active cases and it's a district-wide mask mandate, I sure would like it to be an option for our teachers to not be in a mask, or our vaccinated kids, that are fully vaccinated for them not to be in a mask," said board member&nbsp;Jared Schiel."We could do that," Burton said. "By what Jason (Kennedy, director, Ellis County Health Services) said he would recommend we not, but we could do that."Last year, board member&nbsp;Cindy Hertel noted that the district was highly successful in stopping transmission through wearing masks and social distancing measures."I hate wearing masks, but we were really successful last year before the vaccine ever came into existence," she said. "So I would rather say somebody had to wear a mask."She also noted the mask would help protect those that choose not to get vaccinated."We can't say you have to get a vaccine, but the mask is something that you don't have to put in your body if you don't believe in that," Hertel said. "But I know it is not easy to do either."Board member&nbsp;Marty Hollern&nbsp;shared concern with a different policy for vaccinated and unvaccinated."I don't want to identify kids, you're vaccinated, you're not vaccinated," he said. "I have concerns," later noting vaccinated and unvaccinated can spread the virus."I think we need to treat them the same if they are going to mask up,"&nbsp;Hollern&nbsp;said.But it's not just the students that would be affected.Schiel&nbsp;noted that the policy will also affect teachers and might cause consternation."If you're a teacher and you got vaccinated because you didn't want to worry about wearing a mask teaching, we're telling you now that you have got to wear a mask because we are not going to treat your vaccination status any differently," he said.While the plan would potentially bring masks back into the schools to help stop the high number of students from being quarantined, another critical component is testing.The district has access to some rapid testing, Burton said, with results coming in as little as 15 minutes.Results from the more accurate PCR testing, like currently used in local clinics, comes in around 24 hours.With either, a negative test would end a close contact quarantine after day five with the new plan.Although the tests will be available, Burton warned the amount of time needed to do full-scale testing could be problematic."If we get to the point that we have to start testing a lot of people, we would have to staff up more," Burton said.Either test would be accepted in the new plan after the mandatory five-day quarantine.Funding for tests will come from grants under the test-to-know program."So if somebody wants to know and we need to know ... we will have the ability to test them," Burton said.While masks, testing and quarantines were all considered, Burton said the ultimate goal is keeping children in classrooms as much as possible."The key is, we need kids in school," he said. "We would rather have them in the building, and there are things we can do to keep them in our building. ... I think that is a positive for the education of our kids.""The big thing is we have to avoid a situation like we had last week," Schiel said.&nbsp;Burton said last year there were several examples in the district of students required to complete a quarantine several times due to being close to a positive case."It's hard on any kid to get quarantined," Burton said. "You miss 20-30 days of school that's hard."&nbsp;Before the board voted on the measure, he reminded the board, the policy could be changed at any time, but as written, would apply through the end of the academic year.The board passed the measure 6-1, with Hollern voting against.Schiel and Hertel, along with board members Brian Shannon,&nbsp;Dean Gottschalk, Randy Honas and DJ Fischer, voted in favor of the policy.

Ellis school board approves escalating COVID mitigation plan 

Midland Marketing is proud to support projects in the communities they serve. Last week, it showed
when they presented Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) and Hays artist Dennis Schiel
with a $20,000 donation to benefit the Brush the Brick Mural Movement; $10,000 directly from Midland
Marketing and $10,000 from a CoBank grant. 


The mural movement in Downtown Hays is moving quickly. The first mural on the S&amp;W Supply
Warehouse, 311 E. 8th Street, has already been completed by Schiel. A second mural honoring the
Native Americans of the area is has begun on the State Glass building, 421 Main Street. Artist Matthew
Miller is painting it.


The project has plans to paint a mural on the Midland Marketing General Office, 201 E. 8th Street, in the
summer of 2022. The mural will be a cooperative project with opportunities for the community to
participate in its creation.


"We are very excited to work with the artists on their ideas for the General office," Anna Luna with
Midland Marketing said.


Brush the Bricks is an effort by multiple organizations to transform buildings in Downtown Hays into
spectacular, world-class artwork that invigorates tourism and community pride. The murals that are
currently done or in progress pay tribute to the history of Hays and its heritage.


If you would like to find more information or how to donate, visit the Brush the Brick's Facebook
page, www.facebook.com/brushthebricks, or website, www.downtownhays.com/brushthebricks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631741171081.jpeg" alt="Justin Townley and Logan Schlegel with JDR Painting Services, prime the Midland Marketing General Office, 201 E. 8th Street, in preparation for a cooperative mural to be started in the summer of 2022. The project will allow community members to be active in its creation." />
 <figcaption>Justin Townley and Logan Schlegel with JDR Painting Services, prime the Midland Marketing General Office, 201 E. 8th Street, in preparation for a cooperative mural to be started in the summer of 2022. The project will allow community members to be active in its creation.</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseMidlandMarketing_9.15.21Midland Marketing is proud to support projects in the communities they serve. Last week, it showed
when they presented Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) and Hays artist Dennis Schiel
with a $20,000 donation to benefit the Brush the Brick Mural Movement; $10,000 directly from Midland
Marketing and $10,000 from a CoBank grant. 
The mural movement in Downtown Hays is moving quickly. The first mural on the S&amp;W Supply
Warehouse, 311 E. 8th Street, has already been completed by Schiel. A second mural honoring the
Native Americans of the area is has begun on the State Glass building, 421 Main Street. Artist Matthew
Miller is painting it.
The project has plans to paint a mural on the Midland Marketing General Office, 201 E. 8th Street, in the
summer of 2022. The mural will be a cooperative project with opportunities for the community to
participate in its creation.
"We are very excited to work with the artists on their ideas for the General office," Anna Luna with
Midland Marketing said.
Brush the Bricks is an effort by multiple organizations to transform buildings in Downtown Hays into
spectacular, world-class artwork that invigorates tourism and community pride. The murals that are
currently done or in progress pay tribute to the history of Hays and its heritage.
If you would like to find more information or how to donate, visit the Brush the Brick's Facebook
page, www.facebook.com/brushthebricks, or website, www.downtownhays.com/brushthebricks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631741236382.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Kevin Royer, Midland Marketing general manager, Brian Staab, Midland Marketing board president, Sara Bloom, Downtown Hays Development Corporation Executive Director, Tom Benoit, Midland Marketing board member, and Dennis Schiel, Hays artist. Midland Marketing recently donated $20,000 to the Brush the Bricks Mural Movement in Downtown Hays." />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Kevin Royer, Midland Marketing general manager, Brian Staab, Midland Marketing board president, Sara Bloom, Downtown Hays Development Corporation Executive Director, Tom Benoit, Midland Marketing board member, and Dennis Schiel, Hays artist. Midland Marketing recently donated $20,000 to the Brush the Bricks Mural Movement in Downtown Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Midland Marketing donates $20K to downtown Hays mural project

During the "You Drink. You Drive. You Lose." campaign just completed, the Hays Police Department conducted overtime saturation patrols to aggressively enforce Kansas impaired driving laws. 

During the campaign, officers made nine impaired driving arrests and wrote two speeding citations, and 48 other citations and arrests. Thirty-eight vehicle stops were made during the campaign, Sgt. Phillip Gage said in a news release. &nbsp;

"You can count on this department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws all through the year. We will continue to do so because, while the "You Drink. You Drive. You Lose." campaign may be over, we are always committed to enforcing impaired driving and other traffic laws," Gage said.

The traffic enforcement campaign is supported by a federal grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631744837057.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police DepartmentDuring the "You Drink. You Drive. You Lose." campaign just completed, the Hays Police Department conducted overtime saturation patrols to aggressively enforce Kansas impaired driving laws. During the campaign, officers made nine impaired driving arrests and wrote two speeding citations, and 48 other citations and arrests. Thirty-eight vehicle stops were made during the campaign, Sgt. Phillip Gage said in a news release. &nbsp;"You can count on this department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws all through the year. We will continue to do so because, while the "You Drink. You Drive. You Lose." campaign may be over, we are always committed to enforcing impaired driving and other traffic laws," Gage said.The traffic enforcement campaign is supported by a federal grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Drunk driving HPD patrol stops 9 impaired drivers with 48 other citations, arrests

Three-day weather outlook

DECATUR COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Wednesday in Decatur County.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by&nbsp;Wahlmeier, Joaquin L. Wahlmeier, 17, Clayton, was&nbsp; eastbound on Kansas Highway 9 eighteen miles west of U.S. Highway 283

The pickup left the roadway into the south ditch. The pickup reentered the roadway and the driver overcorrected. The pickup traveled into the south ditch again, struck a culvert and rolled.

EMS transported Wahlmeier to the Norton County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

DECATUR COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Wednesday in Decatur County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by&nbsp;Wahlmeier, Joaquin L. Wahlmeier, 17, Clayton, was&nbsp; eastbound on Kansas Highway 9 eighteen miles west of U.S. Highway 283The pickup left the roadway into the south ditch. The pickup reentered the roadway and the driver overcorrected. The pickup traveled into the south ditch again, struck a culvert and rolled.EMS transported Wahlmeier to the Norton County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NW Kan. teen hospitalized after pickup rollover accident

K-State vet: Tips for handling vaccinations, maintaining effectiveness 

Brain Frickey, Sizewise CEO, released the following statement today on the sale of&nbsp;Sizewise to Minneapolis-based company&nbsp;Agiliti.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0d6185c5-1840-42a9-a54c-ec676b3da97c">The companies jointly announced the pending sale in press releases Tuesday.</a>

Yes, Agiliti has announced its intent to purchase Sizewise with an expected closing time of early in the fourth quarter of this year. We take very seriously the fact that we are a major employer in western Kansas and we wish we had more detail to share at this stage. We expect to be able to offer more color after we close the transaction and begin the work of combining our companies.

But let me be clear, we view this change as an opportunity – both companies are on a strong growth path, and we think together the possibilities are limitless. They do not have a manufacturing presence as we do, and they will now have access to our products and innovation. We view this as a complementary transaction that offers potential for future growth. For now, our employees across the nation are staying focused on the job in front of them. For our customers and for all our teams, it is business as usual.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Agiliti team is a lot like&nbsp;Sizewise, and its predecessor — Wheelchairs of Kansas&nbsp;– down to earth, enthusiastic about serving patients and customers, and focused on growth and development for employees.&nbsp;Sizewise has spent the past 25 years engineering, manufacturing, and selling products and service solutions that drive value for our healthcare partners. We’re pleased to put that history and experience to work for Agiliti as the combined company continues to be an invaluable source of equipment solutions for caregivers and patients alike.

— Brian Frickey, Sizewise Chief Executive Officer

Brain Frickey, Sizewise CEO, released the following statement today on the sale of&nbsp;Sizewise to Minneapolis-based company&nbsp;Agiliti.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0d6185c5-1840-42a9-a54c-ec676b3da97c">The companies jointly announced the pending sale in press releases Tuesday.</a>Yes, Agiliti has announced its intent to purchase Sizewise with an expected closing time of early in the fourth quarter of this year. We take very seriously the fact that we are a major employer in western Kansas and we wish we had more detail to share at this stage. We expect to be able to offer more color after we close the transaction and begin the work of combining our companies.But let me be clear, we view this change as an opportunity – both companies are on a strong growth path, and we think together the possibilities are limitless. They do not have a manufacturing presence as we do, and they will now have access to our products and innovation. We view this as a complementary transaction that offers potential for future growth. For now, our employees across the nation are staying focused on the job in front of them. For our customers and for all our teams, it is business as usual.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Agiliti team is a lot like&nbsp;Sizewise, and its predecessor — Wheelchairs of Kansas&nbsp;– down to earth, enthusiastic about serving patients and customers, and focused on growth and development for employees.&nbsp;Sizewise has spent the past 25 years engineering, manufacturing, and selling products and service solutions that drive value for our healthcare partners. We’re pleased to put that history and experience to work for Agiliti as the combined company continues to be an invaluable source of equipment solutions for caregivers and patients alike.— Brian Frickey, Sizewise Chief Executive Officer

Sizewise CEO releases statement on sale

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 31 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 422 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

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

As of Wednesday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;

The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,226 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631725337794.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 31 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 422 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,226 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 31 new COVID cases in Ellis County since Monday

The following story was originally published on June 28.

A new program in Ellis County seeks to provide seniors improved access to fresh produce while fostering local producers that sell at farmer's markets.

After being offered in eastern Kansas towns, the Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is now available to Ellis County low-income residents over 60 years of age.

The program is coordinated through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and administered in Ellis County by the Cottonwood Extension District, 601 Main.

"This year they wanted to branch out and find a larger farmers market they could try it in," said Cottonwood Extension District agent Berny Unruh.

Funding for the program is provided by a federal grant.

"The idea is not only to provide seniors with fruit and vegetables but to promote or support our local farmers," Unruh said.

Unruh said with the price of fresh fruit and vegetables, many seniors living with tight incomes, may be hesitant to purchase the higher cost produce over lower-cost food options.

"They will live a lot longer if they have fresh fruits and vegetables, in their diet," Unruh said.

Those health concerns brought on by a lack of proper nutrition she said can sneak up on seniors and cause a variety of health problems.

"Oftentimes, when those things do start happening, whether it is diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, that is not something that they notice right away, and they don't get it checked, and then their health can decline very quickly," Unruh said.

The signup process is straightforward and can be done quickly in the Cottonwood Extension District office.

"It's two pages," Unruh said. "And we will ask those very simple questions about age and income."

Those seniors who qualify will be given a booklet with seven $5 checks that can then be used at authorized farmers' market vendors.

Those vendors will have signs indicating they are a part of the program.

Unruh said she is hopeful area seniors will take advantage of the program.

"They should not be afraid to come and know that there are things that they might be able to afford," she said.

<a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/sfmnp/seniors.htm">For more information about the program visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website.</a>

<div><iframe title="Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program still available" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=u5g9b-10de985-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The following story was originally published on June 28.By JAMES BELL Hays PostA new program in Ellis County seeks to provide seniors improved access to fresh produce while fostering local producers that sell at farmer's markets.After being offered in eastern Kansas towns, the Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is now available to Ellis County low-income residents over 60 years of age.The program is coordinated through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and administered in Ellis County by the Cottonwood Extension District, 601 Main."This year they wanted to branch out and find a larger farmers market they could try it in," said Cottonwood Extension District agent Berny Unruh.Funding for the program is provided by a federal grant."The idea is not only to provide seniors with fruit and vegetables but to promote or support our local farmers," Unruh said.Unruh said with the price of fresh fruit and vegetables, many seniors living with tight incomes, may be hesitant to purchase the higher cost produce over lower-cost food options.But she said doing can be detrimental."They will live a lot longer if they have fresh fruits and vegetables, in their diet," Unruh said.Those health concerns brought on by a lack of proper nutrition she said can sneak up on seniors and cause a variety of health problems."Oftentimes, when those things do start happening, whether it is diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, that is not something that they notice right away, and they don't get it checked, and then their health can decline very quickly," Unruh said.The signup process is straightforward and can be done quickly in the Cottonwood Extension District office."It's two pages," Unruh said. "And we will ask those very simple questions about age and income."Those seniors who qualify will be given a booklet with seven $5 checks that can then be used at authorized farmers' market vendors.Those vendors will have signs indicating they are a part of the program.Unruh said she is hopeful area seniors will take advantage of the program."They should not be afraid to come and know that there are things that they might be able to afford," she said.<a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/sfmnp/seniors.htm">For more information about the program visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Senior Farmers Market vouchers still available

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend Recreation Commission is working with the Kansas Wetlands
Education Center this fall for a new program called “Marsh Under the Moon.”
Many citizens have seen Cheyenne Bottoms in the daytime, but this event will
allow participants to experience the wetlands as the sun goes down. 

GBRC
Enrichment Director Garet Fitzpatrick said the evening will include spider
sniffing, bat detection and checking out the eye shine of various wetland
animals. 
"We've talked about this for a few years but this year we're going with it," said Fitzpatrick. "It'll be a Friday evening and we'll roast marshmallows in fire pits. We'll do a number of activities, including glow-in-the-dark games." 
Much of the program will be outdoors, so participants are asked to wear
closed-toed shoes. The program at KWEC will take place from 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 15 for children ages 6-12 accompanied by an adult.
Pre-registration is required by Oct. 12.&nbsp;

Visit greatbendrec.com, stop by 1214 Stone Street or call 620-793-3755 to register. The fee is $10 and enrollment is limited to 15 participants.

"Hopefully this will be a good program for us to build on in the future," said Fitzpatrick.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631719053060.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Recreation Commission is working with the Kansas Wetlands
Education Center this fall for a new program called “Marsh Under the Moon.”
Many citizens have seen Cheyenne Bottoms in the daytime, but this event will
allow participants to experience the wetlands as the sun goes down. GBRC
Enrichment Director Garet Fitzpatrick said the evening will include spider
sniffing, bat detection and checking out the eye shine of various wetland
animals. 
"We've talked about this for a few years but this year we're going with it," said Fitzpatrick. "It'll be a Friday evening and we'll roast marshmallows in fire pits. We'll do a number of activities, including glow-in-the-dark games." 
Much of the program will be outdoors, so participants are asked to wear
closed-toed shoes. The program at KWEC will take place from 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 15 for children ages 6-12 accompanied by an adult.
Pre-registration is required by Oct. 12.&nbsp;Visit greatbendrec.com, stop by 1214 Stone Street or call 620-793-3755 to register. The fee is $10 and enrollment is limited to 15 participants."Hopefully this will be a good program for us to build on in the future," said Fitzpatrick.

A chance to experience Cheyenne Bottoms at night

Both Agiliti and Sizewise announced on their websites Tuesday that Agiliti has made an agreement with Sizewise to purchase the company for $230 million.

A news release on both sites said the transaction will be an all-cash stock purchase. The transaction is expected to close early in the fourth quarter of 2021, the news release said.

Sizewise is&nbsp;a manufacturer and distributor of specialty hospital beds, surfaces and patient handling equipment. Sizewise has headquarters in Ellis and Lenexa.

Agiliti provides medical equipment, management and service solutions. It has more than 3,000 employees. It's corporate headquarters are in Minneapolis.

<a href="https://sizewise.com/news/2021/september/agiliti-announces-definitive-agreement-to-acquire-">Read the full press release here.&nbsp;</a>

Check Hays Post for more as details are available.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostBoth Agiliti and Sizewise announced on their websites Tuesday that Agiliti has made an agreement with Sizewise to purchase the company for $230 million.A news release on both sites said the transaction will be an all-cash stock purchase. The transaction is expected to close early in the fourth quarter of 2021, the news release said.Sizewise is&nbsp;a manufacturer and distributor of specialty hospital beds, surfaces and patient handling equipment. Sizewise has headquarters in Ellis and Lenexa.Agiliti provides medical equipment, management and service solutions. It has more than 3,000 employees. It's corporate headquarters are in Minneapolis.<a href="https://sizewise.com/news/2021/september/agiliti-announces-definitive-agreement-to-acquire-">Read the full press release here.&nbsp;</a>Check Hays Post for more as details are available.

Agiliti to aquire Sizewise of Ellis

The Hays USD 489 school board set a deadline of Monday for applications for a vacant seat on the board.

The seat was vacated by Nuchelle Chance, who moved out of state.

The district has received five applications thus far. They include Cathy Hopkins, former small business owner; Derek Yarmer, physician;&nbsp;Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, librarian; Curt Vajnar, business owner, farmer and former teacher; and Timothy Kershner, Nex-Tech employee.

All applicants will be invited to the Sept. 27 school board meeting, where the school board members will interview the candidates.

Chance's term is set to expire at the end of December. The newly appointed board member would only serve through that time.

Three of the five applicants are running for a seat on the board in the upcoming Nov. 2 election.&nbsp; Those include Vajnar, Hopkins and&nbsp;Zampieri-Lillpopp.

The other three candidates who have filed for the Nov. 2 election are Casey Herman, Thomas Wasinger and Ken Brooks. Chance also filed but will be ineligible because she no longer resides in the district.

See copies of the letters the applicants submitted to the school board below. (Published as submitted)

I am seeking the open position on the BOE to engage in my community and bring my passion of life time learning into this arena. 

As a parent of six children, three of whom were educated in USD 489 from start to finish. The other three spent six-ten of their thirteen years of education here before we moved to Johnson County. 

I was very involved, especially during their elementary school years, in their classrooms as well as being a part of the Home &amp; School Association, serving as president within that timeframe. 

I owned and operated my own small business for nine years and then worked for the Hays Chamber of Commerce. In Johnson County I worked for a law firm for over nine years where I supported up to six attorneys and paralegals, as well as trained and supervised other administrative staff around the country. 
My strengths and talents when combined with others on the Board and used for the goal of supporting parents/families, teachers/staff to provide a quality education for the children of our district - can create an environment where we all win. 

There's no way this happens without the hard work of collaborating -throwing all we have into the mix. Humbly asking of each other, vulnerably sharing, and purposefully listening. 

Trust builds strength. 
My attention as a school board member would center on serving all the children in the community. All stakeholders of the community; BOE members, parents, all district personnel and administrators as well as students must be partners in this endeavor in order for our district to succeed. Education takes place in a classroom and the Board's efforts must focus on enhancing and enriching what goes on there. 
Is education not for empowering children to discover who they are, what their talents are, what interests them and makes them passionate? To empower them to be able to become amazing adults who will one day take upon themselves the running of our schools, cities, counties, states ... ? 

By working together we can all share in the knowledge and satisfaction that we have provided for the educational needs of all children and have built a district where students, parents, teachers, and staff feel they are welcome, encouraged, respected and belong. 
I am asking for your support in selecting me to fill the vacant seat on the BOE.

I am writing to request consideration as an applicant to fill the open school board position vacated by Nuchelle Chance. My interest in becoming a member of the school board is multifactorial. First, I believe educating our children is one of the most important responsibilities we have as parents. I have two daughters in the school district who love attending O'Loughlin. I want to be active in their education as well as the education of other students within the district. Second, I want to become more active in the community. I was thinking about different ways to get involved and when I heard about the opening on the school board it piqued my interest. I believe filling this temporary vacancy would be good exposure to the inner workings of the school board to make sure that the skills and leadership I have would be beneficial to USD 489 prior to running for a full term on the board. Third, I am an emergency medicine physician in town. The ongoing pandemic is affecting the children of our school district and I would like the opportunity to help develop strategies that are effective in keeping our kids and staff safe while also minimizing interruptions to their education. 
I believe that my service on the school board would benefit the school district and students in several ways.&nbsp;

1)	While I have not been active at the administrative level of education, I have spent a lot of time in academia. I have eight years of post-secondary education in addition to three years of postgraduate education. My experience would bring a different perspective to the board.


2)	My medical training and experience would also be beneficial at this time. I have been a front­line healthcare worker since the beginning of the pandemic and have first-hand experience caring for COVID patients. I have access to medical literature as well as direct contact with other providers who are caring for patients in our community. I would work to bring a pragmatic approach to managing the pandemic in a responsible way for the students and staff of USD 489.


3)	I have nearly 10 years of experience in the construction industry. I worked for a general contractor from the time I was in middle school through undergrad. There have been several articles about the condition of the buildings throughout the school district in the news lately. My construction experience would help guide my judgement when deciding what is the best approach to managing the infrastructure of the district going forward.

I would like to be considered to fill the vacancy on the school board that has been vacated by Nuchelle Chance. I retired this last year from USD 489 after teaching Agriculture Science and advising the FFA for the last 31 years. I have a strong desire to stay involved in education as I have 3 children in the USD 489 educational system. 
Cyrus is a Junior at HHS, Lizzy is an 8th grader at HMS, and Cannon is a 3rd grader at Wilson Elementary this year. My oldest two sons graduated from the USD 489 school system - Conrad just graduated from FHSU and is employed at Brungardt Hower. Conrad married Haley George this summer and she is starting her first year as a third-grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary. Colton is a sophomore at KSU. My wife Mary Ella is employed by the State of Kansas with the Department of Health and Environment. I am a partner of Hays K-Lawn and run a small farm by Antonino. 
Under my direction, the HHS Agriculture and FFA Program became one of the top programs in the State of Kansas. The following is a brief summary of some of the accomplishments that have occurred in the last 31 years.&nbsp;

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board set a deadline of Monday for applications for a vacant seat on the board.The seat was vacated by Nuchelle Chance, who moved out of state.The district has received five applications thus far. They include Cathy Hopkins, former small business owner; Derek Yarmer, physician;&nbsp;Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, librarian; Curt Vajnar, business owner, farmer and former teacher; and Timothy Kershner, Nex-Tech employee.All applicants will be invited to the Sept. 27 school board meeting, where the school board members will interview the candidates.Chance's term is set to expire at the end of December. The newly appointed board member would only serve through that time.Three of the five applicants are running for a seat on the board in the upcoming Nov. 2 election.&nbsp; Those include Vajnar, Hopkins and&nbsp;Zampieri-Lillpopp.The other three candidates who have filed for the Nov. 2 election are Casey Herman, Thomas Wasinger and Ken Brooks. Chance also filed but will be ineligible because she no longer resides in the district.See copies of the letters the applicants submitted to the school board below. (Published as submitted)<h2>Cathy Hopkins application letter</h2>I am seeking the open position on the BOE to engage in my community and bring my passion of life time learning into this arena. As a parent of six children, three of whom were educated in USD 489 from start to finish. The other three spent six-ten of their thirteen years of education here before we moved to Johnson County. I was very involved, especially during their elementary school years, in their classrooms as well as being a part of the Home &amp; School Association, serving as president within that timeframe. I owned and operated my own small business for nine years and then worked for the Hays Chamber of Commerce. In Johnson County I worked for a law firm for over nine years where I supported up to six attorneys and paralegals, as well as trained and supervised other administrative staff around the country. 
My strengths and talents when combined with others on the Board and used for the goal of supporting parents/families, teachers/staff to provide a quality education for the children of our district - can create an environment where we all win. There's no way this happens without the hard work of collaborating -throwing all we have into the mix. Humbly asking of each other, vulnerably sharing, and purposefully listening. Transparency creates trust. Trust builds strength. 
My attention as a school board member would center on serving all the children in the community. All stakeholders of the community; BOE members, parents, all district personnel and administrators as well as students must be partners in this endeavor in order for our district to succeed. Education takes place in a classroom and the Board's efforts must focus on enhancing and enriching what goes on there. 
Is education not for empowering children to discover who they are, what their talents are, what interests them and makes them passionate? To empower them to be able to become amazing adults who will one day take upon themselves the running of our schools, cities, counties, states ... ? By working together we can all share in the knowledge and satisfaction that we have provided for the educational needs of all children and have built a district where students, parents, teachers, and staff feel they are welcome, encouraged, respected and belong. 
I am asking for your support in selecting me to fill the vacant seat on the BOE.<h2>Derek Yarmer application letter</h2>I am writing to request consideration as an applicant to fill the open school board position vacated by Nuchelle Chance. My interest in becoming a member of the school board is multifactorial. First, I believe educating our children is one of the most important responsibilities we have as parents. I have two daughters in the school district who love attending O'Loughlin. I want to be active in their education as well as the education of other students within the district. Second, I want to become more active in the community. I was thinking about different ways to get involved and when I heard about the opening on the school board it piqued my interest. I believe filling this temporary vacancy would be good exposure to the inner workings of the school board to make sure that the skills and leadership I have would be beneficial to USD 489 prior to running for a full term on the board. Third, I am an emergency medicine physician in town. The ongoing pandemic is affecting the children of our school district and I would like the opportunity to help develop strategies that are effective in keeping our kids and staff safe while also minimizing interruptions to their education. 
I believe that my service on the school board would benefit the school district and students in several ways.&nbsp;1)	While I have not been active at the administrative level of education, I have spent a lot of time in academia. I have eight years of post-secondary education in addition to three years of postgraduate education. My experience would bring a different perspective to the board.
2)	My medical training and experience would also be beneficial at this time. I have been a front­line healthcare worker since the beginning of the pandemic and have first-hand experience caring for COVID patients. I have access to medical literature as well as direct contact with other providers who are caring for patients in our community. I would work to bring a pragmatic approach to managing the pandemic in a responsible way for the students and staff of USD 489.
3)	I have nearly 10 years of experience in the construction industry. I worked for a general contractor from the time I was in middle school through undergrad. There have been several articles about the condition of the buildings throughout the school district in the news lately. My construction experience would help guide my judgement when deciding what is the best approach to managing the infrastructure of the district going forward.<h2>Curt Vajnar application letter</h2>I would like to be considered to fill the vacancy on the school board that has been vacated by Nuchelle Chance. I retired this last year from USD 489 after teaching Agriculture Science and advising the FFA for the last 31 years. I have a strong desire to stay involved in education as I have 3 children in the USD 489 educational system. 
Cyrus is a Junior at HHS, Lizzy is an 8th grader at HMS, and Cannon is a 3rd grader at Wilson Elementary this year. My oldest two sons graduated from the USD 489 school system - Conrad just graduated from FHSU and is employed at Brungardt Hower. Conrad married Haley George this summer and she is starting her first year as a third-grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary. Colton is a sophomore at KSU. My wife Mary Ella is employed by the State of Kansas with the Department of Health and Environment. I am a partner of Hays K-Lawn and run a small farm by Antonino. 
Under my direction, the HHS Agriculture and FFA Program became one of the top programs in the State of Kansas. The following is a brief summary of some of the accomplishments that have occurred in the last 31 years.&nbsp;• 1999 Kansas Teacher of The Year • Young Agriculture Teacher of the Year • National Board-Certified Educator • 15 - 20 State Champion FFA Judging Teams • A National Champion Team, a National Runner-up Champion Team, and several other top 10 finishes while representing Kansas at other National Competitions. •Hays FFA Chapter continually was ranked in the top 10 for Kansas in the National Chapter Award I will now address important priorities for USD 489 and contributions that I can make to the USD 489 School Board.Highly Effective Staff- Having been a highly effective staff member of USD 489 the past 31 years and having the privilege of working with many great educators within our school system gives me a unique opportunity to help the board in this area. I think the first step to fulfill this goal is to hire early for the coming school year or USD 489 will get what is left over. For those retiring from USD 489, offer a $1000 bonus if their resignation is received by February 1st would be an effective yet simple step in this process. I am also greatly concerned about the wellness of educators in this time of COVID-19. High Student Achievement - "Accountability" and "Responsibility" were constantly stressed to my students. My students were also held to high expectations. Students will strive and even surpass expectations if they know where and how high the bar is set. Student achievement from the HHS Agriculture Program is a true testament to High Student Achievement. High student achievement is a direct relationship of highly effective staff. Class size is also a major factor that can affect this important goal. Effective and Positive Communications - Communications within each school is acceptable, but knowing what was going on throughout the district and especially what was going on with other schools could be improved. A weekly/monthly district highlight email or page on the website may help. I also feel that effective communications within our community could be improved. A personal example is that after the National FFA Career Development Event Championship (not a league championship, not a state championship, but the placing above 300 teams from within the 50 states) there was only a small article on the Hays Post. We need to broadcast the story of all of the great successes that happen in our school buildings. A future bond issue will not pass if our community is not informed of our successes and our needs. Digital signs/billboards in front of our facilities (similar but better than the ones at Roosevelt and O'Loughlin) telling our story would be a great start. How many people could be reached each and every day? When I first started at 489, we had a fulltime public relations person. Effective and positive publicity is lacking. Management of Resources - There have been some noticeable improvements in this area including the quality of vehicles in our transportation fleet. It wasn't very long ago that we were operating numerous school suburbans with over 250,000 miles. Also, the adoption and use of technology for our students and faculty is and has been a positive focus. We cannot stop there. The settling of employee contracts before a school year starts needs to become a priority, and the condition of our facilities must be addressed soon. <h2>Timothy Kershner application letter</h2>I am writing to express my interest in filling the vacant school board position. I am a lifelong resident of the area growing up in La Crosse and living and working in Hays for the past 17 years. I have and still have kids going through the school district. I think that I am very qualified to fill the position, because of my experience with the school district. My five children have all been involved in various clubs and activities. I am a very big advocate of the fine arts. I volunteer my time coaching flag football, I work with musical, and work with the spring plays. I work for Nex-Tech and can bring some technical expertise to the board. Thanks for you consideration and hope to hear from you soon.<h2>Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp application letter</h2><figure>
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