By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Point, counterpoint. That sounds like a debate, but in this case, it uses a term that describes a project that is bringing multiple perspectives together to honor the Flint Hills of Kansas.&nbsp;

Renowned musician Dr. Susan Mayo and multiple county partners have launched a project called Flint Hills Counterpoint.&nbsp;

Susan is originally from Arizona. After studying music in college in California and while performing professionally, she went to Wichita State University to participate in the special music-education program. She later earned a doctorate in cello performance at the University of Kansas and plays cello in the Wichita Symphony.&nbsp;

“We were looking for a place in the country,” Susan said. She and her husband bought 14 acres north of Peabody that serve as home base for her music and composing career. In addition to classical music, she is part of alternative music ensembles that have performed around the world – in places such as Scotland, France and Croatia.&nbsp;

Susan is chair of the Historic Sunflower Theatre Foundation that is working to restore a historic theater in downtown Peabody. She is also a faculty member at Friends University in Wichita and is music director for both the Symphony in the Flint Hills fall event called Woodfest as well as Prairie Muses, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing the arts to rural audiences. While serving as a Tallgrass Artist-in-Residence in 2018, Susan met renowned filmmaker Cyan Meeks and they embarked on several collaborations.&nbsp;

“I’d been running around the country, but I wanted to do something more locally,” Susan said. She has helped launch a new initiative called Flint Hills Counterpoint. “This is a place-making project involving arts and ecology.” The goal is to “celebrate and explore the unique ecosystem of Marion County through the arts.”&nbsp;

Susan’s 14 acres have become what she terms Counterpoint Home Base. She is working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Kansas Forest Service on a conservation and restoration plan for her 14 acres, but that is just the beginning.&nbsp;

The project is described on Facebook as a “collaboration with the communities of rural Marion County, Kansas, to investigate and engage the last remaining vestiges of the Tallgrass Prairie in North America – through art, creative documentary methods and conservation.”&nbsp;For example, filmmaker Cyan Meeks is working on a documentary about the land reclamation project. It is called Reclamation Meridian.&nbsp;

In mid-April, the group is conducting a Musical Bike Adventure Ride in Marion County.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bicyclists can follow a cross-county route that will include stops where musicians will be performing. Musicians include singer/songwriter Aaron Waddle and Pretend Friend, a bluegrass roots band from Wichita. Bike riders have the choice of a 15- or 30-mile route. Surfaces include gravel, dirt and some pavement. This will be a chance to get good exercise and see some beautiful countryside, along with enjoying excellent music.&nbsp;

Flint Hills Counterpoint is sponsored by the&nbsp;National Endowment for the Arts, the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, Prairie Muses, Chamber Music at the Barn, the Kansas Forest Service, and the NRCS. It is supported locally by the county commissioners, the K-State Research and Extension Chisholm Trail District serving Marion County, and other partners.&nbsp;

“This is such a great county, and Peabody is such a great little town,” Susan said.&nbsp;

You can learn more about Dr. Mayo on&nbsp;<a href="https://susanmayo.squarespace.com/">her website</a>&nbsp;and find out more about Flint Hills Counterpoint on&nbsp;<a href="https://flinthillscounterpoint.org/">its website</a>. For more details about the bike ride, go to Facebook and search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/159208099308733">Flint Hills Counterpoint Musical Adventure Bike Ride</a>.&nbsp;

This is a remarkable project to be found near a rural community like Peabody, population 1,083 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Point, counterpoint. Dr. Susan Mayo points out that the definition of counterpoint is “the art or technique of setting, writing, or playing a melody or melodies in conjunction with another, according to fixed rules.” In this case, her Flint Hills Counterpoint is making a difference by combining melodies of music with the art of nature, all while promoting her home county. I think she makes a great point.&nbsp;

And there’s more. What is the historic Sunflower Theatre? We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617802310872.png" alt="Dr. Susan Mayo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Susan Mayo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Point, counterpoint. That sounds like a debate, but in this case, it uses a term that describes a project that is bringing multiple perspectives together to honor the Flint Hills of Kansas.&nbsp;Renowned musician Dr. Susan Mayo and multiple county partners have launched a project called Flint Hills Counterpoint.&nbsp;Susan is originally from Arizona. After studying music in college in California and while performing professionally, she went to Wichita State University to participate in the special music-education program. She later earned a doctorate in cello performance at the University of Kansas and plays cello in the Wichita Symphony.&nbsp;“We were looking for a place in the country,” Susan said. She and her husband bought 14 acres north of Peabody that serve as home base for her music and composing career. In addition to classical music, she is part of alternative music ensembles that have performed around the world – in places such as Scotland, France and Croatia.&nbsp;Susan is chair of the Historic Sunflower Theatre Foundation that is working to restore a historic theater in downtown Peabody. She is also a faculty member at Friends University in Wichita and is music director for both the Symphony in the Flint Hills fall event called Woodfest as well as Prairie Muses, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing the arts to rural audiences. While serving as a Tallgrass Artist-in-Residence in 2018, Susan met renowned filmmaker Cyan Meeks and they embarked on several collaborations.&nbsp;“I’d been running around the country, but I wanted to do something more locally,” Susan said. She has helped launch a new initiative called Flint Hills Counterpoint. “This is a place-making project involving arts and ecology.” The goal is to “celebrate and explore the unique ecosystem of Marion County through the arts.”&nbsp;Susan’s 14 acres have become what she terms Counterpoint Home Base. She is working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Kansas Forest Service on a conservation and restoration plan for her 14 acres, but that is just the beginning.&nbsp;The project is described on Facebook as a “collaboration with the communities of rural Marion County, Kansas, to investigate and engage the last remaining vestiges of the Tallgrass Prairie in North America – through art, creative documentary methods and conservation.”&nbsp;For example, filmmaker Cyan Meeks is working on a documentary about the land reclamation project. It is called Reclamation Meridian.&nbsp;In mid-April, the group is conducting a Musical Bike Adventure Ride in Marion County.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bicyclists can follow a cross-county route that will include stops where musicians will be performing. Musicians include singer/songwriter Aaron Waddle and Pretend Friend, a bluegrass roots band from Wichita. Bike riders have the choice of a 15- or 30-mile route. Surfaces include gravel, dirt and some pavement. This will be a chance to get good exercise and see some beautiful countryside, along with enjoying excellent music.&nbsp;Flint Hills Counterpoint is sponsored by the&nbsp;National Endowment for the Arts, the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, Prairie Muses, Chamber Music at the Barn, the Kansas Forest Service, and the NRCS. It is supported locally by the county commissioners, the K-State Research and Extension Chisholm Trail District serving Marion County, and other partners.&nbsp;“This is such a great county, and Peabody is such a great little town,” Susan said.&nbsp;You can learn more about Dr. Mayo on&nbsp;<a href="https://susanmayo.squarespace.com/">her website</a>&nbsp;and find out more about Flint Hills Counterpoint on&nbsp;<a href="https://flinthillscounterpoint.org/">its website</a>. For more details about the bike ride, go to Facebook and search for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/159208099308733">Flint Hills Counterpoint Musical Adventure Bike Ride</a>.&nbsp;This is a remarkable project to be found near a rural community like Peabody, population 1,083 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Point, counterpoint. Dr. Susan Mayo points out that the definition of counterpoint is “the art or technique of setting, writing, or playing a melody or melodies in conjunction with another, according to fixed rules.” In this case, her Flint Hills Counterpoint is making a difference by combining melodies of music with the art of nature, all while promoting her home county. I think she makes a great point.&nbsp;And there’s more. What is the historic Sunflower Theatre? We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Susan Mayo, Flint Hills Counterpoint 

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey along U.S. 24 in Osborne County the week of April 12.

Survey crews will be gathering information for the detailed design of a proposed bridge project approximately 1.5 miles east of the K-181 junction near Downs. Activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. KDOT expects work to be complete by May 5.

Crews will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property if access is needed. Kara LaRiviere, field survey project manager, will oversee the survey for KDOT.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey along U.S. 24 in Osborne County the week of April 12.Survey crews will be gathering information for the detailed design of a proposed bridge project approximately 1.5 miles east of the K-181 junction near Downs. Activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor. KDOT expects work to be complete by May 5.Crews will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property if access is needed. Kara LaRiviere, field survey project manager, will oversee the survey for KDOT.

Survey work starting on U.S. 24 near Downs

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🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU sophomore awarded prestigious scholarship

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

When potential businesses are recruiting new employees to Hays, they want to present a positive picture to candidates.

However, Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, said the community is lacking in two of the most important factors that candidates and businesses consider when they come to a community — housing and educational facilities.

Ron Wilson, Hays USD 489 superintendent, said the quality of schools in Hays are good, but when visitors see aging buildings when they first come to Hays, it might not be accurately representing the quality of Hays' academic programs.

"I wouldn’t necessarily know that they would get a clear picture of really all the great things we do here," Wilson said. … "I have said this for a long time that we are judged a lot by our front door."

Hays has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years. Its oldest building — Lincoln Elementary School — is more than 90 years old. The school district has had two failed bond attempts in the last five years.

The board is scheduled to hear a report Monday on a community survey conducted by its architecture firm, what could be considered a first step in mounting another bond attempt.

Williams said the lack of up-to-date facilities can make it difficult for Hays to compete with other communities in western Kansas that have newer schools and athletic facilities.

Education top priority for workers, business

Williams showed a pyramid&nbsp;of the rural hierarchy of needs for workforce development created by Zachary Mannheimer of <a href="https://atlascostudios.com/">Atlas Community Studios</a><a href="https://atlascostudios.com/"></a>,&nbsp; a consulting firm that helps communities with economic development.

The pyramid shows housing as the most important need with quality education as the second most important need on the pyramid.

A study in 1991 by Mark Glaser and John Bardo that studied the impact of quality of life, including schools, on recruitment and retention found of 891 business surveyed in Wichita, the quality of local public school systems ranked very highly for businesses in the manufacturing sector.

However, the authors noted the importance of school quality on retention and recruitment varied among business types.

Research of local sources found no studies of how local public schools affected the Hays or Ellis County economy, although regular studies analyze how Fort Hays State University affects the local economy.

Mark Hess of Hess Services, one of the top 10 employers in Ellis County, said he thought Hays does have an excellent education system and did not think that school facilities were a negative in new recruits looking to locate to Hays. He said housing was more of an issue for employees his company recruits to work in Hays.

Williams said he was in agreement with Hess that Hays has a quality education system, but as Wilson did, he expressed concerns about the "front door" impression employees and businesses might be getting of Hays schools.

"We do a good job of educating kids, but our facilities are not good at all. We haven't passed a significant bond issue in 40 years. We are falling behind other communities in that area."

Williams said other communities in the area, such as Garden City, Dodge City and Salina, have passed bonds, built new schools and have excellent facilities.&nbsp; He said the community does not compete well against&nbsp;those communities in the realm of recruiting&nbsp; because of the lack of educational facilities.&nbsp;

Schools affect quality of life for everyone

When HaysMed is trying to recruit a doctor to the Hays, education is a big factor, Williams said.&nbsp;

"When someone comes to town," Williams said, "whether that be an executive with a company who is thinking of relocating here or a doctor who is thinking of relocating here or a nurse, they're going to drive around and look at facilities or they may even go into some facilities.

"They are going to see we have significant problems with [facilities.] This community has not been wiling to invest in education the way other places have. It puts us at a competitive disadvantage."

Sarah Wasinger, executive director of the Hays Chamber and former USD 489 board clerk, had a similar assessment.

"When you are coming in from out of town looking at a school, you're not walking into a newly renovated or newly constructed facility," she said. "For some people, that is going to be the deciding factor as to 'Do I want to bring my kids here to school?'

"Maybe by looking at that physical plant, I might derive that the people in Hays don't care about education because they aren't willing to invest in facilities that match the quality and caliber of the education that takes place."

Wasinger said the quality of services in Hays, including health care, are tied to the schools.

" 'What’s in for me? I don’t have kids.' … Maybe they aren't fully vested in what’s going on in USD 489," Wasinger said. "The thing of the matter is we all have our health that we are trying to take care of. … That’s what should be what’s in it for me for those who don’t have students they are concerned about.”

Wasinger said she thinks it going to take a bond issue to fix the facilities and improve Hays' ability to recruit new businesses and employees.

Hays could take advantage of urban flight if only ...

Williams said the country is experiencing urban flight — and COVID has sped up that process, with technology making it easier for employees to work remotely in rural communities.

Hays would be poised to take some of that population migration if it were not for its lacking in those two areas of housing and education facilities, he said.

"Increased population is economic development in and of itself," Williams said, "Because people spend money and buy homes. They buy cars. They buy groceries. We are not where we need to be on that."

When the community is trying to recruit big box retailers or other new business to the community, they also look at education and education facilities.

"Our education system again pops up and becomes an inhibitor," he said.&nbsp;

"It is a huge part of economic development, and the last few months, it has become clear to me how big of a part it really is," Williams said.&nbsp;

Williams said he hoped that any future bond attempts by USD 489 would focus more on the relationship between the schools and the greater community's economic well being.

"I think if you look at the bigger picture," he said, "a vibrant local economy with a good education system is actually going to enhance the value of my property, enhance the quality of the community.

"I think that is an aspect of education that really hasn't been looked at in previous bond issues is the economic impact of what our education system has on our local economy. I hope the next time they go around, they focus on that a whole lot more because that is an important aspect of it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617812678567.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWhen potential businesses are recruiting new employees to Hays, they want to present a positive picture to candidates.However, Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, said the community is lacking in two of the most important factors that candidates and businesses consider when they come to a community — housing and educational facilities.Ron Wilson, Hays USD 489 superintendent, said the quality of schools in Hays are good, but when visitors see aging buildings when they first come to Hays, it might not be accurately representing the quality of Hays' academic programs."I wouldn’t necessarily know that they would get a clear picture of really all the great things we do here," Wilson said. … "I have said this for a long time that we are judged a lot by our front door."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617901276889.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years. Its oldest building — Lincoln Elementary School — is more than 90 years old. The school district has had two failed bond attempts in the last five years.The board is scheduled to hear a report Monday on a community survey conducted by its architecture firm, what could be considered a first step in mounting another bond attempt.Williams said the lack of up-to-date facilities can make it difficult for Hays to compete with other communities in western Kansas that have newer schools and athletic facilities.<h2>Education top priority for workers, business</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617813603049.png" alt="&nbsp;Atlas Community Studios Rural Hierarchy of Workforce Development Needs" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Atlas Community Studios Rural Hierarchy of Workforce Development Needs</figcaption>
 </figure>Williams showed a pyramid&nbsp;of the rural hierarchy of needs for workforce development created by Zachary Mannheimer of <a href="https://atlascostudios.com/">Atlas Community Studios</a><a href="https://atlascostudios.com/"></a>,&nbsp; a consulting firm that helps communities with economic development.The pyramid shows housing as the most important need with quality education as the second most important need on the pyramid.A study in 1991 by Mark Glaser and John Bardo that studied the impact of quality of life, including schools, on recruitment and retention found of 891 business surveyed in Wichita, the quality of local public school systems ranked very highly for businesses in the manufacturing sector.However, the authors noted the importance of school quality on retention and recruitment varied among business types.Research of local sources found no studies of how local public schools affected the Hays or Ellis County economy, although regular studies analyze how Fort Hays State University affects the local economy.Mark Hess of Hess Services, one of the top 10 employers in Ellis County, said he thought Hays does have an excellent education system and did not think that school facilities were a negative in new recruits looking to locate to Hays. He said housing was more of an issue for employees his company recruits to work in Hays.<h2>Hays falling behind other communtities</h2>Williams said he was in agreement with Hess that Hays has a quality education system, but as Wilson did, he expressed concerns about the "front door" impression employees and businesses might be getting of Hays schools."We do a good job of educating kids, but our facilities are not good at all. We haven't passed a significant bond issue in 40 years. We are falling behind other communities in that area."Williams said other communities in the area, such as Garden City, Dodge City and Salina, have passed bonds, built new schools and have excellent facilities.&nbsp; He said the community does not compete well against&nbsp;those communities in the realm of recruiting&nbsp; because of the lack of educational facilities.&nbsp;<h2>Schools affect quality of life for everyone</h2>When HaysMed is trying to recruit a doctor to the Hays, education is a big factor, Williams said.&nbsp;"When someone comes to town," Williams said, "whether that be an executive with a company who is thinking of relocating here or a doctor who is thinking of relocating here or a nurse, they're going to drive around and look at facilities or they may even go into some facilities."They are going to see we have significant problems with [facilities.] This community has not been wiling to invest in education the way other places have. It puts us at a competitive disadvantage."Sarah Wasinger, executive director of the Hays Chamber and former USD 489 board clerk, had a similar assessment."When you are coming in from out of town looking at a school, you're not walking into a newly renovated or newly constructed facility," she said. "For some people, that is going to be the deciding factor as to 'Do I want to bring my kids here to school?'"Maybe by looking at that physical plant, I might derive that the people in Hays don't care about education because they aren't willing to invest in facilities that match the quality and caliber of the education that takes place."Wasinger said the quality of services in Hays, including health care, are tied to the schools." 'What’s in for me? I don’t have kids.' … Maybe they aren't fully vested in what’s going on in USD 489," Wasinger said. "The thing of the matter is we all have our health that we are trying to take care of. … That’s what should be what’s in it for me for those who don’t have students they are concerned about.”Wasinger said she thinks it going to take a bond issue to fix the facilities and improve Hays' ability to recruit new businesses and employees.<h2>Hays could take advantage of urban flight if only ...</h2>Williams said the country is experiencing urban flight — and COVID has sped up that process, with technology making it easier for employees to work remotely in rural communities.Hays would be poised to take some of that population migration if it were not for its lacking in those two areas of housing and education facilities, he said."Increased population is economic development in and of itself," Williams said, "Because people spend money and buy homes. They buy cars. They buy groceries. We are not where we need to be on that."When the community is trying to recruit big box retailers or other new business to the community, they also look at education and education facilities."Our education system again pops up and becomes an inhibitor," he said.&nbsp;"It is a huge part of economic development, and the last few months, it has become clear to me how big of a part it really is," Williams said.&nbsp;Williams said he hoped that any future bond attempts by USD 489 would focus more on the relationship between the schools and the greater community's economic well being."I think if you look at the bigger picture," he said, "a vibrant local economy with a good education system is actually going to enhance the value of my property, enhance the quality of the community."I think that is an aspect of education that really hasn't been looked at in previous bond issues is the economic impact of what our education system has on our local economy. I hope the next time they go around, they focus on that a whole lot more because that is an important aspect of it."

Aging school facilities may be having negative impact on recruitment

The annual Olliff Family Educational Symposium continues this year as an online webinar format in response to COVID-19 health concerns. The symposium, sponsored by Fort Hays State University’s College of Education, is set for 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 15.

The symposium is free and open to the public. However, registration is required. Links to the webinar will be emailed to registrants. For information on how to register, and a link to the registration page, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJBeUzIzDvp5iyO3Mbvwl-2BclW8VZHRi7jCh7-2By1iSCQL-2Fy8iAwQ68LtMPnaXQvtt-2BC-2BWYoQnTCm55nv319VDPrjA-3DR51d_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2Bzyh0yLaU29O8Mv-2FxbIcR87DVXTq5rIYTfZykyrXkdCwbbqK3XeihxvTmFtl2Ri9QpE03-2B1Whruz6J5M5FbSNUKCZFJjMrBpLNamsbktNDSQ41v69NsyUqVsTYxQXWi17bKFk-2Btgalot3ssm1FGCBrATI7LW-2FBx-2ByNGXzmAEh0haxFX9U226N0LI2bresEHp4tC2qysGhr8DQUEaBCKhfYWQxLoqS7v2rqbTWSXUBsBrhU8X0Ojnjnn2jLa6op4FgVfnxBsiuKBGdNzzx9PQqPQ-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/olliff-family-educational-symposium/index.</a>

Dr. Jamie Schwandt (Ed.D.), the featured speaker, is an author and former foster child. He will draw attention to this year’s symposium theme H.O.P.E. – Healthy Outlooks, Positive Emotions.

Schwandt is a Maverick!, critical thinker, leader, and innovator who continuously challenges the status quo. A major in the U.S. Army, Schwandt is a Lean Six Sigma, Master Black Belt, and Red Team Member for the Department of the Army. He is a published author in various military journals, magazines, and blogs, including The Atlas Society; Teach Thought; The Army Magazine; MOAA; Small Wars Journal; Real Clear Defense, Task &amp; Purpose; and many others.

Schwandt is an adjunct professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at Fort Hays State, where he teaches Administration in Healthcare, Tests, and Measurements. He launched a new Lean Six Sigma program — a management approach to business performance improvement — at FHSU and was the 2016 Young Alumni-of-the-Year Award recipient at FHSU.&nbsp;

He received his Ed.D. from Kansas State University and his bachelor’s and master’s from FHSU. Schwandt has published four books: Swarm Learning: Teaching Students How to Think, Not What to Think; Succeeding as a Foster Child a Workbook; Finding Your Hero; and Succeeding as a Foster Child. He is a writer for various magazines and blogs, including Fostering Families Today Magazine, Foster Focus Magazine,&nbsp;<a href="http://lifehack.org/">Lifehack.org</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://adoption.com/">Adoption.com</a>.

Schwandt was the host of the inspiring television show "Dreaming Big!," which was produced by Eagle Communications. He and his wife Tomi, are the parents of two children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617889353390.png" alt="Schwandt" />
 <figcaption>Schwandt</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe annual Olliff Family Educational Symposium continues this year as an online webinar format in response to COVID-19 health concerns. The symposium, sponsored by Fort Hays State University’s College of Education, is set for 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 15.The symposium is free and open to the public. However, registration is required. Links to the webinar will be emailed to registrants. For information on how to register, and a link to the registration page, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJBeUzIzDvp5iyO3Mbvwl-2BclW8VZHRi7jCh7-2By1iSCQL-2Fy8iAwQ68LtMPnaXQvtt-2BC-2BWYoQnTCm55nv319VDPrjA-3DR51d_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2Bzyh0yLaU29O8Mv-2FxbIcR87DVXTq5rIYTfZykyrXkdCwbbqK3XeihxvTmFtl2Ri9QpE03-2B1Whruz6J5M5FbSNUKCZFJjMrBpLNamsbktNDSQ41v69NsyUqVsTYxQXWi17bKFk-2Btgalot3ssm1FGCBrATI7LW-2FBx-2ByNGXzmAEh0haxFX9U226N0LI2bresEHp4tC2qysGhr8DQUEaBCKhfYWQxLoqS7v2rqbTWSXUBsBrhU8X0Ojnjnn2jLa6op4FgVfnxBsiuKBGdNzzx9PQqPQ-3D-3D">fhsu.edu/olliff-family-educational-symposium/index.</a>Dr. Jamie Schwandt (Ed.D.), the featured speaker, is an author and former foster child. He will draw attention to this year’s symposium theme H.O.P.E. – Healthy Outlooks, Positive Emotions.Schwandt is a Maverick!, critical thinker, leader, and innovator who continuously challenges the status quo. A major in the U.S. Army, Schwandt is a Lean Six Sigma, Master Black Belt, and Red Team Member for the Department of the Army. He is a published author in various military journals, magazines, and blogs, including The Atlas Society; Teach Thought; The Army Magazine; MOAA; Small Wars Journal; Real Clear Defense, Task &amp; Purpose; and many others.Schwandt is an adjunct professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at Fort Hays State, where he teaches Administration in Healthcare, Tests, and Measurements. He launched a new Lean Six Sigma program — a management approach to business performance improvement — at FHSU and was the 2016 Young Alumni-of-the-Year Award recipient at FHSU.&nbsp;He received his Ed.D. from Kansas State University and his bachelor’s and master’s from FHSU. Schwandt has published four books: Swarm Learning: Teaching Students How to Think, Not What to Think; Succeeding as a Foster Child a Workbook; Finding Your Hero; and Succeeding as a Foster Child. He is a writer for various magazines and blogs, including Fostering Families Today Magazine, Foster Focus Magazine,&nbsp;<a href="http://lifehack.org/">Lifehack.org</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://adoption.com/">Adoption.com</a>.Schwandt was the host of the inspiring television show "Dreaming Big!," which was produced by Eagle Communications. He and his wife Tomi, are the parents of two children.

Schwandt will keynote FHSU's annual Olliff Symposium

GREAT BEND — Kris Kuksi has received praise from around the globe for his awe-inspiring sculptures, and rightfully so, as they are truly creations you have to see to believe.

“We are very excited to have world-famous Kansas artist Kris Kuksi judge our annual BaRTaRT student exhibition this year,” Barton Community College Gallery Director Dave Barnes said. “Kuksi is an artist of special regional interest who has created a following of very devoted and erudite fans. He will be exhibiting one of his own sculptural pieces in the exhibit as well.”

Kuksi has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in painting from Fort Hays State University. He previously had an art studio in downtown Hays. His current studio is in Lawrence.

Kuksi is not only the judge of this year’s BaRTaRT college student show,&nbsp; he is also taping a special dedicated presentation for the annual Virtual Vortex High School Art event in April. He is coming to Barton County and the Shafer Gallery with a message of encouragement and inspiration to rural Kansas high school artists, as he grew up in rural Kansas and has proved that great artists can emerge from even the most humble hometown beginnings.

His work is sometimes called fantastic realism or surrealism, but it really doesn’t fit into labels.

Legendary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro known for Oscar winning movies such as “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of&nbsp; Water” is an avid collector of Kuksi’s work and describes the artist, on <a href="https://www.kuksi.com/bio">kuksi.com</a>, as being “A postindustrial Rococo master, (who) obsessively arranges characters and architecture with an exquisite sense of drama. Instead of stones and shells, he uses plastic soldiers, miniature engine blocks, towering spires and assorted debris to form his landscapes. The political, spiritual, and material conflict within these shrines is enacted under the calm gaze of remote deities and august statuary. Kuksi manages to evoke, at once, a sanctum and a mausoleum for our suffocated spirit."

Barnes said the magic of Kuksi’s work is his ability to use the power of simple juxtaposition to create iconic imagery.

“For example, the ‘Churchtank’ piece he is exhibiting can evoke all kinds of pop culture and historical associations, from ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ ‘Mortal Engines,’ or ‘Steam Boy,’ to any number of triumphant Christian anthems,” he said.&nbsp; “It could also present the idea of the ever-present dichotomies of shadow and light, good and evil, power and grace, and the whole yin and yang of human experience. It might be an emblem of our boldest existential questions. Or, perhaps it is no more than an anime daydream come to life? These are questions only the viewer can answer as they themselves daydream in front of the sculpture. That’s a lot of associations coming from what is essentially deconstructed plastic model car kits on steroids.”

Shafer Art Gallery Director Dave Barnes said the student exhibit is a wonderful opportunity for students to gain experience as professional artists. The exhibit will open April 19 and the awards will be announced via virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. that evening at&nbsp;<a href="https://facebook.com/shafergallery" target="_blank">facebook.com/shafergallery</a>. The exhibit will be open through May 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; For more information on Kuksi go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kuksi.com/" target="_blank">kuksi.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

“This exhibit is an opportunity for Barton art students to display the fruits of the hard work and discipline involved in the process of creative production,” he said. “This is a resume-building exhibit in a professional venue and will hopefully encourage students to fearlessly pursue their artistic careers and interests.”

The Shafer Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is always free.

For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at (620) 792-9342 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617832990964.jpeg" alt="Former Hays artist Kris Kukski will bring his work "Churchtank" to the&nbsp;BaRTaRT Student Exhibition, where he will judge the Barton Community College show." />
 <figcaption>Former Hays artist Kris Kukski will bring his work "Churchtank" to the&nbsp;BaRTaRT Student Exhibition, where he will judge the Barton Community College show.</figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND — Kris Kuksi has received praise from around the globe for his awe-inspiring sculptures, and rightfully so, as they are truly creations you have to see to believe.“We are very excited to have world-famous Kansas artist Kris Kuksi judge our annual BaRTaRT student exhibition this year,” Barton Community College Gallery Director Dave Barnes said. “Kuksi is an artist of special regional interest who has created a following of very devoted and erudite fans. He will be exhibiting one of his own sculptural pieces in the exhibit as well.”Kuksi has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in painting from Fort Hays State University. He previously had an art studio in downtown Hays. His current studio is in Lawrence.Kuksi is not only the judge of this year’s BaRTaRT college student show,&nbsp; he is also taping a special dedicated presentation for the annual Virtual Vortex High School Art event in April. He is coming to Barton County and the Shafer Gallery with a message of encouragement and inspiration to rural Kansas high school artists, as he grew up in rural Kansas and has proved that great artists can emerge from even the most humble hometown beginnings.His work is sometimes called fantastic realism or surrealism, but it really doesn’t fit into labels.Legendary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro known for Oscar winning movies such as “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of&nbsp; Water” is an avid collector of Kuksi’s work and describes the artist, on <a href="https://www.kuksi.com/bio">kuksi.com</a>, as being “A postindustrial Rococo master, (who) obsessively arranges characters and architecture with an exquisite sense of drama. Instead of stones and shells, he uses plastic soldiers, miniature engine blocks, towering spires and assorted debris to form his landscapes. The political, spiritual, and material conflict within these shrines is enacted under the calm gaze of remote deities and august statuary. Kuksi manages to evoke, at once, a sanctum and a mausoleum for our suffocated spirit."Barnes said the magic of Kuksi’s work is his ability to use the power of simple juxtaposition to create iconic imagery.“For example, the ‘Churchtank’ piece he is exhibiting can evoke all kinds of pop culture and historical associations, from ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ ‘Mortal Engines,’ or ‘Steam Boy,’ to any number of triumphant Christian anthems,” he said.&nbsp; “It could also present the idea of the ever-present dichotomies of shadow and light, good and evil, power and grace, and the whole yin and yang of human experience. It might be an emblem of our boldest existential questions. Or, perhaps it is no more than an anime daydream come to life? These are questions only the viewer can answer as they themselves daydream in front of the sculpture. That’s a lot of associations coming from what is essentially deconstructed plastic model car kits on steroids.”Shafer Art Gallery Director Dave Barnes said the student exhibit is a wonderful opportunity for students to gain experience as professional artists. The exhibit will open April 19 and the awards will be announced via virtual reception at 6:30 p.m. that evening at&nbsp;<a href="https://facebook.com/shafergallery" target="_blank">facebook.com/shafergallery</a>. The exhibit will be open through May 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For more information on Kuksi go to&nbsp;<a href="http://kuksi.com/" target="_blank">kuksi.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;“This exhibit is an opportunity for Barton art students to display the fruits of the hard work and discipline involved in the process of creative production,” he said. “This is a resume-building exhibit in a professional venue and will hopefully encourage students to fearlessly pursue their artistic careers and interests.”The Shafer Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is always free.For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Director Dave Barnes at (620) 792-9342 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>.

World-famous sculptor, former Hays artist Kuksi to judge BaRTaRT

A slow drip irrigation system for your garden is a highly efficient way of watering your plants and vegetables.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jcK2l2B_Oig"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A slow drip irrigation system for your garden is a highly efficient way of watering your plants and vegetables.

🎥 Green & Growing 2021: Irrigation

Three-day weather outlook

ELLIS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by Raymond&nbsp;Ostagne, 47, Bridgeport, CT.,&nbsp; was eastbound on Interstate 70 near Yocemento Avenue. 

The vehicle left the roadway to the left, crossed the median,&nbsp; overturned and slid across westbound I-70 coming to rest in the westbound lanes and partially on the north shoulder.

EMS transported&nbsp;Ostagne and a passenger Jackson&nbsp;Philogen, 51, Bridgeport, CT., to Hays Medical Center. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by Raymond&nbsp;Ostagne, 47, Bridgeport, CT.,&nbsp; was eastbound on Interstate 70 near Yocemento Avenue. The vehicle left the roadway to the left, crossed the median,&nbsp; overturned and slid across westbound I-70 coming to rest in the westbound lanes and partially on the north shoulder.EMS transported&nbsp;Ostagne and a passenger Jackson&nbsp;Philogen, 51, Bridgeport, CT., to Hays Medical Center. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after semi overturns on I-70

The first in a series of area meetings to discuss the proposed Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership is set for 6:30 p.m. Friday in Hill City at the Frontier Stage, 305 E. Main.

Two previous meetings were held in Nebraska communities this week and will continue through next Thursday in locations in Kansas and Nebraska.

Norman Kincaide, member of the Southeast Colorado Private Property Rights Council and author of "Scammed? Canyons &amp; Plains National Heritage Area Initiative for Southeastern Colorado," will lead the discussions.

While the meetings are designed to discuss the dangers of the proposal, proponents of the National Heritage Area believe the creation of the area will be beneficial to the region.

"The (partnership) a diverse, bi-state partnership of cultural, historical, economic development and tourism organizations and individuals, has formed in hopes of establishing a National Heritage Area within 49 counties between North Central Kansas and South Central Nebraska," according to a press release from the partnership.&nbsp;"The mission of the Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership is to connect communities and attractions, instill pride of place, and promote immersive experiences for residents and visitors to enhance appreciation for the region’s unique landscape and nationally significant cultural history."

The organization believes tourism in particular could be bolstered with the creation of the area.

"KNHAP’s goal is to build a network for heritage sites, museums, CVBs, cities and counties that wish to participate in this volunteer effort," the release said. "This network would collaboratively work together in marketing the region’s existing attractions with unified themes. Matching federal funding can provide tourism professionals and organizations with professional development opportunities as well as funding for new marketing initiatives and projects related to the themes.&nbsp;

"In the future, the network aims to promote the entire region to tourists ranging from bird watchers on the Platte River near Kearney, Nebraska to the Pony Express Station in Marysville, Kansas to the Homestead National Monument in Beatrice, Nebraska, or the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia. As a network working together, the aim is to draw more people off of I-70 and I-80 that can help serve as a catalyst for economic development through heritage tourism."

The release also said supporters view the existing areas as generally more desirable than other types of land conservation, due to the local retention of ownership and administration.

The group also said, the proposed area is in no way related to a recent order by President Joe Biden that would study the viability of the 30x30 movement, which seeks to put 30 percent of the U.S. land and water under some level of conservation.

"With the change of administration and new policies being introduced, some may have confused National Heritage Areas as being tied to the 30x30 initiative," the release said. "These are not related in any way. With 55 designated NHAs over a span of 37 years, there is not a single case of any land rights being impacted. National Heritage Areas are not national park service units. An NHA designation does not affect private property rights or impose land use controls, nor can it assume any ownership of land inside its defined boundary. All individuals, organizations, and/or towns within the area have the choice to participate voluntarily to enjoy the benefits of an NHA or remain autonomous."

They also point out, the first heritage area was created under President Ronald Regan, and President Donald Trump also created six new heritage areas in 2019.

For more information about Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership, follow them at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/KNHeritage">www.facebook.com/KNHeritage</a>.&nbsp;

By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe first in a series of area meetings to discuss the proposed Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership is set for 6:30 p.m. Friday in Hill City at the Frontier Stage, 305 E. Main.Two previous meetings were held in Nebraska communities this week and will continue through next Thursday in locations in Kansas and Nebraska.Norman Kincaide, member of the Southeast Colorado Private Property Rights Council and author of "Scammed? Canyons &amp; Plains National Heritage Area Initiative for Southeastern Colorado," will lead the discussions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617996093108.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While the meetings are designed to discuss the dangers of the proposal, proponents of the National Heritage Area believe the creation of the area will be beneficial to the region."The (partnership) a diverse, bi-state partnership of cultural, historical, economic development and tourism organizations and individuals, has formed in hopes of establishing a National Heritage Area within 49 counties between North Central Kansas and South Central Nebraska," according to a press release from the partnership.&nbsp;"The mission of the Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership is to connect communities and attractions, instill pride of place, and promote immersive experiences for residents and visitors to enhance appreciation for the region’s unique landscape and nationally significant cultural history."The organization believes tourism in particular could be bolstered with the creation of the area."KNHAP’s goal is to build a network for heritage sites, museums, CVBs, cities and counties that wish to participate in this volunteer effort," the release said. "This network would collaboratively work together in marketing the region’s existing attractions with unified themes. Matching federal funding can provide tourism professionals and organizations with professional development opportunities as well as funding for new marketing initiatives and projects related to the themes.&nbsp;"In the future, the network aims to promote the entire region to tourists ranging from bird watchers on the Platte River near Kearney, Nebraska to the Pony Express Station in Marysville, Kansas to the Homestead National Monument in Beatrice, Nebraska, or the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia. As a network working together, the aim is to draw more people off of I-70 and I-80 that can help serve as a catalyst for economic development through heritage tourism."The release also said supporters view the existing areas as generally more desirable than other types of land conservation, due to the local retention of ownership and administration.The group also said, the proposed area is in no way related to a recent order by President Joe Biden that would study the viability of the 30x30 movement, which seeks to put 30 percent of the U.S. land and water under some level of conservation."With the change of administration and new policies being introduced, some may have confused National Heritage Areas as being tied to the 30x30 initiative," the release said. "These are not related in any way. With 55 designated NHAs over a span of 37 years, there is not a single case of any land rights being impacted. National Heritage Areas are not national park service units. An NHA designation does not affect private property rights or impose land use controls, nor can it assume any ownership of land inside its defined boundary. All individuals, organizations, and/or towns within the area have the choice to participate voluntarily to enjoy the benefits of an NHA or remain autonomous."They also point out, the first heritage area was created under President Ronald Regan, and President Donald Trump also created six new heritage areas in 2019.For more information about Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership, follow them at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/KNHeritage">www.facebook.com/KNHeritage</a>.&nbsp;

Area meetings set to discuss proposed National Heritage Area 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported just one new case of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Wednesday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,726 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617989036420.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported just one new case of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Wednesday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported four COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, two active and two recovering.Since reporting began, there have been 3,726 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Just one new virus case in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

<div> <script src="https://embed-790365.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="d6bea556-1eaa-423c-9d7c-8852c1558c89" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

Riedel Garden Center's Lawn & Garden Sweepstakes

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Gerardo Olivares, research scientist and director, Crash Dynamics and Virtual Engineering and Flight.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Research scientist Gerardo Olivares" 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=qh76s-100386b-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 Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Gerardo Olivares, research scientist and director, Crash Dynamics and Virtual Engineering and Flight.

🎤Forward Ever: Research scientist Gerardo Olivares

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

In a 10-minute meeting Thursday night, Hays city commissioners approved the purchase of land to expand the airport's foot print.

The city was offered the purchase of a 20.33-acre tract of land on the east side of the airport.&nbsp;

The Hays Regional Airport master plan and airport layout plan includes acquisition of land for existing and future aviation demand.

"In order to be eligible for 90 percent FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) reimbursement, the property in question has to be part of the airport layout plan, which this is," City Manager Toby Dougherty told commissioners. "It was identified in the last two master plans. actually. as opportunities for growth."

Total cost of the land, owned by JoAnn Koerner, along with its acquisition, is $261, 692.&nbsp;

The purchase is eligible for 90 percent funding through the FAA, with a 10 percent city match of $26, 129.

"We are somewhat landlocked around the immediate terminal area and hangar area, "Dougherty said.

"So we would either have to develop a new portion of airport property which would probably include more taxiways and connectors, or grow to the east.

"So this is the logical extension of the airport which provides quite a bit of room for future growth."

Because the city is purchasing the land with a 90/10 match by the FAA, the requirements are "much more onerous than what we would typically go through when we buy a piece of property," Dougherty added.

As part of the FAA’s AIP requirements, the city hired H.W. Lochner, Inc., a Chicago-based construction engineering company, to&nbsp;administer land acquisition services for a cost of $99,85, of which the city will pay 10 percent.

Environmental&nbsp;site assessments, land survey, title search, and an appraisal/review process were&nbsp;completed prior to extending the offer of $154,505, the determined value&nbsp;of the 20.33-acre tract of land.&nbsp;

Total land acquisition cost to the city is $26,129 which will be paid from the airport reserve fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Commissioner Ron Mellick thanked Koerner for working with the city.

"I think we are very lucky to be able to acquire this land right up to the airport and to the east, so that we don't have to in the future build taxiways. 'Cause as we all know, taxiways are very, very expensive. So thank you, JoAnn."

"I agree," said Shaun Musil, commissioner. "To me, this is the best thing for the future of our airport."

There are 43 hangars at the airport and all are occupied. There is limited space for new hangar construction within the airport's current layout.&nbsp;

According to information from city staff, the demand for hangars continues to increase.&nbsp;

Commissioners also approved a&nbsp;quitclaim deed for transfer of mineral rights requested by Rick and Betty Wolf. &nbsp;

Several years ago, the city acquired the right of way for the northeast portion of what would be the 260th&nbsp;Avenue and East 41st Street intersection. Along with that acquisition came the mineral rights.&nbsp;

The owners of the&nbsp;contiguous tract want to sell the property along with the mineral rights and have asked the&nbsp;city to deed those rights back to the adjacent property.

There is a&nbsp;producing oil well on the property and because the city owns the street tract it&nbsp;has a small interest in the production of the oil and gas.

According to figure from City Attorney John Bird, the one-tenth acre the city owns would amount to an annual barrel&nbsp;production of 0.0168 barrels, or "at the most the city would have been receiving a dollar a year, so I have no problem recommending approval of [this] resolution.."

Commissioner Mellick abstained from the vote because he is related to the Wolfs.&nbsp;

Mayoral appointments to several volunteer city committees and boards were also unanimously approved.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617936102811.jpeg" alt="The city of Hays has purchased&nbsp; 20 acres immediately east of the Hays Regional Airport for future airport expansion." />
 <figcaption>The city of Hays has purchased&nbsp; 20 acres immediately east of the Hays Regional Airport for future airport expansion.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIn a 10-minute meeting Thursday night, Hays city commissioners approved the purchase of land to expand the airport's foot print.The city was offered the purchase of a 20.33-acre tract of land on the east side of the airport.&nbsp;The Hays Regional Airport master plan and airport layout plan includes acquisition of land for existing and future aviation demand."In order to be eligible for 90 percent FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) reimbursement, the property in question has to be part of the airport layout plan, which this is," City Manager Toby Dougherty told commissioners. "It was identified in the last two master plans. actually. as opportunities for growth."Total cost of the land, owned by JoAnn Koerner, along with its acquisition, is $261, 692.&nbsp;The purchase is eligible for 90 percent funding through the FAA, with a 10 percent city match of $26, 129."We are somewhat landlocked around the immediate terminal area and hangar area, "Dougherty said."So we would either have to develop a new portion of airport property which would probably include more taxiways and connectors, or grow to the east."So this is the logical extension of the airport which provides quite a bit of room for future growth."Because the city is purchasing the land with a 90/10 match by the FAA, the requirements are "much more onerous than what we would typically go through when we buy a piece of property," Dougherty added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617933954533.jpeg" alt="The city must use a federally approved consultant in the process of using FAA funds to purchase land for expansion of the airport.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The city must use a federally approved consultant in the process of using FAA funds to purchase land for expansion of the airport.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>As part of the FAA’s AIP requirements, the city hired H.W. Lochner, Inc., a Chicago-based construction engineering company, to&nbsp;administer land acquisition services for a cost of $99,85, of which the city will pay 10 percent.Environmental&nbsp;site assessments, land survey, title search, and an appraisal/review process were&nbsp;completed prior to extending the offer of $154,505, the determined value&nbsp;of the 20.33-acre tract of land.&nbsp;Total land acquisition cost to the city is $26,129 which will be paid from the airport reserve fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YDcIrAMDR_s"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioner Ron Mellick thanked Koerner for working with the city."I think we are very lucky to be able to acquire this land right up to the airport and to the east, so that we don't have to in the future build taxiways. 'Cause as we all know, taxiways are very, very expensive. So thank you, JoAnn.""I agree," said Shaun Musil, commissioner. "To me, this is the best thing for the future of our airport."There are 43 hangars at the airport and all are occupied. There is limited space for new hangar construction within the airport's current layout.&nbsp;According to information from city staff, the demand for hangars continues to increase.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617936327521.jpeg" alt="The city of Hays owns the right of way at the northeast corner of 260th Avenue and East 41st Street. City commissioners approved a requested quitclaim deed for mineral rights by Rick and Betty Wolf.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The city of Hays owns the right of way at the northeast corner of 260th Avenue and East 41st Street. City commissioners approved a requested quitclaim deed for mineral rights by Rick and Betty Wolf.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also approved a&nbsp;quitclaim deed for transfer of mineral rights requested by Rick and Betty Wolf. &nbsp;Several years ago, the city acquired the right of way for the northeast portion of what would be the 260th&nbsp;Avenue and East 41st Street intersection. Along with that acquisition came the mineral rights.&nbsp;The owners of the&nbsp;contiguous tract want to sell the property along with the mineral rights and have asked the&nbsp;city to deed those rights back to the adjacent property.There is a&nbsp;producing oil well on the property and because the city owns the street tract it&nbsp;has a small interest in the production of the oil and gas.According to figure from City Attorney John Bird, the one-tenth acre the city owns would amount to an annual barrel&nbsp;production of 0.0168 barrels, or "at the most the city would have been receiving a dollar a year, so I have no problem recommending approval of [this] resolution.."Commissioner Mellick abstained from the vote because he is related to the Wolfs.&nbsp;Mayoral appointments to several volunteer city committees and boards were also unanimously approved.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617935980450.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥  City purchases land to expand Hays Regional Airport

You might have heard about “ballot harvesting” recently. Kansas politicians are trying to restrict the practice, and some have linked it to baseless suggestions of election fraud in our state.&nbsp;

Ballot harvesting is a political spin term that some consultant probably made loads of money to invent because it sounds suspicious and scary. It refers to when a voter completes their absentee ballot and gives it to another person to return on their behalf. You might more accurately call it “ballot collection” or even “help turning in your ballot.”&nbsp;

The sick, elderly, or disabled are more likely to rely on others to return their ballot. Imagine you are the caregiver for an elderly parent who uses a walker. Your parent requests and completes a mail ballot. You take that ballot to the mailbox, post office, or ballot drop box for them. You are a ballot “harvester.”&nbsp;

Ballot collection is more common in rural areas, like western Kansas, where mailboxes are often centrally located away from homes. On some large Native American reservations, voters may need to travel hours on unpaved roads to access mail services, causing accusations of discrimination given the unequal impact of ballot collection restrictions on rural minority communities.&nbsp;

Nationwide, campaigns and both parties have long engaged in ballot collection, sometimes sending staffers door-to-door to collect absentee ballots from known supporters who have not yet returned them. Interest groups, civic groups, and churches, especially White Evangelical churches, do it in voter mobilization drives.&nbsp;

Most states regulate ballot collection. Some only allow certain types of people to return ballots for others. Alabama totally bans the practice. Kansas voters may designate someone in writing to return their ballot. That designee must also sign a statement that they did not exercise undue influence on the voter they are helping.&nbsp;

Kansas conservatives want to modify those rules. One bill proposed earlier this year made it a felony for anyone but family or caretakers to deliver another person’s ballot. So, if your friend breaks their leg and you sympathetically offer to take their mail — including their ballot — to the mailbox for them, that bill could arguably have made you a felon.&nbsp;

Another conservative-backed proposal would limit to five the number of ballots that one person can deliver. By capping ballots, this bill targets groups — campaigns, churches, civic organizations — engaged in turnout efforts, potentially criminalizing their activities. Still, groups could simply recruit more volunteers to skirt the cap.&nbsp;

Let’s be clear about a few things. First, voters should only give their ballots to people they trust. Second, opponents of increased regulation on ballot collection are not saying that there should be no regulation. Third, some voters genuinely need help returning their ballots, and ballot collection done by individuals or groups can be a lifeline for them.&nbsp;

Lawmakers should walk the line between reality and the allure of strategically exaggerated victimhood fantasies. Overwhelmingly, ballot collection is not linked to fraud. Though isolated cases always exist, like the Republican operative in North Carolina whose large-scale ballot fraud operation forced a redo in a congressional race.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If lawmakers restrict ballot collection on the false pretense of cleaner elections, they should at least weigh the costs to voters and avoid turning Kansas into Alabama, where innocently helping neighbors can make you a criminal.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

<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>You might have heard about “ballot harvesting” recently. Kansas politicians are trying to restrict the practice, and some have linked it to baseless suggestions of election fraud in our state.&nbsp;What is ballot harvesting anyway?&nbsp;Ballot harvesting is a political spin term that some consultant probably made loads of money to invent because it sounds suspicious and scary. It refers to when a voter completes their absentee ballot and gives it to another person to return on their behalf. You might more accurately call it “ballot collection” or even “help turning in your ballot.”&nbsp;Who does this?&nbsp;The sick, elderly, or disabled are more likely to rely on others to return their ballot. Imagine you are the caregiver for an elderly parent who uses a walker. Your parent requests and completes a mail ballot. You take that ballot to the mailbox, post office, or ballot drop box for them. You are a ballot “harvester.”&nbsp;Ballot collection is more common in rural areas, like western Kansas, where mailboxes are often centrally located away from homes. On some large Native American reservations, voters may need to travel hours on unpaved roads to access mail services, causing accusations of discrimination given the unequal impact of ballot collection restrictions on rural minority communities.&nbsp;Nationwide, campaigns and both parties have long engaged in ballot collection, sometimes sending staffers door-to-door to collect absentee ballots from known supporters who have not yet returned them. Interest groups, civic groups, and churches, especially White Evangelical churches, do it in voter mobilization drives.&nbsp;Most states regulate ballot collection. Some only allow certain types of people to return ballots for others. Alabama totally bans the practice. Kansas voters may designate someone in writing to return their ballot. That designee must also sign a statement that they did not exercise undue influence on the voter they are helping.&nbsp;Kansas conservatives want to modify those rules. One bill proposed earlier this year made it a felony for anyone but family or caretakers to deliver another person’s ballot. So, if your friend breaks their leg and you sympathetically offer to take their mail — including their ballot — to the mailbox for them, that bill could arguably have made you a felon.&nbsp;Another conservative-backed proposal would limit to five the number of ballots that one person can deliver. By capping ballots, this bill targets groups — campaigns, churches, civic organizations — engaged in turnout efforts, potentially criminalizing their activities. Still, groups could simply recruit more volunteers to skirt the cap.&nbsp;Let’s be clear about a few things. First, voters should only give their ballots to people they trust. Second, opponents of increased regulation on ballot collection are not saying that there should be no regulation. Third, some voters genuinely need help returning their ballots, and ballot collection done by individuals or groups can be a lifeline for them.&nbsp;Lawmakers should walk the line between reality and the allure of strategically exaggerated victimhood fantasies. Overwhelmingly, ballot collection is not linked to fraud. Though isolated cases always exist, like the Republican operative in North Carolina whose large-scale ballot fraud operation forced a redo in a congressional race.&nbsp;&nbsp;If lawmakers restrict ballot collection on the false pretense of cleaner elections, they should at least weigh the costs to voters and avoid turning Kansas into Alabama, where innocently helping neighbors can make you a criminal.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: When should helping others vote be a crime? 

NORTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Northwest Kansas are investigating two suspects after a significant drug bust.

On Tuesday, Norton Police along with the Phillips County Sheriff's Department furthered their investigation into an illegal narcotics ring, according to a media release. The combined effort resulted in the seizure of 4.5 pounds of meth, 50 fentanyl tablets, a quantity of marijuana, $700 cash and the vehicle used to transported the illegal drugs.

They also made to arrests. The estimated street value of all the drugs is approximately $80,000 to $90,000, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617965203496.png" alt="The estimated street value of all the drugs is approximately $80,000 to $90,000 / photo Norton Police" />
 <figcaption>The estimated street value of all the drugs is approximately $80,000 to $90,000 / photo Norton Police</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Northwest Kansas are investigating two suspects after a significant drug bust.On Tuesday, Norton Police along with the Phillips County Sheriff's Department furthered their investigation into an illegal narcotics ring, according to a media release. The combined effort resulted in the seizure of 4.5 pounds of meth, 50 fentanyl tablets, a quantity of marijuana, $700 cash and the vehicle used to transported the illegal drugs.They also made to arrests. The estimated street value of all the drugs is approximately $80,000 to $90,000, according to police.

Authorities seize fentanyl, meth and cash in NW Kansas

Allison Jones, RN, recently passed the Certified Emergency Nurse examination administered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.

The CEN credential represents a commitment of the individual nurse, as well as the emergency department that supports CEN credentialing, to quality state-of-the-art emergency care. Emergency nursing incorporates a wide spectrum of patient care that requires highly specialized skills and extensive knowledge, as well as the unique ability to care for all ages of patients that have illnesses or injuries ranging from the very minor to extremely critical. The CEN examination evaluates the nurse’s knowledge in the areas of clinical pathophysiology, patient care management, and professional issues, environment, toxicology, shock, trauma, and medical emergency care.

Jones is a member of the hospital’s emergency services team that is increasingly recognized for its professional growth and clinical excellence.&nbsp; She has been an Associate of HaysMed since 2010.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617732031000.jpeg" alt="Allison Jones" />
 <figcaption>Allison Jones</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedAllison Jones, RN, recently passed the Certified Emergency Nurse examination administered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.The CEN credential represents a commitment of the individual nurse, as well as the emergency department that supports CEN credentialing, to quality state-of-the-art emergency care. Emergency nursing incorporates a wide spectrum of patient care that requires highly specialized skills and extensive knowledge, as well as the unique ability to care for all ages of patients that have illnesses or injuries ranging from the very minor to extremely critical. The CEN examination evaluates the nurse’s knowledge in the areas of clinical pathophysiology, patient care management, and professional issues, environment, toxicology, shock, trauma, and medical emergency care.Jones is a member of the hospital’s emergency services team that is increasingly recognized for its professional growth and clinical excellence.&nbsp; She has been an Associate of HaysMed since 2010.

HaysMed emergency room nurse receives certification

LOGAN — In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts are returning this summer. The five unique summer theater workshops for northwest Kansas teens are sponsored by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan.

After successful summers in 2018, 2019, the program offered online opportunities in 2020 due to COVID-19. This summer, the Hansen Foundation is pleased to see a return to in-person workshops.

Each week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming freshman through graduating seniors).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists.

July 5-9 – Russell (location TBA) July 12 –16 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center) July 19 – 23 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater) July 26 – 30 – Hoxie (Hoxie High School) July 26 – 30 – Salina (Salina Community Theater)

Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp; Registration is limited to the first 20 students in each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit <a href="https://lovewell.org/apply/workshop-dates-kansas/">lovewell.org</a>, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.

Although a workshop cannot replace a full theatre arts program offered in schools, Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore this genre in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers was overwhelmingly positive.

The week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of all kinds.

The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.

The Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50.&nbsp; However, no student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available.

Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, playwrites, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.

Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. After a pilot in New York in 1984, the process became the “Lovewell Experience” in 1987 in Salina, Kansas. The director of the program is a Kansas native.

Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United states and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>

For more information on NW Kansas Arts opportunities sponsored by the Hansen Foundation, visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.danehansenfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.danehansenfoundation.org</a>; click on Special Initiatives and NWKansas Arts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617739411444.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hansen FoundationLOGAN — In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts are returning this summer. The five unique summer theater workshops for northwest Kansas teens are sponsored by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan.After successful summers in 2018, 2019, the program offered online opportunities in 2020 due to COVID-19. This summer, the Hansen Foundation is pleased to see a return to in-person workshops.Each week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming freshman through graduating seniors).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists.Workshop schedule:July 5-9 – Russell (location TBA) July 12 –16 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center) July 19 – 23 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater) July 26 – 30 – Hoxie (Hoxie High School) July 26 – 30 – Salina (Salina Community Theater)Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp; Registration is limited to the first 20 students in each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit <a href="https://lovewell.org/apply/workshop-dates-kansas/">lovewell.org</a>, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.Although a workshop cannot replace a full theatre arts program offered in schools, Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore this genre in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers was overwhelmingly positive.ABOUT THE LOVEWELL WORKSHOPSThe week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of all kinds.The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.PARTICIPTION COSTSThe Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50.&nbsp; However, no student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available.ABOUT LOVEWELLLovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, playwrites, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. After a pilot in New York in 1984, the process became the “Lovewell Experience” in 1987 in Salina, Kansas. The director of the program is a Kansas native.Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United states and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>For more information on NW Kansas Arts opportunities sponsored by the Hansen Foundation, visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.danehansenfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.danehansenfoundation.org</a>; click on Special Initiatives and NWKansas Arts.

High school summer theatre workshops to return to NW Kansas

Are you an applicator that is still short some hours to renew your 2020 commercial applicator license or just want to get credits to renew this year? 

If your license expired during the COVID-19 State Disaster Emergency (2020), it shall remain valid until 90 days following the termination of the emergency declaration (date yet to be determined). The Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program is providing a training opportunity this April for several of the categories to help these individuals renew. This training will be offered in a virtual format via Zoom. These will be the only trainings offered by the program this spring. In order to hold the training, we must have at least 20 registered participants. 

Training dates and categories: April 21-22: Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, and Noxious Weed (7 hours 6, 7C &amp; 9A plus core) April 28-29: Forestry, Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (5 hours 2/3C, 7 hours 3A/3B plus core) April 30: Ag Plant (7 hours 1A plus core) Training information is available <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/commercial-applicator.html">HERE</a> or e-mail fmiller@ksu.edu to have the flyer e-mailed to you!

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Are you an applicator that is still short some hours to renew your 2020 commercial applicator license or just want to get credits to renew this year? If your license expired during the COVID-19 State Disaster Emergency (2020), it shall remain valid until 90 days following the termination of the emergency declaration (date yet to be determined). The Kansas State Pesticide Safety Program is providing a training opportunity this April for several of the categories to help these individuals renew. This training will be offered in a virtual format via Zoom. These will be the only trainings offered by the program this spring. In order to hold the training, we must have at least 20 registered participants. Training dates and categories: April 21-22: Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, and Noxious Weed (7 hours 6, 7C &amp; 9A plus core) April 28-29: Forestry, Ornamental, Turf and Interiorscape (5 hours 2/3C, 7 hours 3A/3B plus core) April 30: Ag Plant (7 hours 1A plus core) Training information is available <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/pesticides-ipm/commercial-applicator.html">HERE</a> or e-mail fmiller@ksu.edu to have the flyer e-mailed to you!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Pesticide training course this month

The City of Hays’ Department of Water Resources is looking for a dependable Maintenance Worker II to assist in providing reliable water and wastewater services to the citizens of Hays. Duties include manual labor, maintenance duties, pipe repairs, reading meters, equipment operations, snow removal and minor construction projects. &nbsp;

Working days include Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This position is subject to call outs and may be required to work a flexible work schedule as needed. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MAINTENANCE WORKER IIThe City of Hays’ Department of Water Resources is looking for a dependable Maintenance Worker II to assist in providing reliable water and wastewater services to the citizens of Hays. Duties include manual labor, maintenance duties, pipe repairs, reading meters, equipment operations, snow removal and minor construction projects. &nbsp;Working days include Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This position is subject to call outs and may be required to work a flexible work schedule as needed. &nbsp;REQUIREMENTSValid driver’s license required.&nbsp; Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate. A working knowledge of general construction, plumbing, and equipment required.&nbsp;Exposure to hazardous chemicals, machinery, excessive noise and all types of weather conditions is expected. This position requires a CDL Class B and has a residency requirement of Ellis County within 6 months of employment.COMPENSATIONFull Pay Range: $14.78 – $21.97. Starting wage based on experience.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays offers great benefits including health insurance, KPERS, Paid Time Off &amp; Holidays. Visit <a href="http://www.haysusa.com">www.haysusa.com</a>/employment for more about the benefits.HOW TO APPLYApplications will be accepted in City Hall, 1507 Main, Hays, KS or online at <a href="http://www.haysusa.com">www.haysusa.com</a>/employment. Position opened until filled. Reviewing of applications will begin immediately. Questions about the position may be sent to Human Resources at <a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a> or by calling 785-628-7320. EOE

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