By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays High School Trap Team placed second in the&nbsp;2A Conference as it completed its first full year of competition this spring.

The team competed in the state tournament Saturday in Sedgwick with&nbsp;Monique William placing second at the tournament and first in the conference. She shot 97 of the possible 100 targets Saturday.

Chase Whitman was the third female overall at the state tournament with 95 points out of 100 possible.

The team of 10 students placed seventh out of 30 teams at the state tournament.

Monique's sister, Madalyn William, finished the season third in the conference.

The HHS team was formed in 2020, but the pandemic prevented the team from competing in its first season.&nbsp;

Monique William, a senior, said she was excited to be able to compete with her classmates this season.

She has been shooting competitively through 4-H since she was in the eighth grade. She received an invitation from Russell High School to shoot with its team in 2019. She placed first that year at state.

She was excited to win the title in the varsity division, but wanted to compete for her own school. Parents, students and teachers rallied to put together a club sport team, which was approved by the USD 489 school board.

The sport is not Kansas High School Activities Association sponsored, so the team has sought sponsors to pay for travel and ammunition. Students provide their own firearms.

The students practice and compete at the Hays Sportsman Club. They shoot with their team locally for five rounds of 50 clays each in the spring. Those scores are sent into the Kansas Trap Shooting Association so the students can be ranked among students at other schools.

Students compete in varsity, junior varsity and novice divisions. Trap shooting is one of the fastest growing sports in high school,&nbsp;coach Mike Eckroat said.

"Anyone can do this sport," he said, "and with a little coaching like the other sports, you can be very, very good at this."

The final state meet was in person. Although the association provides a national competition in Michigan, Eckroat said he did not think any&nbsp; of the local students would have the opportunity to attend.

Monique was in a serious horse riding accident several years ago. She can no longer compete in volleyball or track, but she can represent her school by shooting trap, she said.

She said the HHS team is like a big family. Her favorite aspect of the sport is meeting people.

"We all stay connected with each other," she said. "When one of us is struggling, we always try to go over there and try to help and figure out what we can do differently to help them succeed."

The students shoot individually, but all of those individual scores are combined for team scores.

"Getting new kids involved is always fun too," she said. "We want to show there are other sports you can do besides your well-known sports. It's fun. It's a big family environment."

In the fall, Monique will shoot for the Fort Hays State University Trap Team, which has brought home many national titles. She is already practicing with that team and knows some of her stiffest competition will likely come from her teammates.

Trap team members do not receive scholarships, but those students with high averages of broken targets receive financial assistance with ammunition and travel.

Monique plans to major in biology/pre-med. She would like to pursue a career as a trauma surgeon.

Eckroat said he was very pleased in the students' performance in their first year of competition.

"This was an amazing experience for me to take these kids down there," Eckroat said. "These 10 were such professionals when they were up there. They are dedicated to the sport. They enjoy the sport, and they are all there for each other. Even though they shoot against each other, they are still all one team."

If you are interested in being a sponsor for the team, contact Alex Ford at HHS at&nbsp;785-623-2600.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624393188166.jpeg" alt="The Hays High School Trap Team at the state tournament Saturday in Sedgwick. Back row: Assistant coach Ben Hunsicker, Tanner Werth, Miles Keller, Nathan Casper Aidan DeBey, Logan Schmidt, assistant coach Grady William Front Row:&nbsp; Assistant coach Mike Eckroat, Daniel Maier, Chase Whitman, Madalyn William, Monique William, Rosston Eckroat. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Hays High School Trap Team at the state tournament Saturday in Sedgwick. Back row: Assistant coach Ben Hunsicker, Tanner Werth, Miles Keller, Nathan Casper Aidan DeBey, Logan Schmidt, assistant coach Grady William Front Row:&nbsp; Assistant coach Mike Eckroat, Daniel Maier, Chase Whitman, Madalyn William, Monique William, Rosston Eckroat. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays High School Trap Team placed second in the&nbsp;2A Conference as it completed its first full year of competition this spring.The team competed in the state tournament Saturday in Sedgwick with&nbsp;Monique William placing second at the tournament and first in the conference. She shot 97 of the possible 100 targets Saturday.Chase Whitman was the third female overall at the state tournament with 95 points out of 100 possible.The team of 10 students placed seventh out of 30 teams at the state tournament.Monique's sister, Madalyn William, finished the season third in the conference.The HHS team was formed in 2020, but the pandemic prevented the team from competing in its first season.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624393153437.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Assistant coach Ben Hunsicker, Logan Schmidt, assistant coach Mike Eckroat, Chase Whitman, Monique William, Madalyn William, Ross Eckroat, assistant coach Grady William and Nathan Casper display their second-place award in the 2A conference trap shooting. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Assistant coach Ben Hunsicker, Logan Schmidt, assistant coach Mike Eckroat, Chase Whitman, Monique William, Madalyn William, Ross Eckroat, assistant coach Grady William and Nathan Casper display their second-place award in the 2A conference trap shooting. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Monique William, a senior, said she was excited to be able to compete with her classmates this season.She has been shooting competitively through 4-H since she was in the eighth grade. She received an invitation from Russell High School to shoot with its team in 2019. She placed first that year at state.She was excited to win the title in the varsity division, but wanted to compete for her own school. Parents, students and teachers rallied to put together a club sport team, which was approved by the USD 489 school board.The sport is not Kansas High School Activities Association sponsored, so the team has sought sponsors to pay for travel and ammunition. Students provide their own firearms.The students practice and compete at the Hays Sportsman Club. They shoot with their team locally for five rounds of 50 clays each in the spring. Those scores are sent into the Kansas Trap Shooting Association so the students can be ranked among students at other schools.Students compete in varsity, junior varsity and novice divisions. Trap shooting is one of the fastest growing sports in high school,&nbsp;coach Mike Eckroat said."Anyone can do this sport," he said, "and with a little coaching like the other sports, you can be very, very good at this."The final state meet was in person. Although the association provides a national competition in Michigan, Eckroat said he did not think any&nbsp; of the local students would have the opportunity to attend.Monique was in a serious horse riding accident several years ago. She can no longer compete in volleyball or track, but she can represent her school by shooting trap, she said.She said the HHS team is like a big family. Her favorite aspect of the sport is meeting people."We all stay connected with each other," she said. "When one of us is struggling, we always try to go over there and try to help and figure out what we can do differently to help them succeed."The students shoot individually, but all of those individual scores are combined for team scores."Getting new kids involved is always fun too," she said. "We want to show there are other sports you can do besides your well-known sports. It's fun. It's a big family environment."In the fall, Monique will shoot for the Fort Hays State University Trap Team, which has brought home many national titles. She is already practicing with that team and knows some of her stiffest competition will likely come from her teammates.Trap team members do not receive scholarships, but those students with high averages of broken targets receive financial assistance with ammunition and travel.Monique plans to major in biology/pre-med. She would like to pursue a career as a trauma surgeon.Eckroat said he was very pleased in the students' performance in their first year of competition."This was an amazing experience for me to take these kids down there," Eckroat said. "These 10 were such professionals when they were up there. They are dedicated to the sport. They enjoy the sport, and they are all there for each other. Even though they shoot against each other, they are still all one team."If you are interested in being a sponsor for the team, contact Alex Ford at HHS at&nbsp;785-623-2600.&nbsp;

Hays High Trap Team places second in conference in first year

Twenty registered nurses at HaysMed and 2 from Pawnee Valley Community Hospital were honored recently at a recognition ceremony and luncheon. They completed the yearlong RN Residency Program offered at HaysMed.

The program began a year ago in July 2020 with training focused on clinical experience, one on one mentorship with their preceptor, high-fidelity simulations and on the job training. Additionally, nurses received training from professionals in several departments, such as radiology, pharmacy, cardiac care, peri-op and others.

The RN Residency class from Hays included Emily Bellerive, RN, Taryn Bilbrey, RN, Katelyn Billings, RN, Amelia Borell, RN, Alexa Basgall, RN, Emily Duncan, RN, Ruth Hair, RN, Avery Hall, RN, Samantha Hollerich, RN, Dustin Koster, RN, Katie Kreutzer, RN, Dallas Mead, RN, Kayla Reed, RN, Courtney Robinson, RN, Haley Schonthaler, RN, Autumn Smades, RN, Emily Sable, RN, Morgan Tebo, RN, Melanie Tilton, RN&nbsp; and Megan Walter, RN.&nbsp; Those from PVCH included Joey Benish, RN and Christy Green, RN.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It is so important for new nursing graduates to have a group of peers and mentors who assist them in enhancing their skills and becoming comfortable with the challenges of practice,” said Shari Hertel, RN Residency Coordinator. “Our program is evidence based, with positive clinical outcomes that will help not only the participating nurses, but also our patients.”

Currently there are 16 nurses scheduled in the next program which begins in July.&nbsp; The program is open to newly graduated RNs and RNs that have less than one year of acute care experience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624296354013.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedTwenty registered nurses at HaysMed and 2 from Pawnee Valley Community Hospital were honored recently at a recognition ceremony and luncheon. They completed the yearlong RN Residency Program offered at HaysMed.The program began a year ago in July 2020 with training focused on clinical experience, one on one mentorship with their preceptor, high-fidelity simulations and on the job training. Additionally, nurses received training from professionals in several departments, such as radiology, pharmacy, cardiac care, peri-op and others.The RN Residency class from Hays included Emily Bellerive, RN, Taryn Bilbrey, RN, Katelyn Billings, RN, Amelia Borell, RN, Alexa Basgall, RN, Emily Duncan, RN, Ruth Hair, RN, Avery Hall, RN, Samantha Hollerich, RN, Dustin Koster, RN, Katie Kreutzer, RN, Dallas Mead, RN, Kayla Reed, RN, Courtney Robinson, RN, Haley Schonthaler, RN, Autumn Smades, RN, Emily Sable, RN, Morgan Tebo, RN, Melanie Tilton, RN&nbsp; and Megan Walter, RN.&nbsp; Those from PVCH included Joey Benish, RN and Christy Green, RN.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is so important for new nursing graduates to have a group of peers and mentors who assist them in enhancing their skills and becoming comfortable with the challenges of practice,” said Shari Hertel, RN Residency Coordinator. “Our program is evidence based, with positive clinical outcomes that will help not only the participating nurses, but also our patients.”Currently there are 16 nurses scheduled in the next program which begins in July.&nbsp; The program is open to newly graduated RNs and RNs that have less than one year of acute care experience.

HaysMed honors nurses completing RN Residency Program

The Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Thursday, June 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Dead Animal
Call--13th St and Felten Dr, Hays; 7:37 AM 
Aggravated Battery—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 5/13 9 PM; 6/10 8:16 AM 
Welfare Check—3500 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 8:45 AM 
Theft (general)—4400 block Vine St, Hays; 5/18 12 PM; 6/9 12 PM 
Mental Health Call—2000 block Patio Dr, Hays; 10:27 AM 
Animal Call—1800 block E 24th St, Hays; 11:46 AM 
Criminal Trespass—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 6/9 5 PM; 6/10 1:07 PM 
Aggravated Battery—800 block E 8th St, Hays ; 10/30/20 11:59 PM 
Found/Lost Property--700 block Elm St, Hays; 3:44 PM 
Theft (general)—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 5:30 PM; 10 PM 
Criminal Trespass--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:06 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 10 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Friday, June 11, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--500 block Main St, Hays; 1:07 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:16 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 24th St, Hays; 11:23 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1100 block Ash St, Hays; 11:47 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--100 block E 4th St, Hays; 11:54 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--27th St and Main St, Hays; 12:03 PM 
Drug Offenses—400 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:04 PM 
Dead Animal Call--13th and Oak St, Hays; 12:27 PM 
Parking Complaint--500 block W 20th St, Hays; 12:49 PM 
Theft (general)—600 block E 13th St, Hays; 5/26 9 AM; 6/11 9 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:23 PM 
Dead Animal Call—1300 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 3:40 PM 
MV Accident-Co Road/St Hwy--21st and Allen, Hays; 3:53 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 6/3 2 PM; 8 PM 
Animal At Large—500 &nbsp;block W 27th St,
Hays; 5:04 PM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 5:32 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 6:34 PM 
Mental Health Call—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 6:47 PM 
Dead Animal Call--500 block W 12th St, Hays; 12 PM; 8:29 PM 
Custody Dispute—1500 block Haney Dr, Hays; 9:13 PM 
Welfare Check—1100 block E 15th St, Hays; 10:17 PM 
Disturbance – Noise--300 block Ash St, Hays; 11:48 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Saturday, June 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Drug Offenses—2900
block Vine St, Hays; 12:35 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block E 11th St, Hays; 1:16 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 2:14 AM; 2:35 AM 
Criminal Threat--700 block Park St, Hays; 2:36 AM; 2:38 AM 
Mental Health Call—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 4:26 AM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 24th St, Hays; 5:12 AM 
Civil Dispute—400 block E 5th St, Hays; 5:41 AM 
Civil Dispute—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 10:22 AM 
Found/Lost Property—800 block Ash St, Hays; 12:01 PM 
Welfare Check—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 2:59 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 6:37 PM 
Theft (general)—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 6:46 PM 
Disturbance – General—2700 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 6 PM; 6:30 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—3400 block Summer Ln, Hays; 7:44 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:25 PM 
Found/Lost Property--32nd and Vine, Hays; 9:10 PM 
Aggravated Assault—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 9:40 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sunday, June 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suspicious
Activity—200 block E 25th St, Hays; 12:26 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 1:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block E 4th St, Hays; 3:50 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1600 block Harvest Rd, Hays; 8:29 AM 
Suspicious Activity—Hays; 10:48 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Forgery—2800 block Plaza Ave, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Animal At Large—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 4:38 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 17th St, Hays; 6:02 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—Hays; 6:49 PM 
Stalking—300 block E Pine St, Hays; 8:23 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Thursday, June 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Dead Animal
Call--13th St and Felten Dr, Hays; 7:37 AM 
Aggravated Battery—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 5/13 9 PM; 6/10 8:16 AM 
Welfare Check—3500 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 8:45 AM 
Theft (general)—4400 block Vine St, Hays; 5/18 12 PM; 6/9 12 PM 
Mental Health Call—2000 block Patio Dr, Hays; 10:27 AM 
Animal Call—1800 block E 24th St, Hays; 11:46 AM 
Criminal Trespass—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 6/9 5 PM; 6/10 1:07 PM 
Aggravated Battery—800 block E 8th St, Hays ; 10/30/20 11:59 PM 
Found/Lost Property--700 block Elm St, Hays; 3:44 PM 
Theft (general)—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 5:30 PM; 10 PM 
Criminal Trespass--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:06 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 10 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Friday, June 11, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--500 block Main St, Hays; 1:07 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:16 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 24th St, Hays; 11:23 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1100 block Ash St, Hays; 11:47 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--100 block E 4th St, Hays; 11:54 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--27th St and Main St, Hays; 12:03 PM 
Drug Offenses—400 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:04 PM 
Dead Animal Call--13th and Oak St, Hays; 12:27 PM 
Parking Complaint--500 block W 20th St, Hays; 12:49 PM 
Theft (general)—600 block E 13th St, Hays; 5/26 9 AM; 6/11 9 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:23 PM 
Dead Animal Call—1300 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 3:40 PM 
MV Accident-Co Road/St Hwy--21st and Allen, Hays; 3:53 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 6/3 2 PM; 8 PM 
Animal At Large—500 &nbsp;block W 27th St,
Hays; 5:04 PM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 5:32 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 6:34 PM 
Mental Health Call—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 6:47 PM 
Dead Animal Call--500 block W 12th St, Hays; 12 PM; 8:29 PM 
Custody Dispute—1500 block Haney Dr, Hays; 9:13 PM 
Welfare Check—1100 block E 15th St, Hays; 10:17 PM 
Disturbance – Noise--300 block Ash St, Hays; 11:48 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Saturday, June 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Drug Offenses—2900
block Vine St, Hays; 12:35 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block E 11th St, Hays; 1:16 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 2:14 AM; 2:35 AM 
Criminal Threat--700 block Park St, Hays; 2:36 AM; 2:38 AM 
Mental Health Call—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 4:26 AM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 24th St, Hays; 5:12 AM 
Civil Dispute—400 block E 5th St, Hays; 5:41 AM 
Civil Dispute—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 10:22 AM 
Found/Lost Property—800 block Ash St, Hays; 12:01 PM 
Welfare Check—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 2:59 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 6:37 PM 
Theft (general)—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 6:46 PM 
Disturbance – General—2700 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 6 PM; 6:30 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—3400 block Summer Ln, Hays; 7:44 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:25 PM 
Found/Lost Property--32nd and Vine, Hays; 9:10 PM 
Aggravated Assault—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 9:40 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sunday, June 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suspicious
Activity—200 block E 25th St, Hays; 12:26 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 1:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block E 4th St, Hays; 3:50 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1600 block Harvest Rd, Hays; 8:29 AM 
Suspicious Activity—Hays; 10:48 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Forgery—2800 block Plaza Ave, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Animal At Large—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 4:38 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 17th St, Hays; 6:02 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—Hays; 6:49 PM 
Stalking—300 block E Pine St, Hays; 8:23 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, June 10-13

Eagle Radio in Hays recently donated $1,100 to the popular Kiwanis Flag Project that since 1999 has placed American flags throughout the community on select holidays.

The annual donation was presented by Eagle employee-owner and 25-year Kiwanis, Kevin Schukman.

"First of all, it's a Kiwanis fundraising project," he said.

The club uses those donations further support community organizations like&nbsp;Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County,&nbsp;First Call for Help,&nbsp;Boy and Girl Scouts, and others.

He said this year's donation was especially poignant following the passing of the originator of the program in Hays, Jerry Ubert.

Schukman said nearly 1,300 flags were placed this year.

"It's been very successful for the Kiwanis and the community," he said. "We really appreciate Eagle Radio for promoting the Flag Project and raising funds through Eagle's advertisers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624046877447.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio in Hays recently donated $1,100 to the popular Kiwanis Flag Project that since 1999 has placed American flags throughout the community on select holidays.The annual donation was presented by Eagle employee-owner and 25-year Kiwanis, Kevin Schukman."First of all, it's a Kiwanis fundraising project," he said.The club uses those donations further support community organizations like&nbsp;Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County,&nbsp;First Call for Help,&nbsp;Boy and Girl Scouts, and others.He said this year's donation was especially poignant following the passing of the originator of the program in Hays, Jerry Ubert.Schukman said nearly 1,300 flags were placed this year."It's been very successful for the Kiwanis and the community," he said. "We really appreciate Eagle Radio for promoting the Flag Project and raising funds through Eagle's advertisers.

Eagle Radio donates to Kiwanis Flag Project

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher This is the season of busy here in the ag world. It seems as though we are simultaneously in wheat harvest, crop planting, haying and there are always things to do with the livestock. There are never enough hours in the day to get things done, and we catch ourselves working long hours at a frenetic pace. Then you add in what we do in agriculture can be incredibly dangerous, and we are often alone. The bottom line is farming and ranching is always dangerous, but right now it is exceedingly dangerous. Believe me I am preaching to the choir, and I speak from experience. A couple of years ago I was unhooking the rake from the tractor, I knew the jack was not good, and I knew the rake was on a slight incline. Despite knowing all of that, I still pulled the hitch pin without any thought of where my feet were or what could happen. The pin was in a bind, and I got closer to give it a better yank. I admit it, I was in a hurry and more than a little annoyed the pin was not coming out easy. In any case, I set my shoulders and gave the hitch pin an extra hard pull. It came and what happened next was a blur. The rake rolled back, the jack gave out and everything fell straight down. Straight down on my foot. I was stunned at first and then I realized the rake was on my foot. I could not move my foot and had to have dad come over with another jack. Actually, it was on my boot and near my foot. It did not take too long to get the rake off, and I assessed the situation. It had sliced through the leather toe of my boot, which I am fairly sure is tougher than my foot. Then it hit me, just how close I had come to losing at least part of my foot and just how lucky I was to not be alone that day. Another inch or two and my life would have changed forever. I bet my story is not unique, and I would guess all of us in agriculture have similar stories of near misses and many of us were not so lucky. What is the difference between a near miss and a catastrophic accident? The answer is luck. What can we do to make sure we are not in that situation? The answer is to slow down and realize that the more we hurry and the more corners we cut the more dangerous this job gets. Throw in the long hours and stress and it is a dangerous combination, but one that can be avoided. Please, in this time of busy be careful and cautious;’ go the extra mile and slow down. Remember, those of us in agriculture account for less than 2 percent of the population, we cannot afford to lose anyone.

"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/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher This is the season of busy here in the ag world. It seems as though we are simultaneously in wheat harvest, crop planting, haying and there are always things to do with the livestock. There are never enough hours in the day to get things done, and we catch ourselves working long hours at a frenetic pace. Then you add in what we do in agriculture can be incredibly dangerous, and we are often alone. The bottom line is farming and ranching is always dangerous, but right now it is exceedingly dangerous. Believe me I am preaching to the choir, and I speak from experience. A couple of years ago I was unhooking the rake from the tractor, I knew the jack was not good, and I knew the rake was on a slight incline. Despite knowing all of that, I still pulled the hitch pin without any thought of where my feet were or what could happen. The pin was in a bind, and I got closer to give it a better yank. I admit it, I was in a hurry and more than a little annoyed the pin was not coming out easy. In any case, I set my shoulders and gave the hitch pin an extra hard pull. It came and what happened next was a blur. The rake rolled back, the jack gave out and everything fell straight down. Straight down on my foot. I was stunned at first and then I realized the rake was on my foot. I could not move my foot and had to have dad come over with another jack. Actually, it was on my boot and near my foot. It did not take too long to get the rake off, and I assessed the situation. It had sliced through the leather toe of my boot, which I am fairly sure is tougher than my foot. Then it hit me, just how close I had come to losing at least part of my foot and just how lucky I was to not be alone that day. Another inch or two and my life would have changed forever. I bet my story is not unique, and I would guess all of us in agriculture have similar stories of near misses and many of us were not so lucky. What is the difference between a near miss and a catastrophic accident? The answer is luck. What can we do to make sure we are not in that situation? The answer is to slow down and realize that the more we hurry and the more corners we cut the more dangerous this job gets. Throw in the long hours and stress and it is a dangerous combination, but one that can be avoided. Please, in this time of busy be careful and cautious;’ go the extra mile and slow down. Remember, those of us in agriculture account for less than 2 percent of the population, we cannot afford to lose anyone."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: Avoiding catastrophe

The Trego Golden Eagles traveled to Wichita on June 19 for the State High School Trap Shooting tournament. The kids battled 100-degree temps and 20 mph winds.&nbsp; 

The tournament consisted of two rounds in the morning and 2 rounds in the afternoon for a total of 100 shots for the day.&nbsp; As the smoke cleared, Trego found themselves bring home the varsity state championship. 

Tillie Malinowsky shot her season-best score to bring home first place in the JV girls division. All the kids performed very well considering the conditions with many of them having their best scores of the year.&nbsp; the team finished with an average of 92 out of 100.&nbsp; This is the fourth season for Trego and their first trophy from the state championship.

The Eagles also received their season awards while at the tournament.&nbsp; Trego placed second overall in their conference for the season.&nbsp; Tanner Sells was named high overall individual for the state of Kansas with a season of average of 24.7 out of 25.&nbsp; Tanner only missed three targets the whole season during competition.&nbsp; Chad Malinowsky also place second in our conference with an average of 24.2 since the start of the program four years ago Trego has place in the top two every year with one first-place finish. 

The next challenge for the team with be in Mason, Michigan, for the National Tournament. Students qualify for nationals based on their season average. Trego is sending Tanner Sells, Chad Malinowsky, Quintin Walt and Oren Hobbs to Michigan to compete against 1,700 of the best shooters in the country. &nbsp;

This year’s team consists of Tanner Sells, Chad Malinowsky, Tillie Malinowsky, Quintin Walt, Nick Sherfick, Wyatt Littlechild, Andrew Post, Mathew Hafliger, Corbin Micek, Jessika Chapman, Shaelyn Cleland, Alyssa Schneider, Isaac Brungardt, Oren Hobbs, Cooper Minson, Alex Pfeifer, Colton Riedel and coaches Jason Dinkel, Marvin Dechant, and Brian Deines

Our supporters for the season are Pat and Charlotte Wanker, Deines Construction, Dechant Welding,&nbsp; Wakeeney Youth Shooting Club, Dan Deines, Bill Benkelman, Terry Stithem, Ron Freeman and Smoky Hill Chapter of Pheasants Forever.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624290236173.jpeg" alt="Front row - Alex Pfeifer, Cooper Minson,&nbsp;Tanner Sells, Tillie Malinowsky, Oren Hobbs, Nick Sherfick, Alyssa Schneider .&nbsp;Back row – Coach Marvin Dechant, Coach Jason Dinkel, Chad Malinowsky, Quinton Walt, Andrew Post, Wyatt Littlechild, and Coach Brian Deines &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Front row - Alex Pfeifer, Cooper Minson,&nbsp;Tanner Sells, Tillie Malinowsky, Oren Hobbs, Nick Sherfick, Alyssa Schneider .&nbsp;Back row – Coach Marvin Dechant, Coach Jason Dinkel, Chad Malinowsky, Quinton Walt, Andrew Post, Wyatt Littlechild, and Coach Brian Deines &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Trego Golden Eagles traveled to Wichita on June 19 for the State High School Trap Shooting tournament. The kids battled 100-degree temps and 20 mph winds.&nbsp; The tournament consisted of two rounds in the morning and 2 rounds in the afternoon for a total of 100 shots for the day.&nbsp; As the smoke cleared, Trego found themselves bring home the varsity state championship. Tillie Malinowsky shot her season-best score to bring home first place in the JV girls division. All the kids performed very well considering the conditions with many of them having their best scores of the year.&nbsp; the team finished with an average of 92 out of 100.&nbsp; This is the fourth season for Trego and their first trophy from the state championship.The Eagles also received their season awards while at the tournament.&nbsp; Trego placed second overall in their conference for the season.&nbsp; Tanner Sells was named high overall individual for the state of Kansas with a season of average of 24.7 out of 25.&nbsp; Tanner only missed three targets the whole season during competition.&nbsp; Chad Malinowsky also place second in our conference with an average of 24.2 since the start of the program four years ago Trego has place in the top two every year with one first-place finish. The next challenge for the team with be in Mason, Michigan, for the National Tournament. Students qualify for nationals based on their season average. Trego is sending Tanner Sells, Chad Malinowsky, Quintin Walt and Oren Hobbs to Michigan to compete against 1,700 of the best shooters in the country. &nbsp;This year’s team consists of Tanner Sells, Chad Malinowsky, Tillie Malinowsky, Quintin Walt, Nick Sherfick, Wyatt Littlechild, Andrew Post, Mathew Hafliger, Corbin Micek, Jessika Chapman, Shaelyn Cleland, Alyssa Schneider, Isaac Brungardt, Oren Hobbs, Cooper Minson, Alex Pfeifer, Colton Riedel and coaches Jason Dinkel, Marvin Dechant, and Brian DeinesOur supporters for the season are Pat and Charlotte Wanker, Deines Construction, Dechant Welding,&nbsp; Wakeeney Youth Shooting Club, Dan Deines, Bill Benkelman, Terry Stithem, Ron Freeman and Smoky Hill Chapter of Pheasants Forever.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trego Golden Eagles win 1A State Trap Shooting Championship

The Hays Young Professionals hosted a free community street dance on Friday in downtown Hays. There was live music and dancing at the Downtown Pavilion, 10th and Main, featuring Anthony and the Anamals.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheLocalFoodTruck1">The Local Food Truck</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/snowconeexpresshays">Snow Cone Express</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057629942367">Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress</a> added to the event by offering food and treats throughout the evening. Event sponsors included <a href="https://www.autoworldusedcars.com/">Auto World</a>, <a href="https://eagleradio.net/">Eagle Radio</a>, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/get-involved/hays-young-professionals">Hays Young Professionals</a>, <a href="https://idealrefuse.com/">Ideal Refuse Removal &amp; Roll-Off Service</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Walmart664">Walmart of Hays</a>, and <a href="https://www.werthfinancial.com/">Werth Wealth Management</a>.

"HYP is thrilled to be able to provide a free, family friendly event to the community," said Natalie Ellis, chair of the HYP advisory council. "As a HYP council, hosting a free family event that is open to everyone has been something we have talked about and worked toward for some time. I am so excited and pleased to be able to be a part of a group that has put community involvement first."

The mission of Hays Young Professionals is to promote the development, recruitment, and retention of young professionals in the Hays area; to build a bond between the business community and young professionals; and to help make the Hays area the best place to live, serve, work, and play. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a HYP member, call the Hays Chamber office at 785-628-8201 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayscc@hayschamber.com">hayscc@hayschamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624288040389.png" alt="Photo courtesy of the Hays Arts Council" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the Hays Arts Council</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Young Professionals hosted a free community street dance on Friday in downtown Hays. There was live music and dancing at the Downtown Pavilion, 10th and Main, featuring Anthony and the Anamals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheLocalFoodTruck1">The Local Food Truck</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/snowconeexpresshays">Snow Cone Express</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057629942367">Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress</a> added to the event by offering food and treats throughout the evening. Event sponsors included <a href="https://www.autoworldusedcars.com/">Auto World</a>, <a href="https://eagleradio.net/">Eagle Radio</a>, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/get-involved/hays-young-professionals">Hays Young Professionals</a>, <a href="https://idealrefuse.com/">Ideal Refuse Removal &amp; Roll-Off Service</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Walmart664">Walmart of Hays</a>, and <a href="https://www.werthfinancial.com/">Werth Wealth Management</a>."HYP is thrilled to be able to provide a free, family friendly event to the community," said Natalie Ellis, chair of the HYP advisory council. "As a HYP council, hosting a free family event that is open to everyone has been something we have talked about and worked toward for some time. I am so excited and pleased to be able to be a part of a group that has put community involvement first."The mission of Hays Young Professionals is to promote the development, recruitment, and retention of young professionals in the Hays area; to build a bond between the business community and young professionals; and to help make the Hays area the best place to live, serve, work, and play. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a HYP member, call the Hays Chamber office at 785-628-8201 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayscc@hayschamber.com">hayscc@hayschamber.com</a>.

Hays Young Professionals' street dance a success

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8 p.m. Tuesday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Christopher F. Jefferson, 41, Upper Marlboro, Maryland, was westbound on Interstate 70 one miles west of Quinter.

The driver lost control of the motorcycle when the rear tire malfunctioned. The motorcycle rolled several times and came to rest in the north ditch.

EMS transported Jefferson to Gove County Medical Center. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8 p.m. Tuesday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Christopher F. Jefferson, 41, Upper Marlboro, Maryland, was westbound on Interstate 70 one miles west of Quinter.The driver lost control of the motorcycle when the rear tire malfunctioned. The motorcycle rolled several times and came to rest in the north ditch.EMS transported Jefferson to Gove County Medical Center. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Man hospitalized after I-70 motorcycle accident

Three-day weather outlook

Bermudagrass can make a nice lawn if you don't mind its invasiveness and short growing season. &nbsp;But many people dislike both these characteristics. &nbsp;Warm-season grasses, such as bermudagrass, zoysiagrass and buffalograss, green up later than cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. They also go dormant earlier in the fall, which can make a lawn unattractive.

Bermuda that invades a cool-season lawn will be brown during much of the spring and fall while the tall fescue portion of the lawn is green. Bermuda is much more drought and heat resistant than cool-season grasses, so it will take over a cool-season lawn during the summer months if it is in full sun.So, how do you control bermudagrass that has invaded a cool-season lawn? Research conducted in 1996 showed that glyphosate (Round-up, Kleen-up, Killzall, Kleeraway) is the best herbicide for the job. Glyphosate is a nonselective herbicide and will kill everything— including tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass. Therefore, you will need to reseed treated areas. In our study, we applied a 2% solution of glyphosate on July 15 and again on August 15 on a bermudagrass plot that was more than 15 years old. More than one year later, we saw no regrowth. Glyphosate works best if bermuda is growing well. The better the bermudagrass is growing, the more chemical is taken up and pushed into the roots. Water and fertilize if needed to get it going.​Spray about the middle of July (or when the bermuda is growing well). Use glyphosate (2% solution). Wait two weeks and scalp the lawn (mow as low as possible and remove clippings.) &nbsp;This will prevent dead grass from covering any bermuda that starts to recover. Wait another two weeks and spray again with glyphosate if there is any green. Wait two more weeks and reseed. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Bermudagrass can make a nice lawn if you don't mind its invasiveness and short growing season. &nbsp;But many people dislike both these characteristics. &nbsp;Warm-season grasses, such as bermudagrass, zoysiagrass and buffalograss, green up later than cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. They also go dormant earlier in the fall, which can make a lawn unattractive.Bermuda that invades a cool-season lawn will be brown during much of the spring and fall while the tall fescue portion of the lawn is green. Bermuda is much more drought and heat resistant than cool-season grasses, so it will take over a cool-season lawn during the summer months if it is in full sun.So, how do you control bermudagrass that has invaded a cool-season lawn? Research conducted in 1996 showed that glyphosate (Round-up, Kleen-up, Killzall, Kleeraway) is the best herbicide for the job. Glyphosate is a nonselective herbicide and will kill everything— including tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass. Therefore, you will need to reseed treated areas. In our study, we applied a 2% solution of glyphosate on July 15 and again on August 15 on a bermudagrass plot that was more than 15 years old. More than one year later, we saw no regrowth. Glyphosate works best if bermuda is growing well. The better the bermudagrass is growing, the more chemical is taken up and pushed into the roots. Water and fertilize if needed to get it going.​Spray about the middle of July (or when the bermuda is growing well). Use glyphosate (2% solution). Wait two weeks and scalp the lawn (mow as low as possible and remove clippings.) &nbsp;This will prevent dead grass from covering any bermuda that starts to recover. Wait another two weeks and spray again with glyphosate if there is any green. Wait two more weeks and reseed. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

FICK: Bermudagrass control

Development Services of Northwest Kansas is $3 million toward its capital campaign goal of $5 million.

The agency, which serves individuals and their families with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 18 northwest Kansas counties, launched its Stronger Together Forever campaign in 2017.

DSNWK provides services for disabled individuals from birth to death.

"It's serving people who need a little support in their life," said Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO.

Services include infant and toddler services, services for families, day services, education, skill building and employment.

"Helping people have full, active and engaged lives in the community is what it's all about," he said.

The funds are being separated into three endowment accounts and one quasi-endowment account.

&nbsp;Michaud said during a Hays Chamber event at the agency Friday the cost to support the needs of the people it serves continues to outpace the agencies funding resources.

DSNWK officials hope to use the endowments to provide supplemental funding for the agency in the future, Michaud said.

"We knew in the developmental disability world the resources are lacking and the unmet needs are many," he said. "That was the driving force behind our effort."

Michaud encouraged area residents to consider not only making cash donations to the endowment, but consider the organization in their estate planning. He noted 70 percent of people don't have wills.

You can donate directly online on the <a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/">DSNWK website</a>, as well as learn more about planned giving. You can also contact the DSNWK main office in Hays&nbsp;at 785-625-5678 to receive assistance with a donation or estate gift. DSNWK's Allen Schmidt and David Clingan can both help with donation questions.

DSNWK also made two dedications during its open house on Friday.

The first was the dedication of a memorial wall to former client Joey Weber.

"This wall is about a story — a transition from pain and tragedy to purposeful action," Michaud said.

Weber was 36 when he was shot and killed by law enforcement in Hays during a traffic stop in 2016.

Weber, who received treatment for autism, allegedly became flustered when he was pulled over by law enforcement for an expired tag. Law enforcement reported he tried to reach for an officer's weapon, and an investigation determined the officer acted in self-defense.&nbsp;

John and Nancy Weber, Joey's parents, successfully lobbied the Kansas Legislature to pass "Joey's Law," which allows people with developmental or intellectual disabilities to place stickers or placards on their vehicles to alert officers of their disabilities.

On the request of Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, the Kansas Senate passed a resolution designating April 7, 2021, as “Joey Weber Remembrance Day.”

John and Nancy Weber have also created a endowment in Joey's honor to support DSNWK .

"The point of this story ... is in Joey's situation the response of his parents was one to take something that is difficult and do good. They wanted good to come out of this," Michaud said.

Michaud shared some thoughts from Joey's parents, who could not attend the dedication on Friday.

"The Joey Weber fund was established not to remember how Joey's life ended, but to remember how Joey's life was lived with independence, dignity and purpose," they said.

The second dedication was of a donor wall in the Hays main office. The donor wall was made possible from a donation in memory of Donald Werth, who was Jerry Michaud's father-in-law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624045809763.jpeg" alt="A wall in the DSNWK main office in Hays is dedicated to Joey Weber, a client who had autism. Weber was shot and killed by law enforcement in Hays in 2016 during a traffic stop." />
 <figcaption>A wall in the DSNWK main office in Hays is dedicated to Joey Weber, a client who had autism. Weber was shot and killed by law enforcement in Hays in 2016 during a traffic stop.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDevelopment Services of Northwest Kansas is $3 million toward its capital campaign goal of $5 million.The agency, which serves individuals and their families with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 18 northwest Kansas counties, launched its Stronger Together Forever campaign in 2017.DSNWK provides services for disabled individuals from birth to death."It's serving people who need a little support in their life," said Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO.Services include infant and toddler services, services for families, day services, education, skill building and employment."Helping people have full, active and engaged lives in the community is what it's all about," he said.The funds are being separated into three endowment accounts and one quasi-endowment account.&nbsp;Michaud said during a Hays Chamber event at the agency Friday the cost to support the needs of the people it serves continues to outpace the agencies funding resources.DSNWK officials hope to use the endowments to provide supplemental funding for the agency in the future, Michaud said."We knew in the developmental disability world the resources are lacking and the unmet needs are many," he said. "That was the driving force behind our effort."Michaud encouraged area residents to consider not only making cash donations to the endowment, but consider the organization in their estate planning. He noted 70 percent of people don't have wills.You can donate directly online on the <a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/">DSNWK website</a>, as well as learn more about planned giving. You can also contact the DSNWK main office in Hays&nbsp;at 785-625-5678 to receive assistance with a donation or estate gift. DSNWK's Allen Schmidt and David Clingan can both help with donation questions.DSNWK also made two dedications during its open house on Friday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624046869688.jpeg" alt="Joey Weber" />
 <figcaption>Joey Weber</figcaption>
 </figure>The first was the dedication of a memorial wall to former client Joey Weber."This wall is about a story — a transition from pain and tragedy to purposeful action," Michaud said.Weber was 36 when he was shot and killed by law enforcement in Hays during a traffic stop in 2016.Weber, who received treatment for autism, allegedly became flustered when he was pulled over by law enforcement for an expired tag. Law enforcement reported he tried to reach for an officer's weapon, and an investigation determined the officer acted in self-defense.&nbsp;John and Nancy Weber, Joey's parents, successfully lobbied the Kansas Legislature to pass "Joey's Law," which allows people with developmental or intellectual disabilities to place stickers or placards on their vehicles to alert officers of their disabilities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624047728802.jpeg" alt="Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO, cuts a ribbon to dedicate the Joey Weber memorial wall." />
 <figcaption>Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO, cuts a ribbon to dedicate the Joey Weber memorial wall.</figcaption>
 </figure>On the request of Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, the Kansas Senate passed a resolution designating April 7, 2021, as “Joey Weber Remembrance Day.”John and Nancy Weber have also created a endowment in Joey's honor to support DSNWK ."The point of this story ... is in Joey's situation the response of his parents was one to take something that is difficult and do good. They wanted good to come out of this," Michaud said.Michaud shared some thoughts from Joey's parents, who could not attend the dedication on Friday."The Joey Weber fund was established not to remember how Joey's life ended, but to remember how Joey's life was lived with independence, dignity and purpose," they said.The second dedication was of a donor wall in the Hays main office. The donor wall was made possible from a donation in memory of Donald Werth, who was Jerry Michaud's father-in-law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624047217979.jpeg" alt="Center Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO,&nbsp;with his mother-in-law Charlotte Werth cuts the ribbon on the agency's new donor wall . The Werth family donated funds for the wall in memory of their husband and father, Donald Werth. Also picture are FAR LEFT Renee Michaud, Donald Werth's daughter; LEFT OF CENTER Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber director; Steve Keil, DSNWK director&nbsp;of development; and Natalie Ellis, DSNWK communication support specialist." />
 <figcaption>Center Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president and CEO,&nbsp;with his mother-in-law Charlotte Werth cuts the ribbon on the agency's new donor wall . The Werth family donated funds for the wall in memory of their husband and father, Donald Werth. Also picture are FAR LEFT Renee Michaud, Donald Werth's daughter; LEFT OF CENTER Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber director; Steve Keil, DSNWK director&nbsp;of development; and Natalie Ellis, DSNWK communication support specialist.</figcaption>
 </figure>

DSNWK $3M to $5M capital goal, dedicates Weber memorial

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

With the number of COVID-19 cases continuing to decline in Ellis
County and no requests for personal protective equipment, the Ellis County
Commission voted this week to rescind the disaster/emergency declaration for
the coronavirus.

Emergency Manager Lyle Pantle told the commission Monday the state of Kansas required each county to declare a state of disaster/emergency
in order to received PPE, stockpiled by the state, to distribute to agencies in
the region that had requested them.

Pantle said the county did not have a COVID emergency at the
time but was forced to make the declaration in order to get the request
supplies.

Now, with the number of positive cases waning, Pantle said
after talking with Health Services Director Jason Kennedy and former Emergency
Manger and current County Administrator Darin Myers, he recommended ending the
disaster/emergency declaration.

“We all believe it is time to rescind the declaration,”
Pantle said. 

He said it has been at least two months since they have
received any requests for help with obtaining PPE.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
In other business Monday the commission approved
update job descriptions for 14 jobs for a saving of $3,000.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Recognized five employees who have recently been
promoted.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Increase the tire disposal rate at the landfill to
$220 per ton.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Sponsored Bill Ring to serve as a member of the
Kansas All-Hazards Regional Incident Management Team.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Approved a resolution allowing Ellis County to
opt into the Rural Opportunity Zone state program.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Accepted a grant from the Kansas Forest Service
to purchase a front bumper mounted turret monitor for the brush truck in Ellis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624406039267.jpeg" alt="Lyle Pantle" />
 <figcaption>Lyle Pantle</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostWith the number of COVID-19 cases continuing to decline in Ellis
County and no requests for personal protective equipment, the Ellis County
Commission voted this week to rescind the disaster/emergency declaration for
the coronavirus.Emergency Manager Lyle Pantle told the commission Monday the state of Kansas required each county to declare a state of disaster/emergency
in order to received PPE, stockpiled by the state, to distribute to agencies in
the region that had requested them.Pantle said the county did not have a COVID emergency at the
time but was forced to make the declaration in order to get the request
supplies.Now, with the number of positive cases waning, Pantle said
after talking with Health Services Director Jason Kennedy and former Emergency
Manger and current County Administrator Darin Myers, he recommended ending the
disaster/emergency declaration.“We all believe it is time to rescind the declaration,”
Pantle said. He said it has been at least two months since they have
received any requests for help with obtaining PPE.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
In other business Monday the commission approved
update job descriptions for 14 jobs for a saving of $3,000.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Recognized five employees who have recently been
promoted.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Increase the tire disposal rate at the landfill to
$220 per ton.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Sponsored Bill Ring to serve as a member of the
Kansas All-Hazards Regional Incident Management Team.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Approved a resolution allowing Ellis County to
opt into the Rural Opportunity Zone state program.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Accepted a grant from the Kansas Forest Service
to purchase a front bumper mounted turret monitor for the brush truck in Ellis.

Ellis County Commission ends COVID disaster declaration

TOPEKA —&nbsp;State Treasurer Lynn Rogers will be traveling to Hays on Wednesday to continue his statewide Unclaimed Property Tour, meeting with Kansans and reuniting them with their cash and property. Treasurer Rogers will be hosting an Unclaimed Property search event at Breathe Coffee House at 1:45 p.m. He will then be presenting First Baptist Church Hays with a check for Unclaimed Property at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23, 2021.

Media outlets are invited to attend both events provided all follow any health and security guidelines at each location. Media&nbsp;must RSVP&nbsp;by emailing Kyle Freese at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kyle@treasurer.ks.gov">kyle@treasurer.ks.gov</a>.

Treasurer Rogers is making appearances throughout the day at each location. Those times are indicated below. Treasurer Rogers is available to answer questions from the media before, during, or following each event. For more details or to RSVP, please contact Kyle Freese.

Breathe Coffee House&nbsp;-- 1:45-3:00 p.m.

First Baptist Church Hays&nbsp;-- 3:00-4:00 p.m.

Kansas State TreasurerTOPEKA —&nbsp;State Treasurer Lynn Rogers will be traveling to Hays on Wednesday to continue his statewide Unclaimed Property Tour, meeting with Kansans and reuniting them with their cash and property. Treasurer Rogers will be hosting an Unclaimed Property search event at Breathe Coffee House at 1:45 p.m. He will then be presenting First Baptist Church Hays with a check for Unclaimed Property at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23, 2021.Media outlets are invited to attend both events provided all follow any health and security guidelines at each location. Media&nbsp;must RSVP&nbsp;by emailing Kyle Freese at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kyle@treasurer.ks.gov">kyle@treasurer.ks.gov</a>.Treasurer Rogers is making appearances throughout the day at each location. Those times are indicated below. Treasurer Rogers is available to answer questions from the media before, during, or following each event. For more details or to RSVP, please contact Kyle Freese.When:Wednesday, June 23, 2021Where:Breathe Coffee House&nbsp;-- 1:45-3:00 p.m.703 Main St.&nbsp;Hays, KS 67601First Baptist Church Hays&nbsp;-- 3:00-4:00 p.m.1111 Fort St.Hays, KS 67601

Kan. treasurer's unclaimed property tour in Hays Wednesday

A lucky couple in Rooks County came to the Kansas 
Lottery offices in Topeka to claim a $150,000 top prize won on the $20 
Extreme Crossword game. The winners chose to remain anonymous.&nbsp;

“We play fairly often, but we’ve never won anything like this 
before,” the winners said. “It’s just now sinking in that we really 
won!”&nbsp;

The lucky player said they like to play crossword games because of 
the extended playstyle that the games offer. “You can get a big 
crossword game like this one, and if you take your time and play one 
letter at a time, it can take quite a while to play,” the winners said.&nbsp;

The winners say they will use the prize money to pay off some bills 
and to boost their savings, but they definitely plan to travel as well.&nbsp;

“We love to travel and explore, and now we have a great opportunity to make some long-planned trips happen!” they said.&nbsp;

The winning ticket was sold at the Golden Q at 809 Ash Street in Hays. There are still two top prizes left in the <a href="https://kslottery.com/games/instants/?gameid=179">$20 Extreme Crossword</a> instant scratch game, as well as thousands in other cash prizes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574716446103.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas LotteryA lucky couple in Rooks County came to the Kansas 
Lottery offices in Topeka to claim a $150,000 top prize won on the $20 
Extreme Crossword game. The winners chose to remain anonymous.&nbsp;“We play fairly often, but we’ve never won anything like this 
before,” the winners said. “It’s just now sinking in that we really 
won!”&nbsp;The lucky player said they like to play crossword games because of 
the extended playstyle that the games offer. “You can get a big 
crossword game like this one, and if you take your time and play one 
letter at a time, it can take quite a while to play,” the winners said.&nbsp;The winners say they will use the prize money to pay off some bills 
and to boost their savings, but they definitely plan to travel as well.&nbsp;“We love to travel and explore, and now we have a great opportunity to make some long-planned trips happen!” they said.&nbsp;The winning ticket was sold at the Golden Q at 809 Ash Street in Hays. There are still two top prizes left in the <a href="https://kslottery.com/games/instants/?gameid=179">$20 Extreme Crossword</a> instant scratch game, as well as thousands in other cash prizes.&nbsp;

Rooks Co. couple wins $150K lottery haul from ticket bought at Golden Q

The Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association has announced details of this year's Convention and Trade Show in Wichita from Aug. 15 to 17. The event will feature former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as keynote speaker. You can still sign up for specific events, and register for a booth at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>. Crude prices remain at 32-month highs. Monday's settlement price for the benchmark Nymex crude futures contract was $73.66 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $62 per barrel after gaining 75 cents on Friday. Prices jumped another two dollars on Monday, with Kansas Common fetching $64 a barrel for the first time since October 8, 2018. The Rig Count in Kansas was up 13% last week, with 22 active drilling rigs in Western Kansas, up three from the week before. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the count east of Wichita was unchanged at four active rigs. Kansas regulators approved 24 new drilling permits across the state last week, 11 east of Wichita and 13 in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. That's 416 new permits so far this year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports just ten newly completed wells last week across Kansas. That's 351 completions so far this year.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reported 470 active drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, a net increase of eight oil rigs and one gas rig. The weekly Rotary Rig Count shows an increase of three active rigs in Wyoming. Texas and Pennsylvania were each up two, Colorado and Utah were each up one. The price gap between the world’s two most actively traded oil contracts narrowed to its lowest in more than seven months. North Sea Brent futures traded at a premium of $1.89 to WTI on Friday, the narrowest such spread since Nov. 11. The government reported a drop of more than seven million barrels in U.S. crude inventories last week. The Energy Information Administration said stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average. Imports were up 108,000 barrels per day last week to 6.7 million. Four-week average imports are down nearly six percent from the same period last year. U.S. crude production continued to rise last week, topping eleven million barrels per day for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic output reached 11.246 million barrels per day for the week ending June 11. That's up 203,000 barrels per day from the week before, and more than 785,000 barrels higher than a year earlier. The last time U.S. output topped eleven million barrels per day for two weeks in a row was in late January. One barometer of oilfield activity is showing signs of improvement. The government's monthly Drilling Productivity Report shows the number of new wells drilled but uncompleted is going down in all of the major shale plays in the U.S. The nationwide total was down 3.6% from April to May, dropping by 247 drilled, and now completed, wells. Nearly half of those were in the Permian basin of Texas and New Mexico. The Energy Information Administration says Permian production will increase by 56,000 barrels per day in July, while the other six major shale regions will all show slight declines. U.S. oil-by-rail traffic was down from a week ago, but is up nearly 13% from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,638 tanker cars hauling petroleum across the country during the week ending June 12, down 525 tankers from the prior week. Canadian oil-by-rail traffic was up 669 cars week-over-week, and marked an increase of more than 25% from a year ago. A U.S. judge ordered the Biden Administration to immediately restart its oil and gas leasing program. The court sided with 13 states asking for an injunction against an executive order issued in January that stopped the leasing of public lands for oil and gas exploration. According to the judge, there are two existing laws that require the Interior Department to hold lease sales. AAA says crude prices are up 32% from the first of the year, and that has pumped up gasoline prices. Motorists are paying an average of 37% more to fill up their gas tanks than they did on January first. The auto club predicts higher prices for the rest of the month, but says we could get some relief later this summer if crude production increases. Pump prices are slightly higher on the week. Triple-A says the national average is $3.07 per gallon. The Kansas average is just over $2. The State of Colorado is considering new rules that could cost the state's energy industry billions. The Colorado Sun newspaper reports regulators are hoping to avoid paying to plug abandoned wells, by increasing the financial guarantees required of operators for each of their wells. Draft regulations released by the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission would require a financial guarantee of the full cost of plugging each well, at $78,000 each.&nbsp; The rules would cover all 50,000 of the states oil and gas wells. That comes out to $3.9 BILLION statewide. Production in North Dakota rose slightly in April, while the state's gas-capture rate fell back from it's best-ever performance the month before. Regulators in the number-two crude producing state say output averaged over 1.12 million barrels per day, up about 13,000 barrels per day from March. The statewide gas-capture tally was 93 percent, meaning just seven percent of the natural gas produced at the state's oil wells was burned off or vented. That's well within the state's voluntary caps on flaring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARThe Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association has announced details of this year's Convention and Trade Show in Wichita from Aug. 15 to 17. The event will feature former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as keynote speaker. You can still sign up for specific events, and register for a booth at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>. Crude prices remain at 32-month highs. Monday's settlement price for the benchmark Nymex crude futures contract was $73.66 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $62 per barrel after gaining 75 cents on Friday. Prices jumped another two dollars on Monday, with Kansas Common fetching $64 a barrel for the first time since October 8, 2018. The Rig Count in Kansas was up 13% last week, with 22 active drilling rigs in Western Kansas, up three from the week before. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the count east of Wichita was unchanged at four active rigs. Kansas regulators approved 24 new drilling permits across the state last week, 11 east of Wichita and 13 in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. That's 416 new permits so far this year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports just ten newly completed wells last week across Kansas. That's 351 completions so far this year.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reported 470 active drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, a net increase of eight oil rigs and one gas rig. The weekly Rotary Rig Count shows an increase of three active rigs in Wyoming. Texas and Pennsylvania were each up two, Colorado and Utah were each up one. The price gap between the world’s two most actively traded oil contracts narrowed to its lowest in more than seven months. North Sea Brent futures traded at a premium of $1.89 to WTI on Friday, the narrowest such spread since Nov. 11. The government reported a drop of more than seven million barrels in U.S. crude inventories last week. The Energy Information Administration said stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average. Imports were up 108,000 barrels per day last week to 6.7 million. Four-week average imports are down nearly six percent from the same period last year. U.S. crude production continued to rise last week, topping eleven million barrels per day for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic output reached 11.246 million barrels per day for the week ending June 11. That's up 203,000 barrels per day from the week before, and more than 785,000 barrels higher than a year earlier. The last time U.S. output topped eleven million barrels per day for two weeks in a row was in late January. One barometer of oilfield activity is showing signs of improvement. The government's monthly Drilling Productivity Report shows the number of new wells drilled but uncompleted is going down in all of the major shale plays in the U.S. The nationwide total was down 3.6% from April to May, dropping by 247 drilled, and now completed, wells. Nearly half of those were in the Permian basin of Texas and New Mexico. The Energy Information Administration says Permian production will increase by 56,000 barrels per day in July, while the other six major shale regions will all show slight declines. U.S. oil-by-rail traffic was down from a week ago, but is up nearly 13% from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,638 tanker cars hauling petroleum across the country during the week ending June 12, down 525 tankers from the prior week. Canadian oil-by-rail traffic was up 669 cars week-over-week, and marked an increase of more than 25% from a year ago. A U.S. judge ordered the Biden Administration to immediately restart its oil and gas leasing program. The court sided with 13 states asking for an injunction against an executive order issued in January that stopped the leasing of public lands for oil and gas exploration. According to the judge, there are two existing laws that require the Interior Department to hold lease sales. AAA says crude prices are up 32% from the first of the year, and that has pumped up gasoline prices. Motorists are paying an average of 37% more to fill up their gas tanks than they did on January first. The auto club predicts higher prices for the rest of the month, but says we could get some relief later this summer if crude production increases. Pump prices are slightly higher on the week. Triple-A says the national average is $3.07 per gallon. The Kansas average is just over $2. The State of Colorado is considering new rules that could cost the state's energy industry billions. The Colorado Sun newspaper reports regulators are hoping to avoid paying to plug abandoned wells, by increasing the financial guarantees required of operators for each of their wells. Draft regulations released by the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission would require a financial guarantee of the full cost of plugging each well, at $78,000 each.&nbsp; The rules would cover all 50,000 of the states oil and gas wells. That comes out to $3.9 BILLION statewide. Production in North Dakota rose slightly in April, while the state's gas-capture rate fell back from it's best-ever performance the month before. Regulators in the number-two crude producing state say output averaged over 1.12 million barrels per day, up about 13,000 barrels per day from March. The statewide gas-capture tally was 93 percent, meaning just seven percent of the natural gas produced at the state's oil wells was burned off or vented. That's well within the state's voluntary caps on flaring.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices, production continue to rise

On this episode of the Post Podcast Rick Feltenberger from ForwardFocus and Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discuss the upcoming Lunch &amp; Learn on June 30th at noon at BriefSpace.&nbsp;

<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="Upcoming Lunch and Learn to focus on succession planning" 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=8mitv-106ef0f-pb&from=pb6admin&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 Rick Feltenberger from ForwardFocus and Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discuss the upcoming Lunch &amp; Learn on June 30th at noon at BriefSpace.&nbsp;<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: Upcoming Lunch and Learn to focus on succession planning

The Hays USD 489 school board was informed this week it has been allocated $1.6 million in federal COVID relief funds.

Superintendent Ron Wilson discussed with the board Monday how that money will be used.

A large portion of those funds are being spent for summer school for two years for elementary, middle and high school students. The district is providing transportation for summer school this summer, as well as some supplies.

"This is to address the learning loss that occurred during COVID," Wilson said.&nbsp;

Additional kindergarten teachers who were added last school year will be funded again this year. This has helped keep kindergarten class sizes down.

The district is adding a high school support teacher. District officials hope this teacher can help students with credit recovery.

The district will have a staff person for the multi-tiered system of support, which is also known as MTSS. The program is meant to target support for students who are struggling academically.

The district added a lead nurse position last school year, who coordinated all questions and COVID-19 contact tracing during the pandemic. The district is keeping that position into coming school year.

The district hopes to hire a community outreach specialist, who will help the district with grant writing and communication with the community.

Books will be added to school libraries. The district will also use federal funds to pay for some of the district's subscriptions, including the student/parent communication platform Seesaw.

The district is considering using some of the funds for behavioral and emotional support programs for the elementary schools, but that has not been finalized, Wilson said.

The district is considering adding classroom aides as well as professional development in 2021-22.

Some funds will also be used for capital improvements. The district hopes to replace windows at Wilson and O'Loughlin elementary schools.

"We will never see anything like this in our history again in terms of how we have been supported with federal funds for learning and improvements," Wilson said. "It's really phenomenal. We are really going to try to make the best of it."

Wilson said it is going to take the district, teachers and students time to regroup from the pandemic.

"Even though we were very fortunate that we were a district that was in session, other than last spring. We were is session most every day. We had some learning loss. We've got to do some things to help kids catch up. These things are really going to help."

The district is working on a safe return to school plan for the fall, Wilson said.&nbsp;

The district does not plan to require masks when school begins in the fall. However, officials are making plans of what to do if another COVID-19 outbreak would happen in the coming year.

The district heard a report on the replacement of the district network. The cost of the replacement will be&nbsp;$384,000. However, the school qualifies for E-rate funds, which means the district's cost will be reduced to $135,000.

The E-rate program provides discounts to assist schools to obtain affordable internet access and telecommunications services.

Scott Summers, technology director, told the school board Monday night replacing the network will increase security, coverage and the district's ability to manage the system.

The system was installed in 2014, and the service contract is set to expire.

The board is set to vote on the purchase at its meeting in July.

The district still owes $65,000 to cover the gas bill from the cold snap that happened in February. The district has joined other school districts in disputing its bill.&nbsp;

The board voted to set aside $65,000 from its contingency reserve fund to pay the bill. However, Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the district will likely owe less than that amount once the dispute is settled with the utility company.

Thirty-nine of the district's vehicles received significant hail damage during the recent storm. Several windshields were broken, which have been repaired. Repairs are ongoing on the other vehicles.

The roof on the Early Childhood Complex will likely be totaled. The district is waiting to receive word if the metal roof on the vocational building at the high school will also be totaled.

In other business, the board: • Heard reports on the student and classified handbooks. • Approved an Emergency Hazard Mitigation Plan resolution. • Approved a three-year renewal for elementary social studies textbooks at a cost of&nbsp;$40,825.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624378521348.jpeg" alt="Hays school board" />
 <figcaption>Hays school board</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board was informed this week it has been allocated $1.6 million in federal COVID relief funds.Superintendent Ron Wilson discussed with the board Monday how that money will be used.A large portion of those funds are being spent for summer school for two years for elementary, middle and high school students. The district is providing transportation for summer school this summer, as well as some supplies."This is to address the learning loss that occurred during COVID," Wilson said.&nbsp;Additional kindergarten teachers who were added last school year will be funded again this year. This has helped keep kindergarten class sizes down.The district is adding a high school support teacher. District officials hope this teacher can help students with credit recovery.The district will have a staff person for the multi-tiered system of support, which is also known as MTSS. The program is meant to target support for students who are struggling academically.The district added a lead nurse position last school year, who coordinated all questions and COVID-19 contact tracing during the pandemic. The district is keeping that position into coming school year.The district hopes to hire a community outreach specialist, who will help the district with grant writing and communication with the community.Books will be added to school libraries. The district will also use federal funds to pay for some of the district's subscriptions, including the student/parent communication platform Seesaw.The district is considering using some of the funds for behavioral and emotional support programs for the elementary schools, but that has not been finalized, Wilson said.The district is considering adding classroom aides as well as professional development in 2021-22.Some funds will also be used for capital improvements. The district hopes to replace windows at Wilson and O'Loughlin elementary schools."We will never see anything like this in our history again in terms of how we have been supported with federal funds for learning and improvements," Wilson said. "It's really phenomenal. We are really going to try to make the best of it."Wilson said it is going to take the district, teachers and students time to regroup from the pandemic."Even though we were very fortunate that we were a district that was in session, other than last spring. We were is session most every day. We had some learning loss. We've got to do some things to help kids catch up. These things are really going to help."<h2>No masks in the fall</h2>The district is working on a safe return to school plan for the fall, Wilson said.&nbsp;The district does not plan to require masks when school begins in the fall. However, officials are making plans of what to do if another COVID-19 outbreak would happen in the coming year.<h2>District network replacement</h2>The district heard a report on the replacement of the district network. The cost of the replacement will be&nbsp;$384,000. However, the school qualifies for E-rate funds, which means the district's cost will be reduced to $135,000.The E-rate program provides discounts to assist schools to obtain affordable internet access and telecommunications services.Scott Summers, technology director, told the school board Monday night replacing the network will increase security, coverage and the district's ability to manage the system.The system was installed in 2014, and the service contract is set to expire.The board is set to vote on the purchase at its meeting in July.<h2>Cold snap gas bill</h2>The district still owes $65,000 to cover the gas bill from the cold snap that happened in February. The district has joined other school districts in disputing its bill.&nbsp;The board voted to set aside $65,000 from its contingency reserve fund to pay the bill. However, Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the district will likely owe less than that amount once the dispute is settled with the utility company.<h2>Hail damage</h2>Thirty-nine of the district's vehicles received significant hail damage during the recent storm. Several windshields were broken, which have been repaired. Repairs are ongoing on the other vehicles.The roof on the Early Childhood Complex will likely be totaled. The district is waiting to receive word if the metal roof on the vocational building at the high school will also be totaled.In other business, the board: • Heard reports on the student and classified handbooks. • Approved an Emergency Hazard Mitigation Plan resolution. • Approved a three-year renewal for elementary social studies textbooks at a cost of&nbsp;$40,825.

Hays USD 489 to receive $1.6M in COVID relief funds

ELLIS - The Ellis City Council will conduct a special meeting tonight beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Ellis City Hall.

Council members will discuss&nbsp;options in the engineering study for the water treatment plant and water exploration project by Wilson &amp; Company.

The second agenda item calls for an executive session to discuss confidential data relating to financial affairs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582917685536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of EllisELLIS - The Ellis City Council will conduct a special meeting tonight beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Ellis City Hall.Council members will discuss&nbsp;options in the engineering study for the water treatment plant and water exploration project by Wilson &amp; Company.The second agenda item calls for an executive session to discuss confidential data relating to financial affairs.

Ellis City Council to meet in special session tonight

Fort Hays State University has released the names of 1,691 students who earned places on the Dean’s Honor Roll for&nbsp;the spring 2021 semester.

The Dean’s Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Online students are eligible.

Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications – and, for those who have declared them, their majors. This list does not include students who requested privacy.

Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.

The complete list of spring 2021 deans honor roll students of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtHUQH3ao2jPA-2FmJhxnmcFn5i3k8py7Fh7XXXJQyT27ab6jzm-2BOzscT3hiGAO4YRU7BNOS2quql-2FnNscTpncwrzWU-2FpkyC65mniFAJdHMcoOfRPiVhMI1xJIjrXRrk7GncGeeUmEn4LCor8Xj5hri2N4-3Dbokv_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B0ePFeOWM039PGuVD2HRY0RN5saYaMZqjIDetL9jpZjTfDVGBgSiwLEuR0OC6hdO8RnKJUGqndsp6Gga-2BVSXisJY402Ra4xkgqAYXZmNBTwngmwbZgGr4lgIGUcyD30Ir7zF2yENxQ95ZAdM-2F4Og32IIM-2BCEeWB-2FbBCijBbLkTvdAp4OH7aaxOaIp49sAYy2zbQ0EXHEdbQ2fX4SlnnFq4NcWP9La6Yhmnj1hKQ2O-2FIn4ImSZ7duImpb8UomYLc-2BZ">https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2021/06/local-students-named-to-spring-2021-deans-honor-roll-at-fort-hays-state-university</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624284141655.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University has released the names of 1,691 students who earned places on the Dean’s Honor Roll for&nbsp;the spring 2021 semester.The Dean’s Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Online students are eligible.Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications – and, for those who have declared them, their majors. This list does not include students who requested privacy.Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.The complete list of spring 2021 deans honor roll students of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtHUQH3ao2jPA-2FmJhxnmcFn5i3k8py7Fh7XXXJQyT27ab6jzm-2BOzscT3hiGAO4YRU7BNOS2quql-2FnNscTpncwrzWU-2FpkyC65mniFAJdHMcoOfRPiVhMI1xJIjrXRrk7GncGeeUmEn4LCor8Xj5hri2N4-3Dbokv_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B0ePFeOWM039PGuVD2HRY0RN5saYaMZqjIDetL9jpZjTfDVGBgSiwLEuR0OC6hdO8RnKJUGqndsp6Gga-2BVSXisJY402Ra4xkgqAYXZmNBTwngmwbZgGr4lgIGUcyD30Ir7zF2yENxQ95ZAdM-2F4Og32IIM-2BCEeWB-2FbBCijBbLkTvdAp4OH7aaxOaIp49sAYy2zbQ0EXHEdbQ2fX4SlnnFq4NcWP9La6Yhmnj1hKQ2O-2FIn4ImSZ7duImpb8UomYLc-2BZ">https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2021/06/local-students-named-to-spring-2021-deans-honor-roll-at-fort-hays-state-university</a>

NW Kan. students named to Dean’s Honor Roll at Fort Hays State

The Ellis County Public Works Road and Bridge Division is announcing that an&nbsp;asphalt overlay project on Rome Road will take place beginning in the 1300 block&nbsp;of Rome Road.

&nbsp;This area between 220th Avenue and 230th Avenue will be closed&nbsp;to through traffic beginning at 7:00 a.m. Tuesday and will remain&nbsp;closed until the project is completed.&nbsp;The estimated completion date is&nbsp;Wednesday, June 23rd, pending weather conditions.

&nbsp;Motorists traveling in the&nbsp;affected closure area should use alternate routes of travel until the project is&nbsp;completed.

Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road and Bridge&nbsp;Division at 785-628-9455. Your cooperation during this project is appreciated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601476427799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTYThe Ellis County Public Works Road and Bridge Division is announcing that an&nbsp;asphalt overlay project on Rome Road will take place beginning in the 1300 block&nbsp;of Rome Road.&nbsp;This area between 220th Avenue and 230th Avenue will be closed&nbsp;to through traffic beginning at 7:00 a.m. Tuesday and will remain&nbsp;closed until the project is completed.&nbsp;The estimated completion date is&nbsp;Wednesday, June 23rd, pending weather conditions.&nbsp;Motorists traveling in the&nbsp;affected closure area should use alternate routes of travel until the project is&nbsp;completed.Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road and Bridge&nbsp;Division at 785-628-9455. Your cooperation during this project is appreciated.

1300 block of Rome Road closed for asphalt overlay 

By TAYLOR JAMISON K-State Research and Extension

MANHATTAN – Six couples will be honored during this year’s Kansas State Fair as the 2020 class of Kansas Master Farmers and Master Farm Homemakers in recognition of their leadership in agriculture, environmental stewardship and service to their communities.&nbsp;

The statewide awards program is in its 94th year and is sponsored by K-State Research and Extension and Kansas Farmer magazine.&nbsp;

The annual awards banquet will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. A reception is planned for 3:30 p.m. in the 4-H Encampment Building, followed by dinner at 5;30 p.m. in the adjacent Dillon Hall.&nbsp;

Reservations for dinner are required and are available by contacting Sue Robinson at 785-532-5820 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:srobinso@ksu.edu">srobinso@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Below are short biographies on each couple:&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615992626413.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TAYLOR JAMISON K-State Research and Extension MANHATTAN – Six couples will be honored during this year’s Kansas State Fair as the 2020 class of Kansas Master Farmers and Master Farm Homemakers in recognition of their leadership in agriculture, environmental stewardship and service to their communities.&nbsp;The statewide awards program is in its 94th year and is sponsored by K-State Research and Extension and Kansas Farmer magazine.&nbsp;This year’s honorees are:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Keith and Marsha Doane – Osborne County&nbsp;</li><li>Howard and Lori Elliot – Brown County&nbsp;</li><li>John and Sharon Hendricks – Cheyenne County&nbsp;</li><li>Jay and Stacy Rezac – Pottawatomie County&nbsp;</li><li>Keith and Vera Schultz – Kiowa County&nbsp;</li><li>Ellis and Rita Yoder – McPherson County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The annual awards banquet will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. A reception is planned for 3:30 p.m. in the 4-H Encampment Building, followed by dinner at 5;30 p.m. in the adjacent Dillon Hall.&nbsp;Reservations for dinner are required and are available by contacting Sue Robinson at 785-532-5820 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:srobinso@ksu.edu">srobinso@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;Below are short biographies on each couple:&nbsp;<h2>Keith and Marsha Doane – Osborne County&nbsp;</h2>Keith Doane began farming in high school on land rented from his grandfather and knowledge passed down from his father. Today, Doane Family Farms has expanded greatly, but still remains primarily within the family.&nbsp;Doane Family Farms operates on principles of mentorship, leadership, and cooperative management; by renting and working on the farm, Keith’s sons were able to earn enough money to pay for their college education.&nbsp;Doane Family Farms manages livestock and crops. One of the longest running operations is their spring cow-calf herd. The Doanes say one of their favorite activities is to check the cow pastures together early in the morning during calving season.&nbsp;The primary crops grown are winter wheat, corn, sorghum, soybeans, and alfalfa hay. Additionally, Doane Family Farms works closely with the Post Rock Extension wheat trials and Kansas Agriculture Research and Technology Association.&nbsp;“We believe we can be in service of advancing unbiased data to support better decision making on our farm and for the benefit of our neighbors,” they said.&nbsp;Conservation is also of great importance to the Doanes, who have been awarded the Bankers Association Soil Conservation Award for Smith County in 2012 and Osborne County in 2019.&nbsp;The couple has four sons: Michael, Rodney, Brett, and Craig; and 10 grandchildren. Together, the family has been deeply involved with their church (Rose Valley United Methodist), school district, 4-H club, and as hosts for international exchange students. They note: “In a small community like Downs, being a willing and active servant leader is necessary to build a high quality of life together with our neighbors and friends.”&nbsp;<h2>Howard and Lori Elliot&nbsp;– Brown County&nbsp;</h2>The Elliot family farm is on its fourth and fifth generation of continuous operation in northeast Kansas, starting with Howard Elliot’s great grandfather in 1901. Howard and his wife Lori continue to farm alongside their children today and hope to pass on the same lessons they have learned to their grandchildren.&nbsp;Howard was born on his family farm operation, helping with chores as he grew up. In high school, he was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA – two programs that would continue to make a large impact in the Elliot's’ lives.&nbsp;Howard then went on to graduate from North Central Area Vo-Tech School in production agriculture. After graduating, Howard began farming full-time on his family farm.&nbsp;In his career, Howard served various cabinet positions in the Roy’s Creek Watershed, Northeast Kansas Beef Breeder Association, and Brown-Nemaha pork producers. Outside of agricultural-related activities, Howard has served on the St. Ann’s Catholic Church board, is a member of the Knights of Columbus and helped coach baseball and softball teams.&nbsp;Lori grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Marysville. Like Howard, she was also very involved with 4-H. Lori met Howard at North Central Area Vo-Tech School where she was the only female in her production agriculture class. Lori is very active in her community, serving on the Hiawatha Community Hospital Board and Hospital Foundation Board, Roy’s Creek Watershed and as a leader of the local 4-H club. Lori also serves as president of the Ladies Altar society of St. Ann’s Catholic Church.&nbsp;The couple has three children: Mathew, Teresa, and Sara, all of whom are still involved with the family farm. The Elliot’s also have five grandchildren.&nbsp;The Elliots believe growing up in agriculture teaches profound life lessons. “Livestock taught [our children] about the miracle of birth, and the sadness of death...Crops taught them that sometimes no matter how hard you work and do things the best you know how, that there are times when things out of your control...can make things go bad,” they said.&nbsp;<h2>John and Sharon Hendricks – Cheyenne County&nbsp;</h2>John and Sharon Hendricks have been involved in agriculture since they were young and continue to pass down valuable knowledge to their children and grandchildren. John hopes that “Through his experiences, he has led by example and encouraged the next generation(s) to be fair, honest, and to do what’s right.”&nbsp;After graduating from Kansas State University with a degree in agricultural mechanization and serving two years in the military during the Korean War, John returned to his family farm following his father’s death in 1973. Since John has taken up the farm from his father, it has expanded extensively and adopted new, improved agricultural practices.&nbsp;Sharon graduated from Fort Hays State University with a degree in elementary education. After graduating, she taught second grade at Bird City Elementary before returning home to help the farm with her three sons.&nbsp;The couple has three children, David, Chad and Nathan; and eight grandchildren.&nbsp;Today, the Hendricks family farm grows corn, wheat, soybeans, and milo. To improve crop yield and lower labor requirements, they have adopted no-till and strip-till practices. The Hendricks use data from Farm Management, field days, conferences, readings, and farm research guides to assist in their decision-making processes. The farm has also been the recipient of the Cheyenne County Soil Conservation Bankers Award in 1976 and in 2007, and the Goodyear Award of Merit in 1987.&nbsp;Family and work ethic are the foundations of the Hendricks family farm. They said: “While there is always work to be done on the farm, attending and supporting the children and grandchildren’s activities is a priority, and the work is not neglected, just done at a different time”.&nbsp;<h2>Jay and Stacy Rezac&nbsp;– Pottawatomie County&nbsp;</h2>Jay and Stacy Rezac grew up in production agriculture, so continuing their livelihood in it was a natural decision to them. They are grateful seeing their children and grandchildren also grow up in a close-knit agricultural community, and look forward to seeing the farm thrive with future generations.&nbsp;Jay and Stacy’s paths intertwined early-on: they met at the Pottawatomie County Fair in high school, married after their simultaneous graduations from college, and began farming together after forming a partnership with Jay’s brother, Lance - who still remains a vital part of operations today.&nbsp;Jay attended Kansas State University and received a degree in animal science. He remains very involved in his local community, where he serves as the president of the Onaga Lions Club and Caring Community Foundation Board.&nbsp;Stacy attended K-State University alongside Jay and received a degree in education. She taught 2nd and 1st grades in the Onaga School District for 28 years. Since retiring from teaching, she works at the local pharmacy as a certified technician.&nbsp;The couple has three children, Jayme, Russel and Matthew; and four grandchildren.&nbsp;All of the members of the Rezac family have been involved in 4-H, the National Cattleman Association, Kansas Farm Bureau and community events. Notably, every year the Rezacs provide their weighing facilities for the Pottawatomie County 4-H beef project, donate a hog for the Onaga firemen’s barbeque, and put on the Ranch Rodeo.&nbsp;Additionally, the Rezacs highly value supporting the continuing education of young people. Since 1990, they have hosted college seniors from K-State to practice checking cows for pregnancy. “Being active in these organizations has been both rewarding and enjoyable because we get to interact with the best people in agriculture,” they said.&nbsp;Jay and Stacy are thankful that family lives close-by and continues to help the family farm grow. “Raising our family in a small agricultural community with 4-H, FFA, sports, and a rural lifestyle has been one of our greatest joys,” they said.&nbsp;<h2>Kevin and Vera Schultz – Kiowa County&nbsp;</h2>Kevin and Vera Schultz have been interested in cattle all their lives. Their involvement in their family farms and active participation in 4H led them to foster a successful and nationally recognized agricultural operation at Sandhill Farms.&nbsp;Kevin grew up on a family farm in Edwards County, Kansas and purchased his first registered polled Hereford heifer while still in high school. He graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in animal science. Kevin utilized his degree by focusing on developing high-quality genetics for his cattle.&nbsp;Vera grew up in the sandhills of Holt County, Nebraska where she was involved in her family’s commercial cow herd. She also attended Kansas State University and graduated with a degree in elementary education. Vera substituted at local area schools before devoting her time to raising her family and helping the farm.&nbsp;Kevin and Vera met in a speech class during their time at K-State. Initially, Vera was not impressed with Kevin’s speech on “How to Polish Your Boots.” Even so, she reluctantly agreed to attend a Farmhouse Barn party with him, and the rest is history.&nbsp;After the couple graduated from K-State and married, they maintained livestock as an intricate part of their lives. Even while on their honeymoon, the couple made a ranch visit and purchased more registered Hereford heifers for their return to the Schultz family farm.&nbsp;&nbsp;The couple has three children, Brooke, Tyler and Courtney; and four grandchildren.&nbsp;Faith and family are cornerstones of the Schultz farm operation. Kevin and Vera are heavily involved in Trousdale United Methodist, where Kevin serves as the Chairman of the Board. They believe strong values have been passed down to their children. Who they say “are outstanding adults.”&nbsp;The couple said they deeply appreciate their local community and have been involved in the Sunflower 4H Club, Edwards County Extension Council and Macksville School Board, among many other organizations and projects. “[We] enjoy interacting with other farmers and ranchers, who tend to have the same strong values,” they said.&nbsp;<h2>Ellis and Rita Yoder&nbsp;– McPherson County&nbsp;</h2>The agricultural roots of the Ellis and Rita Yoder’s family run deep on their farm. The Yoder farmstead has been in the family for over 120 years. Like their parents and grandparents before them, Ellis and Rita strongly value their local community, their faith and their family.&nbsp;Ellis grew up on the farm in which he now lives. During his grade school and high school years he was highly involved in 4-H and FFA, where his passion for agriculture continued to grow. He went on to attend McPherson College and received a degree in agricultural and rural life.&nbsp;After college, Ellis served extensively in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years, earning the rank of lieutenant colonel. Today he remains active in his church, the Kansas Farm Management Association, a local Continuing Care Retirement Community, and on his Township board.&nbsp;Rita grew up in Dickinson County on her family’s farm. She was also in 4-H, where she was involved in projects ranging from beef to leadership to clothing, and won the Key Award.&nbsp;Rita attended Sterling College, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a degree in home economics education. She worked as county home economist in Trego and McPherson counties. Even after beginning her family with Ellis, she remained highly active with her work and community, notably serving as a part-time preschool teacher at Good Beginnings in McPherson and various roles in her church; and working part-time for The Old Muffin Factory, a local business.&nbsp;The couple has three children, Bradley, Kevin and Lane; and four grandchildren.&nbsp;Ellis regularly attends the No-Till on the Plains and Soil Health U conferences to expand his knowledge of sustainable agriculture. “I have sat next to attendees who traveled from the other side of the world just to hear how to implement sustainable farming methods,” he said. “I’ve got no excuse not to travel 60 miles.”&nbsp;The farm’s efforts won them the Bankers Award for Soil Conservation in 1986. Yoder Farms also participates in global outreach with Growing Hope Globally – a Christian service organization that assists small farmers in developing countries practice sustainable agriculture.&nbsp;Ellis and Rita are thankful for their local community and the values that growing up in agriculture has instilled in their sons. “We love our community and the rural values of hard work and honesty...[Our sons] too, in turn, are helping others and making this world a better place in which to live.”&nbsp;