The 2020-21 Hays High basketball season has some spectacular plays. Here are just a few.

Sponsored by Aflac agent Shawn Schwarz.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nbWoF_oHLm8"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 2020-21 Hays High basketball season has some spectacular plays. Here are just a few.Sponsored by Aflac agent Shawn Schwarz.

 🎥 2020-21 Hays High Indian basketball highlights

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher You can tell a lot about people by the types of philosophical questions they like to debate. Many people ponder sports greats, classic cars, blockbuster movies or which superpowers are the best. In my house, these debates usually center on farming practices. We discuss which bull will be the best investment for our herd or the most effective timing to apply micronutrients to increases crop yields. Farmers are perfectly happy to skip many of the rest of the world’s interesting topics to endlessly ponder how to be better at their life’s work. Farmers are constantly curious, driven to learn new things and have a knack for using all that knowledge to make improvements to the world around them. It is one of the hallmarks of farmers; they never stop learning and growing. Sadly, Hollywood stereotypes often get farmers completely wrong. They are made out to be simple, uneducated and witless when reality could not be further from the truth. Farmers are well versed in more subjects than most professionals are because they have to be. They are hardwired to grow not just crops or animals but also themselves. I was reminded recently of just how committed farmers are to continuous improvement. On a beautiful spring night a few days before rain when most farmers had long lists of projects to accomplish, a group of farmers from across our county quit early (or at least took a long break) to attend our county’s wheat test plot tour. Test plots, for those not familiar with them, are hundreds of trials with a selection of varieties of the same crop. These plots allow them to observe how varieties perform against each other in real-world conditions. Plot organizers typically host a tour during the growing season as an educational opportunity for local farmers. During the 90-minute tour, I found myself thinking about how people outside of agriculture would probably be surprised to hear the highly technical presentations and lively discussions in the plot. Farmers switching from discussions of soil pH to disease tolerance to length of maturity all with the goal of understanding which varieties will be the right fit on their farm. Farmers know the pH, soil type and amount of organic matter in every field they farm. Farmers use their understanding of chemistry to select nutrients to neutralize soil pH for healthier plants. They utilize knowledge of soil types to adjust tillage practices, which can increase organic matter and prevent erosion. They use their understanding of genetics and plant physiology to match varieties to their needs. All of that technical knowledge is just for the decision of what, when and how to plant. Farmers still have to grow, harvest and sell their crops using their extensive knowledge of mechanics, marketing, technology, accounting and various other disciplines. In addition, some of them have livestock too, which adds a completely different category of biology to the mix. Most farmers don’t talk much about what they do. Some may be too busy, and others don’t think they are doing anything special, but I disagree. Our local farmers are growing crops and livestock to feed you, me, and people all over the world. The next time you sit down for a meal, I hope you will stop and take a minute to appreciate the all the growth that went into your meal.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher You can tell a lot about people by the types of philosophical questions they like to debate. Many people ponder sports greats, classic cars, blockbuster movies or which superpowers are the best. In my house, these debates usually center on farming practices. We discuss which bull will be the best investment for our herd or the most effective timing to apply micronutrients to increases crop yields. Farmers are perfectly happy to skip many of the rest of the world’s interesting topics to endlessly ponder how to be better at their life’s work. Farmers are constantly curious, driven to learn new things and have a knack for using all that knowledge to make improvements to the world around them. It is one of the hallmarks of farmers; they never stop learning and growing. Sadly, Hollywood stereotypes often get farmers completely wrong. They are made out to be simple, uneducated and witless when reality could not be further from the truth. Farmers are well versed in more subjects than most professionals are because they have to be. They are hardwired to grow not just crops or animals but also themselves. I was reminded recently of just how committed farmers are to continuous improvement. On a beautiful spring night a few days before rain when most farmers had long lists of projects to accomplish, a group of farmers from across our county quit early (or at least took a long break) to attend our county’s wheat test plot tour. Test plots, for those not familiar with them, are hundreds of trials with a selection of varieties of the same crop. These plots allow them to observe how varieties perform against each other in real-world conditions. Plot organizers typically host a tour during the growing season as an educational opportunity for local farmers. During the 90-minute tour, I found myself thinking about how people outside of agriculture would probably be surprised to hear the highly technical presentations and lively discussions in the plot. Farmers switching from discussions of soil pH to disease tolerance to length of maturity all with the goal of understanding which varieties will be the right fit on their farm. Farmers know the pH, soil type and amount of organic matter in every field they farm. Farmers use their understanding of chemistry to select nutrients to neutralize soil pH for healthier plants. They utilize knowledge of soil types to adjust tillage practices, which can increase organic matter and prevent erosion. They use their understanding of genetics and plant physiology to match varieties to their needs. All of that technical knowledge is just for the decision of what, when and how to plant. Farmers still have to grow, harvest and sell their crops using their extensive knowledge of mechanics, marketing, technology, accounting and various other disciplines. In addition, some of them have livestock too, which adds a completely different category of biology to the mix. Most farmers don’t talk much about what they do. Some may be too busy, and others don’t think they are doing anything special, but I disagree. Our local farmers are growing crops and livestock to feed you, me, and people all over the world. The next time you sit down for a meal, I hope you will stop and take a minute to appreciate the all the growth that went into your meal."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Growing crops, cattle and curiosity

Three-day weather outlook

LOMBARD, IL — Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th District, has been appointed to serve as co-chair of a binational, nonpartisan committee of Midwestern legislators that will explore a wide range of issues related to state fiscal conditions and the development and management of state budgets.

New this year, the Midwestern Legislative Conference (MLC) Fiscal Affairs Committee will provide members with a forum for the exchange of information, ideas and strategies related to current revenue trends, spending needs and the critical fiscal and budgetary challenges facing states and provinces across the Midwest. The committee will also address issues related to state tax policy, revenue estimating, budget making procedures and more.

“I am pleased to take on this role, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and counterparts across the Midwest,” said Rep. Waymaster. “States and provinces throughout this region face similar challenges and opportunities on the fiscal front, and there is much that we can learn from each other.”

In his role as co-chair, Rep. Waymaster will help guide the work of the committee in its effort to share information and best practices among states and provinces throughout the Midwest. The committee will meet for the first time this summer during the 75th annual meeting of the Midwestern Legislative Conference, which will be held in Rapid City, South Dakota on July 11-14.

Rep. Waymaster has served as chair of the Kansas House Appropriations Committee since 2017.

All legislators from the following Midwestern states and Canadian provinces are members of the MLC: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Saskatchewan, South Dakota and Wisconsin. In addition, members of the legislative assemblies in three Canadian provinces — Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario — are MLC affiliates.

The Fiscal Affairs Committee is one of seven interstate and binational committees of the MLC, which receives staff support from The Midwestern Office of The Council of State Governments (CSG). CSG is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that champions excellence in state government by sharing innovative solutions to common problems facing state-level policymakers nationwide.

Waymaster was appointed to serve as committee co-chair by the 2021 chair of the Midwestern Legislative Conference, South Dakota Senate Majority Leader Gary Cammack. Minnesota Representative Fue Lee will serve as the committee’s other co-chair.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577788173848.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill</figcaption>
 </figure>MLCLOMBARD, IL — Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th District, has been appointed to serve as co-chair of a binational, nonpartisan committee of Midwestern legislators that will explore a wide range of issues related to state fiscal conditions and the development and management of state budgets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621174832956.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>New this year, the Midwestern Legislative Conference (MLC) Fiscal Affairs Committee will provide members with a forum for the exchange of information, ideas and strategies related to current revenue trends, spending needs and the critical fiscal and budgetary challenges facing states and provinces across the Midwest. The committee will also address issues related to state tax policy, revenue estimating, budget making procedures and more.“I am pleased to take on this role, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and counterparts across the Midwest,” said Rep. Waymaster. “States and provinces throughout this region face similar challenges and opportunities on the fiscal front, and there is much that we can learn from each other.”In his role as co-chair, Rep. Waymaster will help guide the work of the committee in its effort to share information and best practices among states and provinces throughout the Midwest. The committee will meet for the first time this summer during the 75th annual meeting of the Midwestern Legislative Conference, which will be held in Rapid City, South Dakota on July 11-14.Rep. Waymaster has served as chair of the Kansas House Appropriations Committee since 2017.All legislators from the following Midwestern states and Canadian provinces are members of the MLC: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Saskatchewan, South Dakota and Wisconsin. In addition, members of the legislative assemblies in three Canadian provinces — Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario — are MLC affiliates.The Fiscal Affairs Committee is one of seven interstate and binational committees of the MLC, which receives staff support from The Midwestern Office of The Council of State Governments (CSG). CSG is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that champions excellence in state government by sharing innovative solutions to common problems facing state-level policymakers nationwide.Waymaster was appointed to serve as committee co-chair by the 2021 chair of the Midwestern Legislative Conference, South Dakota Senate Majority Leader Gary Cammack. Minnesota Representative Fue Lee will serve as the committee’s other co-chair.

Waymaster to co-chair regional committee on fiscal policy

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621430139315.png" alt="Ellis County Health Department" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Health Department</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis Co.: Vaccines available for individuals 12 and older

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share the latest from the Hays Chamber.

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

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber looking to fill remaining business showcase spots" 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=qkp9f-103d3fa-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share the latest from the Hays Chamber.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber looking to fill remaining business showcase spots

By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Toward the end of April, the Great Bend Convention &amp; Visitors
Bureau posted a message on their marque sign in front of the Events Center on
10th Street that asked local businesses if they wanted to start a “sign
war.” The community responded with area businesses calling out other stores and
cracking jokes in good humor. 

The City of Great Bend shared pictures of the
sign responses on the Explore Great Bend Facebook page. CVB Director Christina
Hayes said the city has received more than 6.7 million impressions on their Facebook page from people following the “sign war.” 

A specific Wendy’s
Restaurant sign stirred up a lot of interest with millions of views. 
"It was the sign they put up that said...'2020 No TP, 2021 No 
Employees,' " said Hayes. "It went viral and you will still see it. It 
definitely made our sign war really big and it's good for our Facebook 
page." 
Hayes said the national marketing team for Wendy’s contacted Great Bend after
receiving word of the sign and Wendy’s CEO became aware of the sign. 
You can catch up with all the sign war posts by searching for #GBSignWar.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621351101337.jpeg" alt="Wendy's of Great Bend participated in the city's "sign war."" />
 <figcaption>Wendy's of Great Bend participated in the city's "sign war."</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — Toward the end of April, the Great Bend Convention &amp; Visitors
Bureau posted a message on their marque sign in front of the Events Center on
10th Street that asked local businesses if they wanted to start a “sign
war.” The community responded with area businesses calling out other stores and
cracking jokes in good humor. The City of Great Bend shared pictures of the
sign responses on the Explore Great Bend Facebook page. CVB Director Christina
Hayes said the city has received more than 6.7 million impressions on their Facebook page from people following the “sign war.” A specific Wendy’s
Restaurant sign stirred up a lot of interest with millions of views. 
"It was the sign they put up that said...'2020 No TP, 2021 No 
Employees,' " said Hayes. "It went viral and you will still see it. It 
definitely made our sign war really big and it's good for our Facebook 
page." 
Hayes said the national marketing team for Wendy’s contacted Great Bend after
receiving word of the sign and Wendy’s CEO became aware of the sign. 
You can catch up with all the sign war posts by searching for #GBSignWar.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Millions have followed along with Great Bend’s ‘Sign War’

The Catholic Diocese of Salina announced in a news release Tuesday that Patricia "Patti" Park has been named principal of St. Mary’s
Grade School in Ellis. 

Park, currently a fourth-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School in Hays, has over 30 years of classroom experience as well as various
leadership roles during that time. 

She has been very involved with her parish over the years and is
excited to become even more involved with the Diocese through this position, the news release said.

“This change to
a private school of my Catholic faith will be an amazing opportunity to serve God through the education
system,” Park said. 

Park and her husband have four children and are parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary in
Hays.


“Patti is going to be a great addition to St. Mary’s and I am looking forward
to working with her as she leads the school," Superintendent Geoff Andrews said. "Her experience in the classroom at multiple grade levels is
going to be a great asset to our teachers and students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621350565840.png" alt="Patti Park" />
 <figcaption>Patti Park</figcaption>
 </figure>The Catholic Diocese of Salina announced in a news release Tuesday that Patricia "Patti" Park has been named principal of St. Mary’s
Grade School in Ellis. Park, currently a fourth-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School in Hays, has over 30 years of classroom experience as well as various
leadership roles during that time. She has been very involved with her parish over the years and is
excited to become even more involved with the Diocese through this position, the news release said.“This change to
a private school of my Catholic faith will be an amazing opportunity to serve God through the education
system,” Park said. Park and her husband have four children and are parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary in
Hays.
“Patti is going to be a great addition to St. Mary’s and I am looking forward
to working with her as she leads the school," Superintendent Geoff Andrews said. "Her experience in the classroom at multiple grade levels is
going to be a great asset to our teachers and students.”

Park appointed principal of St. Mary’s Grade School in Ellis

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A discussion at the Ellis County Commission meeting Monday night on a proposed campground and event center ended in one of the applicants being led away in handcuffs.

The commissioners denied a request for a conditional-use permit for a proposed campground and event enter north of Hays at the C2T Ranch.

After the vote, some of the about 30 people who attended the meeting, as well as the applicants, Cynthia and Chad Tuttle, exited the commission chamber into a rear hallway.

Yelling and a scuffle could be heard from the commission chamber. Cynthia Tuttle was lead out of the county building in handcuffs by a member of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office.

The commission denied the conditional-use request on a vote of 2-1 with Commissioners Dean Haselhorst and Neal Younger voting to deny the request and Commission Chairman Butch Schlyer voting in support.

Multiple people spoke against the project at the meeting Monday, including several neighbors.

Haselhorst and Younger both expressed concerns about safety at the campground. Younger specifically cited concerns about flooding at the campground. The Saline River flows through the ranch, and campsites were planned for the flood plain.

Read a complete meeting recap at Hays Post later today.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA discussion at the Ellis County Commission meeting Monday night on a proposed campground and event center ended in one of the applicants being led away in handcuffs.The commissioners denied a request for a conditional-use permit for a proposed campground and event enter north of Hays at the C2T Ranch.After the vote, some of the about 30 people who attended the meeting, as well as the applicants, Cynthia and Chad Tuttle, exited the commission chamber into a rear hallway.Yelling and a scuffle could be heard from the commission chamber. Cynthia Tuttle was lead out of the county building in handcuffs by a member of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office.The commission denied the conditional-use request on a vote of 2-1 with Commissioners Dean Haselhorst and Neal Younger voting to deny the request and Commission Chairman Butch Schlyer voting in support.Multiple people spoke against the project at the meeting Monday, including several neighbors.Haselhorst and Younger both expressed concerns about safety at the campground. Younger specifically cited concerns about flooding at the campground. The Saline River flows through the ranch, and campsites were planned for the flood plain.Read a complete meeting recap at Hays Post later today.

C2T Ranch campground, event center project denied after heated debate

PALCO — Omer Knoll, 86, was hunkered down in his small trailer home one recent spring night when a storm carrying winds of up to 70 mph whipped through the streets of Palco.

"The night that it happened," he said. "It was a strong wind from the north. I could hear something terrible. I knew something bad was going on."

The storm ripped his trailer's roof off, leaving a large chunk in his yard and another piece across the street in the neighbor's yard.

Knoll quickly got on the phone to his insurance company, Foremost, a Farmer's Insurance Company, and asked about his coverage. The representative assured him the damage would be covered.

On the day the construction crew arrived with materials to fix the roof, he called the insurance company again to make sure the work would be covered.&nbsp;

The insurance company told him his coverage had been canceled because of a late payment and the $7,000 cost of fixing the roof would not be covered.

Knoll lives by himself in Palco, a farm community of about 277 people in Rooks County. He and his wife, Mary, the love of his life, moved to the small community 22 years ago so Mary could care for her mother.

At 62, Knoll helped organize the Palco Volunteer Fire Department, serving as chief.

Knoll is a cancer survivor, but his mother-in-law and wife have both died, leaving Omer alone in the trailer with his two cats, Queeny and Sweety.&nbsp;

Knoll's enclosed porch is its own tiny art gallery, housing bronzes, plaster busts, pottery, paintings and drawings from his career as an artist. Knoll has a story for each bust — the person, the production, the final home of the finished piece.

You may recognize his busts of Dr. Michael Debakey at HaysMed or of Leon and Albina Dreiling, which can be found at NCK-Tech, the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center and Ellis County Historical Society.

Knoll, a native of Victoria, said he doesn't get many visitors. His nephew, Corbin Knoll, visits occasionally and tries to watch over his aging uncle. Omer's son lives in Arizona and helps with the bills now and again when his Social Security and small veteran's benefits don't quite stretch far enough.

Knoll still drives his 2009 Corolla, the best car Mary ever bought. He drives himself to doctor's appointments or to the bank in Plainville, 16 miles away, since the bank in Palco left.

Knoll said he had been insured with the same company for all 22 years he has lived in his little Palco trailer. It's not much, he said of the trailer, but it's paid for.

Knoll pays his $194 quarterly insurance bill by mail, but when the last payment came due he was trying to organize a trip to Hays to get his first COVID shot through a clinic sponsored by the VA. Corbin said his uncle had a mild reaction to the shot and wasn't feeling well for about 10 days.

When Knoll got the news the insurance company wasn't going to cover his claim,&nbsp; he was angry and disappointed.

His roofer, a local man, stepped into the trailer and slipped him a note. A local woman had volunteered to pay the cost of the roof repairs.

As Knoll related the story, he let out a deep sigh. "Thank God," he said. "All I could think of was 'Thank God.'"

The Hays Post attempted to contact the donor and did not receive a return phone call. Knoll knows his benefactor. He said he has not had the opportunity to thank her in person, although he hopes to do so soon.

Corbin said he was very disappointed the insurance company canceled his elderly uncle's insurance after one late payment, but he was very appreciative the donor stepped forward to help Omer.

The Hays Post also attempted to contact Foremost, the insurance company. A company spokesperson had not responded at the time this story was posted.

Knoll said he did not know what he would have done if the donor had not come forward to help him with the repairs. He didn't have the funds on his limited income to pay for the repairs himself and would have been unable to stay in his home without them.

Knoll did not renew his policy with Foremost. He has gone with another insurer that he said is offering him a better policy at a cheaper rate.

Even at 86, Knoll has dreams for his future and the situation with his roof has not discouraged him. He would like to find a more permanent, public home to exhibit his and his wife's art, hopefully in his hometown of Victoria.

"I think one of the reasons why my mind stays active is because I'm always dreaming," he said. "I'm always hoping. I'm not giving up."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621016336031.jpeg" alt="Omer Knoll, 86, of Palco, points to the area of his roof that was ripped off in a recent storm. A donor paid for his roof repairs after his insurance company of 22 years canceled after a late payment." />
 <figcaption>Omer Knoll, 86, of Palco, points to the area of his roof that was ripped off in a recent storm. A donor paid for his roof repairs after his insurance company of 22 years canceled after a late payment.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostPALCO — Omer Knoll, 86, was hunkered down in his small trailer home one recent spring night when a storm carrying winds of up to 70 mph whipped through the streets of Palco."The night that it happened," he said. "It was a strong wind from the north. I could hear something terrible. I knew something bad was going on."The storm ripped his trailer's roof off, leaving a large chunk in his yard and another piece across the street in the neighbor's yard."I was scared," he said.Knoll quickly got on the phone to his insurance company, Foremost, a Farmer's Insurance Company, and asked about his coverage. The representative assured him the damage would be covered.On the day the construction crew arrived with materials to fix the roof, he called the insurance company again to make sure the work would be covered.&nbsp;The insurance company told him his coverage had been canceled because of a late payment and the $7,000 cost of fixing the roof would not be covered.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621016930090.jpeg" alt="Omer Knoll, artist, talks about one of the many art pieces displayed in his trailer in Palco. This statute depicts his grandfather, who was a Volga German immigrant from Russia who settled in Victoria.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Omer Knoll, artist, talks about one of the many art pieces displayed in his trailer in Palco. This statute depicts his grandfather, who was a Volga German immigrant from Russia who settled in Victoria.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Knoll lives by himself in Palco, a farm community of about 277 people in Rooks County. He and his wife, Mary, the love of his life, moved to the small community 22 years ago so Mary could care for her mother.At 62, Knoll helped organize the Palco Volunteer Fire Department, serving as chief.Knoll is a cancer survivor, but his mother-in-law and wife have both died, leaving Omer alone in the trailer with his two cats, Queeny and Sweety.&nbsp;Knoll's enclosed porch is its own tiny art gallery, housing bronzes, plaster busts, pottery, paintings and drawings from his career as an artist. Knoll has a story for each bust — the person, the production, the final home of the finished piece.You may recognize his busts of Dr. Michael Debakey at HaysMed or of Leon and Albina Dreiling, which can be found at NCK-Tech, the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center and Ellis County Historical Society.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621017224293.jpeg" alt="Omer Knoll of Palco was a successful sculptor for years. He still dreams of having a permanent gallery for his art in his hometown of Victoria." />
 <figcaption>Omer Knoll of Palco was a successful sculptor for years. He still dreams of having a permanent gallery for his art in his hometown of Victoria.</figcaption>
 </figure>Knoll, a native of Victoria, said he doesn't get many visitors. His nephew, Corbin Knoll, visits occasionally and tries to watch over his aging uncle. Omer's son lives in Arizona and helps with the bills now and again when his Social Security and small veteran's benefits don't quite stretch far enough.Knoll still drives his 2009 Corolla, the best car Mary ever bought. He drives himself to doctor's appointments or to the bank in Plainville, 16 miles away, since the bank in Palco left.Knoll said he had been insured with the same company for all 22 years he has lived in his little Palco trailer. It's not much, he said of the trailer, but it's paid for.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621017550084.jpeg" alt="Hays residents likely have seen larger busts Omer Knoll created on display at HaysMed, NCK-Tech, the Ellis County Historical and the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. However, Knoll also spent two years creating these small bronze figures of German immigrants like this "Accordion Player" in honor of his Volga German ancestry.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays residents likely have seen larger busts Omer Knoll created on display at HaysMed, NCK-Tech, the Ellis County Historical and the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. However, Knoll also spent two years creating these small bronze figures of German immigrants like this "Accordion Player" in honor of his Volga German ancestry.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Knoll pays his $194 quarterly insurance bill by mail, but when the last payment came due he was trying to organize a trip to Hays to get his first COVID shot through a clinic sponsored by the VA. Corbin said his uncle had a mild reaction to the shot and wasn't feeling well for about 10 days.When Knoll got the news the insurance company wasn't going to cover his claim,&nbsp; he was angry and disappointed."I was feeling bad," he said.His roofer, a local man, stepped into the trailer and slipped him a note. A local woman had volunteered to pay the cost of the roof repairs."I was dumbfounded," he said.As Knoll related the story, he let out a deep sigh. "Thank God," he said. "All I could think of was 'Thank God.'"The Hays Post attempted to contact the donor and did not receive a return phone call. Knoll knows his benefactor. He said he has not had the opportunity to thank her in person, although he hopes to do so soon.Corbin said he was very disappointed the insurance company canceled his elderly uncle's insurance after one late payment, but he was very appreciative the donor stepped forward to help Omer.The Hays Post also attempted to contact Foremost, the insurance company. A company spokesperson had not responded at the time this story was posted.Knoll said he did not know what he would have done if the donor had not come forward to help him with the repairs. He didn't have the funds on his limited income to pay for the repairs himself and would have been unable to stay in his home without them.Knoll did not renew his policy with Foremost. He has gone with another insurer that he said is offering him a better policy at a cheaper rate.Even at 86, Knoll has dreams for his future and the situation with his roof has not discouraged him. He would like to find a more permanent, public home to exhibit his and his wife's art, hopefully in his hometown of Victoria."I think one of the reasons why my mind stays active is because I'm always dreaming," he said. "I'm always hoping. I'm not giving up."

Donor pays for roof after insurance company cancels elder artist's policy

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52410f55-8946-4fd6-87c9-ce06e68a41e8">The Ellis County Commission will consider a conditional-use permit for the C2T Ranch campground and event center at its meeting Monday.</a>

The commission will meet at 5 p.m. Monday in the basement of the Ellis County Administration Center.

Chad and Cynthia Tuttle own C2T Ranch, which is 14 miles north of Hays at 1202 Saline River Road.&nbsp;

The&nbsp; proposed campground would consist of up to 36 campsites along a loop of the Saline River. Each campsite will have river access and will be accessible by vehicles and RVs. The couple is planning 12 primitive campsites, 12 RV sites with 50-amp power and water, six yurt sites, and six full-service RV sites with power and water hookups.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The couple is also planning an outdoor event venue. Periodic flooding along the river will prevent the developers from building a permanent structure, but the couple plans to build a large deck that can be used to mount a 40-by-80-foot tent.

This can be used for outdoor events or weddings, Tuttle said. Capacity would be up to 300 people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e986909d-9334-4b5b-b045-b3ef363f53ca">The permit was recommended for approval by the&nbsp;Ellis County Joint Planning Commission at its April 28 meeting.</a>

Twenty-four petitions have been filed in objection to the permit application.

Only one petition was filed by a landowner within the legal notification area. That is a non-local landowner who uses the property for hunting.

Several petitions were signed by the Zimmerman family. Leanne&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09c03d31-628f-4e02-b1ba-62e60ca49151">Zimmerman's Buckeye Barn event center, was recommended by the planning commission, but her permit request was denied by the Ellis County Commission.</a>

Zimmerman had a lengthy list of reasons why she opposed the CT2 proposal. She repeatedly cited quotes of county commissioners and petitioners who spoke at the February county commission meeting at which her request was denied.

Most of&nbsp; people who signed petitions against the C2T project listed City of Hays addresses. One petitioner listed an address in Gorham.

In other business, the commission will conduct a public hearing a Community Development Block Grant CV closeout and consider summer hours for Public Works Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616007817885.jpeg" alt="C2T Ranch courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>C2T Ranch courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52410f55-8946-4fd6-87c9-ce06e68a41e8">The Ellis County Commission will consider a conditional-use permit for the C2T Ranch campground and event center at its meeting Monday.</a>The commission will meet at 5 p.m. Monday in the basement of the Ellis County Administration Center.Chad and Cynthia Tuttle own C2T Ranch, which is 14 miles north of Hays at 1202 Saline River Road.&nbsp;The&nbsp; proposed campground would consist of up to 36 campsites along a loop of the Saline River. Each campsite will have river access and will be accessible by vehicles and RVs. The couple is planning 12 primitive campsites, 12 RV sites with 50-amp power and water, six yurt sites, and six full-service RV sites with power and water hookups.&nbsp;&nbsp;The couple is also planning an outdoor event venue. Periodic flooding along the river will prevent the developers from building a permanent structure, but the couple plans to build a large deck that can be used to mount a 40-by-80-foot tent.This can be used for outdoor events or weddings, Tuttle said. Capacity would be up to 300 people.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e986909d-9334-4b5b-b045-b3ef363f53ca">The permit was recommended for approval by the&nbsp;Ellis County Joint Planning Commission at its April 28 meeting.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621028982863.png" alt="C2T protest petitions map" />
 <figcaption>C2T protest petitions map</figcaption>
 </figure>Twenty-four petitions have been filed in objection to the permit application.Only one petition was filed by a landowner within the legal notification area. That is a non-local landowner who uses the property for hunting.Several petitions were signed by the Zimmerman family. Leanne&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09c03d31-628f-4e02-b1ba-62e60ca49151">Zimmerman's Buckeye Barn event center, was recommended by the planning commission, but her permit request was denied by the Ellis County Commission.</a>Zimmerman had a lengthy list of reasons why she opposed the CT2 proposal. She repeatedly cited quotes of county commissioners and petitioners who spoke at the February county commission meeting at which her request was denied.Most of&nbsp; people who signed petitions against the C2T project listed City of Hays addresses. One petitioner listed an address in Gorham.In other business, the commission will conduct a public hearing a Community Development Block Grant CV closeout and consider summer hours for Public Works Department.

Ellis County Commission to give final review to C2T campground, event center

Monday's gasoline prices are the highest in six years at over $3.04 per gallon. The auto club AAA says analysts expected three-dollar gas leading up to the Memorial Day holiday weekend, but the shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline brought a spike weeks ahead of the holiday. The average across Kansas was up seven cents a gallon from a week ago. In Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, where supplies were strained due to the pipeline shutdown, prices jumped as much as 21 cents in matter of days. With the pipeline back in operation, Triple-A says prices in these states and the national average have stabilized since the end of last week.&nbsp; Crude futures were rising on Monday with the international benchmark closing in on its best settlement in two and a half years. In afternoon trading Monday, London Brent was up 84 cents to $69.55 per barrel.&nbsp;Brent crude has only reached $70 a barrel once in the last two and a half years (on March 15, 2021).&nbsp;The Nymex near-month contract for light sweet crude settled Friday at $65.37 and by Monday afternoon was up to $66.33 per barrel.

CORRECTED 12 p.m. Tuesday to clarify that Brent crude reached $70 once in the last two and a half years. Kansas crude prices are up a quarter per barrel on the week and nearly two dollars higher than at the first of the month. Kansas Common at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $55.50 per barrel.&nbsp; Drilling activity in Kansas is up slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the rig count in eastern Kansas was up one at four active drilling rigs. The count west of Wichita was unchanged at 19 rigs. Drilling was underway on leases in Barton and Russell counties, and they're about to spud a new well in Stafford County. Operators reached total depth at three wells in Barton County and one each in Ellis and Stafford counties. Baker Hughes reported 453 active drilling rigs across the US. Friday, noting an increase of eight oil rigs. According to Enverus Rig Analytics, this week's rig count is up three percent on the month and up 52% year-over-year.&nbsp; Kansas regulators approved ten new drilling permits last week, 294 so far this year. There are five new permits east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas, with one of those in Ellis County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports added 30 new completed wells last week to the annual total of 265. Operators completed 14 wells in eastern Kansas and 16 west of Wichita, including one in Barton County. The government reported a slight uptick in U.S. crude production last week to just over 10.9 million barrels per day, up 94,000 barrels per day from the week before. Average domestic crude inventories dropped by nearly half a million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year seasonal average. U.S. imports averaged five and a half million barrels per day, up 37,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is up 7.6% over the same four weeks last year. Oil-by-rail shipments were down for the week but up six percent higher than the same week last year. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,123 tanker cars hauling petroleum for the week ending May 8th, down 848 tankers from the week before. Lawmakers in Texas are playing hardball with companies that cut ties with the fossil fuel industry. New legislation would require state entities including pension funds and the state's huge school endowment to divest from companies that refuse to invest in or do business with fossil fuel-based energy companies.&nbsp;The bill awaits conference committee approval to send it to the governor. One of the long-term effects of last year's slowdown in production was a slowdown pipeline speeds because of reduced volumes. Now comes word that nearly half of all oil pipelines out of the biggest oilfield in the country could be empty by the end of the year, and the operators began offering discounts to keep the crude flowing. Reuters reports new pipelines are coming online, driving total pipeline usage in the Permian basin down, despite increased production there. Utilization is expected to drop to 57% in the fourth quarter, much lower than the low point of 70% during the last market bust in 2016. The top three Permian pipeline companies are offering discounts to entice shippers and stem the fall in volumes. An issue playing out in state after state is heating up in North Dakota, where one landowner group is calling it the single largest issue in energy in the world. Lawmakers in North Dakota have passed another "pore space" law, and are once again bracing for a legal challenge. Such laws essentially regulate huge, empty spaces underground, where energy producers can store natural gas. Industry groups say landowners are blowing the issue out of proportion. They argue the new regulations would actually pay windfalls to the landowners who own property atop those big holes. The laws allow storage projects to proceed if as few as 60% of the affected landowners give their consent. The landowner groups are fighting for the other 40%. Regulators in North Dakota say the number-two crude-producing state pumped over 1.1 million barrels per day in March, up 25,000 barrels per day from the month before. The March gas-capture rate of 94% is the best ever reported by the Department of Mineral Resources. That means they flared or vented only about six percent. This marks a dramatic improvement over the last ten years. In September of 2011, operators in the state flared 36% of the natural gas produced at oil wells, the historic high. At the time, flaring activity was visible from space.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARMonday's gasoline prices are the highest in six years at over $3.04 per gallon. The auto club AAA says analysts expected three-dollar gas leading up to the Memorial Day holiday weekend, but the shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline brought a spike weeks ahead of the holiday. The average across Kansas was up seven cents a gallon from a week ago. In Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, where supplies were strained due to the pipeline shutdown, prices jumped as much as 21 cents in matter of days. With the pipeline back in operation, Triple-A says prices in these states and the national average have stabilized since the end of last week.&nbsp; Crude futures were rising on Monday with the international benchmark closing in on its best settlement in two and a half years. In afternoon trading Monday, London Brent was up 84 cents to $69.55 per barrel.&nbsp;Brent crude has only reached $70 a barrel once in the last two and a half years (on March 15, 2021).&nbsp;The Nymex near-month contract for light sweet crude settled Friday at $65.37 and by Monday afternoon was up to $66.33 per barrel.CORRECTED 12 p.m. Tuesday to clarify that Brent crude reached $70 once in the last two and a half years. Kansas crude prices are up a quarter per barrel on the week and nearly two dollars higher than at the first of the month. Kansas Common at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $55.50 per barrel.&nbsp; Drilling activity in Kansas is up slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the rig count in eastern Kansas was up one at four active drilling rigs. The count west of Wichita was unchanged at 19 rigs. Drilling was underway on leases in Barton and Russell counties, and they're about to spud a new well in Stafford County. Operators reached total depth at three wells in Barton County and one each in Ellis and Stafford counties. Baker Hughes reported 453 active drilling rigs across the US. Friday, noting an increase of eight oil rigs. According to Enverus Rig Analytics, this week's rig count is up three percent on the month and up 52% year-over-year.&nbsp; Kansas regulators approved ten new drilling permits last week, 294 so far this year. There are five new permits east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas, with one of those in Ellis County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports added 30 new completed wells last week to the annual total of 265. Operators completed 14 wells in eastern Kansas and 16 west of Wichita, including one in Barton County. The government reported a slight uptick in U.S. crude production last week to just over 10.9 million barrels per day, up 94,000 barrels per day from the week before. Average domestic crude inventories dropped by nearly half a million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year seasonal average. U.S. imports averaged five and a half million barrels per day, up 37,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is up 7.6% over the same four weeks last year. Oil-by-rail shipments were down for the week but up six percent higher than the same week last year. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,123 tanker cars hauling petroleum for the week ending May 8th, down 848 tankers from the week before. Lawmakers in Texas are playing hardball with companies that cut ties with the fossil fuel industry. New legislation would require state entities including pension funds and the state's huge school endowment to divest from companies that refuse to invest in or do business with fossil fuel-based energy companies.&nbsp;The bill awaits conference committee approval to send it to the governor. One of the long-term effects of last year's slowdown in production was a slowdown pipeline speeds because of reduced volumes. Now comes word that nearly half of all oil pipelines out of the biggest oilfield in the country could be empty by the end of the year, and the operators began offering discounts to keep the crude flowing. Reuters reports new pipelines are coming online, driving total pipeline usage in the Permian basin down, despite increased production there. Utilization is expected to drop to 57% in the fourth quarter, much lower than the low point of 70% during the last market bust in 2016. The top three Permian pipeline companies are offering discounts to entice shippers and stem the fall in volumes. An issue playing out in state after state is heating up in North Dakota, where one landowner group is calling it the single largest issue in energy in the world. Lawmakers in North Dakota have passed another "pore space" law, and are once again bracing for a legal challenge. Such laws essentially regulate huge, empty spaces underground, where energy producers can store natural gas. Industry groups say landowners are blowing the issue out of proportion. They argue the new regulations would actually pay windfalls to the landowners who own property atop those big holes. The laws allow storage projects to proceed if as few as 60% of the affected landowners give their consent. The landowner groups are fighting for the other 40%. Regulators in North Dakota say the number-two crude-producing state pumped over 1.1 million barrels per day in March, up 25,000 barrels per day from the month before. The March gas-capture rate of 94% is the best ever reported by the Department of Mineral Resources. That means they flared or vented only about six percent. This marks a dramatic improvement over the last ten years. In September of 2011, operators in the state flared 36% of the natural gas produced at oil wells, the historic high. At the time, flaring activity was visible from space.

News From the Oil Patch: Gasoline prices highest in six years

Those who have ever thought about learning to fly can find out more on May 27 as EAA Chapter 1655 hosts a “Fly Now” informational program on learning to fly. Attendees will be registered for a free training flight sponsored by Hays Aircraft. 

EAA Chapter 1655, a local organization that is part of the national Experimental Aircraft Association, is dedicated to growing participation in aviation by sharing the ways people can get started in this fun and fulfilling recreation. The program will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 27, at Gella’s in downtown Hays. 

Anyone interested in aviation is invited to attend. Local pilots will be on hand to discuss why and how they learned to fly. The meeting will also cover the steps and requirements in learning to fly, provide tips on how to make it economical, and will culminate with the free introductory flight drawing. If you think piloting your own plane might be fun, just wait till you get behind the stick!

The Hays Chapter of the EAA is one of the newest in the country and is one of approximately 900 chapters around the world, which provide activities for local aviation enthusiasts with a mission of growing participation in aviation by sharing “The Spirit of Aviation.” Chapter activities range from monthly meetings to airport open houses, fly-ins, educational programs, and special events that share aviation with the community and build a stronger bond between local aviation and the public. 

For more information about this “Fly Now” meeting, contact Gary Shorman at 785-301-2082, or Hays Aircraft at 785-628-8881.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621349506148.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThose who have ever thought about learning to fly can find out more on May 27 as EAA Chapter 1655 hosts a “Fly Now” informational program on learning to fly. Attendees will be registered for a free training flight sponsored by Hays Aircraft. EAA Chapter 1655, a local organization that is part of the national Experimental Aircraft Association, is dedicated to growing participation in aviation by sharing the ways people can get started in this fun and fulfilling recreation. The program will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 27, at Gella’s in downtown Hays. Anyone interested in aviation is invited to attend. Local pilots will be on hand to discuss why and how they learned to fly. The meeting will also cover the steps and requirements in learning to fly, provide tips on how to make it economical, and will culminate with the free introductory flight drawing. If you think piloting your own plane might be fun, just wait till you get behind the stick!The Hays Chapter of the EAA is one of the newest in the country and is one of approximately 900 chapters around the world, which provide activities for local aviation enthusiasts with a mission of growing participation in aviation by sharing “The Spirit of Aviation.” Chapter activities range from monthly meetings to airport open houses, fly-ins, educational programs, and special events that share aviation with the community and build a stronger bond between local aviation and the public. For more information about this “Fly Now” meeting, contact Gary Shorman at 785-301-2082, or Hays Aircraft at 785-628-8881.&nbsp;

Free Hays program will help those interested in learning to fly

Fort Hays State University is a university of resilience, strength, and community. As part of this community, one particular benefit available to faculty and staff is greatly impacting people’s lives.&nbsp;

FHSU offers tuition assistance to its full-time employees and their dependents after one year of employment at the university. Israel Smitherman has taken advantage of that opportunity to complete his bachelor’s degree while working full-time as a custodian in the Residential Life Department.

Smitherman was driven to begin a degree program and discovered the tuition assistance program while working at Mondo Subs in the Memorial Union. His manager, at the time, told Smitherman about a full-time position opening in the custodial department. He also told him about the tuition assistance program, which caught Smitherman’s attention.

“I had been wanting to go to school, so I applied for – and ultimately got – the custodial position,” he said. “Then after a year working in custodial, I started taking classes.”

Smitherman began working as a custodian in McMindes Hall in 2015 and later transferred to Victor E. Village after its completion in 2017.

Smitherman began his degree-seeking journey by taking one or two classes a semester, eventually transitioning to full-time enrollment in the psychology program.

“My daughter was born in 2014, and that made me more serious about wanting to get an education and have more pathways in life,” he said. “That, paired with the tuition assistance program and being able to complete a psychology degree completely online, were main motivators.”

Smitherman graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is awaiting acceptance to a graduate program in Texas. Personal resilience and a positive work environment have enabled Smitherman to reach his goals.

“My team has been absolutely encouraging through the whole process,” he said. “If there are any campus-related events or classes that I need to participate in, I can be there. If I needed to do proctored testing or fill out paperwork, it was easy to do because I was already on campus. The custodial team is very encouraging and flexible.”

Attending classes virtually while being employed full-time, along with personal obligations, can be challenging for any student. But Smitherman feels his position on the Residential Life team has allowed him to maintain a healthy balance.

The nature of the job appeals to Smitherman. “We are split into different sections so that allows for working independently. It is flexible, allowing you to find an area that you are comfortable in. And the managers are all very accommodating and helpful,” he said. “I really enjoy the job. You can listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or course material while you clean, and it is relaxing.”&nbsp;

The tuition assistance program is not only economically beneficial but also simple to use as an employee, and Smitherman feels the program has made a notable impact on his life.

Smitherman might be unique in his path to completing his degree, starting employment at FHSU then beginning his program, but he is not alone in pursuing educational goals. FHSU is committed to aiding and encouraging all staff, faculty, and students in their educational journeys. The tuition assistance program and flexibility for employees display this commitment to the Tiger family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620747752499.jpeg" alt="Israel Smitherman" />
 <figcaption>Israel Smitherman</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University is a university of resilience, strength, and community. As part of this community, one particular benefit available to faculty and staff is greatly impacting people’s lives.&nbsp;FHSU offers tuition assistance to its full-time employees and their dependents after one year of employment at the university. Israel Smitherman has taken advantage of that opportunity to complete his bachelor’s degree while working full-time as a custodian in the Residential Life Department.Smitherman was driven to begin a degree program and discovered the tuition assistance program while working at Mondo Subs in the Memorial Union. His manager, at the time, told Smitherman about a full-time position opening in the custodial department. He also told him about the tuition assistance program, which caught Smitherman’s attention.“I had been wanting to go to school, so I applied for – and ultimately got – the custodial position,” he said. “Then after a year working in custodial, I started taking classes.”Smitherman began working as a custodian in McMindes Hall in 2015 and later transferred to Victor E. Village after its completion in 2017.Smitherman began his degree-seeking journey by taking one or two classes a semester, eventually transitioning to full-time enrollment in the psychology program.“My daughter was born in 2014, and that made me more serious about wanting to get an education and have more pathways in life,” he said. “That, paired with the tuition assistance program and being able to complete a psychology degree completely online, were main motivators.”Smitherman graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is awaiting acceptance to a graduate program in Texas. Personal resilience and a positive work environment have enabled Smitherman to reach his goals.“My team has been absolutely encouraging through the whole process,” he said. “If there are any campus-related events or classes that I need to participate in, I can be there. If I needed to do proctored testing or fill out paperwork, it was easy to do because I was already on campus. The custodial team is very encouraging and flexible.”Attending classes virtually while being employed full-time, along with personal obligations, can be challenging for any student. But Smitherman feels his position on the Residential Life team has allowed him to maintain a healthy balance.The nature of the job appeals to Smitherman. “We are split into different sections so that allows for working independently. It is flexible, allowing you to find an area that you are comfortable in. And the managers are all very accommodating and helpful,” he said. “I really enjoy the job. You can listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or course material while you clean, and it is relaxing.”&nbsp;The tuition assistance program is not only economically beneficial but also simple to use as an employee, and Smitherman feels the program has made a notable impact on his life.Smitherman might be unique in his path to completing his degree, starting employment at FHSU then beginning his program, but he is not alone in pursuing educational goals. FHSU is committed to aiding and encouraging all staff, faculty, and students in their educational journeys. The tuition assistance program and flexibility for employees display this commitment to the Tiger family.

FHSU employee earns his degree with aid of tuition assistance program

WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The American Public Gas Association presented Midwest Energy with the prestigious APGA System Operational Achievement Recognition for excellence in operating its natural gas utility.&nbsp;

Out of approximately 750 APGA members, Midwest Energy was selected for SOAR level Silver by its peers on the APGA Operations and Safety Committee. Midwest Energy was one of fifteen SOAR recipients recognized in 2021, joining the 41 previous SOAR award recipients. The selection was based on demonstrated excellence in the four areas of system integrity, system improvement, employee safety, and workforce development.

System integrity refers to the natural gas distribution system performing its overall intended function safely, efficiently and effectively distributing energy to all customers without being degraded or impaired by its internal or external environment. System improvement refers to keeping the natural gas system well maintained and up to date through a self-improvement program that includes both an eye on the future through research and development, technology integration and a commitment to system improvement programs. Systems that exhibit excellence in employee safety include adopting a safety program that includes policies and procedures for education involvement and accountability for all employees, as well as tracking safety performance. Lastly, workforce development focuses on creative recruitment, training, education and development practices that provide a return on investment through increased employee loyalty, motivation, safety and productivity.&nbsp;

“Midwest Energy, Inc. was highly rated in all four areas that are required of SOAR," said APGA President and CEO Dave Schryver. "The company consistently demonstrates a commitment to providing natural gas safely and efficiently to all those in their community and as such, serves as a model for all other natural gas utilities in the country. APGA is proud to recognize Midwest Energy and is confident in their continued success.”&nbsp;

APGA is the national association of municipally and publicly‐owned local distribution systems. There are nearly 1,000 public gas systems serving more than 5 million customers. These public gas utilities are not‐for‐profit retail distribution entities that are owned by, and accountable to, the citizens they serve. They include municipal gas distribution systems, public utility districts, county districts, cooperatives, and other public agencies that have natural gas distribution facilities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621001946229.jpeg" alt="Kyle Pfannenstiel, left, and Shaun Burd, both Apprentice Gas Maintenance persons with Midwest Energy in Hays, connect a gas meter set to a home in Hays.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Pfannenstiel, left, and Shaun Burd, both Apprentice Gas Maintenance persons with Midwest Energy in Hays, connect a gas meter set to a home in Hays.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWASHINGTON —&nbsp; The American Public Gas Association presented Midwest Energy with the prestigious APGA System Operational Achievement Recognition for excellence in operating its natural gas utility.&nbsp;Out of approximately 750 APGA members, Midwest Energy was selected for SOAR level Silver by its peers on the APGA Operations and Safety Committee. Midwest Energy was one of fifteen SOAR recipients recognized in 2021, joining the 41 previous SOAR award recipients. The selection was based on demonstrated excellence in the four areas of system integrity, system improvement, employee safety, and workforce development.System integrity refers to the natural gas distribution system performing its overall intended function safely, efficiently and effectively distributing energy to all customers without being degraded or impaired by its internal or external environment. System improvement refers to keeping the natural gas system well maintained and up to date through a self-improvement program that includes both an eye on the future through research and development, technology integration and a commitment to system improvement programs. Systems that exhibit excellence in employee safety include adopting a safety program that includes policies and procedures for education involvement and accountability for all employees, as well as tracking safety performance. Lastly, workforce development focuses on creative recruitment, training, education and development practices that provide a return on investment through increased employee loyalty, motivation, safety and productivity.&nbsp;“Midwest Energy, Inc. was highly rated in all four areas that are required of SOAR," said APGA President and CEO Dave Schryver. "The company consistently demonstrates a commitment to providing natural gas safely and efficiently to all those in their community and as such, serves as a model for all other natural gas utilities in the country. APGA is proud to recognize Midwest Energy and is confident in their continued success.”&nbsp;APGA is the national association of municipally and publicly‐owned local distribution systems. There are nearly 1,000 public gas systems serving more than 5 million customers. These public gas utilities are not‐for‐profit retail distribution entities that are owned by, and accountable to, the citizens they serve. They include municipal gas distribution systems, public utility districts, county districts, cooperatives, and other public agencies that have natural gas distribution facilities.

APGA congratulates Midwest Energy for operational excellence

Fluctuating commodity prices, weather challenges and other factors mean farmers are used to a certain amount of stress. But the pandemic in the past year added that much more, according to a Kansas State University behavioral health specialist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Farming is difficult in the best of circumstances, and to add a layer of stress such as the pandemic makes it more difficult to do the work and to recover from a mental health perspective,” said Bradley Dirks, K-State Research and Extension Behavioral Health Specialist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There are so many things impacting our mental health in rural areas. It’s almost like a perfect storm,” said Dirks, who noted that everyone has a different response to stress. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dirks noted that in rural communities and particularly in farming operations, people often work in solitary situations. Those stretches of time spent alone are typically balanced with church, school, community or other social gatherings. The pandemic made it difficult if not impossible to have that social balance, which further isolated many people.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That isolation plus mental health resources that are few and far between can magnify the problem for those seeking help. Even telehealth sessions with a counselor are difficult or non-existent for those lacking good broadband internet. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dirks said some indications of stress include a lack of sleep, resulting in fatigue which magnifies everyday problems. Too many days like that result in a lack of concentration, irritability, anxiety, and changes in appetite which can cause further isolation. Some people turn to alcohol or other substances as a means to cope, which can further negatively impact our relationships. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“One of the things that makes us successful is our ability to power through. One of the things that impairs our ability to be healthy is our unwillingness to say we need help,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Part of the solution is to educate people, Dirks said. More than 50% of us will feel depressed or anxious at some point in our lives so we are not alone or unique in our struggles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To help connect rural Kansans with resources, the K-State Research and Extension Stress and Resiliency Transdisciplinary Team was assembled. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We’re in a great position with our extension agents and our extension system as a whole, to be able to identify the problem as well as be part of the solution,” Dirks said. The team works in both rural and urban areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Any group across the state – bank group, church group, or farm related organization -- can contact team members Rebecca McFarland at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rmcfarla@ksu.edu" target="_blank">rmcfarla@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or Rachael Clews at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rclews@ksu.edu" target="_blank">rclews@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;to request a one- to two-hour program on the topic of mental health. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Numerous people on the team have been trained in QPR (Question, Persuade and Respond), Dirks said. That program is focused on people who are potentially suicidal – those who see no way out. Some team members are also trained in what he called mental health first aid, not as therapists but to recognize what to do when they know someone is struggling. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dirks encourages anyone who is struggling with mental health challenges or who knows someone who may be, to seek help.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Fluctuating commodity prices, weather challenges and other factors mean farmers are used to a certain amount of stress. But the pandemic in the past year added that much more, according to a Kansas State University behavioral health specialist.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Farming is difficult in the best of circumstances, and to add a layer of stress such as the pandemic makes it more difficult to do the work and to recover from a mental health perspective,” said Bradley Dirks, K-State Research and Extension Behavioral Health Specialist.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There are so many things impacting our mental health in rural areas. It’s almost like a perfect storm,” said Dirks, who noted that everyone has a different response to stress. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dirks noted that in rural communities and particularly in farming operations, people often work in solitary situations. Those stretches of time spent alone are typically balanced with church, school, community or other social gatherings. The pandemic made it difficult if not impossible to have that social balance, which further isolated many people.&nbsp;&nbsp;That isolation plus mental health resources that are few and far between can magnify the problem for those seeking help. Even telehealth sessions with a counselor are difficult or non-existent for those lacking good broadband internet. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dirks said some indications of stress include a lack of sleep, resulting in fatigue which magnifies everyday problems. Too many days like that result in a lack of concentration, irritability, anxiety, and changes in appetite which can cause further isolation. Some people turn to alcohol or other substances as a means to cope, which can further negatively impact our relationships. &nbsp;&nbsp;“One of the things that makes us successful is our ability to power through. One of the things that impairs our ability to be healthy is our unwillingness to say we need help,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Part of the solution is to educate people, Dirks said. More than 50% of us will feel depressed or anxious at some point in our lives so we are not alone or unique in our struggles.&nbsp;&nbsp;To help connect rural Kansans with resources, the K-State Research and Extension Stress and Resiliency Transdisciplinary Team was assembled. &nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re in a great position with our extension agents and our extension system as a whole, to be able to identify the problem as well as be part of the solution,” Dirks said. The team works in both rural and urban areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Any group across the state – bank group, church group, or farm related organization -- can contact team members Rebecca McFarland at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rmcfarla@ksu.edu" target="_blank">rmcfarla@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or Rachael Clews at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rclews@ksu.edu" target="_blank">rclews@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;to request a one- to two-hour program on the topic of mental health. &nbsp;&nbsp;Numerous people on the team have been trained in QPR (Question, Persuade and Respond), Dirks said. That program is focused on people who are potentially suicidal – those who see no way out. Some team members are also trained in what he called mental health first aid, not as therapists but to recognize what to do when they know someone is struggling. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dirks encourages anyone who is struggling with mental health challenges or who knows someone who may be, to seek help.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Mental health in rural Kansas

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a stream advisory for the Paradise Creek, along the area east of Natoma located near the wastewater treatment facility.

The stream advisory is a result of lift station overflow due to heavy rainfall.&nbsp; The city of Natoma is working to repair the problem.

The advisory has been issued because potential elevated bacteria and contaminants may be present in Paradise Creek as it flows east of Natoma. If you live or have activities near this stream, do not enter the stream or allow children or pets to enter the stream.

KDHE will rescind the advisory once flows recede and subsequent bacteria testing indicates secondary (wading) contact has been deemed safe.

For further information, please contact at the city of Natoma, Roy Hockett, at 785.885.4833.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620231572061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a stream advisory for the Paradise Creek, along the area east of Natoma located near the wastewater treatment facility.The stream advisory is a result of lift station overflow due to heavy rainfall.&nbsp; The city of Natoma is working to repair the problem.The advisory has been issued because potential elevated bacteria and contaminants may be present in Paradise Creek as it flows east of Natoma. If you live or have activities near this stream, do not enter the stream or allow children or pets to enter the stream.KDHE will rescind the advisory once flows recede and subsequent bacteria testing indicates secondary (wading) contact has been deemed safe.For further information, please contact at the city of Natoma, Roy Hockett, at 785.885.4833.

Lift station overflow leads to stream advisory east of Natoma

Hays student wins is outstanding graduating senior; Quinter student earns Lighthouse Award

A student from Hays, Grace Wasinger, was named the winner of Fort Hays State University’s Torch Award as the outstanding graduating senior for 2021.

Wasinger received a Bachelor of Science in psychology at FHSU’s commencement ceremonies Saturday.

Blaine Wertz from Quinter received the Lighthouse Award as this year’s outstanding graduate student. Wertz graduated with a Master of Science in biological sciences at this year’s commencement.

Dr. Eric Gillock, professor of biological sciences, was given the Pilot Award as the year’s outstanding faculty member.&nbsp;

The winners were announced at the virtual Spring Convocation Awards by Dr. Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for academic affairs, in advance of commencement and recognized at a private reception with FHSU President Tisa Mason.

Reading from a nomination letter, Arensdorf said of Wasinger, “Grace is a multi-talented student who is focused on her education and service to others. She has been engaged in scholarship both collectively and independently throughout her academic career. This involvement in research has allowed her to apply knowledge gained to enhance her undergraduate experience at the University.”&nbsp;

“Her inherit drive has served her well as she honed her research skills to the level of being asked to present at numerous regional and national conferences,” Arensdorf said. “She is described by faculty as being dedicated, engaged in the field of psychology, and motivated in all of her aspirations and goals. Grace has also served in leadership roles in various organizations and has assisted in teaching classes for the department.”&nbsp;

In conversation with Mason during the video livestream of the awards presentation, Wasinger was asked, “Where does your passion and commitment come from?”&nbsp;

“In my own life, I’ve found that passion and commitment often go hand in hand. When faced with a challenge, commitment often doesn’t occur unless there is a true passion and personal meaning behind the work you’re doing,” Wasinger said.&nbsp;

Wasinger continued, regarding her education, “My passion comes from a place of genuinely wanting to understand human behavior. While a psychology major, I’ve sought out many research and service opportunities that have nurtured and reinforced my thirst for knowledge and desire to work with others. However, a tremendous amount of growth has come from wanting to be challenged. I feel fortunate to have had mentors who have challenged me and ignited through their example this willingness to seek out personal and meaningful challenges.”

Arensdorf also introduced the winner of the Lighthouse Award, Blaine Wertz, who also earned a Bachelor of Science from FHSU in 2019.

“Faculty describe Blaine as a student with high academic standards and one who actively engages in the learning process – eager to understand the materials presented. They also comment on his pleasantness and genuine concern for others. Blaine used his talents to provide support as a graduate teaching assistant and also spends time mentoring undergraduate students in the research laboratory,” Arensdorf said.&nbsp;

Wertz also provides his services as a CNA to area hospitals and seeks ways to give back to his community while preparing for medical school in the fall.&nbsp;

When describing his passion for his work, Wertz said, “My passion comes first from having Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. But, out of that, I know that I have been cared for in so many ways. And so, finding ways to care for different people has always given me a passion. In one way, that’s teaching students in introductory biology labs, and in another way, that’s taking care of residents in long term care settings. I’m really looking forward to doing that as a physician someday, and that continued passion to care for people in the same way I’ve been cared for keeps me going.”&nbsp;

Arensdorf introduced the Pilot Award for outstanding faculty member, and this year’s recipient, Gillock.

One nominating letter described Gillock as, “a shining example of all that I love about Fort Hays State University. Teaching, curiosity, community, and family are his life, and this shows through in his every act.”

The letter continued, “The care he has for his students is exceptional; he takes care to ensure they understand the material, checks up on them if they fall behind, and believes deeply in their ability to prosper. Dr. Gillock’s passion for biology is truly contagious (pun not intended); he speaks with such wonder about microbes, viruses, and immunology that one can't help but adopt a similar enthusiasm in his classes. He conducts innovative research projects and challenges his students to seek solutions to problems in biology, and&nbsp;he always has a positive attitude and is available to answer questions. He’s highly proficient in what he teaches and able to convey ideas for any level of understanding; I have no doubt that he could hold an engaging conversation about bacteria with a child and a fellow expert alike.”

The Navigator Award recipient, Kris Munsch, assistant professor of applied technology, was also recognized at the President’s reception.&nbsp;The award was established in 1998 by the Student Government Association to recognize an outstanding academic advisor based on how closely the advisor adheres to the university goals for academic advising.&nbsp;

“Not only does Kris seek to invest in his students as future builders (literally) of this world, but also as future citizens,” said Arensdorf. “He pushes his students to become visionaries and thinkers who come up with real solutions. The grit that he instills and demonstrates to all the students he interacts with, is inspiring. Construction knowledge is simply just the beginning of his advising of students. Kris’ life experiences are something he teaches his students every day.”

Mason asked Musch to share the impact of the physical structures built by students in the department of applied technology, the importance of that experience, and his favorite project his students have completed.

“The Pavillion is way up there because it’s such a community structure. I’m always seeing videos or posts on social media where that structure is being used for all kinds of things- and that’s what it’s all about. Advising is all about community,” said Munsch. “Advising is 98% education and 2% life. That’s what that Pavilion does. Even a garage project is community. There’s not a lot of things you can do in education where you can bring your family back 20 years later and say, ‘I built that’.”

The FHSU Alumni Association instituted the Torch and Pilot awards in 1974 to emphasize the importance of excellence in teaching and learning.

Torch Award candidates are nominated by faculty members on the basis of classroom excellence, participation in professional organizations, and involvement in student or civic activities.

The Lighthouse Award, approved by the Alumni Association in 2017 and first awarded in 2018, honors an outstanding student who is completing graduate studies. The award was named the Lighthouse in honor of the late Dr. James Forsythe, a former dean of the Graduate School and the university historian. Dr. Forsythe’s book, “Lighthouse on the Plains,” documents the history of Fort Hays State.

The Pilot Award is given on the basis of classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities. Candidates are nominated by graduating students.

The Alumni Association, established in 1916, is dedicated to identifying and serving the needs of more than 75,000 graduates living throughout the United States and in more than 70 countries. For more information, contact the Alumni Association at 785-628-4430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621285100259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Hays student wins is outstanding graduating senior; Quinter student earns Lighthouse Award</h2>FHSU University RelationsA student from Hays, Grace Wasinger, was named the winner of Fort Hays State University’s Torch Award as the outstanding graduating senior for 2021.Wasinger received a Bachelor of Science in psychology at FHSU’s commencement ceremonies Saturday.Blaine Wertz from Quinter received the Lighthouse Award as this year’s outstanding graduate student. Wertz graduated with a Master of Science in biological sciences at this year’s commencement.Dr. Eric Gillock, professor of biological sciences, was given the Pilot Award as the year’s outstanding faculty member.&nbsp;The winners were announced at the virtual Spring Convocation Awards by Dr. Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for academic affairs, in advance of commencement and recognized at a private reception with FHSU President Tisa Mason.Reading from a nomination letter, Arensdorf said of Wasinger, “Grace is a multi-talented student who is focused on her education and service to others. She has been engaged in scholarship both collectively and independently throughout her academic career. This involvement in research has allowed her to apply knowledge gained to enhance her undergraduate experience at the University.”&nbsp;“Her inherit drive has served her well as she honed her research skills to the level of being asked to present at numerous regional and national conferences,” Arensdorf said. “She is described by faculty as being dedicated, engaged in the field of psychology, and motivated in all of her aspirations and goals. Grace has also served in leadership roles in various organizations and has assisted in teaching classes for the department.”&nbsp;In conversation with Mason during the video livestream of the awards presentation, Wasinger was asked, “Where does your passion and commitment come from?”&nbsp;“In my own life, I’ve found that passion and commitment often go hand in hand. When faced with a challenge, commitment often doesn’t occur unless there is a true passion and personal meaning behind the work you’re doing,” Wasinger said.&nbsp;Wasinger continued, regarding her education, “My passion comes from a place of genuinely wanting to understand human behavior. While a psychology major, I’ve sought out many research and service opportunities that have nurtured and reinforced my thirst for knowledge and desire to work with others. However, a tremendous amount of growth has come from wanting to be challenged. I feel fortunate to have had mentors who have challenged me and ignited through their example this willingness to seek out personal and meaningful challenges.”Arensdorf also introduced the winner of the Lighthouse Award, Blaine Wertz, who also earned a Bachelor of Science from FHSU in 2019.“Faculty describe Blaine as a student with high academic standards and one who actively engages in the learning process – eager to understand the materials presented. They also comment on his pleasantness and genuine concern for others. Blaine used his talents to provide support as a graduate teaching assistant and also spends time mentoring undergraduate students in the research laboratory,” Arensdorf said.&nbsp;Wertz also provides his services as a CNA to area hospitals and seeks ways to give back to his community while preparing for medical school in the fall.&nbsp;When describing his passion for his work, Wertz said, “My passion comes first from having Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. But, out of that, I know that I have been cared for in so many ways. And so, finding ways to care for different people has always given me a passion. In one way, that’s teaching students in introductory biology labs, and in another way, that’s taking care of residents in long term care settings. I’m really looking forward to doing that as a physician someday, and that continued passion to care for people in the same way I’ve been cared for keeps me going.”&nbsp;Arensdorf introduced the Pilot Award for outstanding faculty member, and this year’s recipient, Gillock.One nominating letter described Gillock as, “a shining example of all that I love about Fort Hays State University. Teaching, curiosity, community, and family are his life, and this shows through in his every act.”The letter continued, “The care he has for his students is exceptional; he takes care to ensure they understand the material, checks up on them if they fall behind, and believes deeply in their ability to prosper. Dr. Gillock’s passion for biology is truly contagious (pun not intended); he speaks with such wonder about microbes, viruses, and immunology that one can't help but adopt a similar enthusiasm in his classes. He conducts innovative research projects and challenges his students to seek solutions to problems in biology, and&nbsp;he always has a positive attitude and is available to answer questions. He’s highly proficient in what he teaches and able to convey ideas for any level of understanding; I have no doubt that he could hold an engaging conversation about bacteria with a child and a fellow expert alike.”The Navigator Award recipient, Kris Munsch, assistant professor of applied technology, was also recognized at the President’s reception.&nbsp;The award was established in 1998 by the Student Government Association to recognize an outstanding academic advisor based on how closely the advisor adheres to the university goals for academic advising.&nbsp;“Not only does Kris seek to invest in his students as future builders (literally) of this world, but also as future citizens,” said Arensdorf. “He pushes his students to become visionaries and thinkers who come up with real solutions. The grit that he instills and demonstrates to all the students he interacts with, is inspiring. Construction knowledge is simply just the beginning of his advising of students. Kris’ life experiences are something he teaches his students every day.”Mason asked Musch to share the impact of the physical structures built by students in the department of applied technology, the importance of that experience, and his favorite project his students have completed.“The Pavillion is way up there because it’s such a community structure. I’m always seeing videos or posts on social media where that structure is being used for all kinds of things- and that’s what it’s all about. Advising is all about community,” said Munsch. “Advising is 98% education and 2% life. That’s what that Pavilion does. Even a garage project is community. There’s not a lot of things you can do in education where you can bring your family back 20 years later and say, ‘I built that’.”The FHSU Alumni Association instituted the Torch and Pilot awards in 1974 to emphasize the importance of excellence in teaching and learning.Torch Award candidates are nominated by faculty members on the basis of classroom excellence, participation in professional organizations, and involvement in student or civic activities.The Lighthouse Award, approved by the Alumni Association in 2017 and first awarded in 2018, honors an outstanding student who is completing graduate studies. The award was named the Lighthouse in honor of the late Dr. James Forsythe, a former dean of the Graduate School and the university historian. Dr. Forsythe’s book, “Lighthouse on the Plains,” documents the history of Fort Hays State.The Pilot Award is given on the basis of classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities. Candidates are nominated by graduating students.The Alumni Association, established in 1916, is dedicated to identifying and serving the needs of more than 75,000 graduates living throughout the United States and in more than 70 countries. For more information, contact the Alumni Association at 785-628-4430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>.

Hays, Quinter students earn prestigious at Fort Hays State graduation

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — The Barton County Health Department is now reporting the first case of a COVID-19 variant in Barton County. Karen Winkleman, the County's Health Director, told Barton County Commissioners on Monday morning that she learned of the variant on Sunday night from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

"The variant that was identified as a variant of concern, [was] the B117 which is the United Kingdom variant," Winkleman reported, "and it has approximately a 50 percent increase in transmission."

Winkelman said 51 of the 105 counties in Kansas have reported the presence of a COVID variant.

In other news, she noted that Barton County continues to lag behind the state average in the percentage of vaccinations.

"The percentage of Kansas vaccinated is 39.9 percent, and that's with one dose, total population," she said. "And our total population vaccine rate in Barton County is 32.8. We did go up about one percent with the eligible population. This past week we are at 41.5 percent."

The County Health Department administered 113 doses this past week compared to 138 doses the week before.

The Pfizer vaccine has been approved for children 12 years and older. Winkleman said she met with the county's school superintendents via Zoom last Friday to let them know that her department is willing to come to the schools to administer the vaccine.

KDHE has reported one additional COVID death in Barton County during the past week, bringing the total to 49.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621270213903.jpeg" alt="Barton County Health Director Karen Winkleman addresses the Barton County Commission on Monday." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Health Director Karen Winkleman addresses the Barton County Commission on Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — The Barton County Health Department is now reporting the first case of a COVID-19 variant in Barton County. Karen Winkleman, the County's Health Director, told Barton County Commissioners on Monday morning that she learned of the variant on Sunday night from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment."The variant that was identified as a variant of concern, [was] the B117 which is the United Kingdom variant," Winkleman reported, "and it has approximately a 50 percent increase in transmission."Winkelman said 51 of the 105 counties in Kansas have reported the presence of a COVID variant.In other news, she noted that Barton County continues to lag behind the state average in the percentage of vaccinations."The percentage of Kansas vaccinated is 39.9 percent, and that's with one dose, total population," she said. "And our total population vaccine rate in Barton County is 32.8. We did go up about one percent with the eligible population. This past week we are at 41.5 percent."The County Health Department administered 113 doses this past week compared to 138 doses the week before.The Pfizer vaccine has been approved for children 12 years and older. Winkleman said she met with the county's school superintendents via Zoom last Friday to let them know that her department is willing to come to the schools to administer the vaccine.KDHE has reported one additional COVID death in Barton County during the past week, bringing the total to 49.

COVID-19 variant identified in Barton County

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

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

As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, two active and one recovering.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,747 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 71 coronavirus-related deaths — the last of which was reported on March 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621271231078.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported no new&nbsp; COVID-19 cases in Ellis County identified since Friday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, two active and one recovering.Since reporting began, there have been 3,747 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 71 coronavirus-related deaths — the last of which was reported on March 10.

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

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Ellis public water supply system. The advisory was issued because of a water main break, resulting in a potential loss of pressure in the distribution system and affected&nbsp;customers&nbsp;in the area bounded on the west and east by Baughman St. and Cottonwood St.; and on the north and south by W. 10th&nbsp;St. and W. 11th&nbsp;St.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the&nbsp;city of&nbsp;Ellis indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, contact the water system or call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1NzQyOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.kD8C2xGJ4Plf6aMeEsxmZrSK_tl__uZPcSSD5HyNdoY/s/1305913623/br/106463490054-l">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Ellis public water supply system. The advisory was issued because of a water main break, resulting in a potential loss of pressure in the distribution system and affected&nbsp;customers&nbsp;in the area bounded on the west and east by Baughman St. and Cottonwood St.; and on the north and south by W. 10th&nbsp;St. and W. 11th&nbsp;St.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from the&nbsp;city of&nbsp;Ellis indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, contact the water system or call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA1NzQyOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.kD8C2xGJ4Plf6aMeEsxmZrSK_tl__uZPcSSD5HyNdoY/s/1305913623/br/106463490054-l">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

KDHE: Boil order rescinded for city of Ellis

Colorado-based FirstSun Capital Bancorp, the holding company of Sunflower Bank, N.A. and&nbsp;Texas-based Pioneer Bancshares Inc., the holding company of Pioneer Bank, SSB jointly announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Pioneer and Pioneer Bank will merge with and into FirstSun and Sunflower Bank, respectively, in an all-stock transaction.

SubmittedColorado-based FirstSun Capital Bancorp, the holding company of Sunflower Bank, N.A. and&nbsp;Texas-based Pioneer Bancshares Inc., the holding company of Pioneer Bank, SSB jointly announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Pioneer and Pioneer Bank will merge with and into FirstSun and Sunflower Bank, respectively, in an all-stock transaction.On a pro forma basis as of&nbsp;March 31, the combined company would have over&nbsp;$7 billion&nbsp;in total assets with over&nbsp;$5 billion&nbsp;in both loans and deposits, and over 60 branch locations. Sunflower Bank's expanded pro forma footprint will include some of the largest growth markets in&nbsp;the United States. This combination will bring Sunflower Bank an expanded presence in&nbsp;Texas, along with its footprint in&nbsp;Arizona,&nbsp;Colorado,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;and&nbsp;New Mexico&nbsp;and home mortgage origination capabilities in 43 states.The transaction is intended to qualify as a tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close early in&nbsp;October, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals and Pioneer shareholder approval. Upon closing, the Board of Directors of both FirstSun and Sunflower Bank will be expanded to include former directors of Pioneer and Pioneer Bank."We are thrilled to welcome Pioneer Bank's customers and associates to the Sunflower family," said&nbsp;Mollie Carter, Chairman of FirstSun and Sunflower. "We believe the additions brought by Pioneer will complement our growing presence in&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;and will be a perfect fit with our existing customer base and relationship-driven philosophy.""The opportunity for Pioneer Bank to join forces with Sunflower is a uniquely exciting one," said Ron Coben, President and CEO of Pioneer. "The combined institution brings together two strong, growth-oriented banks that will provide a more competitive platform to our communities in&nbsp;Austin,&nbsp;Houston,&nbsp;Dallas,&nbsp;San Antonio&nbsp;and our markets in between."&nbsp;Stephens Inc. served as financial advisor to FirstSun and&nbsp;Nelson Mullins Riley&nbsp;&amp; Scarborough LLP served as legal counsel.&nbsp;Piper Sandler&nbsp;&amp; Co. served as financial advisor to Pioneer and Bracewell LLP served as legal counsel.About FirstSun Capital BancorpFirstSun Capital Bancorp, headquartered in&nbsp;Denver, Colorado, is the financial holding company for Sunflower Bank, N.A., which operates as Sunflower Bank, First National 1870 and Guardian Mortgage. Sunflower Bank provides a full range of relationship-focused services to meet personal, business and wealth management financial objectives, with a branch network in five states and mortgage capabilities in 43 states. FirstSun had total consolidated assets of&nbsp;$5.3 billion&nbsp;as of&nbsp;March 31, 2021.First National 1870 and Guardian Mortgage are divisions of Sunflower Bank. To learn more, visit SunflowerBank.com, FirstNational1870.com or GuardianMortgageOnline.com.About Pioneer Bancshares, Inc.Pioneer Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company for Pioneer Bank, SSB, an&nbsp;Austin-based community bank that lives and breathes&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;by serving markets, large and small, across the state, including&nbsp;Austin,&nbsp;Houston,&nbsp;Dallas,&nbsp;San Antonio, and&nbsp;Waco. At&nbsp;March 31, 2021, Pioneer reported consolidated total assets of&nbsp;$1.8 billion&nbsp;and total deposits of&nbsp;$1.3 billion. Visit Pioneer.Bank to learn more.