Season tickets are presently being sold by Western Plains Arts Association board members. Business sponsors have only until Aug. 5 to be included in the annual season program.&nbsp; Benefactor levels are $1,500 and above; Sustaining begins at $750; Patron begins at $350; and Sponsor at $200 to $359. Family memberships are $110; adult $50; and student $15.

Considering the standard “door price” to enter just one program is $20 for adults and $10 for students, all WPAA season tickets should be considered as the “hottest ticket in northwest Kansas.” With nearly 20 programs scheduled, anyone who attends three or more season programs has landed a bargain.

Right after celebrating WPAA’s 50th Anniversary Program in February 2020, the COVID lockdown began and several of our scheduled programs had to be either cancelled or postponed into 2021 or even 2022. Even so, the show mostly went on for much of the last season. Board members are hopeful that nearly all our scheduled performers will be able to commit as scheduled for the upcoming season.&nbsp;

WPAA’s 52nd season officially begins Sept 12 and runs through early May. Confirmed programs for the upcoming season:

Sunday, Sept. 12, Dave and Daphne, Nashville duo, Colby.

Sunday, Sept. 19, Quebe Sisters, Texas, triple threat fiddle and Country vocal champions, Oakley.

Sunday, Oct. 3, Jukebox Saturday Night, ‘30s and ‘40s swing era, Oakley.

Sunday, Oct. 17, “How Sweet It Is,” a Steve Leslie vocal tribute to the music of James Taylor, location TBA.

Oct. 18-20, Wichita Children’s Theatre, “Alice in Wonderland” in area schools, Atwood, Colby, Goodland, St. Francis, Sharon Springs and Winona.

Sunday, Oct. 24, Swearingen &amp; Kelli, outlaw country music, Hoxie.

Saturday, Oct. 30, United States Navy Commodores &amp; United States Navy Band Cruisers, Colby.

Sunday, Oct. 31, Kevin &amp; Heidi Cheng, violin and piano, St. Francis.

Sunday, Nov. 14, After Midnight, Colorado’s premier swing band, Colby.

Sunday, Dec. 5, Christmas in Killarney, an Irish Christmas celebration, Oakley.

Sunday, Jan. 23, R.P. Smith, cowboy poetry and country commentary, Atwood.

Sunday, Feb. 20, The New Odyssey Guy, master of 10 instruments, Sharon Springs.

Sunday, Feb. 6, Pippa White pioneer history program “As Far as the eye can see,” Quinter.

Sunday, March 6, Hawley Magic, America’s Got Talent finalist, Colby.

Sunday, March 13, Ball in the House, a cappella group, Colby.

Sunday, March 27, Nashville Legacy, nostalgic show of the music of County Greats Chet Adkins and Floyd Kramer, Oakley.

Tuesday, April 12, Church Basement Ladies theatre production, “You Smell Barn,” Oakley.

Sunday, April 24, Cubanisms, Carribian music styles of Cuba and beyond, Hoxie.

Sunday, May 1, Pride of the Prairie Orchestra, location to be announced.

Exact venues will be listed in the official season program and in releases to local media approximately two weeks prior to each show. Most shows begin at 3 p.m. Central (2 p.m. Mountain) Sundays. Occasional evening shows at 7:30 p.m Central (6:30 p.m. Mountain).

At this time, local precautions against the transmission of COVID-19 are not relevant. WPAA will work throughout the season with venues to follow community, state or federal recommendations or temporary mandates. Winter storms may cause a program postponement or cancellation.

Board members for area host counties are as follows:&nbsp;

St. Francis;&nbsp;Althea Lebow, Helene Ladenberger, Marsha Magley

Oakley;&nbsp;Donna Albers, Shane Stephenson , Connie Singer, Betty Hockersmith

Atwood;&nbsp;Millie Fisher, Charles Peckham, Chelsea Schmitt

Goodland; Eric &amp; Roxie Yonkey, Curtis Duncan

Colby; Jan Barnum, Katina Brenn, Amie Kendrick, Sandy Wilks

CCC; Pat Ziegelmeier, Executive Director

Sharon Springs; Bill and Wilma Mai

Wallace; Cecil &amp; Jayne Humphrey Pearce

Weskan; Vernon and Mary Beth Akers

SubmittedSeason tickets are presently being sold by Western Plains Arts Association board members. Business sponsors have only until Aug. 5 to be included in the annual season program.&nbsp; Benefactor levels are $1,500 and above; Sustaining begins at $750; Patron begins at $350; and Sponsor at $200 to $359. Family memberships are $110; adult $50; and student $15.Considering the standard “door price” to enter just one program is $20 for adults and $10 for students, all WPAA season tickets should be considered as the “hottest ticket in northwest Kansas.” With nearly 20 programs scheduled, anyone who attends three or more season programs has landed a bargain.Right after celebrating WPAA’s 50th Anniversary Program in February 2020, the COVID lockdown began and several of our scheduled programs had to be either cancelled or postponed into 2021 or even 2022. Even so, the show mostly went on for much of the last season. Board members are hopeful that nearly all our scheduled performers will be able to commit as scheduled for the upcoming season.&nbsp;WPAA’s 52nd season officially begins Sept 12 and runs through early May. Confirmed programs for the upcoming season:Sunday, Sept. 12, Dave and Daphne, Nashville duo, Colby.Sunday, Sept. 19, Quebe Sisters, Texas, triple threat fiddle and Country vocal champions, Oakley.Sunday, Oct. 3, Jukebox Saturday Night, ‘30s and ‘40s swing era, Oakley.Sunday, Oct. 17, “How Sweet It Is,” a Steve Leslie vocal tribute to the music of James Taylor, location TBA.Oct. 18-20, Wichita Children’s Theatre, “Alice in Wonderland” in area schools, Atwood, Colby, Goodland, St. Francis, Sharon Springs and Winona.Sunday, Oct. 24, Swearingen &amp; Kelli, outlaw country music, Hoxie.Saturday, Oct. 30, United States Navy Commodores &amp; United States Navy Band Cruisers, Colby.Sunday, Oct. 31, Kevin &amp; Heidi Cheng, violin and piano, St. Francis.Sunday, Nov. 14, After Midnight, Colorado’s premier swing band, Colby.Sunday, Dec. 5, Christmas in Killarney, an Irish Christmas celebration, Oakley.Sunday, Jan. 23, R.P. Smith, cowboy poetry and country commentary, Atwood.Sunday, Feb. 20, The New Odyssey Guy, master of 10 instruments, Sharon Springs.Sunday, Feb. 6, Pippa White pioneer history program “As Far as the eye can see,” Quinter.Sunday, March 6, Hawley Magic, America’s Got Talent finalist, Colby.Sunday, March 13, Ball in the House, a cappella group, Colby.Sunday, March 27, Nashville Legacy, nostalgic show of the music of County Greats Chet Adkins and Floyd Kramer, Oakley.Tuesday, April 12, Church Basement Ladies theatre production, “You Smell Barn,” Oakley.Sunday, April 24, Cubanisms, Carribian music styles of Cuba and beyond, Hoxie.Sunday, May 1, Pride of the Prairie Orchestra, location to be announced.Exact venues will be listed in the official season program and in releases to local media approximately two weeks prior to each show. Most shows begin at 3 p.m. Central (2 p.m. Mountain) Sundays. Occasional evening shows at 7:30 p.m Central (6:30 p.m. Mountain).At this time, local precautions against the transmission of COVID-19 are not relevant. WPAA will work throughout the season with venues to follow community, state or federal recommendations or temporary mandates. Winter storms may cause a program postponement or cancellation.Board members for area host counties are as follows:&nbsp;Cheyenne CountySt. Francis;&nbsp;Althea Lebow, Helene Ladenberger, Marsha MagleyBird City;&nbsp;Beth KlepperGove CountyGrainfield;&nbsp;Denise PackardGrinnell;&nbsp;Leona DickmanQuinter;&nbsp;Denise WittmanLogan CountyOakley;&nbsp;Donna Albers, Shane Stephenson , Connie Singer, Betty HockersmithWinona;&nbsp;Ruth SmithRawlins CountyAtwood;&nbsp;Millie Fisher, Charles Peckham, Chelsea SchmittSheridan CountyHoxie; Marilyn MeierSherman CountyGoodland; Eric &amp; Roxie Yonkey, Curtis DuncanThomas CountyBrewster; Lesa JuenemannColby; Jan Barnum, Katina Brenn, Amie Kendrick, Sandy WilksCCC; Pat Ziegelmeier, Executive DirectorRexford;&nbsp;Jolene HansenWallace CountySharon Springs; Bill and Wilma MaiWallace; Cecil &amp; Jayne Humphrey PearceWeskan; Vernon and Mary Beth Akers

Western Plains Arts Association announces 2021-22 schedule

First Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County, announced Friday it was awarded a $3,353 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant

The grant will fund keyless entry, fixtures and outdoor security cameras for the First Step Housing facility opening in August. First Step Housing is a four-bedroom, transitional living facility that will provide safe shelter and supportive services for individuals who are facing homelessness.

“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our program, which will allow us to provide services that, until now, were unavailable in Ellis County,” said Linda Mills, executive director. “With the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call for Help has the ability to provide increased safety and security for the housing participants.

Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to the region through community grants.

SubmittedFirst Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County, announced Friday it was awarded a $3,353 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs GrantThe grant will fund keyless entry, fixtures and outdoor security cameras for the First Step Housing facility opening in August. First Step Housing is a four-bedroom, transitional living facility that will provide safe shelter and supportive services for individuals who are facing homelessness.“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our program, which will allow us to provide services that, until now, were unavailable in Ellis County,” said Linda Mills, executive director. “With the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call for Help has the ability to provide increased safety and security for the housing participants.Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to the region through community grants.

First Call for Help receives grant from Heartland Foundation

Luray Community PRIDE Inc. has announced the 55th annual Luray Friendship Day event will be
held in downtown Luray on Sunday, Sep.5. Kicking it off is the Relay for Life lunch stand
opening up at 10:00am, the parade and car/truck and tractor show registration at 11:30am followed by
the parade at 1:00pm and the car/truck and tractor show at 2:00pm. The Luray Fire Department will be
hosting a Cornhole Tournament, registration starting after the parade and closing at 2:20pm,
tournament starting at 2:30pm (24 team limit).


Bring your family and friends to experience Luray Friendship Day with other activities including
inflatables, turtle races, face painting, trivia, a medallion hunt, kids tractor pedal pull (ages 4-13), laser
tag, beer garden, snow cones, car/truck and tractor show, 50/50 raffle, Luray Pride Train, Luray
Historical Society’s famous homemade ice cream, donation BBQ dinner at 5:00pm and special guest Kill
Creek Rising live on Main Street starting at 7:00pm.


For event updates, schedules and
more, visit Luray Community Pride on Facebook.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627159952020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLuray Community PRIDE Inc. has announced the 55th annual Luray Friendship Day event will be
held in downtown Luray on Sunday, Sep.5. Kicking it off is the Relay for Life lunch stand
opening up at 10:00am, the parade and car/truck and tractor show registration at 11:30am followed by
the parade at 1:00pm and the car/truck and tractor show at 2:00pm. The Luray Fire Department will be
hosting a Cornhole Tournament, registration starting after the parade and closing at 2:20pm,
tournament starting at 2:30pm (24 team limit).
Bring your family and friends to experience Luray Friendship Day with other activities including
inflatables, turtle races, face painting, trivia, a medallion hunt, kids tractor pedal pull (ages 4-13), laser
tag, beer garden, snow cones, car/truck and tractor show, 50/50 raffle, Luray Pride Train, Luray
Historical Society’s famous homemade ice cream, donation BBQ dinner at 5:00pm and special guest Kill
Creek Rising live on Main Street starting at 7:00pm.
For event updates, schedules and
more, visit Luray Community Pride on Facebook.

55th annual Luray Friendship day set for September

Three-day weather outlook

Bearded iris rhizomes should not be buried completely underground. They should remain exposed at the surface. The tops of the rhizomes will be visible. Spread the small roots out as you bury them below the soil.

  Iris grow best, as do most plants, in well-drained soil. Standing water for extended periods can cause problems with rot. Water at planting and as needed until plants are established.

            Bearded irises are well adapted to Kansas. After several years, the centers of the clumps tend to lose vigor, and flowering occurs toward the outside. Dividing iris every three to five years will help rejuvenate the planting and increase flowering. Iris may be divided from late July through August, but late July through early August is ideal.

            Iris clumps are fairly shallow, it is easy to dig up the entire clump. The root system of the plant consists of thick rhizomes and smaller feeder roots. Use a sharp knife to cut the rhizomes apart so each division consists of a fan of leaves and a section of rhizome. The best divisions are made from a double fan that consists of two small rhizomes attached to a larger one, which forms a Y-shaped division. Each of these small rhizomes has a fan of leaves. The rhizomes that do not&nbsp;split produce single fans. The double fans are preferred because they produce more flowers the&nbsp;first year after planting. Single fans take a year to build up strength.

            Rhizomes that show signs of damage due to iris borers or soft rot may be discarded, but&nbsp;you may want to physically remove borers from rhizomes and replant if the damage is not&nbsp;severe. It is possible to treat mild cases of soft rot by scraping out the affected tissue, allowing it&nbsp;to dry in the sun and dipping it in a 10 percent solution of household bleach. Make the bleach&nbsp;solution by mixing one-part bleach with nine parts water. Rinse the treated rhizomes with water and allow them to dry before replanting.

Master Gardeners of Ellis County, Cottonwood District. More information available at&nbsp;&nbsp;www.cottonwood.ksu.edu or call 785-628-9430

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614966296214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedBearded iris rhizomes should not be buried completely underground. They should remain exposed at the surface. The tops of the rhizomes will be visible. Spread the small roots out as you bury them below the soil. Iris grow best, as do most plants, in well-drained soil. Standing water for extended periods can cause problems with rot. Water at planting and as needed until plants are established.<h2>Dividing Iris</h2> Bearded irises are well adapted to Kansas. After several years, the centers of the clumps tend to lose vigor, and flowering occurs toward the outside. Dividing iris every three to five years will help rejuvenate the planting and increase flowering. Iris may be divided from late July through August, but late July through early August is ideal. Iris clumps are fairly shallow, it is easy to dig up the entire clump. The root system of the plant consists of thick rhizomes and smaller feeder roots. Use a sharp knife to cut the rhizomes apart so each division consists of a fan of leaves and a section of rhizome. The best divisions are made from a double fan that consists of two small rhizomes attached to a larger one, which forms a Y-shaped division. Each of these small rhizomes has a fan of leaves. The rhizomes that do not&nbsp;split produce single fans. The double fans are preferred because they produce more flowers the&nbsp;first year after planting. Single fans take a year to build up strength. Rhizomes that show signs of damage due to iris borers or soft rot may be discarded, but&nbsp;you may want to physically remove borers from rhizomes and replant if the damage is not&nbsp;severe. It is possible to treat mild cases of soft rot by scraping out the affected tissue, allowing it&nbsp;to dry in the sun and dipping it in a 10 percent solution of household bleach. Make the bleach&nbsp;solution by mixing one-part bleach with nine parts water. Rinse the treated rhizomes with water and allow them to dry before replanting.Master Gardeners of Ellis County, Cottonwood District. More information available at&nbsp;&nbsp;www.cottonwood.ksu.edu or call 785-628-9430

From the Ellis County Master Gardeners: Planting bearded iris

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Community Health Promotion team is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Community Grant. In total, there are 22 recipients that will cover 34 counties and more than 2.9 million Kansans (73.4% of the Kansas population).

The CDRR Community Grant Program provides funding, training and technical assistance to communities to address chronic disease risk reduction through evidence-based strategies that impact tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition. Strategies include: reducing secondhand smoke exposure, preventing youth from using tobacco, promoting tobacco treatment and the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjAuNDM0NDc2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2thbnNhcy5xdWl0bG9naXgub3JnL2VuLVVTLz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.JdMSW9ld69THbS3dhPODD6qBi1TSwtTjAuBuap9G7s8/s/1305913542/br/109617293640-l" target="_blank">Kansas Tobacco Quitline</a>, increasing physical activity and improving community nutrition.

“We are proud that that the CDRR grant allows communities to assess their health data, address local priorities through policy, promote health and wellness and often apply for other funding opportunities,” said Secretary Lee A. Norman, M.D., Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

The State Fiscal Year 2022 CDRR Grantees and the counties they cover include:

Learn more about the CDRR Community Grant Program at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjAuNDM0NDc2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvdG9iYWNjby9jZHJyLmh0bT91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.pznvuKsBfAxvwtwgK-2gRtTt3XUJmSqRE0pdu4DAlYY/s/1305913542/br/109617293640-l" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/tobacco/cdrr.htm</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626889945307.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Community Health Promotion team is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Community Grant. In total, there are 22 recipients that will cover 34 counties and more than 2.9 million Kansans (73.4% of the Kansas population).The CDRR Community Grant Program provides funding, training and technical assistance to communities to address chronic disease risk reduction through evidence-based strategies that impact tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition. Strategies include: reducing secondhand smoke exposure, preventing youth from using tobacco, promoting tobacco treatment and the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjAuNDM0NDc2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2thbnNhcy5xdWl0bG9naXgub3JnL2VuLVVTLz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.JdMSW9ld69THbS3dhPODD6qBi1TSwtTjAuBuap9G7s8/s/1305913542/br/109617293640-l" target="_blank">Kansas Tobacco Quitline</a>, increasing physical activity and improving community nutrition.“We are proud that that the CDRR grant allows communities to assess their health data, address local priorities through policy, promote health and wellness and often apply for other funding opportunities,” said Secretary Lee A. Norman, M.D., Kansas Department of Health and Environment.The State Fiscal Year 2022 CDRR Grantees and the counties they cover include:<ul>
 <li>Thrive Allen County, Inc. (Allen County)</li><li>Barton County Health Department (Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford Counties)</li><li>Health and Wellness Advocates of Cherokee County (Cherokee County)</li><li>Crawford County Health Department (Crawford County)</li><li>Quality of Life Coalition (Dickinson County)</li><li>Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department (Douglas County)</li><li>Edwards County Economic Development Corporation (Edwards and Hodgeman Counties)</li><li>LiveWell Finney County Health Coalition (Finney, Stanton and Scott Counties)</li><li>Grant County Community Foundation Office (Grant County)</li><li>Harvey County Health Department (Harvey County)</li><li>Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (Johnson County)</li><li>Crosswinds Counseling &amp; Wellness (Lyon County)</li><li>Miami County Health Department (Miami County)</li><li>North Central- Mitchell County Medical Foundation (Mitchell, Ellsworth, Jewell, Lincoln, Ottawa, Republic and Smith Counties)</li><li>Montgomery County Health Department (Montgomery County)</li><li>Reno County Health Department (Reno County)</li><li>Riley County Health Department (Riley County)</li><li>Central Kansas Foundation (Saline County)</li><li>Medical Society of Sedgwick County (Sedgwick County)</li><li>Shawnee County Health Agency (Shawnee County)</li><li>Wilson Medical Center (Wilson County)</li><li>Unified Government Public Health Department (Wyandotte County)</li>
 </ul>Learn more about the CDRR Community Grant Program at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjAuNDM0NDc2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvdG9iYWNjby9jZHJyLmh0bT91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.pznvuKsBfAxvwtwgK-2gRtTt3XUJmSqRE0pdu4DAlYY/s/1305913542/br/109617293640-l" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/tobacco/cdrr.htm</a>.

Area counties are Chronic Disease Risk Reduction community grantees

The Delta variant of COVID-19 has been identified in Ellis County, but with an effective vaccine available Health Services Director Jason Kennedy said there is little cause for local concern.

"Yes, it is in Ellis County," Kennedy said. "We do currently have one case as credited by the state."

But the work needed to identify variants in positive COVID-19 tests occurs in only about one in ten tests, so the number could potentially be higher, he said.

"We do believe that the Delta variant is probably the primary COVID-19 that we have in Ellis County," Kennedy said.

But so far, there has been no impact seen due to the variant.

"It doesn't seem to be leading to any increased hospitalizations over and above what the standard COVID-19 did," Kennedy said. "It doesn't seem to be leading to any increased mortality above and beyond what COVID-19 (did.)

"Actually, what we are seeing is maybe reduced hospitalizations or reduced mortality from the Delta variant, likely due to vaccines."

Three vaccines have been developed and are all readily available in Hays and Kennedy said they are all highly effective against the COVID-19, including the Delta variant.

"It really doesn't matter which of the three vaccines you get," he said. "Some of them are shown to be slightly more effective, some of them are shown to be slightly less effective, but they are all effective.

"And what we are finding, even with the Delta variant - as with COVID-19 - is that the vaccinated people do not seem to be getting hospitalized, and they are not dying, even if they get COVID-19. 

"Ninety-nine point five percent - 99.5, that's a big number - percent of COVID deaths, right now are in the unvaccinated population. There is no way around that number."

He said cases of COVID-19 in vaccinated people are also sporadic, and those cases are typically mild or asymptomatic.

"The vaccine does appear to be effective, and it is working," Kennedy said. "We have a tool. The only tool that is highly effective and will limit the overall impact of this pandemic is vaccination."

With the number of vaccines that have been given out across the globe, Kennedy said there is also overwhelming data showing they are safe.

"There are all kinds of statistics, but what we know about this vaccine is that it is overwhelmingly safe," he said. "The negative incidents with this vaccine are generally less than what we find with any other vaccine."

But the hesitancy remains, and ultimately he said the unvaccinated make up the majority of cases today.

"Right now, we are in a pandemic of the unvaccinated population," Kennedy said. "And that is just a simple fact. If you don't want to get COVID-19, or if you are fearful that you might get COVID-19, or you are fearful you might spread it to someone else, be vaccinated. Go get vaccinated."

While he said the vaccines are effective, he does not believe they should be made mandatory.

"It's a personal choice," Kennedy said. "It's your right to do that. It is your right not to do that."

But he hopes those choosing not to receive the vaccine will consider all of the potential impacts.

"The vast majority of COVID-19 impacts have just been social impacts," Kennedy said, including extend quarantines and lockdowns. "That's been the vast majority."

He said limiting those impacts, alongside the medical impacts, requires vaccinations.

"If you are vaccinated, and you are next to someone that is positive, you won't be quarantined," Kennedy said. "You will be able to go to work; you can continue to live your life. If you're vaccinated, even in an area that has mask mandates, almost all of them, if you are vaccinated, you don't need to wear a mask. Right now, it is the way for us to continue forward."

He said that the pandemic would last longer without more vaccinations, and the push for mandates will continue.

And with attention toward the new variant and vaccination rates leveling off, stories of returning mandates and full hospitals may be easy to believe, but are untrue, Kennedy said.

"That, unfortunately, is an overdramatization of the events," he said. "The hospital has plenty of beds. The hospital has a great staff, the hospital has the tools to treat you if you get COVID-19, and you have tools to protect yourself if you don't want to get COVID-19."

And the return of restrictions is unlikely.

"Right now, there is no outlook for shutdowns in Ellis County," Kennedy said. "There is no outlook for any mandates in Ellis County. We will not close businesses. We will not mandate masks. We will not limit gathering sizes.

 "The government will not fight the pandemic for you. It is your turn to fight your pandemic."

<div><iframe title="Kennedy: Delta variant is here, but we have the tool to stop it" 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=rwtaz-109866c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Delta variant of COVID-19 has been identified in Ellis County, but with an effective vaccine available Health Services Director Jason Kennedy said there is little cause for local concern."Yes, it is in Ellis County," Kennedy said. "We do currently have one case as credited by the state."But the work needed to identify variants in positive COVID-19 tests occurs in only about one in ten tests, so the number could potentially be higher, he said."We do believe that the Delta variant is probably the primary COVID-19 that we have in Ellis County," Kennedy said.But so far, there has been no impact seen due to the variant."It doesn't seem to be leading to any increased hospitalizations over and above what the standard COVID-19 did," Kennedy said. "It doesn't seem to be leading to any increased mortality above and beyond what COVID-19 (did.)"Actually, what we are seeing is maybe reduced hospitalizations or reduced mortality from the Delta variant, likely due to vaccines."Three vaccines have been developed and are all readily available in Hays and Kennedy said they are all highly effective against the COVID-19, including the Delta variant."It really doesn't matter which of the three vaccines you get," he said. "Some of them are shown to be slightly more effective, some of them are shown to be slightly less effective, but they are all effective."And what we are finding, even with the Delta variant - as with COVID-19 - is that the vaccinated people do not seem to be getting hospitalized, and they are not dying, even if they get COVID-19. "Ninety-nine point five percent - 99.5, that's a big number - percent of COVID deaths, right now are in the unvaccinated population. There is no way around that number."He said cases of COVID-19 in vaccinated people are also sporadic, and those cases are typically mild or asymptomatic."The vaccine does appear to be effective, and it is working," Kennedy said. "We have a tool. The only tool that is highly effective and will limit the overall impact of this pandemic is vaccination."With the number of vaccines that have been given out across the globe, Kennedy said there is also overwhelming data showing they are safe."There are all kinds of statistics, but what we know about this vaccine is that it is overwhelmingly safe," he said. "The negative incidents with this vaccine are generally less than what we find with any other vaccine."But the hesitancy remains, and ultimately he said the unvaccinated make up the majority of cases today."Right now, we are in a pandemic of the unvaccinated population," Kennedy said. "And that is just a simple fact. If you don't want to get COVID-19, or if you are fearful that you might get COVID-19, or you are fearful you might spread it to someone else, be vaccinated. Go get vaccinated."While he said the vaccines are effective, he does not believe they should be made mandatory."It's a personal choice," Kennedy said. "It's your right to do that. It is your right not to do that."But he hopes those choosing not to receive the vaccine will consider all of the potential impacts."The vast majority of COVID-19 impacts have just been social impacts," Kennedy said, including extend quarantines and lockdowns. "That's been the vast majority."He said limiting those impacts, alongside the medical impacts, requires vaccinations."If you are vaccinated, and you are next to someone that is positive, you won't be quarantined," Kennedy said. "You will be able to go to work; you can continue to live your life. If you're vaccinated, even in an area that has mask mandates, almost all of them, if you are vaccinated, you don't need to wear a mask. Right now, it is the way for us to continue forward."He said that the pandemic would last longer without more vaccinations, and the push for mandates will continue.And with attention toward the new variant and vaccination rates leveling off, stories of returning mandates and full hospitals may be easy to believe, but are untrue, Kennedy said."That, unfortunately, is an overdramatization of the events," he said. "The hospital has plenty of beds. The hospital has a great staff, the hospital has the tools to treat you if you get COVID-19, and you have tools to protect yourself if you don't want to get COVID-19."And the return of restrictions is unlikely."Right now, there is no outlook for shutdowns in Ellis County," Kennedy said. "There is no outlook for any mandates in Ellis County. We will not close businesses. We will not mandate masks. We will not limit gathering sizes. "The government will not fight the pandemic for you. It is your turn to fight your pandemic."

🎙Kennedy: Delta variant in Ellis Co., but we have the tool to stop it

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Work site and micro-utility task vehicles are now allowed to
be driven on Hays streets following a unanimous vote at Thursday's city commission meeting. 

Ellis County Commissioner Neal Younger brought the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cc2dd8bc-4915-437c-ac42-b60dea479b93">request</a> and
public support petitions to the city in April. The proposed ordinance changed several times as city commissioners discussed the issue during work sessions.

"People are spending thousands of dollars on these units and could not drive them in Hays," Younger said, "but the surrounding cities had this in play."

Ellis, Victoria, Stockton, Plainville, Rush Center, Russell, Ness City and Dodge City allow UTVs on their streets. They are also permitted on <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4f3e12f4-54f4-496e-8364-58da3f16934a">Ellis County rural roads</a>.&nbsp;

The side-by-side vehicles are prohibited by state law from traveling on U.S. Highway 183/Vine Street, but may cross the road whether in the city or county.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Younger expects more people will now purchase the qualified UTVs, resulting in increased sales tax revenue for the city of Hays. Owners of BOS Motorsports and Briney Motorsports in Hays spoke in favor of the ordinance at a previous meeting.&nbsp;

And as a bonus, "when they're in town, they're going to shop, so, more sales tax," Younger said.

The new ordinance will be a convenience to Younger and other people like
him.

"Most of the time I use mine [UTV] on the farm ... and when I need a piece of equipment on the farm, I can jump in it and run to wherever I need to be in Hays and get a part. It's going to be a good advantage."

The UTV drivers must be at least 18 years old.&nbsp;

Registration, inspection and annual tags for UTVs will be handled by the Hays Police Department via the city's website.&nbsp; According to Brian Dawson, asst. police chief, temporary tags will be issued to Hays drivers beginning next week until the actual plates are available next month.

ATVs and golf carts are not allowed on city streets.&nbsp;

* Approved the next step in nuisance abatements at 607 Elm Street and 3312 Lincoln Drive.&nbsp; Jesse Rohr, public works director, noted about 85 percent of the nuisance items at the Lincoln address had already been moved by the property owner.&nbsp;

* Heard an update of key performance indicators of SkyWest/United at Hays Regional Airport as compiled by the city's aviation consultant, ArkStar. Jamie Salter, airport director, said passenger boardings have rebounded more quickly than predicted following the 2020 COVID pandemic. "We're on pace for 1,300 enplanements in July," Salter told commissioners. "In July 2020, there were only 218 boardings."

* Heard the June financial statement from Kim Rupp, finance director. Rupp said there was a "wonderful increase" in retail sales tax collections and the city's share of the new Ellis County sales tax was tracking "better than thought." Year-to-date&nbsp;general fund sales tax collections are at $4,056,187, up 9.8% compared to last year. Month-to-date&nbsp;county sales tax collections were at $87,555 with the year-to-date total at&nbsp;$491,679.

* Heard a progress report of city departments' recent projects and activities from Collin Bielser, asst. city manager.

* Hays resident Zach Wolf spoke during citizen comments about the dearth of childcare providers in Hays, especially for infants younger than 18 months. Mayor Sandy Jacobs said the city expects to be working with Grow Hays to improve the situation.

<div><iframe title="Hays City Commission recap: July 23, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qsa67-109865f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostWork site and micro-utility task vehicles are now allowed to
be driven on Hays streets following a unanimous vote at Thursday's city commission meeting. Ellis County Commissioner Neal Younger brought the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cc2dd8bc-4915-437c-ac42-b60dea479b93">request</a> and
public support petitions to the city in April. The proposed ordinance changed several times as city commissioners discussed the issue during work sessions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626306619587.jpeg" alt="Examples of a work-site utility vehicle and a utility task vehicle that will be allowed on Hays city streets. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Examples of a work-site utility vehicle and a utility task vehicle that will be allowed on Hays city streets. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>"People are spending thousands of dollars on these units and could not drive them in Hays," Younger said, "but the surrounding cities had this in play."Ellis, Victoria, Stockton, Plainville, Rush Center, Russell, Ness City and Dodge City allow UTVs on their streets. They are also permitted on <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4f3e12f4-54f4-496e-8364-58da3f16934a">Ellis County rural roads</a>.&nbsp;The side-by-side vehicles are prohibited by state law from traveling on U.S. Highway 183/Vine Street, but may cross the road whether in the city or county.&nbsp; &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/bNHKYgBNUQA"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Younger expects more people will now purchase the qualified UTVs, resulting in increased sales tax revenue for the city of Hays. Owners of BOS Motorsports and Briney Motorsports in Hays spoke in favor of the ordinance at a previous meeting.&nbsp;And as a bonus, "when they're in town, they're going to shop, so, more sales tax," Younger said.The new ordinance will be a convenience to Younger and other people like
him."Most of the time I use mine [UTV] on the farm ... and when I need a piece of equipment on the farm, I can jump in it and run to wherever I need to be in Hays and get a part. It's going to be a good advantage."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627095205303.jpeg" alt="Temporary UTV tags will be issued to Hays drivers until the actual plates are available next month.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Temporary UTV tags will be issued to Hays drivers until the actual plates are available next month.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The UTV drivers must be at least 18 years old.&nbsp;Registration, inspection and annual tags for UTVs will be handled by the Hays Police Department via the city's website.&nbsp; According to Brian Dawson, asst. police chief, temporary tags will be issued to Hays drivers beginning next week until the actual plates are available next month.ATVs and golf carts are not allowed on city streets.&nbsp;In other business, commissioners:* Approved the next step in nuisance abatements at 607 Elm Street and 3312 Lincoln Drive.&nbsp; Jesse Rohr, public works director, noted about 85 percent of the nuisance items at the Lincoln address had already been moved by the property owner.&nbsp;* Heard an update of key performance indicators of SkyWest/United at Hays Regional Airport as compiled by the city's aviation consultant, ArkStar. Jamie Salter, airport director, said passenger boardings have rebounded more quickly than predicted following the 2020 COVID pandemic. "We're on pace for 1,300 enplanements in July," Salter told commissioners. "In July 2020, there were only 218 boardings."* Heard the June financial statement from Kim Rupp, finance director. Rupp said there was a "wonderful increase" in retail sales tax collections and the city's share of the new Ellis County sales tax was tracking "better than thought." Year-to-date&nbsp;general fund sales tax collections are at $4,056,187, up 9.8% compared to last year. Month-to-date&nbsp;county sales tax collections were at $87,555 with the year-to-date total at&nbsp;$491,679.* Heard a progress report of city departments' recent projects and activities from Collin Bielser, asst. city manager.* Hays resident Zach Wolf spoke during citizen comments about the dearth of childcare providers in Hays, especially for infants younger than 18 months. Mayor Sandy Jacobs said the city expects to be working with Grow Hays to improve the situation.

🎥 🎙 UTVs now allowed on Hays city streets 

Even though COVID-19 is not fully behind us, it’s time to review where schools stand on the road to recovery.

Kansas has been fortunate to receive a healthy share of federal COVID-19 relief funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Higher education and schools will receive more than $1 billion in one-time federal COVID-19 aid spread over four years.&nbsp; Most public school distribution will be to individual districts which are required to spend at least 20 percent to address learning loss.&nbsp; In Kansas the focus is to advance student reading skills, largely through for K-3 teacher development.&nbsp; Funds also are set aside for summer session and after-school programs.&nbsp;

Since 2019, $145 million has been directed toward broadband access to help Kansas farmers and businesses plus close the gap for students without reliable home internet connection.&nbsp;

If the infrastructure agreement now being considered in Washington passes, the $65 billion deal will include money for electric school buses, replacing lead pipes to ensure students have clean drinking water and expansion of broadband access.&nbsp;

Moreover, the Kansas Legislature has approved funding for the final two years of&nbsp;the Gannon&nbsp;school finance plan that will boost general operating budgets by about $900 million over six years.&nbsp;

This is where the good news ends.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas schools may never return to past health and safety practices and certainly not to past social and technological environments. Students are encountering emotional difficulty, trouble making up for learning hampered by school disruptions and infections may rise again.

The challenges are great, but Kansans also met great difficulty during the 1930s when high school graduation rates dropped to 60 percent.&nbsp; What happened then was remarkable.&nbsp;

A great structural transformation moved “dust-bowl” learning to more rigorous academics and a curriculum that included typing, shorthand, advanced farming techniques and other courses to prepare students for a manufacturing workforce.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By 2019, the Kansas high school graduation rate was 87 percent, although&nbsp;students from low-income families, some minority groups and students with disabilities lag about 10 percentage points behind in graduation rates compared to their peers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Vo-Tech learning has evolved from typing and shorthand to electronic communication for post-industrial skills.&nbsp;

The lessons of the 1930s—go big and take a fundamentally different direction—are needed post-COVID-19.&nbsp; The opportunity is here through a&nbsp;KSDE appointed&nbsp;Task Force to study what&nbsp;should&nbsp;be&nbsp;required&nbsp;for students to graduate from high school.&nbsp;

The Task Force is significant because ultimately, though often not obvious, all schooling ties into the fulfillment of graduation requirements.&nbsp; Committee members will study whether the state should continue to use the current course-completion system (local districts may add requirements) or explore different ways&nbsp;to&nbsp;determine whether students have&nbsp;met&nbsp;state-level graduation requirements.&nbsp;

Here are questions the committee should expect:&nbsp; How can we achieve higher graduation rates for all students?&nbsp;

How can we prepare students to enter post high school skills or university preparation because good 21st&nbsp;Century jobs require more than a high school diploma?&nbsp;

How can we ensure each student has home access to an electronic device and internet connection?&nbsp;&nbsp;

How can we address calls for increased early childhood education, personal finance study, the teaching of civics/citizenship and adding a community engagement/service requirement?&nbsp;&nbsp;

COVID-19 impact can’t be eliminated but it can be managed, even turned to advantage.&nbsp; Restructuring worked in the 1930s.&nbsp; Bold changes can again lead Kansas schools to a better future.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Even though COVID-19 is not fully behind us, it’s time to review where schools stand on the road to recovery.Kansas has been fortunate to receive a healthy share of federal COVID-19 relief funds.&nbsp;&nbsp;Higher education and schools will receive more than $1 billion in one-time federal COVID-19 aid spread over four years.&nbsp; Most public school distribution will be to individual districts which are required to spend at least 20 percent to address learning loss.&nbsp; In Kansas the focus is to advance student reading skills, largely through for K-3 teacher development.&nbsp; Funds also are set aside for summer session and after-school programs.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Since 2019, $145 million has been directed toward broadband access to help Kansas farmers and businesses plus close the gap for students without reliable home internet connection.&nbsp;If the infrastructure agreement now being considered in Washington passes, the $65 billion deal will include money for electric school buses, replacing lead pipes to ensure students have clean drinking water and expansion of broadband access.&nbsp;Moreover, the Kansas Legislature has approved funding for the final two years of&nbsp;the Gannon&nbsp;school finance plan that will boost general operating budgets by about $900 million over six years.&nbsp;This is where the good news ends.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas schools may never return to past health and safety practices and certainly not to past social and technological environments. Students are encountering emotional difficulty, trouble making up for learning hampered by school disruptions and infections may rise again.The challenges are great, but Kansans also met great difficulty during the 1930s when high school graduation rates dropped to 60 percent.&nbsp; What happened then was remarkable.&nbsp;A great structural transformation moved “dust-bowl” learning to more rigorous academics and a curriculum that included typing, shorthand, advanced farming techniques and other courses to prepare students for a manufacturing workforce.&nbsp;&nbsp;By 2019, the Kansas high school graduation rate was 87 percent, although&nbsp;students from low-income families, some minority groups and students with disabilities lag about 10 percentage points behind in graduation rates compared to their peers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Vo-Tech learning has evolved from typing and shorthand to electronic communication for post-industrial skills.&nbsp;The lessons of the 1930s—go big and take a fundamentally different direction—are needed post-COVID-19.&nbsp; The opportunity is here through a&nbsp;KSDE appointed&nbsp;Task Force to study what&nbsp;should&nbsp;be&nbsp;required&nbsp;for students to graduate from high school.&nbsp;The Task Force is significant because ultimately, though often not obvious, all schooling ties into the fulfillment of graduation requirements.&nbsp; Committee members will study whether the state should continue to use the current course-completion system (local districts may add requirements) or explore different ways&nbsp;to&nbsp;determine whether students have&nbsp;met&nbsp;state-level graduation requirements.&nbsp;Here are questions the committee should expect:&nbsp; How can we achieve higher graduation rates for all students?&nbsp;How can we prepare students to enter post high school skills or university preparation because good 21st&nbsp;Century jobs require more than a high school diploma?&nbsp;How can we ensure each student has home access to an electronic device and internet connection?&nbsp;&nbsp;How can we address calls for increased early childhood education, personal finance study, the teaching of civics/citizenship and adding a community engagement/service requirement?&nbsp;&nbsp;COVID-19 impact can’t be eliminated but it can be managed, even turned to advantage.&nbsp; Restructuring worked in the 1930s.&nbsp; Bold changes can again lead Kansas schools to a better future.&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Good news, challenges for post-COVID school recovery

COLBY — Colby Community College had a strong showing in the National Junior College Athletic Association's&nbsp;2020-21 All-Academic Awards that recognize student-athletes across the country for their dedication in the classrooms. Forty-three Trojans made the list, and six of the eight teams recognized finished in the top 20 nationally.&nbsp;

"I could not be more proud of this amazing group of student-athletes," said CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler. "The past year provided an incredible amount of challenges as they juggled practice, games, and class while working around obstacles that COVID threw at them. Despite all of that, they excelled in the classroom while also performing at a high level on the court or field. It also shows how hard each of our head coaches works to create a well-rounded student-athlete who can be successful."

Eight Trojan teams earned NJCAA All-Academic status for collectively attaining at least a 3.0 GPA. The volleyball team posted a 3.60 GPA, while the softball squad earned a 3.58. Women's cross country had the nation's sixth-highest mark among their peers at 3.52. Other achievers are men's cross country (3.30), baseball (3.23), women's outdoor track and field (3.18), women's basketball (3.14) and women's indoor track and field (3.11).

To earn NJCAA All-Academic first-team recognition, a student must carry a 4.00 grade point average. Second-team honorees have a GPA between 3.80 and 3.99. GPAs for third-team members range from 3.60 to 3.79.

First Team (4.0) Baseball: Matthew Dobberthien, Kyle Froehlich, Blake Labuda, Cleary Simpson, AJ Yamaguchi. Basketball (Men):&nbsp;Jarrett Bates.

Cross Country (Women): Morgan Clinesmith; Tobi Wilber.

Indoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;

Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.

Softball: Savanna Anderson,&nbsp;Macy Gurnsey,&nbsp;Darian Riggs,&nbsp;Sophie Supernor, Allison Westbrook, Jennifer Williams.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Ruxandra Flueras, Olivia Navarro, Marta Roicka.

Second Team (3.80-3.99) Baseball:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.

Basketball (Women): Kiarra Henderson,&nbsp;Teira Johnson.

Indoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Kelvin Kipchirchir.

Indoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp; Outdoor Track and Field (Men): Kelvin Kipchirchir.

Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr, McKenna Kirkpatrick.

Softball: Gloria DiLauro; Sydnee Hoffman, Taylor Sheppard.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Claire Choloux; McKenna Kirkpatrick.

Baseball: Kyle Bloor, AJ Cortese,&nbsp;Tyler McWillie, Tucker Zdunich.

Basketball (Women): Kamryn Hughes,&nbsp;De'Jah Vigilante.

Cross Country (Men): Robert Cheruiyot, Ryan Voss.

Cross Country (Women): Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.

Indoor Track and Field (Women): Regan Hodsden, Abigael Kemboi.&nbsp;

Outdoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Ryan Voss.

Outdoor Track and Field (Women):&nbsp;Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.

Volleyball: Kassandra Lerma,&nbsp;Macarena Ruiz, Ashlyn Swan.

The complete list of individual and team recognition can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/general/2020-21/releases/20210715mgwj3p">NJCAA website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College had a strong showing in the National Junior College Athletic Association's&nbsp;2020-21 All-Academic Awards that recognize student-athletes across the country for their dedication in the classrooms. Forty-three Trojans made the list, and six of the eight teams recognized finished in the top 20 nationally.&nbsp;"I could not be more proud of this amazing group of student-athletes," said CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler. "The past year provided an incredible amount of challenges as they juggled practice, games, and class while working around obstacles that COVID threw at them. Despite all of that, they excelled in the classroom while also performing at a high level on the court or field. It also shows how hard each of our head coaches works to create a well-rounded student-athlete who can be successful."Eight Trojan teams earned NJCAA All-Academic status for collectively attaining at least a 3.0 GPA. The volleyball team posted a 3.60 GPA, while the softball squad earned a 3.58. Women's cross country had the nation's sixth-highest mark among their peers at 3.52. Other achievers are men's cross country (3.30), baseball (3.23), women's outdoor track and field (3.18), women's basketball (3.14) and women's indoor track and field (3.11).To earn NJCAA All-Academic first-team recognition, a student must carry a 4.00 grade point average. Second-team honorees have a GPA between 3.80 and 3.99. GPAs for third-team members range from 3.60 to 3.79.First Team (4.0) Baseball: Matthew Dobberthien, Kyle Froehlich, Blake Labuda, Cleary Simpson, AJ Yamaguchi. Basketball (Men):&nbsp;Jarrett Bates.Cross Country (Women): Morgan Clinesmith; Tobi Wilber.Indoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.Softball: Savanna Anderson,&nbsp;Macy Gurnsey,&nbsp;Darian Riggs,&nbsp;Sophie Supernor, Allison Westbrook, Jennifer Williams.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Ruxandra Flueras, Olivia Navarro, Marta Roicka.Second Team (3.80-3.99) Baseball:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.Basketball (Women): Kiarra Henderson,&nbsp;Teira Johnson.Cross Country (Men): Kelvin Kipchirchir.Cross Country (Women): Ryleigh Carr.Indoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Kelvin Kipchirchir.Indoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp; Outdoor Track and Field (Men): Kelvin Kipchirchir.Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr, McKenna Kirkpatrick.Softball: Gloria DiLauro; Sydnee Hoffman, Taylor Sheppard.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Claire Choloux; McKenna Kirkpatrick.Third Team (3.60 to 3.79)&nbsp;Baseball: Kyle Bloor, AJ Cortese,&nbsp;Tyler McWillie, Tucker Zdunich.Basketball (Men): Tyrik King.Basketball (Women): Kamryn Hughes,&nbsp;De'Jah Vigilante.Cross Country (Men): Robert Cheruiyot, Ryan Voss.Cross Country (Women): Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.Indoor Track and Field (Men): Ryan Voss.Indoor Track and Field (Women): Regan Hodsden, Abigael Kemboi.&nbsp;Outdoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Ryan Voss.Outdoor Track and Field (Women):&nbsp;Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.Softball: Elle Edeker.&nbsp;&nbsp;Volleyball: Kassandra Lerma,&nbsp;Macarena Ruiz, Ashlyn Swan.Wrestling: Kody Hahn.The complete list of individual and team recognition can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/general/2020-21/releases/20210715mgwj3p">NJCAA website</a>.

Colby Community College athletes earn academic honors

The pinnacle of most athletes’ career is often a championship title, MVP award, or perhaps a gold medal. For more than 11,000 athletes, that moment will begin this week as the 2021 Summer Olympic Opening Ceremonies kick off on Friday, July 23rd.&nbsp; This Friday is the beginning of two-weeks filled with festivities and competition that will transpire in Tokyo, Japan.&nbsp;

Team USA will bring over 600 athletes to compete in a variety of events, some of the most popular being gymnastics, swimming, track &amp; field, and soccer.&nbsp; Many of these participants have patiently waited an additional year to compete for their home country. When the Games were postponed in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, many competitors had to reevaluate their training and mindset to adapt to the change.&nbsp; In a year filled with postponements and cancellations, it is inspiring to see these athletes finally competing and displaying their long tribulations of commitment. I admire the perseverance these athletes had to prolong their training and wait another 365 days to participate on an Olympic team.

As an avid follower of sports and college &amp; professional athletics, I am an eager fan of the Olympic Games. It is always a joy to watch the best athletes complete on the world’s largest stage. There are probably several areas Olympians could educate the general public on, some of those including diet, exercise, strength training, and physical rehab. However, one aspect I think is most noteworthy of these top-tier competitors is the mindset and mental toughness they build and rehearse in order to compete and thrive at the highest level. &nbsp;

Olympians have event coaches to train for the specifics of their sport, physical therapists who assist with proper recovery, and dietitians who help athletes appropriately fuel their body. Yet there are areas athletes themselves must have total control over: their mindset.&nbsp;

The resilience, determination, and focus these individuals have is something we can all appreciate as they compete in front of the world. There are various avenues of mental health coaches, programs, and techniques these athletes utilize to assist with psychological preparation, but eventually it falls to the athlete to mentally prepare themselves.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Consistency seems to be a common factor in most success stories. Continually showing up to improve, learn, and work is what sets individuals apart from each other. The athletes who will compete over the next few weeks have crafted a mindset that caters to their personal needs and encourages them to succeed.&nbsp; Although most Americans, including myself, will never compete or acquire the talent and ability it requires to compete at the Olympic Games, we can practice the intangible aspects of motivation and perseverance these Olympians possess.&nbsp;

Mattie Rossi is the K-State Research &amp; Extension Cottonwood District - summer intern.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626901202106.png" alt="Mattie Rossi is the K-State Research &amp; Extension Cottonwood District - summer intern." />
 <figcaption>Mattie Rossi is the K-State Research &amp; Extension Cottonwood District - summer intern.</figcaption>
 </figure>The pinnacle of most athletes’ career is often a championship title, MVP award, or perhaps a gold medal. For more than 11,000 athletes, that moment will begin this week as the 2021 Summer Olympic Opening Ceremonies kick off on Friday, July 23rd.&nbsp; This Friday is the beginning of two-weeks filled with festivities and competition that will transpire in Tokyo, Japan.&nbsp;Team USA will bring over 600 athletes to compete in a variety of events, some of the most popular being gymnastics, swimming, track &amp; field, and soccer.&nbsp; Many of these participants have patiently waited an additional year to compete for their home country. When the Games were postponed in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, many competitors had to reevaluate their training and mindset to adapt to the change.&nbsp; In a year filled with postponements and cancellations, it is inspiring to see these athletes finally competing and displaying their long tribulations of commitment. I admire the perseverance these athletes had to prolong their training and wait another 365 days to participate on an Olympic team.As an avid follower of sports and college &amp; professional athletics, I am an eager fan of the Olympic Games. It is always a joy to watch the best athletes complete on the world’s largest stage. There are probably several areas Olympians could educate the general public on, some of those including diet, exercise, strength training, and physical rehab. However, one aspect I think is most noteworthy of these top-tier competitors is the mindset and mental toughness they build and rehearse in order to compete and thrive at the highest level. &nbsp;Olympians have event coaches to train for the specifics of their sport, physical therapists who assist with proper recovery, and dietitians who help athletes appropriately fuel their body. Yet there are areas athletes themselves must have total control over: their mindset.&nbsp;The resilience, determination, and focus these individuals have is something we can all appreciate as they compete in front of the world. There are various avenues of mental health coaches, programs, and techniques these athletes utilize to assist with psychological preparation, but eventually it falls to the athlete to mentally prepare themselves.&nbsp; &nbsp;Consistency seems to be a common factor in most success stories. Continually showing up to improve, learn, and work is what sets individuals apart from each other. The athletes who will compete over the next few weeks have crafted a mindset that caters to their personal needs and encourages them to succeed.&nbsp; Although most Americans, including myself, will never compete or acquire the talent and ability it requires to compete at the Olympic Games, we can practice the intangible aspects of motivation and perseverance these Olympians possess.&nbsp;Mattie Rossi is the K-State Research &amp; Extension Cottonwood District - summer intern.

ROSSI: Learning from Olympic athletes

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.&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 Friday, 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/2021/7/1627065081550.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.&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 Friday, 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: Two new virus cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

SHERMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect found hiding in a corn field.

On Friday, the Sherman County Sheriff's office and KHP were&nbsp;north of Edson with a possible armed suspect in a cornfield, according Sheriff Burton Pianalto 

The suspect was contained within the cornfield and there was no danger to surrounding homes. However, the sheriff wanted area residents to be alert and keep their eyes open to what is going on.

Shortly after KHP aircraft arrived, deputies took the suspect into custody without incident. The sheriff's office released no additional details including the name of the suspect late Friday morning.

SHERMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect found hiding in a corn field.On Friday, the Sherman County Sheriff's office and KHP were&nbsp;north of Edson with a possible armed suspect in a cornfield, according Sheriff Burton Pianalto The suspect was contained within the cornfield and there was no danger to surrounding homes. However, the sheriff wanted area residents to be alert and keep their eyes open to what is going on.Shortly after KHP aircraft arrived, deputies took the suspect into custody without incident. The sheriff's office released no additional details including the name of the suspect late Friday morning.

Sheriff: Deputies find suspect hiding in NW Kan. corn field

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Fort Hays State University president Tisa Mason.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: FHSU president Tisa Mason" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nhhwx-1097dd2-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Fort Hays State University president Tisa Mason.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU president Tisa Mason

By JAMES BELL Hays Post

Wichita-based The Mattress Hub has opened its newest location this week at Tebo Village, 4300 Vine, Hays, with a grand opening scheduled for Saturday.

"We want to be good partners with the community and bring something unique to Hays," owner and CEO Ryan Baty said.

While the new location will functionally sell mattresses, he said the business is more than just a store — it's a one-stop-shop for better sleep and better health.

"Upwards of 95 percent of Americans sleep on a mattress and the average household has three," he said, noting most are unhappy with their current mattress.

"The big thing that got me into this industry and keeps me in this industry," Baty said. "The vast majority of Americans are unhappy on what they currently sleep on."

Those complaints go beyond just how a mattress feels, he said.

"We are a chronically sleep-deprived country," Baty said. "It impacts our productivity, energy and health. So our whole mantra and why we have had success; our brand strategy really is that if you sleep well, you are going to live well."

He said their goal is not to sell products but rather sell options for better sleep.

"That's where we have carved out our success," Baty said. "Everything we do in our stores and across our brands is designed to help enhance the way people sleep, not just their comfort level.

"When you walk into Mattress Hub stores, it really is about how do we identify and solve your sleep problems, how do we give you something and pull features out of these beds that are going to solve your specific sleep problems?," he said.&nbsp;

Baty said they work with customers to find solutions at any price point.

"We have a core conviction that we want to have the best bed at every price point," he said. "So starting at $150 all the way up to our Tempur-Pedic line, we work hard to make sure we have the best-quality product."

Baty said they carry 15 options below $500 along with luxury brands.

"We want to be that one-stop-shop," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626990182668.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays Post Wichita-based The Mattress Hub has opened its newest location this week at Tebo Village, 4300 Vine, Hays, with a grand opening scheduled for Saturday."We want to be good partners with the community and bring something unique to Hays," owner and CEO Ryan Baty said.While the new location will functionally sell mattresses, he said the business is more than just a store — it's a one-stop-shop for better sleep and better health."Upwards of 95 percent of Americans sleep on a mattress and the average household has three," he said, noting most are unhappy with their current mattress."The big thing that got me into this industry and keeps me in this industry," Baty said. "The vast majority of Americans are unhappy on what they currently sleep on."Those complaints go beyond just how a mattress feels, he said."We are a chronically sleep-deprived country," Baty said. "It impacts our productivity, energy and health. So our whole mantra and why we have had success; our brand strategy really is that if you sleep well, you are going to live well."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626990265377.jpeg" alt="The Mattress Hub owner and CEO, Ryan Baty " />
 <figcaption>The Mattress Hub owner and CEO, Ryan Baty </figcaption>
 </figure>He said their goal is not to sell products but rather sell options for better sleep."That's where we have carved out our success," Baty said. "Everything we do in our stores and across our brands is designed to help enhance the way people sleep, not just their comfort level."When you walk into Mattress Hub stores, it really is about how do we identify and solve your sleep problems, how do we give you something and pull features out of these beds that are going to solve your specific sleep problems?," he said.&nbsp;Baty said they work with customers to find solutions at any price point."We have a core conviction that we want to have the best bed at every price point," he said. "So starting at $150 all the way up to our Tempur-Pedic line, we work hard to make sure we have the best-quality product."Baty said they carry 15 options below $500 along with luxury brands."We want to be that one-stop-shop," he said.In the location, they keep a stock of many mattresses, giving cash and carry options, but they also offer statewide delivery and a one-year "comfort guarantee."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626990304905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A Kansas business</h2>The Hays location will be the 13th in the chain, and while recent recognition has pushed the company onto the national stage, Baty said the company is tied to Kansas.The desire to create a Kanas-based business extends beyond sales, the company also manufactures its own line of mattresses in Haven."Made right here in Kansas, by Kansans," Baty said. "That means a lot to us."That statewide focus has moved the company to become the largest mattress retailer in the state."My heart's desire is to make this a Kansas-based company with Kansas-based distribution," Baty said.&nbsp;The Hays location fits that plan perfectly, with easy access to two major highways, creating a perfect distribution point for western Kansas."That's really why Hays makes the most sense for us," he said.Baty said customers from western Kansas have purchased from other locations using the statewide free delivery policy.With the increased coverage that will be provided by the Hays location, he said he believes the new location will be a top performer in the chain."We have known for years there was a real opportunity up here," Baty said, after noting the number of clients from the area that would visit the Salina location."It's bringing in the capacity to better serve our customers in northwest Kansas," he said.Even before the opening, he said nearly weekly deliveries were being made to the area."So we knew there was demand here," Baty said.But while the market potential is there, he said he believes the business will complement existing businesses by focusing on working with customers to find the mattress that creates the best opportunity for quality sleep."There are fine retailers here that sell mattresses," Baty said. "I think what we bring to the table is a level of commitment to your sleep health that is&nbsp;unique in mattress retailing."Backing up their products is a staff trained specifically to understand and help find sleep solutions."When you walk into a mattress specialty retailer, this is all we do," Baty said. "All we do is focus on sleep. ..That's the level of expertise we want to bring to the market in Hays. It's a wonderful market with wonderful people."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626990710358.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The online game</h2>Like most other retail sectors, Baty said the mattress industry recently has seen a massive disruption as people have begun shopping for mattresses online.Rather than eschew that trend, Baty said they work to serve customers wherever they are."We feel like a balanced approach of both the in-person, storefront and the online is what is best for our customers," he said. "It's still a personal shopping (experience.) You can't feel a mattress by shopping online. This is such a personal, such a unique purchase, that we still think that the brick-and-mortar retail is here to stay in our industry and is a valuable part to the consumers' journey."Further, he said the online shift has exposed many of the bad practices in the retail industry."What it has done is cause brick-and-mortar retail to adapt," Baty said. "Adapt our approach to the market, adapt our merchandising, adapt our advertising. Candidly, I think it has made my company better."He said that the pressure caused by online sales has pushed the company to have a service-based approach."You have to be valuable to the consumer," Baty said. "That's one of our values. We want to win with service."That service creates a situation that allows for an unbiased view of what will help the shopper find their best sleep."If I have any negativity to the online brands, it's they are only presenting, one, two or three options for the customer and everybody is different," Baty said. "Everybody's sleep needs are different. Everybody's body needs are different. That's why we have 65 beds on our floor."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626990360743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Technology changes the world — including sleep</h2>While embracing technology in the sales space, Baty says technology within the mattress themselves have also had a significant impact."Technology has changed all industries," Baty said. "The mattress industry is no different."While changes to the mattress industry created by new technologies may not be as noticeable as in other consumer categories, he said the changes have created a better experience for the shopper."Technology has helped us better service the needs of our customers," Baty said.&nbsp;He said around 80 percent of Americans deal with pressure points while sleeping.New technologies can alleviate that issue and many others, Baty said."Bad backs, issues with joint pain, things like that. We now have the technology that has allowed us to build mattresses that will (create) better spinal alignment," he said.New materials can keep mattresses cool, as well."Our industry has benefitted from technology advancements," Baty said.Highlighting the adoption of new technologies, a growing brand that offers a new type of mattress that utilizes gel grids for construction, Purple, will soon be available at their locations as well."We will be the only place in northwest Kansas to shop Purple," Baty said. "It's about bringing variety to our consumers, so they trust our approach."<a href="http://www.mattresshub.com">For more information about Mattress Hub, visit&nbsp;mattresshub.com.</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMattressHub/">The company also maintains a presence on social media, including Facebook.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626990653643.jpeg" alt="The Mattress Hub owner and CEO Ryan Baty, (right) alongside store manager Joe Urban." />
 <figcaption>The Mattress Hub owner and CEO Ryan Baty, (right) alongside store manager Joe Urban.</figcaption>
 </figure>

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