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

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

As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported one recovering COVID-19 inpatient at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,758 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623087197427.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported no new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported one recovering COVID-19 inpatient at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,758 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

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

TOPEKA - Madison Funk, Hays, is a member of Washburn University's spring 2021 graduating class. Funk graduated with a Associate of Liberal Studies in Liberal Studies.

Nearly 700 students graduated with an associate, bachelor's or master's degree. Washburn is proud of these students and their achievements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577712377931.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News release&nbsp;TOPEKA - Madison Funk, Hays, is a member of Washburn University's spring 2021 graduating class. Funk graduated with a Associate of Liberal Studies in Liberal Studies.Nearly 700 students graduated with an associate, bachelor's or master's degree. Washburn is proud of these students and their achievements.

Hays' Madison Funk graduates from Washburn University 

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod" 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=kpame-10591dd-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 Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman

Update: 10:11 a.m. June 7:&nbsp; DSNWK Custom Creation will be participating in the downtown art walk on June 18. It will be doing a fundraiser on the bricks to help raise money for its new store start up costs and hopefully some of its wish list items. The Downtown Hays Development Corp.&nbsp; is letting Custom Creations use its space to showcase some art that will be for sale and up for auction.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Do you have some unwanted furniture in your basement? Have leftover furniture that didn't sell at this weekend's garage sale?

You could help Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas' Custom Creations program.

The program, which has been in operation since 2016, is stock piling merchandise to open a new downtown Hays store that will sell refurbished and upcycled furniture, as well as crafts and art created by DSNWK clients.

DSNWK is hoping to open the new store, 1107 Main, by Oct. 15.

Custom Creations is taking donations of used solid-wood furniture that they will transform and update for resale.

"We hope to get a lot of real wood that the guys can refurbish and turn into new things,"&nbsp;LaVonne Giess, DSNWK program manager, said. 

"We used to get tables, and they were all scratched up," she said. "If it was real wood, Dustin [Olsen, employment services assistant,] has taught the guys to sand things down, how to stain, how to paint and even how to turn things into new pieces."

A head board might be transformed into a bench, and an old piano might become a bar. Pallets might be made into Christmas trees or pumpkins.

"A lot of these guys enjoy doing this stuff," Olsen said. "We have a really good group back here. We're pretty tight-knit back there."

Six individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities work in the Custom Creations shop, but Giess said she hopes those numbers can grow.

With the opening of the store, the program will also be able to sell smaller arts and crafts made by DSNWK's day program clients.

DSNWK has six day services sites within its 18-county service area. That includes sites at Hays, Norton, Russell, Hill City, Atwood and Hoxie.

"We have some people who do amazing cross stitching, painters, so many unique artists," said&nbsp;Sara Biggs, director of programs and services. "They will also have the opportunity to have their pieces displayed and sold."

DSNWK officials hope to rotate feature artists throughout the year.

Biggs said she is excited the new store and DSNWK clients will be able to participate in downtown Hays activities, including art walks.

On the program's wish list is a Chromebox, so DSNWK can connect day sites, such as Atwood, to the store so visitors can watch clients making items at remote locations.

Officials also hope to offer classes for clients in the store, so members of the community can interact with clients as they work on their projects.

"Our individuals here get so excited when we come up with new project," Giess said.

The artists and craftspeople will receive a portion of the proceeds from the furniture, art and crafts they will make.

DSNWK will also be accepting donations of other craft materials. A women who was moving recently donated a large amount of fabric she no longer needed. Nothing goes to waste, Giess said.

If people have large donations to offer, such as furniture, they can call the Employment Connections Office in Hays at 785-625-2018 to have the furniture or materials picked up. Donations are tax dedcutible.

Monetary donations can also be made to DSNWK. C<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/donate">lick here to donate online.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622737503425.jpeg" alt="Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, paints a desk with Custom Creations craftsman Cole Robben of Victoria at the Custom Creations workshop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, paints a desk with Custom Creations craftsman Cole Robben of Victoria at the Custom Creations workshop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Update: 10:11 a.m. June 7:&nbsp; DSNWK Custom Creation will be participating in the downtown art walk on June 18. It will be doing a fundraiser on the bricks to help raise money for its new store start up costs and hopefully some of its wish list items. The Downtown Hays Development Corp.&nbsp; is letting Custom Creations use its space to showcase some art that will be for sale and up for auction.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDo you have some unwanted furniture in your basement? Have leftover furniture that didn't sell at this weekend's garage sale?You could help Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas' Custom Creations program.The program, which has been in operation since 2016, is stock piling merchandise to open a new downtown Hays store that will sell refurbished and upcycled furniture, as well as crafts and art created by DSNWK clients.DSNWK is hoping to open the new store, 1107 Main, by Oct. 15.Custom Creations is taking donations of used solid-wood furniture that they will transform and update for resale."We hope to get a lot of real wood that the guys can refurbish and turn into new things,"&nbsp;LaVonne Giess, DSNWK program manager, said. "We used to get tables, and they were all scratched up," she said. "If it was real wood, Dustin [Olsen, employment services assistant,] has taught the guys to sand things down, how to stain, how to paint and even how to turn things into new pieces."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622737796643.jpeg" alt="DSNWK client Betty Bieker works on a craft project at the&nbsp;Prairie Developmental Center in Atwood. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>DSNWK client Betty Bieker works on a craft project at the&nbsp;Prairie Developmental Center in Atwood. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A head board might be transformed into a bench, and an old piano might become a bar. Pallets might be made into Christmas trees or pumpkins."A lot of these guys enjoy doing this stuff," Olsen said. "We have a really good group back here. We're pretty tight-knit back there."Six individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities work in the Custom Creations shop, but Giess said she hopes those numbers can grow.With the opening of the store, the program will also be able to sell smaller arts and crafts made by DSNWK's day program clients.DSNWK has six day services sites within its 18-county service area. That includes sites at Hays, Norton, Russell, Hill City, Atwood and Hoxie."We have some people who do amazing cross stitching, painters, so many unique artists," said&nbsp;Sara Biggs, director of programs and services. "They will also have the opportunity to have their pieces displayed and sold."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622738213580.jpeg" alt="The Custom Creations shop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Custom Creations shop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWK officials hope to rotate feature artists throughout the year.Biggs said she is excited the new store and DSNWK clients will be able to participate in downtown Hays activities, including art walks.On the program's wish list is a Chromebox, so DSNWK can connect day sites, such as Atwood, to the store so visitors can watch clients making items at remote locations.Officials also hope to offer classes for clients in the store, so members of the community can interact with clients as they work on their projects."Our individuals here get so excited when we come up with new project," Giess said.The artists and craftspeople will receive a portion of the proceeds from the furniture, art and crafts they will make.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622738492864.jpeg" alt="Cheryl Hartzog, DSNWK client, sands a piece of wood for a craft project that will be sold in the new Custom Creations store that is scheduled to open in October. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Cheryl Hartzog, DSNWK client, sands a piece of wood for a craft project that will be sold in the new Custom Creations store that is scheduled to open in October. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWK will also be accepting donations of other craft materials. A women who was moving recently donated a large amount of fabric she no longer needed. Nothing goes to waste, Giess said.If people have large donations to offer, such as furniture, they can call the Employment Connections Office in Hays at 785-625-2018 to have the furniture or materials picked up. Donations are tax dedcutible.Monetary donations can also be made to DSNWK. C<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/donate">lick here to donate online.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622738269043.jpeg" alt="Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, with an old piano that has been converted by the Custom Creations workers into a bar. The bar's lights flash and change colors to the beat of digital music.&nbsp;Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, with an old piano that has been converted by the Custom Creations workers into a bar. The bar's lights flash and change colors to the beat of digital music.&nbsp;Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

UPDATE: Custom Creations seeking donations in advance of store opening

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Proposed Ellis County spending in 2022 is nearly unchanged
from the previous year while setting aside funds for much-needed infrastructure
repairs.

The Ellis County Commission heard budget requests from
representatives of the 15 county departments, the 23rd Judicial
District and the Ellis County Solid Waste Division in a pair of meetings last week.

The proposed county expenditures in 2022 are $24,410,242.
That is an increase of $471,000 over the 2021 budget.

Ellis County Administrator and Fair Chief Darin Myers said
some of the departments budgeted increases, some decreases. Overall, the budget remained the same outside of the $400,000 that will be transferred
to the special bridge fund and additional $71,000 that will be transferred to
the special highway fund.

In 2021, the commission set aside $329,000 for the special
highway fund. The additional $71,000 also means the county will transfer
$400,000 to that fund in 2022.

Myers said the $400,000 is almost equal to one mil. 

&nbsp;In previous years, the
money for road and bridge repairs and improvement projects would come from the
Public Works budget, but Myers pointed out that $400,000 may resurface one or
two bridges per year but it would not pay to redo a bridge deck.

Brendan MacKay, Public Works director, told the commission
there are 199 bridges in Ellis County — many over 75 years old. 

“Bridges are designed for 75 year service life,” MacKay, “Currently, we don’t have much put away for bridges.”

He added that they may have to look at closing some bridges
in the futures because the county cannot afford to repair or replace them.

In March, the commission voted to close a bridge a quarter-mile north of Old Highway 40 on 140th Road.

“We’ve been reactive for long enough, we need to start being
proactive on our repairs and maintenance,” MacKay said. “It’s no fault to my predecessor. It was just that how’s things went because budgets were cut for so long and you
have to make do with what you have.”

In April of last year, Ellis County voters approved a pair of
quarter-cent sales taxes. The revenue from one goes directly to health services
in Ellis County. 

The other quarter-center tax is a general sales tax that is
shared among the county and four cities within Ellis County. 

The county commission directed the county’s portion to a $5.4
million bond to help pay for several road projects. That includes a portion of
the Northwest Business Corridor, repairs to Cathedral Road in Victoria, 48th
Street and Feedlot Road.

Overall, Public Works accounts for $4.7 million in the 2022
proposed budget.

The Emergency Medical Services budget is also among the
largest department budgets within Ellis County. 

The proposed budget for 2022 is $3.3 million dollars.

Health Services Jason Kennedy told the commission Health
Services was able to stay on budget, even during COVID. 

He said the additional revenue from the sales tax has been a
“huge benefit.”

“With that health care sales tax benefit, we actually were
able to kind of toe the low with our EMS budget,” Kennedy said. “We do have an
increase in salaries but our total bottom line actually went up less than what
the increase in salaries was, so there was decrease to some of the
expenditures.”

Most of the decreases came from salaries. There are not only
fewer tenured employees but fewer employees overall.

“We are at a point where we have to make some significant
changes to the way that we deliver service to this community and we have to
make significant changes to the way we recruit and retain employees,” Kennedy
said.

He said they currently not even getting enough applicants
for the number of open positions they have.

Kennedy said he doesn’t believe that COVID will be drive
people to the emergency medical services field. He also said they current
climate is driving people away from public service.

“It is pushing people out of the public health sector,”
Kennedy said.

In the last three and half years, they have lost seven
certified paramedic positions. They have hired just four people.

Kennedy said it is a long process to become a certified
paramedic.

They have worked with one person, who is currently in
school, to help with schooling with the requirement that they work for Ellis
County after graduation.

“We have get good people and then we have to turn those good
new people into tenured employees,” Kennedy.

Kennedy has been working with Myers on incentive programs they hope to present to the commission
soon.

Kennedy also oversees the health department. 

He said they received several COVID-related grants that
helped to cover overtime and other personnel costs and it will also allow them
to do some unique projects.

One change that they are working on currently is creating a
full-time supervision position at the health department. 

He said the new clinic manager would run to day-to-day
operations at the health department.

Kennedy said it would cost less than $10,000 and the cost
will be covered over the next couple of years by COVID related grants. 

The commission will consider requests from outside agencies
totaling nearly $1 million on June 14.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostProposed Ellis County spending in 2022 is nearly unchanged
from the previous year while setting aside funds for much-needed infrastructure
repairs.The Ellis County Commission heard budget requests from
representatives of the 15 county departments, the 23rd Judicial
District and the Ellis County Solid Waste Division in a pair of meetings last week.The proposed county expenditures in 2022 are $24,410,242.
That is an increase of $471,000 over the 2021 budget.Ellis County Administrator and Fair Chief Darin Myers said
some of the departments budgeted increases, some decreases. Overall, the budget remained the same outside of the $400,000 that will be transferred
to the special bridge fund and additional $71,000 that will be transferred to
the special highway fund.In 2021, the commission set aside $329,000 for the special
highway fund. The additional $71,000 also means the county will transfer
$400,000 to that fund in 2022.Myers said the $400,000 is almost equal to one mil. &nbsp;In previous years, the
money for road and bridge repairs and improvement projects would come from the
Public Works budget, but Myers pointed out that $400,000 may resurface one or
two bridges per year but it would not pay to redo a bridge deck.Brendan MacKay, Public Works director, told the commission
there are 199 bridges in Ellis County — many over 75 years old. “Bridges are designed for 75 year service life,” MacKay, “Currently, we don’t have much put away for bridges.”He added that they may have to look at closing some bridges
in the futures because the county cannot afford to repair or replace them.In March, the commission voted to close a bridge a quarter-mile north of Old Highway 40 on 140th Road.“We’ve been reactive for long enough, we need to start being
proactive on our repairs and maintenance,” MacKay said. “It’s no fault to my predecessor. It was just that how’s things went because budgets were cut for so long and you
have to make do with what you have.”In April of last year, Ellis County voters approved a pair of
quarter-cent sales taxes. The revenue from one goes directly to health services
in Ellis County. The other quarter-center tax is a general sales tax that is
shared among the county and four cities within Ellis County. The county commission directed the county’s portion to a $5.4
million bond to help pay for several road projects. That includes a portion of
the Northwest Business Corridor, repairs to Cathedral Road in Victoria, 48th
Street and Feedlot Road.Overall, Public Works accounts for $4.7 million in the 2022
proposed budget.The Emergency Medical Services budget is also among the
largest department budgets within Ellis County. The proposed budget for 2022 is $3.3 million dollars.Health Services Jason Kennedy told the commission Health
Services was able to stay on budget, even during COVID. He said the additional revenue from the sales tax has been a
“huge benefit.”“With that health care sales tax benefit, we actually were
able to kind of toe the low with our EMS budget,” Kennedy said. “We do have an
increase in salaries but our total bottom line actually went up less than what
the increase in salaries was, so there was decrease to some of the
expenditures.”Most of the decreases came from salaries. There are not only
fewer tenured employees but fewer employees overall.“We are at a point where we have to make some significant
changes to the way that we deliver service to this community and we have to
make significant changes to the way we recruit and retain employees,” Kennedy
said.He said they currently not even getting enough applicants
for the number of open positions they have.Kennedy said he doesn’t believe that COVID will be drive
people to the emergency medical services field. He also said they current
climate is driving people away from public service.“It is pushing people out of the public health sector,”
Kennedy said.In the last three and half years, they have lost seven
certified paramedic positions. They have hired just four people.Kennedy said it is a long process to become a certified
paramedic.They have worked with one person, who is currently in
school, to help with schooling with the requirement that they work for Ellis
County after graduation.“We have get good people and then we have to turn those good
new people into tenured employees,” Kennedy.Kennedy has been working with Myers on incentive programs they hope to present to the commission
soon.Kennedy also oversees the health department. He said they received several COVID-related grants that
helped to cover overtime and other personnel costs and it will also allow them
to do some unique projects.One change that they are working on currently is creating a
full-time supervision position at the health department. He said the new clinic manager would run to day-to-day
operations at the health department.Kennedy said it would cost less than $10,000 and the cost
will be covered over the next couple of years by COVID related grants. The commission will consider requests from outside agencies
totaling nearly $1 million on June 14.

Ellis County 2022 spending on par with 2021 expenses

Fort Hays State University’s College of Health and Behavioral Sciences announced recent student inductees into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology.&nbsp;

The Psi Chi Honor Society recognizes and promotes excellence in the science and application of psychology. Applicants must meet grade point average criteria as well as rank in the top 30 percent of psychology students to be considered for induction to the honor society.&nbsp;

Psi Chi rewards its members annually with various awards and grants programs. Additionally, members are eligible to apply for the Psi Chi scholarship program that was introduced in 2015. Inductees are bestowed lifetime memberships to the honor society.

Select FHSU psychology students, attending virtually and on-campus, displayed outstanding academic achievement in the program. Recognized for their dedication and determination, 23 students were officially inducted into Psi Chi in April.&nbsp;

“These students are smart, have worked hard, and maintained their GPA through COVID and other life situations,” said Dr. Carol Patrick, professor of psychology. “They are to be commended.”

FHSU, along with the Department of Psychology, proudly recognizes the following students for their commitment to academic excellence and outstanding achievement:

Hollee Akhagbeme is a senior from Hutchinson Jasmine Alexander&nbsp;is a junior from Denham Springs, La. Paola&nbsp;Arredondo is a senior from Garden City Tori Calia&nbsp;is a senior from Pittsburg Coralie Correa&nbsp;is a junior from Wichita Jona Cunningham&nbsp;is a senior from Flower Mount, Texas Lauren Dicellis&nbsp;is a senior from South Plainfield, N.J. Loganne Ditter&nbsp;senior from Hays Lauren Dorr&nbsp;is a senior from Wichita Megan Hare&nbsp;is a junior from Russell Kali Harvey&nbsp;is a graduate student from Concordia MaLea Hill&nbsp;is a junior from Salina Tabitha Hjerpe&nbsp;is a junior from Hutchinson Sopy Knox&nbsp;is a junior from Wamego Rebecca Littrell&nbsp;is a senior from Claflin Cynthia Membreno&nbsp;is a junior from Garden City Blanca Castro is a senior from Liberal Amanda Rapaduski&nbsp;is a senior from Algonquin, Ill. Savannah Ruiz-Rivera&nbsp;is a senior from New York, N.Y. Hunter Schierkolk&nbsp;is a senior from Penokee Paula Stewart&nbsp;is a senior from Mulberry Sydney Sundstrom&nbsp;is a senior from St. Francis Letitia Wright is a senior from Coffeyville

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622814134119.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University’s College of Health and Behavioral Sciences announced recent student inductees into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology.&nbsp;The Psi Chi Honor Society recognizes and promotes excellence in the science and application of psychology. Applicants must meet grade point average criteria as well as rank in the top 30 percent of psychology students to be considered for induction to the honor society.&nbsp;Psi Chi rewards its members annually with various awards and grants programs. Additionally, members are eligible to apply for the Psi Chi scholarship program that was introduced in 2015. Inductees are bestowed lifetime memberships to the honor society.Select FHSU psychology students, attending virtually and on-campus, displayed outstanding academic achievement in the program. Recognized for their dedication and determination, 23 students were officially inducted into Psi Chi in April.&nbsp;“These students are smart, have worked hard, and maintained their GPA through COVID and other life situations,” said Dr. Carol Patrick, professor of psychology. “They are to be commended.”FHSU, along with the Department of Psychology, proudly recognizes the following students for their commitment to academic excellence and outstanding achievement:Hollee Akhagbeme is a senior from Hutchinson Jasmine Alexander&nbsp;is a junior from Denham Springs, La. Paola&nbsp;Arredondo is a senior from Garden City Tori Calia&nbsp;is a senior from Pittsburg Coralie Correa&nbsp;is a junior from Wichita Jona Cunningham&nbsp;is a senior from Flower Mount, Texas Lauren Dicellis&nbsp;is a senior from South Plainfield, N.J. Loganne Ditter&nbsp;senior from Hays Lauren Dorr&nbsp;is a senior from Wichita Megan Hare&nbsp;is a junior from Russell Kali Harvey&nbsp;is a graduate student from Concordia MaLea Hill&nbsp;is a junior from Salina Tabitha Hjerpe&nbsp;is a junior from Hutchinson Sopy Knox&nbsp;is a junior from Wamego Rebecca Littrell&nbsp;is a senior from Claflin Cynthia Membreno&nbsp;is a junior from Garden City Blanca Castro is a senior from Liberal Amanda Rapaduski&nbsp;is a senior from Algonquin, Ill. Savannah Ruiz-Rivera&nbsp;is a senior from New York, N.Y. Hunter Schierkolk&nbsp;is a senior from Penokee Paula Stewart&nbsp;is a senior from Mulberry Sydney Sundstrom&nbsp;is a senior from St. Francis Letitia Wright is a senior from Coffeyville

FHSU psychology students inducted into prestigious honor society

HaysMed was recently recognized by the Midwest Transplant Network for their efforts in saving lives through organ, eye, and tissue donation with an Excellence in Donation Award.

Based on 2020 donation outcomes, MTN presents the Excellence in Organ Donation Award to hospitals that had greater than 75% of eligible families granting authorization for donation. They honor hospitals with the Excellence in Tissue Donation Award that had at least 15 eligible tissue donors with greater than 40% of families granting authorization.&nbsp;

MTN collaborates with nearly 250 hospitals.

Heidi Gohl, BSN, RN, VA-BC, and Terry Siek, VP for Patient Care and Chief Nursing Officer, attended the awards ceremony and accepted the award on behalf of HaysMed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622822011266.jpeg" alt="Jan Finn of the Midwest Transplant Network with HaysMed's Heidi Gohl and Terry Siek." />
 <figcaption>Jan Finn of the Midwest Transplant Network with HaysMed's Heidi Gohl and Terry Siek.</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed was recently recognized by the Midwest Transplant Network for their efforts in saving lives through organ, eye, and tissue donation with an Excellence in Donation Award.Based on 2020 donation outcomes, MTN presents the Excellence in Organ Donation Award to hospitals that had greater than 75% of eligible families granting authorization for donation. They honor hospitals with the Excellence in Tissue Donation Award that had at least 15 eligible tissue donors with greater than 40% of families granting authorization.&nbsp;MTN collaborates with nearly 250 hospitals.Heidi Gohl, BSN, RN, VA-BC, and Terry Siek, VP for Patient Care and Chief Nursing Officer, attended the awards ceremony and accepted the award on behalf of HaysMed.

HaysMed recognized for 2021 organ donation efforts

How many years have you been working and fixing the equipment around the farm? What if you could get paid to do what you love, for a company that treats you like family?

Look no further than Radke Implement. Radke Implement is family owned and operated and they’re looking for the right skilled technician to join their work family. As a Case IH and Kubota dealer, the applicants must have knowledge of repairing such equipment. Experience or schooling related to diagnostic, adjustment, repair and overhaul is appreciated. The position will help in both Milberger and the Hays location. Hard work ethic and great sense of humor is essential.

If you or someone you know would be great for this career, come on in either of our locations to apply. If you’re stopping in the Hays location, ask for Cole. If you stop in the Milberger location, ask for Harlan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623072780875.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>How many years have you been working and fixing the equipment around the farm? What if you could get paid to do what you love, for a company that treats you like family?Look no further than Radke Implement. Radke Implement is family owned and operated and they’re looking for the right skilled technician to join their work family. As a Case IH and Kubota dealer, the applicants must have knowledge of repairing such equipment. Experience or schooling related to diagnostic, adjustment, repair and overhaul is appreciated. The position will help in both Milberger and the Hays location. Hard work ethic and great sense of humor is essential.If you or someone you know would be great for this career, come on in either of our locations to apply. If you’re stopping in the Hays location, ask for Cole. If you stop in the Milberger location, ask for Harlan.

Hays PD Activity Log, May 27-June 2

I’ll never forget the look on Fritz Berger’s face as he spun around in the bow of the boat and exclaimed “Flathead; big flathead” with his hands spread wide apart to show us the length of the fish. The boat rocked wildly back-and-forth as he stabbed the long-handled dip net into a raft of floating debris trying to capture the big fish that had escaped his first attempt. 

“Got him,” he hollered as the net came up bulging with the beast. “Now I don’t know how to get him in the boat.” After a time, Fritz was able to drag the fish around to the side of the boat to get around the tall railing that wrapped around the front and unceremoniously dump it into the tank in the middle of the boat. Welcome to electro-fishing, the method used by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) to sample Kansas lakes, reservoirs and ponds to show them everything they need to know about fish populations in a given water impoundment, so they can better manage the fish populations therein. It helps them determine how many of what fish species are in the water, and shows them the condition of sport fish there. Today, a friend and I got to hang out with our District Fisheries Biologist Bryan Sowards and his summer intern Fritz Berger as they electro-shocked the small pond just east of Inman on property owned by the city of Inman affectionately known as “the city pasture.” The city has contracted with KDWPT to manage this pond for fishing.&nbsp;

Here’s how the electro fishing process works. A compartment near the center of the flat bottom aluminum boat houses a generator, and controls allow the operator to start and stop the unit plus adjust voltage and amperage. Two 36-inch diameter round steel wheels with numerous small metal rods dangling from them are lowered into the water and electrify a portion of water 6 to 8 feet deep and 6 to 8 feet in diameter around each wheel with 220 volts and 5 to 7 amps of electricity when the generator is started. These wheels hang from arms on each side of the bow of the boat, and can be adjusted for length and from side to side. The plan is usually to work around the edge of the lake or pond as near the bank as possible to capture fish that are lurking under the bank for protection. The fish are stunned long enough for “netters” working in the front of the boat to scoop them from the water and deposit them into a water tank for weighing and measuring.

The first challenge when electro-shocking a small pond like this became apparent immediately; there was no boat ramp. The boat trailer was driven to a spot with the most room to navigate and backed as near the water as possible. Equipment was loaded onto the boat, then after a fair tussle, the 4 of us managed to rock and shove the boat from the trailer onto the pond. We all piled aboard, Bryan at the controls, Fritz in the front manning the net and my friend and I off to the side, out of the way. The generator was started and Bryan steered the boat toward the nearest bank. The pond is odd-shaped with overhanging trees and lots of floating debris around its edge, so the next challenge became getting the hanging wheels dispensing the electricity close enough to the bank to do their job without tearing everything up. Fish of all species and sizes began floating to the surface where Fritz netted them and dumped them into the tank. Some shallow little coves littered with downed limbs and trash took a couple tries to properly sample. After making a loop completely around the pond, Bryan ran the boat ashore and we stopped to count and weigh the collection.

There were a couple nice largemouth bass of 2 to 3 pounds, several smaller largemouths, a couple small channel catfish, a few smaller crappies, both black and white, some rough fish like carp and buffalo that were immediately removed and the big flathead that was around 30 inches long and probably weighed 25 pounds. Also seen were numerous shad, the main baitfish found in our large Kansas lakes and reservoirs, and Bryan had no answer for how they came to be there.&nbsp;

The boat was much easier to load back onto the trailer that it was to get into the pond, and they were on there way. Sowards was amazed at the diversity of fish found in that small pond, but was not impressed with the mix of fish present when looking at things from the viewpoint of managing it for fishing. He will put together a report to present to the city with recommendations on how best to proceed. Our KDWPT wildlife and fisheries biologists and conservation officers do a crack job of managing God’s creation here in Kansas as far as I’m concerned. The next time you see one of them out-and-about, give them a “Thank You” for helping you be able to Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>I’ll never forget the look on Fritz Berger’s face as he spun around in the bow of the boat and exclaimed “Flathead; big flathead” with his hands spread wide apart to show us the length of the fish. The boat rocked wildly back-and-forth as he stabbed the long-handled dip net into a raft of floating debris trying to capture the big fish that had escaped his first attempt. “Got him,” he hollered as the net came up bulging with the beast. “Now I don’t know how to get him in the boat.” After a time, Fritz was able to drag the fish around to the side of the boat to get around the tall railing that wrapped around the front and unceremoniously dump it into the tank in the middle of the boat. Welcome to electro-fishing, the method used by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) to sample Kansas lakes, reservoirs and ponds to show them everything they need to know about fish populations in a given water impoundment, so they can better manage the fish populations therein. It helps them determine how many of what fish species are in the water, and shows them the condition of sport fish there. Today, a friend and I got to hang out with our District Fisheries Biologist Bryan Sowards and his summer intern Fritz Berger as they electro-shocked the small pond just east of Inman on property owned by the city of Inman affectionately known as “the city pasture.” The city has contracted with KDWPT to manage this pond for fishing.&nbsp;Here’s how the electro fishing process works. A compartment near the center of the flat bottom aluminum boat houses a generator, and controls allow the operator to start and stop the unit plus adjust voltage and amperage. Two 36-inch diameter round steel wheels with numerous small metal rods dangling from them are lowered into the water and electrify a portion of water 6 to 8 feet deep and 6 to 8 feet in diameter around each wheel with 220 volts and 5 to 7 amps of electricity when the generator is started. These wheels hang from arms on each side of the bow of the boat, and can be adjusted for length and from side to side. The plan is usually to work around the edge of the lake or pond as near the bank as possible to capture fish that are lurking under the bank for protection. The fish are stunned long enough for “netters” working in the front of the boat to scoop them from the water and deposit them into a water tank for weighing and measuring.The first challenge when electro-shocking a small pond like this became apparent immediately; there was no boat ramp. The boat trailer was driven to a spot with the most room to navigate and backed as near the water as possible. Equipment was loaded onto the boat, then after a fair tussle, the 4 of us managed to rock and shove the boat from the trailer onto the pond. We all piled aboard, Bryan at the controls, Fritz in the front manning the net and my friend and I off to the side, out of the way. The generator was started and Bryan steered the boat toward the nearest bank. The pond is odd-shaped with overhanging trees and lots of floating debris around its edge, so the next challenge became getting the hanging wheels dispensing the electricity close enough to the bank to do their job without tearing everything up. Fish of all species and sizes began floating to the surface where Fritz netted them and dumped them into the tank. Some shallow little coves littered with downed limbs and trash took a couple tries to properly sample. After making a loop completely around the pond, Bryan ran the boat ashore and we stopped to count and weigh the collection.There were a couple nice largemouth bass of 2 to 3 pounds, several smaller largemouths, a couple small channel catfish, a few smaller crappies, both black and white, some rough fish like carp and buffalo that were immediately removed and the big flathead that was around 30 inches long and probably weighed 25 pounds. Also seen were numerous shad, the main baitfish found in our large Kansas lakes and reservoirs, and Bryan had no answer for how they came to be there.&nbsp;The boat was much easier to load back onto the trailer that it was to get into the pond, and they were on there way. Sowards was amazed at the diversity of fish found in that small pond, but was not impressed with the mix of fish present when looking at things from the viewpoint of managing it for fishing. He will put together a report to present to the city with recommendations on how best to proceed. Our KDWPT wildlife and fisheries biologists and conservation officers do a crack job of managing God’s creation here in Kansas as far as I’m concerned. The next time you see one of them out-and-about, give them a “Thank You” for helping you be able to Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Well, that was shocking!

Holy Family Elementary has announced the addition of Gene Flax as assistant principal in preparation for the 2021-22 academic year.

As the largest school in the Salina Diocese, Holy Family Elementary is home to approximately 370 students from preschool through 6th grade. In the role of assistant principal, Flax will assist principal, Rachel Wentling with administrative and supervisory duties including leading the Foundations team and CARE committee. These committees oversee the climate and culture of the school as well as focusing on student intervention as it affects the social/emotional needs of students.

The Flax family history with Hays Catholic Schools is deeply rooted. Flax’s wife, Theresa taught second grade at Holy Family Elementary and Flax served at TMP-Marian for 20 years as teacher, dean of discipline and athletic director under various leadership. Many of those years were spent working directly with the then TMP-M dean of academics, Rachel Wentling.

“Gene and I were colleagues at TMP-Marian for 12 years, and for five of those years we both served as assistants to the principal and shared an office. It was during that time that I gained an appreciation for his deep faith in God, integrity, work ethic, and passion for the formation of students. Gene played an integral role in shaping me into the educator and administrator that I am today, and it is a great privilege and pleasure to get the team back together to serve the students, families and staff of Holy Family Elementary,” Wentling said.

Following his tenure with TMP-Marian, Flax joined Russell High School, Russell, as assistant principal and athletic director for two years and most recently stepped in as Activities Director in Ulysses, after the unexpected passing of Jason Kenny in 2018.

Located in Hays, Kan., the Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary, is a Catholic school system serving grades PK-12.&nbsp; Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world.&nbsp; Under the direction of the Diocese of Salina, the Hays Catholic Schools are supported by the Catholic churches of Hays, Catharine, Antonino, Schoenchen and Munjor. At Holy Family Elementary, we are Christ to one another. For over a century, Thomas More Prep-Marian has served young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623094107268.jpeg" alt="Flax" />
 <figcaption>Flax</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHoly Family Elementary has announced the addition of Gene Flax as assistant principal in preparation for the 2021-22 academic year.As the largest school in the Salina Diocese, Holy Family Elementary is home to approximately 370 students from preschool through 6th grade. In the role of assistant principal, Flax will assist principal, Rachel Wentling with administrative and supervisory duties including leading the Foundations team and CARE committee. These committees oversee the climate and culture of the school as well as focusing on student intervention as it affects the social/emotional needs of students.The Flax family history with Hays Catholic Schools is deeply rooted. Flax’s wife, Theresa taught second grade at Holy Family Elementary and Flax served at TMP-Marian for 20 years as teacher, dean of discipline and athletic director under various leadership. Many of those years were spent working directly with the then TMP-M dean of academics, Rachel Wentling.“Gene and I were colleagues at TMP-Marian for 12 years, and for five of those years we both served as assistants to the principal and shared an office. It was during that time that I gained an appreciation for his deep faith in God, integrity, work ethic, and passion for the formation of students. Gene played an integral role in shaping me into the educator and administrator that I am today, and it is a great privilege and pleasure to get the team back together to serve the students, families and staff of Holy Family Elementary,” Wentling said.Following his tenure with TMP-Marian, Flax joined Russell High School, Russell, as assistant principal and athletic director for two years and most recently stepped in as Activities Director in Ulysses, after the unexpected passing of Jason Kenny in 2018.Located in Hays, Kan., the Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary, is a Catholic school system serving grades PK-12.&nbsp; Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world.&nbsp; Under the direction of the Diocese of Salina, the Hays Catholic Schools are supported by the Catholic churches of Hays, Catharine, Antonino, Schoenchen and Munjor. At Holy Family Elementary, we are Christ to one another. For over a century, Thomas More Prep-Marian has served young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

Holy Family Elementary welcomes Flax as assistant principal

Three-day weather outlook

Another school year has come to an end but that does not mean that a family schedule is impossible. Yes, it will be important to give your kids some down time in between their ball practices or swimming lessons. But do make an effort to limit screen time either in front of the TV or any of the other electronic devices that many children are literally glued to.&nbsp;

A Facebook friend of mine posted a neat suggestion for families titled, “School Holiday Rules.” I have shared the information with parents who have appreciated having something that can be printed off and followed.&nbsp; While it does require a parent to help enforce the rules, I love the concept. So here goes with some suggested “School Holiday Rules.”

Children may have as much time on the iPad or TV as long as all of the following jobs have been completed BEFORE they turn on the screen.

The way I have it figured, a child who completes this list will have spent at least 3 and a half hours in productive and perhaps creative activity. They may find that the book they are reading is so enticing that they can’t put it down, or that their outdoor activity they have chosen is great fun.&nbsp;

It takes me back to my own childhood when our summer schedule looked quite similar. But it would have included at least one hour of work in the garden and when I was old enough a three-hour block to mow the grass when needed. Of course, there were 4-H projects to work on and occasionally driving the tractor to pick up hay bales.&nbsp;

I will post the rules on our Cottonwood Extension District website. I printed the “School Holiday Rules” on hot pink paper so they will really stand out on the refrigerator or bathroom mirror. If you decide to adopt these rules in your household let me know how it goes. And have a great summer!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Another school year has come to an end but that does not mean that a family schedule is impossible. Yes, it will be important to give your kids some down time in between their ball practices or swimming lessons. But do make an effort to limit screen time either in front of the TV or any of the other electronic devices that many children are literally glued to.&nbsp;A Facebook friend of mine posted a neat suggestion for families titled, “School Holiday Rules.” I have shared the information with parents who have appreciated having something that can be printed off and followed.&nbsp; While it does require a parent to help enforce the rules, I love the concept. So here goes with some suggested “School Holiday Rules.”Children may have as much time on the iPad or TV as long as all of the following jobs have been completed BEFORE they turn on the screen.<ul>
 <li>Made your bed</li><li>Eaten breakfast (the most important meal of the day)</li><li>Gotten dressed</li><li>Brushed teeth</li><li>Brushed hair</li><li>20 minutes of reading</li><li>20 minutes of writing or coloring</li><li>Clean up 1 room (TV room or bedroom)</li><li>Played outside for 30 minutes</li><li>Made or built something creative (Lego, craft, sand, etc.….)</li><li>Helped someone in the family (Ask if there is a job you can do, if you cannot think of something yourself)</li>
 </ul>The way I have it figured, a child who completes this list will have spent at least 3 and a half hours in productive and perhaps creative activity. They may find that the book they are reading is so enticing that they can’t put it down, or that their outdoor activity they have chosen is great fun.&nbsp;It takes me back to my own childhood when our summer schedule looked quite similar. But it would have included at least one hour of work in the garden and when I was old enough a three-hour block to mow the grass when needed. Of course, there were 4-H projects to work on and occasionally driving the tractor to pick up hay bales.&nbsp;I will post the rules on our Cottonwood Extension District website. I printed the “School Holiday Rules” on hot pink paper so they will really stand out on the refrigerator or bathroom mirror. If you decide to adopt these rules in your household let me know how it goes. And have a great summer!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Summer rules for kids

Pilots will take to the skies and see the state on Thursday, Sept. 23, to Saturday, Sept. 25, for the annual 2021 Fly Kansas Air Tour.

The Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education (KCAE) and the Kansas Department of Transportation Aviation Division have set the route this year to include stops in Wellington, Fort Scott, Ottawa, Lawrence, Clay Center, Phillipsburg, Salina, Concordia and the Beech Factory Airport in Wichita.

Registration for the event will open online on July 1. The link and other details will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE0ODI4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmZseWthbnNhcy5vcmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.HMfJrFP1mFsJPsUhcTuf6Cbtmxi9W6KtzBjzzEnjRQU/s/1410648818/br/107460525690-l" target="_blank">www.flykansas.org</a>.

The Fly Kansas Air Tour has been a fall staple for Kansas pilots since KCAE reconvened the event in 2008 to commemorate the original 1928 tour. The Fly Kansas Air Tour showcases what makes Kansas the Air Capitol of the World by giving pilots the opportunity to visit unique airports, support aerospace education by meeting with students and community members, have a firsthand look at industrial development and network with other aviators.

The tour has expanded from the original four planes to dozens of pilots visiting local airports across the state. The tour considered applications from across western, central and eastern Kansas, with events or local community involvement planned at each.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622815043991.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Pilots will take to the skies and see the state on Thursday, Sept. 23, to Saturday, Sept. 25, for the annual 2021 Fly Kansas Air Tour.The Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education (KCAE) and the Kansas Department of Transportation Aviation Division have set the route this year to include stops in Wellington, Fort Scott, Ottawa, Lawrence, Clay Center, Phillipsburg, Salina, Concordia and the Beech Factory Airport in Wichita.Registration for the event will open online on July 1. The link and other details will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDQuNDE0ODI4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmZseWthbnNhcy5vcmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.HMfJrFP1mFsJPsUhcTuf6Cbtmxi9W6KtzBjzzEnjRQU/s/1410648818/br/107460525690-l" target="_blank">www.flykansas.org</a>.The Fly Kansas Air Tour has been a fall staple for Kansas pilots since KCAE reconvened the event in 2008 to commemorate the original 1928 tour. The Fly Kansas Air Tour showcases what makes Kansas the Air Capitol of the World by giving pilots the opportunity to visit unique airports, support aerospace education by meeting with students and community members, have a firsthand look at industrial development and network with other aviators.The tour has expanded from the original four planes to dozens of pilots visiting local airports across the state. The tour considered applications from across western, central and eastern Kansas, with events or local community involvement planned at each.

2021 Fly Kansas Air Tour set for Sept. 23-25

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams shares information about business recruitment in Ellis County.

<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="Business recruitment is Ellis County offers challenges; opportunities" 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=5h6ej-10564bd-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams shares information about business recruitment in Ellis County.<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: Area business recruitment offers challenges; opportunities

Arc of the Central Plains athletes competed for medals and came home with smiles from the group's track and field competition Wednesday night at the FHSU Track and Field Facility.

This is the first track meet in which the athletes have been able to compete since 2019. The 2020 and 2021 Kansas Special Olympics games were canceled due to concerns over COVID-19.

Brent Kaiser, Arc activities director, said the group felt they could conduct the games safely since the activities were all set to be outdoors.

"It is important to just get them back in the swing of things and get them back going," he said. "We wanted them to feel special and have those opportunities to be successful again."

Athletes competed in turbo javelin, softball throw, shot put, long jump, running and run/walk events.

"I think the social side is the most important," Kaiser said. "I think that is what they have been missing the most ... I think they just like being out here with their fellow athletes."

The Hays Striders track club joined the Arc athletes for running events as a warm up for their upcoming meet in Hays. FHSU athletics, as well as many volunteers from the community, assisted at the meet.

The Arc didn't have enough athletes to fill all the heats, and the Striders helped to do that. The Striders families also increased the crowd, which Kaiser said added to the atmosphere of the meet.

One athlete received a special surprise Wednesday night.&nbsp;Kacey Dannels of Hays learned she will be attending her second Special Olympics USA games in 2022. She also attended the USA games in 2018 in Seattle.

Dannels said she was very excited to be going to Orlando next year. She said she does not know what events in which she will compete. Wednesday night Dannels, 28, competed in the 800m, shot put and running long jump.

"I felt great about my run," she said. "It's hard to do, but you just have to put your mind to it to be able to do it."

Dannels also works at the north McDonald's in Hays.

Dannels will need to raise $1,000 to fund her trip. She is getting a late start, as she was chosen to replace another athlete who could not make the trip.

If you wish to donate toward Dannels' expenses for the Orlando games, you can direct donations to Kaiser at the Arc office, 600 Main, Hays, KS 676o1

Local athlete Tyler Powers also has been chosen as an athlete in bowling for the 2022 USA games. He has already raised enough funds for his trip.

Kaiser will be attending the games in Orlando as a track coach.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622751253970.jpeg" alt="Arc athletes (in green) participate in the Arc track and field meet along side Hays Striders Wednesday in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Arc athletes (in green) participate in the Arc track and field meet along side Hays Striders Wednesday in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostArc of the Central Plains athletes competed for medals and came home with smiles from the group's track and field competition Wednesday night at the FHSU Track and Field Facility.This is the first track meet in which the athletes have been able to compete since 2019. The 2020 and 2021 Kansas Special Olympics games were canceled due to concerns over COVID-19.Brent Kaiser, Arc activities director, said the group felt they could conduct the games safely since the activities were all set to be outdoors."It is important to just get them back in the swing of things and get them back going," he said. "We wanted them to feel special and have those opportunities to be successful again."Athletes competed in turbo javelin, softball throw, shot put, long jump, running and run/walk events."I think the social side is the most important," Kaiser said. "I think that is what they have been missing the most ... I think they just like being out here with their fellow athletes."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622754301017.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Striders track club joined the Arc athletes for running events as a warm up for their upcoming meet in Hays. FHSU athletics, as well as many volunteers from the community, assisted at the meet.The Arc didn't have enough athletes to fill all the heats, and the Striders helped to do that. The Striders families also increased the crowd, which Kaiser said added to the atmosphere of the meet.One athlete received a special surprise Wednesday night.&nbsp;Kacey Dannels of Hays learned she will be attending her second Special Olympics USA games in 2022. She also attended the USA games in 2018 in Seattle.Dannels said she was very excited to be going to Orlando next year. She said she does not know what events in which she will compete. Wednesday night Dannels, 28, competed in the 800m, shot put and running long jump.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622754338782.jpeg" alt="Kacey Dannels finishes her last lap of the 800m Wednesday along side a Hays Striders runner. Dannels will compete next summer in track and field at the Special Olympics USA games in Orlando, Fla." />
 <figcaption>Kacey Dannels finishes her last lap of the 800m Wednesday along side a Hays Striders runner. Dannels will compete next summer in track and field at the Special Olympics USA games in Orlando, Fla.</figcaption>
 </figure>"I felt great about my run," she said. "It's hard to do, but you just have to put your mind to it to be able to do it."Dannels also works at the north McDonald's in Hays.Dannels will need to raise $1,000 to fund her trip. She is getting a late start, as she was chosen to replace another athlete who could not make the trip.If you wish to donate toward Dannels' expenses for the Orlando games, you can direct donations to Kaiser at the Arc office, 600 Main, Hays, KS 676o1Local athlete Tyler Powers also has been chosen as an athlete in bowling for the 2022 USA games. He has already raised enough funds for his trip.Kaiser will be attending the games in Orlando as a track coach.&nbsp;<figure>
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Arc Buffaloes compete in track, field; 1 runner headed to USA games

TOPEKA — State Librarian Eric Norris, formerly of Hays, announced the 16th annual selection of Kansas Notable Books celebrating Kansas people, places, and events. The fifteen books feature quality titles with wide public appeal, either written by a Kansan or a Kansas related topic and published in the previous calendar year.

“I am proud to present the 2021 Kansas Notable Book list. This year’s books bring to life the Kansas experience through the vivid storytelling of gifted writers, talented illustrators, essayists, and poets. The rich array of works on this year’s list will both entertain as well as educate,”&nbsp;State Librarian Eric Norris said. “Reading is more important than ever. I encourage every Kansan to contact their local public library and celebrate the artists and artistry of Kansas.”

The State Library first launched the Kansas Notable Books Program in 2006. Since then, more than 200 books have been recognized for their contribution to Kansas literary heritage. This year’s selection committee included representatives of public, university, and school libraries, teachers, academics, and historians. State Librarian Eric Norris selected the final list of 15 titles which includes nonfiction and fiction books that will appeal to a wide range of audiences and cover a variety of topics and issues.

Kansas Notable Books authors will be awarded their medals at the Kansas Book Festival on September 18 at Washburn University. The public is invited.

Kansas Notable Books is a project of the Kansas Center for the Book, a program at the State Library of Kansas which is the state affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book exists to highlight the state’s literary heritage and foster an interest in books, reading, and libraries.

For descriptions, downloadable bookmarks, posters, and more information about Kansas Notable Books, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.l4vKzhfEZtUGPbFrH72aQbnRDI8N6th6hDothcr7LI4/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info/2021KNB</a>, call the State Library at 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.

"All Hallows' Shadow" by Michael D. Graves (Emporia) Meadowlark Books

"The Amelia Six" by Kristin L. Gray (Fayetteville, AR) Paula Wiseman Books

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell’Antonia (Lyme, NH) G.P. Putnam’s Sons&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Croaked! (The Misadventures of Nobbin Swill)" by Lisa Harkrader (Tonganoxie) Yellow Jacket

"Farmers Unite!: Planting a Protest for Fair Prices" by Lindsay H. Metcalf (Concordia) Calkins Creek

"Ladybird, Collected" by Meg Heriford (Lawrence)

"Un Mango Grows" in Kansas&nbsp;by Huascar Medina (Topeka) Spartan Press

"Mawson's Mission: Launching Women's Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Kansas" by L. Marlene Mawson (Lawrence) University Press of Kansas

"Northern Cheyenne Ledger Art by Fort Robinson Breakout Survivors" by Denise Low (Lawrence) and Ramon Powers (Topeka) University of Nebraska Press

"People, Pride, and Promise: The Story of the Dockum Sit-in" by Prisca Barnes (Wichita), illustrated by Priscella Brown (Wichita) Storytime Village

"Prairie Bachelor: The Story of a Kansas Homesteader and the Populist Movement" by Lynda Beck Fenwick (Pratt) University Press of Kansas

"Premeditated Myrtle: A Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery" by Elizabeth C. Bunce (Lenexa) Algonquin Young Readers

"Swimming Shelter: Poems" by Al Ortolani (Lenexa) Spartan Press

"What Sound is Morning?" by Grant Snider (Wichita) Chronicle Books

"World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments" by Aimee Nezhukumatathil (Oxford MS) Milkweed Editions

The State Library of Kansas – To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.bknajl2_FxmRwZEqGCkcPxVVKm0NwqZxh_gsXGl7bYw/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596738441444.jpeg" alt="Eric Norris is a native Kansan who received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, MA from Fort Hays State University, and MLS from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Prior to joining the State Library in 2018, he served as the Adult Department Librarian and Director of the Hays Public Library. He has also worked as a Director of Human Resources and a newspaper reporter. " />
 <figcaption>Eric Norris is a native Kansan who received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, MA from Fort Hays State University, and MLS from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Prior to joining the State Library in 2018, he served as the Adult Department Librarian and Director of the Hays Public Library. He has also worked as a Director of Human Resources and a newspaper reporter. </figcaption>
 </figure>State Library of KansasTOPEKA — State Librarian Eric Norris, formerly of Hays, announced the 16th annual selection of Kansas Notable Books celebrating Kansas people, places, and events. The fifteen books feature quality titles with wide public appeal, either written by a Kansan or a Kansas related topic and published in the previous calendar year.“I am proud to present the 2021 Kansas Notable Book list. This year’s books bring to life the Kansas experience through the vivid storytelling of gifted writers, talented illustrators, essayists, and poets. The rich array of works on this year’s list will both entertain as well as educate,”&nbsp;State Librarian Eric Norris said. “Reading is more important than ever. I encourage every Kansan to contact their local public library and celebrate the artists and artistry of Kansas.”The State Library first launched the Kansas Notable Books Program in 2006. Since then, more than 200 books have been recognized for their contribution to Kansas literary heritage. This year’s selection committee included representatives of public, university, and school libraries, teachers, academics, and historians. State Librarian Eric Norris selected the final list of 15 titles which includes nonfiction and fiction books that will appeal to a wide range of audiences and cover a variety of topics and issues.Kansas Notable Books authors will be awarded their medals at the Kansas Book Festival on September 18 at Washburn University. The public is invited.Kansas Notable Books is a project of the Kansas Center for the Book, a program at the State Library of Kansas which is the state affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book. The Kansas Center for the Book exists to highlight the state’s literary heritage and foster an interest in books, reading, and libraries.For descriptions, downloadable bookmarks, posters, and more information about Kansas Notable Books, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA2MDMuNDE0NTQ1MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAyLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cua3NsaWIuaW5mbyUyRjIwMjFLTkImZGF0YT0wNCU3QzAxJTdDUmF5bmEuS2Fyc3QlNDBrcy5nb3YlN0M2ZmMzNWZlMjg3NTk0ZTRhODE2YTA4ZDkyNmJmYWM4MiU3Q2RjYWU4MTAxYzkyZDQ4MGNiYzQzYzY3NjFjY2NjYzVhJTdDMCU3QzAlN0M2Mzc1ODM0MjY5Mjk5MjA5MzYlN0NVbmtub3duJTdDVFdGcGJHWnNiM2Q4ZXlKV0lqb2lNQzR3TGpBd01EQWlMQ0pRSWpvaVYybHVNeklpTENKQlRpSTZJazFoYVd3aUxDSlhWQ0k2TW4wJTNEJTdDMTAwMCZzZGF0YT1GZjFucVZaJTJCMmZycUFtcU5BRlE5SVRKbmRWWXR4Q3Awb2FwemIya2JCdFUlM0QmcmVzZXJ2ZWQ9MCJ9.l4vKzhfEZtUGPbFrH72aQbnRDI8N6th6hDothcr7LI4/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info/2021KNB</a>, call the State Library at 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.<h2>2021 Kansas Notable Books</h2>"All Hallows' Shadow" by Michael D. Graves (Emporia) Meadowlark Books"The Amelia Six" by Kristin L. Gray (Fayetteville, AR) Paula Wiseman Books"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell’Antonia (Lyme, NH) G.P. Putnam’s Sons&nbsp;&nbsp;"Croaked! (The Misadventures of Nobbin Swill)" by Lisa Harkrader (Tonganoxie) Yellow Jacket"Farmers Unite!: Planting a Protest for Fair Prices" by Lindsay H. Metcalf (Concordia) Calkins Creek"Ladybird, Collected" by Meg Heriford (Lawrence)"Un Mango Grows" in Kansas&nbsp;by Huascar Medina (Topeka) Spartan Press"Mawson's Mission: Launching Women's Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Kansas" by L. Marlene Mawson (Lawrence) University Press of Kansas"Northern Cheyenne Ledger Art by Fort Robinson Breakout Survivors" by Denise Low (Lawrence) and Ramon Powers (Topeka) University of Nebraska Press"People, Pride, and Promise: The Story of the Dockum Sit-in" by Prisca Barnes (Wichita), illustrated by Priscella Brown (Wichita) Storytime Village"Prairie Bachelor: The Story of a Kansas Homesteader and the Populist Movement" by Lynda Beck Fenwick (Pratt) University Press of Kansas"Premeditated Myrtle: A Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery" by Elizabeth C. Bunce (Lenexa) Algonquin Young Readers"Swimming Shelter: Poems" by Al Ortolani (Lenexa) Spartan Press"What Sound is Morning?" by Grant Snider (Wichita) Chronicle Books"World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments" by Aimee Nezhukumatathil (Oxford MS) Milkweed EditionsThe State Library of Kansas – To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.bknajl2_FxmRwZEqGCkcPxVVKm0NwqZxh_gsXGl7bYw/s/1303183450/br/107428927983-l">kslib.info</a>.

State Librarian Norris announces 16th edition of Kansas Notable Books

From DC to Kansas, culture war issues are topping the conservative agenda. Many conservatives are advocating restricting speech in schools to ban something called “critical race theory” (CRT).&nbsp;

CRT isn’t a theory like, say, the theory of gravity that has clear rules and equations. Rather, it’s more like a perspective. Oversimplified, it means thinking about how race matters in law, society, and institutions, often in ways that promote racial inequality.&nbsp;

For example, Black families generally have less inherited wealth than White families. CRT might encourage considering how slavery and segregation limited economic opportunities for Blacks over generations, contributing to a racial wealth gap today.&nbsp;

That’s it. You don’t need a fancy academic label like “CRT” to think about how race matters in America.&nbsp;

CRT is not diversity or racial sensitivity training. It doesn’t regulate speech, require supporting reparations, or say that racism explains everything. Of course, like any idea, some people use CRT to voice controversial opinions, and that gets cherry picked for dramatic political arguments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Conservatives are using coordinated language to attack CRT as some big boogeyman, calling it anti-American, anti-White, socialist, unpatriotic, anti-individualism, divisive, etcetera.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas. " />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas. </figcaption>
 </figure>From DC to Kansas, culture war issues are topping the conservative agenda. Many conservatives are advocating restricting speech in schools to ban something called “critical race theory” (CRT).&nbsp;CRT isn’t a theory like, say, the theory of gravity that has clear rules and equations. Rather, it’s more like a perspective. Oversimplified, it means thinking about how race matters in law, society, and institutions, often in ways that promote racial inequality.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For example, Black families generally have less inherited wealth than White families. CRT might encourage considering how slavery and segregation limited economic opportunities for Blacks over generations, contributing to a racial wealth gap today.&nbsp;That’s it. You don’t need a fancy academic label like “CRT” to think about how race matters in America.&nbsp;CRT is not diversity or racial sensitivity training. It doesn’t regulate speech, require supporting reparations, or say that racism explains everything. Of course, like any idea, some people use CRT to voice controversial opinions, and that gets cherry picked for dramatic political arguments.&nbsp;&nbsp;Conservatives are using coordinated language to attack CRT as some big boogeyman, calling it anti-American, anti-White, socialist, unpatriotic, anti-individualism, divisive, etcetera.&nbsp;But conservatives have largely manufactured this CRT controversy as “outrage of the day” political fodder. Yes, schools teach and talk about race. But overwhelmingly, schools don’t teach CRT.&nbsp;The real impact of this controversy is on freedom of speech in schools—whether and how students are exposed to discussions of race. In some states, conservatives have outlawed or attempted to outlaw CRT in schools. The Kansas Attorney General has also joined a letter that some interpret as anti-CRT.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s harder for conservatives to ban CRT than you’d think. Since CRT is just a perspective, it’s often difficult to identify and censor.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, under these proposed speech codes, schools can teach that slavery happened. But you can’t control reactions to that. Maybe a parent or politician feels that a lesson about slavery implied something imperfect about America. Or maybe that lesson included the opinion of a Black person about what slavery means to them, and that upset some folks. Under the varied regulations that conservatives are promoting in states to ban CRT, that lesson can be interpreted as breaking the law because of how it made someone feel. Hello, lawsuit.&nbsp;Critical thinking about race also gets dangerous. Under these new regulations, discussing race and criminal justice in a social studies class gets borderline criminal depending upon who expressed what opinion and how that conversation was interpreted.&nbsp;Teachers in some states are telling reporters that they would rather avoid discussing race than risk breaking new speech laws. Thus, in censoring how race gets discussed, conservatives are pressuring educators to just ignore the topic.&nbsp;If you’re wondering why the mass conniption about something that overwhelmingly isn’t in school curricula, politics is the answer. Some consultant probably distributed a memo on how to blow this issue up and agitate some chunk of voters.&nbsp;Especially with conservatives attacking how social media companies regulate speech on privately-owned platforms, it’s ironic that many of them advocate using government power to censor discussions about race in schools. If this manufactured crisis comes to Kansas and our 2022 elections, it will be to the detriment of not just free speech and schools, but the many issues that politicians will be neglecting.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;