Event is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. from Hays Middle School. Tribe Broadcasting video

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OAB0AUr_f8g"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Event is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. from Hays Middle School. Tribe Broadcasting video

🎥 Hays Middle School eighth-grade promotion

ELLSWORTH – A Wilson man has been sentenced to more than 29 years in prison for his conviction on three counts of rape, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Thursday.

Dalton Eberhart, 20, of Wilson, was sentenced today in Ellsworth County District Court by District Judge Steven Johnson to serve 350 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections. Eberhart had pleaded guilty to the charges in February. In addition, Johnson sentenced Eberhart to lifetime post-release supervision and registration as a sex offender, according to a news release from Schmidt's office.

The crimes took place between June 2019 and May 2020. The case was investigated by the Wilson Police Department, Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590011023759.png" alt="Dalton Eberhart. Photo courtesy Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Eberhart. Photo courtesy Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH – A Wilson man has been sentenced to more than 29 years in prison for his conviction on three counts of rape, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Thursday.Dalton Eberhart, 20, of Wilson, was sentenced today in Ellsworth County District Court by District Judge Steven Johnson to serve 350 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections. Eberhart had pleaded guilty to the charges in February. In addition, Johnson sentenced Eberhart to lifetime post-release supervision and registration as a sex offender, according to a news release from Schmidt's office.The crimes took place between June 2019 and May 2020. The case was investigated by the Wilson Police Department, Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Wilson man sentenced to 29+ years in prison for rape convictions

HAYS - The Hays High baseball scored a run in the bottom of the seventh to defeat Andover then got a combined shutout from Dylan Dreiling and Dalton Dale to defeat Valley Center 4-0 to win their own 5A regional and advance to next week's 5A State Tournament in Wichita.

Game 1:&nbsp;Valley Center 4, Kapaun Mr. Carmel 1 Valley Center starter Payton Graham allowed just one run over 6.2 innings as the Hornets beat Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4-1 in the opening game of the day. Jesse Johnson drove two runs in with two outs in the third inning then added another in the top of the seventh for a 4-1 lead.

Valley Center improved to 10-11 with the win. Kapaun's season ends at 13-8.

Game 2: Hays 5, Andover 4 Hays won their semi-final game in dramatic fashion. Hays and Andover were tied at the end of the first and second innings. The Indians jumped ahead with two runs in the bottom of the fourth on run scoring singles by Remington Cox and Carson Spray.

Andover tied the game with single runs in the fifth and sixth. Hays ended the sixth with an unusual double play. Valley Center flew out to right field to score a run. However the runner at first left early after tagging up and was called out when the Indians appealed to first base. The run counted and tied the game at four.

The Indians loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh with no outs. Garrett Wellbrock scored the game winning run when a grounder to second base was thrown wide of home plate. Dylan Dreiling took the win in relief.

Game 3: Hays 4, Valley Center 0 Hays and Valley Center stayed scoreless threw three innings before Hays scratched a run across in the bottom of the fourth. Remington Cox led the inning off with a double. Noah Weimer scored on a balk call two batters later for a 1-0 lead.

The Indians batted around in the fifth scoring three runs on two hits and four walks. Garrett Wellbrock drove two runs in on a single. Dalyn Schwarz drove in another on a bases loaded walk for a 4-0 advantage.

Dylan Dreiling started game two and picked up the win but was lifted after six innings due to reaching the maximum pitch limit. Dalton Dale faced four batters in the seventh, striking out two, closing down the win.

Hays improves 17-3 on the year and moves on to the state baseball tournament for a 13th time in program history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621514948018.jpeg" alt="HHS baseball wins the 5A regional championship Wednesday at Hays High School. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>HHS baseball wins the 5A regional championship Wednesday at Hays High School. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS - The Hays High baseball scored a run in the bottom of the seventh to defeat Andover then got a combined shutout from Dylan Dreiling and Dalton Dale to defeat Valley Center 4-0 to win their own 5A regional and advance to next week's 5A State Tournament in Wichita.Game 1:&nbsp;Valley Center 4, Kapaun Mr. Carmel 1 Valley Center starter Payton Graham allowed just one run over 6.2 innings as the Hornets beat Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4-1 in the opening game of the day. Jesse Johnson drove two runs in with two outs in the third inning then added another in the top of the seventh for a 4-1 lead.Valley Center improved to 10-11 with the win. Kapaun's season ends at 13-8.Game 2: Hays 5, Andover 4 Hays won their semi-final game in dramatic fashion. Hays and Andover were tied at the end of the first and second innings. The Indians jumped ahead with two runs in the bottom of the fourth on run scoring singles by Remington Cox and Carson Spray.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1051771297&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-19-21-hh-bsb-v-andover-hilights" title="5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Andover Hilights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Andover Hilights</a></div></div>Andover tied the game with single runs in the fifth and sixth. Hays ended the sixth with an unusual double play. Valley Center flew out to right field to score a run. However the runner at first left early after tagging up and was called out when the Indians appealed to first base. The run counted and tied the game at four.The Indians loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh with no outs. Garrett Wellbrock scored the game winning run when a grounder to second base was thrown wide of home plate. Dylan Dreiling took the win in relief.Game 3: Hays 4, Valley Center 0 Hays and Valley Center stayed scoreless threw three innings before Hays scratched a run across in the bottom of the fourth. Remington Cox led the inning off with a double. Noah Weimer scored on a balk call two batters later for a 1-0 lead.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1051821466&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-19-21-hh-bsb-v-valley-center" title="5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Valley Center" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5 - 19 - 21 HH BSB V. Valley Center</a></div></div>The Indians batted around in the fifth scoring three runs on two hits and four walks. Garrett Wellbrock drove two runs in on a single. Dalyn Schwarz drove in another on a bases loaded walk for a 4-0 advantage.Dylan Dreiling started game two and picked up the win but was lifted after six innings due to reaching the maximum pitch limit. Dalton Dale faced four batters in the seventh, striking out two, closing down the win.Coach Dustin Dreher<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1051821472&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-19-21-coach-int-hh-bsb" title="5 - 19 - 21 Coach Int. HH BSB" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5 - 19 - 21 Coach Int. HH BSB</a></div></div>Hays improves 17-3 on the year and moves on to the state baseball tournament for a 13th time in program history.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What y’all know bout this? <a href="https://t.co/XxgzB8yEXr">pic.twitter.com/XxgzB8yEXr</a>&mdash; Barstool Hays High (@BarstoolHysHigh) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarstoolHysHigh/status/1395204786614685698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

⚾ STATE BOUND! Indians win own regional 

On this episode of Forward Ever; Leading in Challenging Times, Gary Shorman&nbsp;speaks with&nbsp;Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams" 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=2ghen-1040000-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, Gary Shorman&nbsp;speaks with&nbsp;Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams.

🎤Forward Ever: Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams

<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — Dillons stores will change their mask policy to follow CDC guidelines starting Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fully-vaccinated
 customers and most fully-vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a
 mask in Dillons stores, distribution centers, plants, and offices, 
unless otherwise required by state or local jurisdiction. If there is a 
state or local mandate, Dillons will adhere to that requirement and its 
timeline. For Kansas, that includes a mask mandate in the city of 
Lawrence. Non-vaccinated associates will be required to wear a mask.

Associates
 in Dillons pharmacies and clinic locations will be required to continue
 wearing a mask due to the CDC’s guidance for healthcare settings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611251337246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — Dillons stores will change their mask policy to follow CDC guidelines starting Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fully-vaccinated
 customers and most fully-vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a
 mask in Dillons stores, distribution centers, plants, and offices, 
unless otherwise required by state or local jurisdiction. If there is a 
state or local mandate, Dillons will adhere to that requirement and its 
timeline. For Kansas, that includes a mask mandate in the city of 
Lawrence. Non-vaccinated associates will be required to wear a mask.Associates
 in Dillons pharmacies and clinic locations will be required to continue
 wearing a mask due to the CDC’s guidance for healthcare settings.

Dillons updates mask policy beginning Thursday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

How often do you get to pet a t-rex or take your photo with a Triceratops?

You can do both and much more at the <a href="https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>'s latest exhibit "Age of the Dinosaurs" by Kokoro Exhibits. This is the third Kokoro exhibit the museum has hosted. Other exhibits that were staged at the museum included an exhibit on the ice age and the giant insect exhibit from a few years ago.&nbsp;

The exhibit, which features animatronic dinosaurs from the&nbsp;Mesozoic era, displays the dinosaurs with backdrops depicting what likely was their natural habitats.

Rachel Unruh, museum marketing and public relations coordinator, said the exhibit dates back to the 1980s, but still offers plenty to delight visitors.

Unruh said this traveling exhibit differs from the dinosaurs featured under the museum's iconic dome in that the exhibit includes more animatronics and more interactive displays.

"Everyone likes the t-rex because of the growling and the shaking of its head ," she said.

Visitors can also experience several interactive stations, including taking your pictures with a T-Rex or&nbsp;Triceratops, operating the animatronic skeleton of a dinosaur, putting together dinosaur puzzles, exploring more information on a tablet, digging for fossils or listening to different dinosaur calls.

Unruh said the children who have visited the exhibit so far this week have loved hearing the t-rex roar and seeing the Apatosaurus swing it's long neck out over their heads.

"All the little kids laugh at the Stegosaurus&nbsp; because he just likes to open his mouth like he's yawning," Unruh said. "He kind of looks like a turtle, so I think that's why a lot of kids think he's the cutest."

The exhibit not only features adult dinosaurs, but their young. Unruh said recent research indicates dinosaurs may have had more family ties than modern reptiles.

"It is very calming to watch the mom check on its baby," Unruh said of the vignette with the Apatosaurs and its young. "Oh, hey it's you. It almost reminds me of an elephant with its baby. Elephants are tall and gentle like that too."&nbsp;

"You can see how the research has changed and developed," Unruh said. "Some information may be outdated and some may be the same. It is up to you to spot the differences or see the consistencies. It shows science is important, and we are always continuing to learn."

You can hear simulated calls of the dinosaurs throughout the main level of the museum. Unruh said research into dinosaur sound is another field that is evolving.&nbsp;

Although not part of the exhibit, Unruh said researches employed the aid of musicians to simulate the sound of the Saurolophus. The dinosaur has a large crest on its head and looks a lot like the dinosaur Ducky in the"Land Before Time."

The researches used tubes to blow air through a replica of a skull of a&nbsp;Saurolophus. You can find videos online of what that sounded like. The crest on the top of the dinosaurs head was once thought to be a snorkel, but researches now think the crown aided in the dinosaurs in creating sound and communicating, Unruh said.

The exhibit opened over the weekend and will be at the Sternberg through Sept. 7. A video on how the exhibit was set up at the Sternberg is set to be released later on the museum's YouTube channel.

You can also still see the Sternberg's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08b955c0-2592-4104-99f0-92d14a05e2d5">"A Look Inside"</a>&nbsp;exhibit, but hurry the exhibit will be headed out as soon as it is booked with another museum.&nbsp;

The Sternberg Museum is following CDC and Fort Hays State University policies in regards to masks. Those visitors who have been vaccinated will not required to wear masks.&nbsp;

Unruh said the museum is becoming increasingly busy as school lets out and COVID restrictions ease. Social distancing is still easy to maintain at the museum, she said.

Unruh said more people are wanting to get their families out of the house, and the museum can be a fun excursion that requires little planning or an alternative to outdoor activities on days with inclement weather.

A couple from West Virginia stayed overnight in Hays Tuesday as part of a cross country trip so they could take their three grandchildren, who are from Ireland, to the museum Wednesday. They couple, who have fossil and mineral businesses in West Virginia and Colorado Springs, said they thought it would be a fun stop for the children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621446964709.jpeg" alt="James Carr, 8, of Ireland and his grandmother of West Virginia watches a t-rex move and roar in the Sternberg Museum of Natural History's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."" />
 <figcaption>James Carr, 8, of Ireland and his grandmother of West Virginia watches a t-rex move and roar in the Sternberg Museum of Natural History's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHow often do you get to pet a t-rex or take your photo with a Triceratops?You can do both and much more at the <a href="https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>'s latest exhibit "Age of the Dinosaurs" by Kokoro Exhibits. This is the third Kokoro exhibit the museum has hosted. Other exhibits that were staged at the museum included an exhibit on the ice age and the giant insect exhibit from a few years ago.&nbsp;The exhibit, which features animatronic dinosaurs from the&nbsp;Mesozoic era, displays the dinosaurs with backdrops depicting what likely was their natural habitats.Rachel Unruh, museum marketing and public relations coordinator, said the exhibit dates back to the 1980s, but still offers plenty to delight visitors.Unruh said this traveling exhibit differs from the dinosaurs featured under the museum's iconic dome in that the exhibit includes more animatronics and more interactive displays."Everyone likes the t-rex because of the growling and the shaking of its head ," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621447303210.jpeg" alt="A t-rex head visitors can touch and be photographed with is part of the Sternberg's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."" />
 <figcaption>A t-rex head visitors can touch and be photographed with is part of the Sternberg's latest traveling exhibit&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs."</figcaption>
 </figure>Visitors can also experience several interactive stations, including taking your pictures with a T-Rex or&nbsp;Triceratops, operating the animatronic skeleton of a dinosaur, putting together dinosaur puzzles, exploring more information on a tablet, digging for fossils or listening to different dinosaur calls.Unruh said the children who have visited the exhibit so far this week have loved hearing the t-rex roar and seeing the Apatosaurus swing it's long neck out over their heads."All the little kids laugh at the Stegosaurus&nbsp; because he just likes to open his mouth like he's yawning," Unruh said. "He kind of looks like a turtle, so I think that's why a lot of kids think he's the cutest."The exhibit not only features adult dinosaurs, but their young. Unruh said recent research indicates dinosaurs may have had more family ties than modern reptiles."It is very calming to watch the mom check on its baby," Unruh said of the vignette with the Apatosaurs and its young. "Oh, hey it's you. It almost reminds me of an elephant with its baby. Elephants are tall and gentle like that too."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621447913590.jpeg" alt="Several of the vignettes in&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" depict dinosaurs with their young. This vignette depicts two Protoceratops with a nest of hatching eggs." />
 <figcaption>Several of the vignettes in&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" depict dinosaurs with their young. This vignette depicts two Protoceratops with a nest of hatching eggs.</figcaption>
 </figure>"You can see how the research has changed and developed," Unruh said. "Some information may be outdated and some may be the same. It is up to you to spot the differences or see the consistencies. It shows science is important, and we are always continuing to learn."You can hear simulated calls of the dinosaurs throughout the main level of the museum. Unruh said research into dinosaur sound is another field that is evolving.&nbsp;Although not part of the exhibit, Unruh said researches employed the aid of musicians to simulate the sound of the Saurolophus. The dinosaur has a large crest on its head and looks a lot like the dinosaur Ducky in the"Land Before Time."The researches used tubes to blow air through a replica of a skull of a&nbsp;Saurolophus. You can find videos online of what that sounded like. The crest on the top of the dinosaurs head was once thought to be a snorkel, but researches now think the crown aided in the dinosaurs in creating sound and communicating, Unruh said.The exhibit opened over the weekend and will be at the Sternberg through Sept. 7. A video on how the exhibit was set up at the Sternberg is set to be released later on the museum's YouTube channel.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621448124900.jpeg" alt="An Apatosaurs in the&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" exhibit on display now at the Sternberg Museum." />
 <figcaption>An Apatosaurs in the&nbsp;"Age of the Dinosaurs" exhibit on display now at the Sternberg Museum.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can also still see the Sternberg's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08b955c0-2592-4104-99f0-92d14a05e2d5">"A Look Inside"</a>&nbsp;exhibit, but hurry the exhibit will be headed out as soon as it is booked with another museum.&nbsp;The Sternberg Museum is following CDC and Fort Hays State University policies in regards to masks. Those visitors who have been vaccinated will not required to wear masks.&nbsp;Unruh said the museum is becoming increasingly busy as school lets out and COVID restrictions ease. Social distancing is still easy to maintain at the museum, she said.Unruh said more people are wanting to get their families out of the house, and the museum can be a fun excursion that requires little planning or an alternative to outdoor activities on days with inclement weather.A couple from West Virginia stayed overnight in Hays Tuesday as part of a cross country trip so they could take their three grandchildren, who are from Ireland, to the museum Wednesday. They couple, who have fossil and mineral businesses in West Virginia and Colorado Springs, said they thought it would be a fun stop for the children.

Sternberg opens new exhibit featuring dinosaurs in motion

In response to a request made by the City of Hays, 
the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has 
issued a control order restricting the watering of lawns and other 
vegetation from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September 30.&nbsp;

This measure 
is part of a greater interest to reduce water waste and to improve 
conservation practices in the Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area located in Hays.&nbsp;

The IGUCA in 
Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the City to help 
implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.&nbsp;

Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: the washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways; the known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems; and the escape of water 
from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the
 street guttering from landscape irrigation; in addition to outdoor 
water use between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September
 30.&nbsp;

By restricting daytime outdoor water
 use, including the watering of landscapes and gardens, unnecessary 
water loss due to wind and evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving 
the resource for more efficient use.&nbsp;

All 
residents are encouraged to practice the conservation of natural 
resources, including water, and look for ways to improve conservation 
measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors and out.&nbsp;

City of HaysIn response to a request made by the City of Hays, 
the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has 
issued a control order restricting the watering of lawns and other 
vegetation from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September 30.&nbsp;This measure 
is part of a greater interest to reduce water waste and to improve 
conservation practices in the Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area located in Hays.&nbsp;The IGUCA in 
Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the City to help 
implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.&nbsp;Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: the washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways; the known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems; and the escape of water 
from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the
 street guttering from landscape irrigation; in addition to outdoor 
water use between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through September
 30.&nbsp;By restricting daytime outdoor water
 use, including the watering of landscapes and gardens, unnecessary 
water loss due to wind and evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving 
the resource for more efficient use.&nbsp;All 
residents are encouraged to practice the conservation of natural 
resources, including water, and look for ways to improve conservation 
measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors and out.&nbsp;

Water conservation measures implemented in Hays

TOPEKA — Leadership Kansas, one of the country's oldest and most distinguished statewide leadership programs, on Monday announced the class of 2021 for its new program aimed at the state's young professionals -Kansas Emerging Leaders.

"Leadership Kansas created KEL to give outstanding young leaders a format to learn more about our great state and the opportunities within Kansas for professional growth," said LK Executive Director Jeff Chapman. "KEL also will provide personal leadership investment as well as connections for future interest in LK and expanded community involvement." Chapman said KEL was developed based on feedback from the more than 1,400 Leadership Kansas alumni who believed the state needed a leadership program for Kansans between 22 and 32 years old. Eligibility requirements include:

"We want these young leaders to learn about Kansas and why they should remain here for the future.," said KEL Board of Advisors Chairwoman, Jen Sanderson, LK Class of 2009.

Nominations for KEL's 2022 class may be submitted at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001M0qadJoC1D1k6-f8KRgGXCcFJkZzngJwNPhpMeF4CRXq8E4U5KV6iVbx681oO7mWxJzzH5rSnuAi3sUtNWiLygKIVr9fJ2iUZB4wX7fuLhFa4UaME9ixTvo6nNVwaPX55r1lFDpk7ns2B7IYilZbvPiNCikOjxBgzsLGrurw5KE=&amp;c=zD6QhI8eanPJx8FlY-Pb1Dhn0vPxePEpKTKb001h7trcQuNgS7nmHA==&amp;ch=rbP6bsnLc-WJyo_H35XGaPnrY2U7qslUNuQF-JmZebmXxQUotF1law==&amp;jrc=1" target="_blank">www.LeadershipKansas.org/nominate-KEL</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621268606936.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leadership KansasTOPEKA — Leadership Kansas, one of the country's oldest and most distinguished statewide leadership programs, on Monday announced the class of 2021 for its new program aimed at the state's young professionals -Kansas Emerging Leaders.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621345140698.jpeg" alt="Teryn Carmichael,&nbsp;executive director,&nbsp;Bird City Century II Development Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Teryn Carmichael,&nbsp;executive director,&nbsp;Bird City Century II Development Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>"Leadership Kansas created KEL to give outstanding young leaders a format to learn more about our great state and the opportunities within Kansas for professional growth," said LK Executive Director Jeff Chapman. "KEL also will provide personal leadership investment as well as connections for future interest in LK and expanded community involvement." Chapman said KEL was developed based on feedback from the more than 1,400 Leadership Kansas alumni who believed the state needed a leadership program for Kansans between 22 and 32 years old. Eligibility requirements include: <ul>
 <li>Must work or live in Kansas.</li><li>Must be an outstanding leader, who have been involved in campus or community programs.</li><li>Must express an interest to stay in Kansas and become more involved.</li>
 </ul> "We want these young leaders to learn about Kansas and why they should remain here for the future.," said KEL Board of Advisors Chairwoman, Jen Sanderson, LK Class of 2009.Nominations for KEL's 2022 class may be submitted at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001M0qadJoC1D1k6-f8KRgGXCcFJkZzngJwNPhpMeF4CRXq8E4U5KV6iVbx681oO7mWxJzzH5rSnuAi3sUtNWiLygKIVr9fJ2iUZB4wX7fuLhFa4UaME9ixTvo6nNVwaPX55r1lFDpk7ns2B7IYilZbvPiNCikOjxBgzsLGrurw5KE=&amp;c=zD6QhI8eanPJx8FlY-Pb1Dhn0vPxePEpKTKb001h7trcQuNgS7nmHA==&amp;ch=rbP6bsnLc-WJyo_H35XGaPnrY2U7qslUNuQF-JmZebmXxQUotF1law==&amp;jrc=1" target="_blank">www.LeadershipKansas.org/nominate-KEL</a>.

Bird City woman named to 2021 Kansas Emerging Leaders Class

We conclude not just another academic year – but a year when Fort Hays State University not only survived the pandemic, but thrived. That is resilience in action.

I am deeply grateful to the entire campus and local community who came together to ensure our students, colleagues, and neighbors were well cared for as we blazed our path together. The challenges of the past year did not deter our community from our relentless student-centered and learning-focused priorities.&nbsp;

I think I might have been standing a little taller as our graduates celebrated their sweet victories last week. I know my smile was bigger. What a year!

In addition to commencement ceremonies, we also had the opportunity to say thank you to our retirees. This year, we honored both our 2020 and 2021 retirees –57 colleagues who provided a total of 1,443 years of service to FHSU. We also congratulated our faculty who earned tenure and promotions.&nbsp;

While there were several other accomplishments celebrated in the past few weeks, I would like to take the opportunity to highlight a small sample of accolades earned by our faculty and staff this spring.&nbsp;

Laura Wilson, associate professor of geosciences, was featured on the Paleo Nerds podcast. I have become a big fan of podcasts and was so proud of Laura to have been chosen for this interview. Intrigued? Download the podcast and listen to episode 30: Diving into Hell’s Aquarium with Laura Wilson.

Kim Chappell, assistant professor of advanced education programs, received a grant to enhance our partnership with Seward County Community College to develop a team-teaching model to improve student learning in career and technical education.

Our counseling program earned accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs. This rigorous self-study and peer evaluation process entails an assessment of the program’s resources, objectives, strengths, and limitations with the ultimate purpose of improving the educational effectiveness of the program. Accreditation signifies that the content and quality of the program was evaluated and meets standards set by the profession. Students can be assured that appropriate knowledge and skill areas are taught and that the program is stable – professionally and financially.&nbsp;

Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, received two Kansas NASA Spacegrant awards to conduct teacher workshops on engineering for middle school teachers and high altitude balloon launch system to support teacher and student research. Yes, I cannot resist it: Dr. Adams is far out!

Matthew Clay, assistant professor in teacher education, and Scott Gregory, director of Field Experiences, were awarded the Teacher Education Competitive Grant from the Kansas Board of Regents. This grant was established to increase the number of licensed teachers in hard-to-fill disciplines and/or underserved geographic areas of the state. This has always been a priority of Fort Hays State. Did you know that in 1911 our faculty voted to offer correspondence courses free so that one-room school teachers across western Kansas could afford to gain the education required to teach? That in a nutshell describes our passion for access and affordability and why we are the best value in higher education – anywhere.

Eric Deneault, associate professor of applied technology, was listed among the 2021 leaders to watch by the journal, Technology and Engineering Teacher. This annual list recognizes those who have contributed to the technology and engineering education field for many years and are known for their teaching, written work, presentations, research, and recognition received from professional groups.&nbsp;

Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union, was awarded the Founders Award by the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA). The Founders Award is the association’s highest honor, given to those individuals who, during the years, have given their time and talents to contribute significantly to NACA. Edie has exemplified the standards of professional integrity and conduct, achieved stature in her profession, holds the esteem of colleagues and peers, and has worked to further the field of campus activities programming. This is not only a proud moment for all of us to share with Edie but another signal that Tiger Nation excels in the classroom as well as in the delivery of student services and student life.

Leslie Paige, research and scholarship coordinator, won the Presidential Award from the National Association of School Psychologists. This award recognizes excellence in the provision of school psychological services by a field-based practitioner and serves to recognize an outstanding practicing school psychologist. Leslie has earned this award four times! &nbsp;

Three faculty in the Department of Geosciences – Todd Moore, associate professor; Rich Lisichenko, professor; and Tom Schafer, associate professor – were awarded research funding from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) to collect samples of drinking water from domestic water wells in the alluvial plains of Prairie Dog, Sappa, and Beaver Creeks in northwest Kansas. Once KDHE tests these samples for commonly occurring contaminants, the Department of Geosciences will map and spatially analyze the results. What a great service to our region.

Teresa Clounch, assistant vice president for student affairs, was elected to serve on the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) board of directors. The NASPA board establishes the association’s strategic goals and ensures that they are being achieved. NASPA is the leading association for the advancement, health, and sustainability of the student affairs profession. The association provides high-quality professional development, advocacy, and research for 15,000 members in all 50 states, 25 countries, and eight U.S. territories. As part of her service to the national board, Teresa will also serve as the IV-West regional director. The IV-West encompasses the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming, as well as the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Christy Craig, associate professor of sociology, was featured in the Washington Post for her research on women’s book clubs: <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/03/27/womens-book-clubs-history-oprah-reese/">https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/03/27/womens-book-clubs-history-oprah-reese/</a>. Great read!

Also featured in the Washington Post was the very interesting research on Tornado Alley by Grady Dixon, dean of the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics. His work was also featured in Forbes: <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2021/03/30/why-using-dixie-alley-to-describe-tornadoes-in-the-south-is-a-problem/?sh=500a67905259">https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2021/03/30/why-using-dixie-alley-to-describe-tornadoes-in-the-south-is-a-problem/?sh=500a67905259</a>. Another article I enjoyed. I’ll bet you will, too.

Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” This is exactly how I feel about Tiger Nation – a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens making our university, communities, and the world better every day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>We conclude not just another academic year – but a year when Fort Hays State University not only survived the pandemic, but thrived. That is resilience in action.I am deeply grateful to the entire campus and local community who came together to ensure our students, colleagues, and neighbors were well cared for as we blazed our path together. The challenges of the past year did not deter our community from our relentless student-centered and learning-focused priorities.&nbsp;I think I might have been standing a little taller as our graduates celebrated their sweet victories last week. I know my smile was bigger. What a year!In addition to commencement ceremonies, we also had the opportunity to say thank you to our retirees. This year, we honored both our 2020 and 2021 retirees –57 colleagues who provided a total of 1,443 years of service to FHSU. We also congratulated our faculty who earned tenure and promotions.&nbsp;While there were several other accomplishments celebrated in the past few weeks, I would like to take the opportunity to highlight a small sample of accolades earned by our faculty and staff this spring.&nbsp;Laura Wilson, associate professor of geosciences, was featured on the Paleo Nerds podcast. I have become a big fan of podcasts and was so proud of Laura to have been chosen for this interview. Intrigued? Download the podcast and listen to episode 30: Diving into Hell’s Aquarium with Laura Wilson.Kim Chappell, assistant professor of advanced education programs, received a grant to enhance our partnership with Seward County Community College to develop a team-teaching model to improve student learning in career and technical education.Our counseling program earned accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs. This rigorous self-study and peer evaluation process entails an assessment of the program’s resources, objectives, strengths, and limitations with the ultimate purpose of improving the educational effectiveness of the program. Accreditation signifies that the content and quality of the program was evaluated and meets standards set by the profession. Students can be assured that appropriate knowledge and skill areas are taught and that the program is stable – professionally and financially.&nbsp;Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, received two Kansas NASA Spacegrant awards to conduct teacher workshops on engineering for middle school teachers and high altitude balloon launch system to support teacher and student research. Yes, I cannot resist it: Dr. Adams is far out!Matthew Clay, assistant professor in teacher education, and Scott Gregory, director of Field Experiences, were awarded the Teacher Education Competitive Grant from the Kansas Board of Regents. This grant was established to increase the number of licensed teachers in hard-to-fill disciplines and/or underserved geographic areas of the state. This has always been a priority of Fort Hays State. Did you know that in 1911 our faculty voted to offer correspondence courses free so that one-room school teachers across western Kansas could afford to gain the education required to teach? That in a nutshell describes our passion for access and affordability and why we are the best value in higher education – anywhere.Eric Deneault, associate professor of applied technology, was listed among the 2021 leaders to watch by the journal, Technology and Engineering Teacher. This annual list recognizes those who have contributed to the technology and engineering education field for many years and are known for their teaching, written work, presentations, research, and recognition received from professional groups.&nbsp;Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union, was awarded the Founders Award by the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA). The Founders Award is the association’s highest honor, given to those individuals who, during the years, have given their time and talents to contribute significantly to NACA. Edie has exemplified the standards of professional integrity and conduct, achieved stature in her profession, holds the esteem of colleagues and peers, and has worked to further the field of campus activities programming. This is not only a proud moment for all of us to share with Edie but another signal that Tiger Nation excels in the classroom as well as in the delivery of student services and student life.Leslie Paige, research and scholarship coordinator, won the Presidential Award from the National Association of School Psychologists. This award recognizes excellence in the provision of school psychological services by a field-based practitioner and serves to recognize an outstanding practicing school psychologist. Leslie has earned this award four times! &nbsp;Three faculty in the Department of Geosciences – Todd Moore, associate professor; Rich Lisichenko, professor; and Tom Schafer, associate professor – were awarded research funding from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) to collect samples of drinking water from domestic water wells in the alluvial plains of Prairie Dog, Sappa, and Beaver Creeks in northwest Kansas. Once KDHE tests these samples for commonly occurring contaminants, the Department of Geosciences will map and spatially analyze the results. What a great service to our region.Teresa Clounch, assistant vice president for student affairs, was elected to serve on the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) board of directors. The NASPA board establishes the association’s strategic goals and ensures that they are being achieved. NASPA is the leading association for the advancement, health, and sustainability of the student affairs profession. The association provides high-quality professional development, advocacy, and research for 15,000 members in all 50 states, 25 countries, and eight U.S. territories. As part of her service to the national board, Teresa will also serve as the IV-West regional director. The IV-West encompasses the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming, as well as the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.Christy Craig, associate professor of sociology, was featured in the Washington Post for her research on women’s book clubs: <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/03/27/womens-book-clubs-history-oprah-reese/">https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/03/27/womens-book-clubs-history-oprah-reese/</a>. Great read!Also featured in the Washington Post was the very interesting research on Tornado Alley by Grady Dixon, dean of the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics. His work was also featured in Forbes: <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2021/03/30/why-using-dixie-alley-to-describe-tornadoes-in-the-south-is-a-problem/?sh=500a67905259">https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2021/03/30/why-using-dixie-alley-to-describe-tornadoes-in-the-south-is-a-problem/?sh=500a67905259</a>. Another article I enjoyed. I’ll bet you will, too.Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” This is exactly how I feel about Tiger Nation – a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens making our university, communities, and the world better every day.

MASON: FHSU thriving through resilience

Three-day weather outlook

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Monday, May 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Accidental
Death--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:07 AM 
Search Warrant--2300 block E 7th St, Ellis County; 9:20 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—130 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 10:08 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 10:44 AM 
Shoplifting—2500 block Vine St, Hays; 11 AM 
Theft (general)—2200 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 11:26 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 12:40 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1900 block Longfellow Rd, Hays; 12:56 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—Hays; 1:59 PM 
Animal At Large—100 block E 18th St, Hays; 2:23 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 5/8 8:30 PM; 5/10 2:30 PM
Drug Offenses--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:37 PM 
Drug Offenses—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 3:24 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:27 PM 
Drug Offenses—2700 block Epworth Village, Hays; 7:50 PM 
Welfare Check—400 block Walnut St, Hays; 9:30 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Tuesday, May 11, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Drug
Offenses—1500 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 1:05 AM 
Harassment (All Other)—500 block Ash St, Hays; 8:59 AM 
Harassment (All Other)--2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 9:26 AM 
Drug Offenses—3900 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:30 AM; 10 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2200 block Allen St, Hays; 1:07 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 48th St, Hay; 2:12 PM 
Animal At Large—2200 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 3:47 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 12 AM; 1 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—800 block Ash St, Hays; 7:47 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 11 traffic stops Wednesday, May 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Overdose—1700
block Volga Dr, Hays; 12 AM; 4:52 AM 
Criminal Trespass—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 5:33 AM 
Theft (general)—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 11:24 AM 
Animal At Large—300 block E 21st St, Hays; 1:55 PM 
Suspicious Activity—400 block E 17th St, Hays; 2:30 PM 
Juvenile Complaint--200 block W 23rd St, Hays; 3:45 PM 
Credit Card Violations—400 block Riley St, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Suspicious Person—300 block New Way, Hays; 6:51 PM 
911 Hangup Call—500 block E 8th St, Hay; 8:59 PM 
Criminal Trespass--2900 block Hall St, Hays; 9:35 PM; 9:45 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Monday, May 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Accidental
Death--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:07 AM 
Search Warrant--2300 block E 7th St, Ellis County; 9:20 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—130 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 10:08 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 10:44 AM 
Shoplifting—2500 block Vine St, Hays; 11 AM 
Theft (general)—2200 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 11:26 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 12:40 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1900 block Longfellow Rd, Hays; 12:56 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—Hays; 1:59 PM 
Animal At Large—100 block E 18th St, Hays; 2:23 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 5/8 8:30 PM; 5/10 2:30 PM
Drug Offenses--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:37 PM 
Drug Offenses—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 3:24 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:27 PM 
Drug Offenses—2700 block Epworth Village, Hays; 7:50 PM 
Welfare Check—400 block Walnut St, Hays; 9:30 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Tuesday, May 11, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Drug
Offenses—1500 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 1:05 AM 
Harassment (All Other)—500 block Ash St, Hays; 8:59 AM 
Harassment (All Other)--2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 9:26 AM 
Drug Offenses—3900 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:30 AM; 10 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2200 block Allen St, Hays; 1:07 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 48th St, Hay; 2:12 PM 
Animal At Large—2200 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 3:47 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 12 AM; 1 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—800 block Ash St, Hays; 7:47 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 11 traffic stops Wednesday, May 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Overdose—1700
block Volga Dr, Hays; 12 AM; 4:52 AM 
Criminal Trespass—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 5:33 AM 
Theft (general)—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 11:24 AM 
Animal At Large—300 block E 21st St, Hays; 1:55 PM 
Suspicious Activity—400 block E 17th St, Hays; 2:30 PM 
Juvenile Complaint--200 block W 23rd St, Hays; 3:45 PM 
Credit Card Violations—400 block Riley St, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Suspicious Person—300 block New Way, Hays; 6:51 PM 
911 Hangup Call—500 block E 8th St, Hay; 8:59 PM 
Criminal Trespass--2900 block Hall St, Hays; 9:35 PM; 9:45 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, May 10-12

The city of Hays wants to confirm its citizens are aware of the dangers associated with stormwater. 

According to the National Weather Service, as little as six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. During and after rainfall, make sure you and your children stay away from the swift moving waters in the city’s stormwater drainage areas.

 Examples of these drainage areas include Chetolah Creek, Skyline Draw, and Lincoln Draw, but many other areas also carry stormwater after a rain event. 

The city’s storm drainage areas are not intended for recreation and can pose potential life and safety threats as they carry stormwater through the city south to Big Creek. 

A similar safety threat exists when streets become covered by flood waters. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars. 

The city of Hays has installed street signs alerting residents in multiple areas prone to street flooding. 

Please use caution in these areas. Turn around, don't drown.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621458065837.jpeg" alt="The 17th and Ash area in Hays is prone to flash flooding. (Photos by Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>The 17th and Ash area in Hays is prone to flash flooding. (Photos by Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe city of Hays wants to confirm its citizens are aware of the dangers associated with stormwater. According to the National Weather Service, as little as six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. During and after rainfall, make sure you and your children stay away from the swift moving waters in the city’s stormwater drainage areas. Examples of these drainage areas include Chetolah Creek, Skyline Draw, and Lincoln Draw, but many other areas also carry stormwater after a rain event. The city’s storm drainage areas are not intended for recreation and can pose potential life and safety threats as they carry stormwater through the city south to Big Creek. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621458021991.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A similar safety threat exists when streets become covered by flood waters. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars. The city of Hays has installed street signs alerting residents in multiple areas prone to street flooding. Please use caution in these areas. Turn around, don't drown.

City warns of stormwater dangers

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

KDHE also announced one additional coronavirus death, the first since March 10.

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,748 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths — the last of which was reported on March 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621445167210.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County identified since Monday.KDHE also announced one additional coronavirus death, the first since March 10.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 3,748 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths — the last of which was reported on March 10.

KDHE: One new virus case, virus-related death since Monday

<a href="https://salinapost.com">Salina Post</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Supreme Court on Tuesday is scheduled to review a
 petition from a former Smoky Valley Middle School counselor who was 
convicted of two counts of rape of a child under the age of 14.

Brooke
 Dinkel, now 40, who formerly taught in Hays, was convicted in Saline County District Court in 2014. 
According to court records, the victim was a student at the middle 
school.

The Supreme Court case summary included that Dinkel's 
primary defense at trial was that the student raped her. She argued she 
could not be guilty of rape of a child under age 14 based on the pair's 
first sexual encounter because the student raped her. She also argued 
she could not be guilty of rape of a child under age 14 for subsequent 
encounters because she was suffering from trauma from the first sexual 
encounter (mental disease or defect) and therefore could not form the 
requisite intent to commit the crime, according to the summary.

"Dinkel
 was granted a significant durational departure from a Jessica's law 
sentence. Instead of a hard-25 life sentence, she was sentenced to 165 
months — just under 14 years — on each count, with the sentences to run 
concurrently," the Kansas Supreme Court summary noted.

Dinkel 
appealed and the Kansas Court of Appeals affirmed her conviction on the 
two counts. Dinkel's current petition before the Kansas Supreme Court 
includes the following issues.

●That the Court of Appeals erred in
 holding K.S.A. 21-5503(a)(3) imposes absolute criminal liability on an 
adult victim who is raped by a child.

●That Dinkel was denied her constitutional right to present a defense by the exclusion of mental disease or defect testimony.

●That the Court of Appeals erred in holding the rebuttal testimony of the police officer was neither false nor improper.

●That Dinkel was denied the right to effective assistance of counsel.

All Kansas Supreme Court cases will be heard by videoconference and livestreamed on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pXIOdkwjkdiLnpXj4Wp8w/live">the court's YouTube channel</a>. Dinkel's case is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591973490000.jpeg" alt="Brooke Dinkel /&nbsp;Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Brooke Dinkel /&nbsp;Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://salinapost.com">Salina Post</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Supreme Court on Tuesday is scheduled to review a
 petition from a former Smoky Valley Middle School counselor who was 
convicted of two counts of rape of a child under the age of 14.Brooke
 Dinkel, now 40, who formerly taught in Hays, was convicted in Saline County District Court in 2014. 
According to court records, the victim was a student at the middle 
school.The Supreme Court case summary included that Dinkel's 
primary defense at trial was that the student raped her. She argued she 
could not be guilty of rape of a child under age 14 based on the pair's 
first sexual encounter because the student raped her. She also argued 
she could not be guilty of rape of a child under age 14 for subsequent 
encounters because she was suffering from trauma from the first sexual 
encounter (mental disease or defect) and therefore could not form the 
requisite intent to commit the crime, according to the summary."Dinkel
 was granted a significant durational departure from a Jessica's law 
sentence. Instead of a hard-25 life sentence, she was sentenced to 165 
months — just under 14 years — on each count, with the sentences to run 
concurrently," the Kansas Supreme Court summary noted.Dinkel 
appealed and the Kansas Court of Appeals affirmed her conviction on the 
two counts. Dinkel's current petition before the Kansas Supreme Court 
includes the following issues.●That the Court of Appeals erred in
 holding K.S.A. 21-5503(a)(3) imposes absolute criminal liability on an 
adult victim who is raped by a child.●That Dinkel was denied her constitutional right to present a defense by the exclusion of mental disease or defect testimony.●That the Court of Appeals erred in holding the rebuttal testimony of the police officer was neither false nor improper.●That Dinkel was denied the right to effective assistance of counsel.All Kansas Supreme Court cases will be heard by videoconference and livestreamed on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pXIOdkwjkdiLnpXj4Wp8w/live">the court's YouTube channel</a>. Dinkel's case is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Rape conviction of former Hays teacher goes before Kan. Supreme Court

Editor's note update 10 a.m. Thursday, May 20: According to Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun, Cynthia Tuttle of the C2T Ranch was booked into the Ellis County Jail on Monday on a charge of disorderly conduct. She bonded out that same night. Braun said the case will be referred to the Ellis County Attorney.

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

The commissioners denied a request for a conditional-use permit for a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52410f55-8946-4fd6-87c9-ce06e68a41e8">proposed campground and event enter 14 miles north of Hays at the C2T Ranch.</a>

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

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

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

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

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

Jason Brin represented Majestic Whitetails LLC, which has a hunting lease with the Mark Metz Trust, which operates as the C2T Ranch. Brin lives 1.5 miles south of the ranch.

Brin expressed concerns with increased traffic, fire danger, hunting safety and trash.

In 2019, Majestic Whitetails entered into a 25-year, pre-paid hunting lease on 100 percent of the land within the trust.&nbsp;

Brin said the lease says the Tuttles can't license, lease or give any other individuals permission to access the property for recreation or hunting.&nbsp;

"This planned breach of contract should speak volumes to this body on what to expect going forward," Brin said.

Chad Tuttle countered Brin later in the meeting saying he believed the campground was an extension of agritourism and was exempt from the lease. He also said he did not think the camping would interfere with hunting on the property.

He noted a large buck had been shot near one of the campgrounds this season after the campgrounds were closed for the winter.

Attorney Chad Taylor also spoke to the commission. He represented a neighbor who owns land adjacent to the C2T Ranch and uses that land for hunting.

Taylor echoed some of Brin's concerns, including traffic and trash. In addition, he expressed concerns about sewage disposal Taylor said the landowner he represents is concerned campers will dump sewage into the Saline River water system.

Tuttle said later in the meeting they had placed portable toilets to service the current primitive campgrounds. Guest staying in RVs have been directed to public dump stations in Hays.

The C2T Ranch has an existing sewer system, but the Tuttles would have to gain proper certification from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment in order to use it as a dump station for campers.

The C2T campground has operated for about a year with two RV sites and several primitive campsites.&nbsp;Hundreds of people visited the ranch last season. The ranch was voted the No. 1 campsite in Kansas on Hipcamp last year, and the No. 2 RV campsite in the country, the Tuttles said.

Taylor argued the Tuttles have been illegally operating a business without a permit.

"You can only take the beg for forgiveness, ask for permission so far," he said. "There is a ton of specificity in this document that is not present."

Schlyer asked County Counselor Bill Jeter about county enforcement. Jeter said it would be up to the Ellis County attorney to determine if any laws had been broken. Charges can be filed for violations, which could include fines or jail time. The county could also file an injunction to shut the current campground down.

Tuttle argued his campground was not considered a commercial campground becuase of its size.&nbsp;He further argued the campsites were an example of agritourism, which is allowed under the Ellis County Comprehensive Plan.

"If you want to go ahead and pass a resolution to stop me," Tuttle said, "I will become the poster child for Ellis County, Kansas, trying to stop a rancher from doing agritourism.

"We are attempting to bring people down to show them the ranch. ... There is no reason to act like I am some kind of criminal because I have operated the business for the last year."

Brin also expressed concerns about the notification process for the project application.

The Metz Trust property consists of about 2,000 acres. However, the campground project was only filed for about 154 acres. That excluded many neighbors of the trust from the official notification process.

Brin alleged the application area was reduced to avoid protest petitions being filed. He said he should have been able to file a legal protest petition and force a unanimous vote from the county commission. 

Chad Tuttle said he reduced the application area to reduce the potential tax burden.&nbsp;

Mason Ruder, Ellis County environmental planning supervisor, said he thought the planning process had been conducted properly. Schlyer also said in an interview for the KAYS Morning Show on Tuesday he thought the application had been handled properly by the planning department and planning commission.

Brin also asked the commission if the land was current on property taxes. Schlyer said to his knowledge, the property was not current on property taxes, but he felt that was irrelevant to the conditional-use application.

Randy Thiel has a home a half-mile from the proposed campsite and said he was excluded from the notification process. He had concerns about construction and activity in the Saline River flood plain, fire danger, trash, noise and dust pollution from increased traffic on the rock road.

Linda Brin, neighbor, said she and her husband enjoy camping, but she did not want to live next to the C2T campground and deal with the traffic, fire hazard and unknown people the campground will draw to the area.

She also expressed concerns about flooding.

"I have lived here most of my life and witnessed some flooding along the Saline River and [the danger] it can pose," she said. "I would hate to see campers trapped in an area of a ragging river that can quickly get out of its banks. Flooding and tornadoes can occur during the night when there is not much time to react."

Tuttle said the campground has finished an emergency plan, which includes a warning system for campers using cellphones. Haselhorst and Younger argued there was not adequate cell service in the area for such a system. Tuttle argued there was and said he was working with Nex-Tech to have repeaters added in the area to even further boost signal.

An emergency shelter was in the campground plan, Tuttle said.&nbsp;

Younger and Haselhorst both expressed concerns about evacuating the area in the case of river flooding.&nbsp;

"If I were in a camper, I would be very concerned to be in your campsite looking at your map," Haselhorst said.

Tuttle argued it could be done safely, especially considering the location of historical flooding on the ranch compared to where the campgrounds and platform for the event tent would be located.

Haselhorst also brought up the issue of fire danger.

Tuttle said he planned to add a water tank to deal with quick fire suppression. He has a disc available to fight fires. He said he also implements burn bans at the campground in dry or windy weather.

Leann Zimmerman also spoke against the proposal. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09c03d31-628f-4e02-b1ba-62e60ca49151">Zimmerman's Buckeye Barn event center's permit request was denied by the Ellis County Commission</a>&nbsp;earlier this year.

Zimmerman&nbsp;said the ranch does not have a public water system. Tuttle said he was weighing the cost and benefits of drilling a well that could be certified as a public water system or tapping into the Trego County water system.

<div><iframe title="Ellis County Commission recap May 18, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2y8sr-103d413-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>Editor's note update 10 a.m. Thursday, May 20: According to Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun, Cynthia Tuttle of the C2T Ranch was booked into the Ellis County Jail on Monday on a charge of disorderly conduct. She bonded out that same night. Braun said the case will be referred to the Ellis County Attorney.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA discussion at the Ellis County Commission meeting Monday night on a proposed campground and event center ended in one of the applicants being led away in handcuffs.The commissioners denied a request for a conditional-use permit for a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52410f55-8946-4fd6-87c9-ce06e68a41e8">proposed campground and event enter 14 miles north of Hays at the C2T Ranch.</a>After the vote, some of the about 30 people who attended the meeting, as well as the applicants, Cynthia and Chad Tuttle, exited the commission chamber into a rear hallway.Yelling and a scuffle could be heard from the commission chamber. Cynthia Tuttle was lead out of the county building in handcuffs by a member of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office.The commission denied the conditional-use request on a vote of 2-1 with Commissioners Dean Haselhorst and Neal Younger voting to deny the request and Commission Chairman Butch Schlyer voting in support.Multiple people spoke against the project at the meeting Monday, including several neighbors.Haselhorst and Younger both expressed concerns about safety at the campground. Younger cited concerns about flooding at the campground. The Saline River flows through the ranch, and campsites were planned for the flood plain.<h2>Conflicts with hunting</h2>Jason Brin represented Majestic Whitetails LLC, which has a hunting lease with the Mark Metz Trust, which operates as the C2T Ranch. Brin lives 1.5 miles south of the ranch.Brin expressed concerns with increased traffic, fire danger, hunting safety and trash.In 2019, Majestic Whitetails entered into a 25-year, pre-paid hunting lease on 100 percent of the land within the trust.&nbsp;Brin said the lease says the Tuttles can't license, lease or give any other individuals permission to access the property for recreation or hunting.&nbsp;"This planned breach of contract should speak volumes to this body on what to expect going forward," Brin said.Chad Tuttle countered Brin later in the meeting saying he believed the campground was an extension of agritourism and was exempt from the lease. He also said he did not think the camping would interfere with hunting on the property.He noted a large buck had been shot near one of the campgrounds this season after the campgrounds were closed for the winter.Attorney Chad Taylor also spoke to the commission. He represented a neighbor who owns land adjacent to the C2T Ranch and uses that land for hunting.<h2>Sewage</h2>Taylor echoed some of Brin's concerns, including traffic and trash. In addition, he expressed concerns about sewage disposal Taylor said the landowner he represents is concerned campers will dump sewage into the Saline River water system.Tuttle said later in the meeting they had placed portable toilets to service the current primitive campgrounds. Guest staying in RVs have been directed to public dump stations in Hays.The C2T Ranch has an existing sewer system, but the Tuttles would have to gain proper certification from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment in order to use it as a dump station for campers.<h2>Operating without a permit</h2>The C2T campground has operated for about a year with two RV sites and several primitive campsites.&nbsp;Hundreds of people visited the ranch last season. The ranch was voted the No. 1 campsite in Kansas on Hipcamp last year, and the No. 2 RV campsite in the country, the Tuttles said.Taylor argued the Tuttles have been illegally operating a business without a permit."You can only take the beg for forgiveness, ask for permission so far," he said. "There is a ton of specificity in this document that is not present."Schlyer asked County Counselor Bill Jeter about county enforcement. Jeter said it would be up to the Ellis County attorney to determine if any laws had been broken. Charges can be filed for violations, which could include fines or jail time. The county could also file an injunction to shut the current campground down.Tuttle argued his campground was not considered a commercial campground becuase of its size.&nbsp;He further argued the campsites were an example of agritourism, which is allowed under the Ellis County Comprehensive Plan."If you want to go ahead and pass a resolution to stop me," Tuttle said, "I will become the poster child for Ellis County, Kansas, trying to stop a rancher from doing agritourism."We are attempting to bring people down to show them the ranch. ... There is no reason to act like I am some kind of criminal because I have operated the business for the last year."<h2>Problems with the process</h2>Brin also expressed concerns about the notification process for the project application.The Metz Trust property consists of about 2,000 acres. However, the campground project was only filed for about 154 acres. That excluded many neighbors of the trust from the official notification process.Brin alleged the application area was reduced to avoid protest petitions being filed. He said he should have been able to file a legal protest petition and force a unanimous vote from the county commission. Chad Tuttle said he reduced the application area to reduce the potential tax burden.&nbsp;Mason Ruder, Ellis County environmental planning supervisor, said he thought the planning process had been conducted properly. Schlyer also said in an interview for the KAYS Morning Show on Tuesday he thought the application had been handled properly by the planning department and planning commission.Brin also asked the commission if the land was current on property taxes. Schlyer said to his knowledge, the property was not current on property taxes, but he felt that was irrelevant to the conditional-use application.Randy Thiel has a home a half-mile from the proposed campsite and said he was excluded from the notification process. He had concerns about construction and activity in the Saline River flood plain, fire danger, trash, noise and dust pollution from increased traffic on the rock road.<h2>Emergency plans</h2>Linda Brin, neighbor, said she and her husband enjoy camping, but she did not want to live next to the C2T campground and deal with the traffic, fire hazard and unknown people the campground will draw to the area.She also expressed concerns about flooding."I have lived here most of my life and witnessed some flooding along the Saline River and [the danger] it can pose," she said. "I would hate to see campers trapped in an area of a ragging river that can quickly get out of its banks. Flooding and tornadoes can occur during the night when there is not much time to react."Tuttle said the campground has finished an emergency plan, which includes a warning system for campers using cellphones. Haselhorst and Younger argued there was not adequate cell service in the area for such a system. Tuttle argued there was and said he was working with Nex-Tech to have repeaters added in the area to even further boost signal.An emergency shelter was in the campground plan, Tuttle said.&nbsp;Younger and Haselhorst both expressed concerns about evacuating the area in the case of river flooding.&nbsp;"If I were in a camper, I would be very concerned to be in your campsite looking at your map," Haselhorst said.Tuttle argued it could be done safely, especially considering the location of historical flooding on the ranch compared to where the campgrounds and platform for the event tent would be located.Haselhorst also brought up the issue of fire danger.Tuttle said he planned to add a water tank to deal with quick fire suppression. He has a disc available to fight fires. He said he also implements burn bans at the campground in dry or windy weather.<h2>Water access</h2>Leann Zimmerman also spoke against the proposal. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09c03d31-628f-4e02-b1ba-62e60ca49151">Zimmerman's Buckeye Barn event center's permit request was denied by the Ellis County Commission</a>&nbsp;earlier this year.Zimmerman&nbsp;said the ranch does not have a public water system. Tuttle said he was weighing the cost and benefits of drilling a well that could be certified as a public water system or tapping into the Trego County water system.

🎙UPDATE: Safety, hunting conflicts lead arguments against C2T campground

The Hays USD 489 school board voted unanimously Monday to form committees that will help plan another bond issue.

"I think this is a logical next step if this is something the board is interested in — to look at what might it look like to form some committees," Superintendent Ron Wilson said.

The district will be forming three committees to help develop a bond issue.

Those committees will an executive committee made up of administrators and board members, a planning committee made up of educators, and a vision committee made up of community members.

Wilson said he hoped to have the first meetings of those committees in June.&nbsp;

The process would be similar to what DLR,&nbsp; the district's architectural firm, helped facilitate four years ago. That bond issue failed. The school district has not passed a bond issue in more than 30 years.

The board has not developed a specific plan for the bond issue yet, nor has it set a dollar amount for the bond.

DLR suggested the district could shoot for a bond election as soon as April. However, school board members said Monday they are not tied to that timeline.

"I think there is a word in here that is important to stress, and that is possible April 2022 bond election," board member Tammy Wellbrock said. "There is some concern that we are going fast, but we are just getting started. There is no feeling of rushing.&nbsp;

"If it is not where we have the information that is suitable at the time, it is not on a vote in April. We would look at another time."

Wilson said he thought rushing would be an extreme term.

"It has been four years since your last bond attempt," he said. "You've waited a credible amount of time and made due with some facilities and issues we are hoping to address. Rushing is not in this."

Wilson said the process will have its critics.

"If every time the mailman heard the dog barking, he stopped in his tracks or changed direction, he'd never get the mail delivered," he said.

Board member Lance Bickle said he wanted to stress the vote Monday included no dates on a bond election. It was a move to get the ball rolling on gathering more information.

Wilson said during the KAYS Morning Show Tuesday anyone interested in the community vision team, should contact a board member or the district office. He said the district would have to limit the number of people on the vision team to keep the group manageable.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621384010541.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 school board members" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 school board members</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="USD 489 eyes another bond issue" 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=r9rtj-103d44a-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>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted unanimously Monday to form committees that will help plan another bond issue."I think this is a logical next step if this is something the board is interested in — to look at what might it look like to form some committees," Superintendent Ron Wilson said.The district will be forming three committees to help develop a bond issue.Those committees will an executive committee made up of administrators and board members, a planning committee made up of educators, and a vision committee made up of community members.Wilson said he hoped to have the first meetings of those committees in June.&nbsp;The process would be similar to what DLR,&nbsp; the district's architectural firm, helped facilitate four years ago. That bond issue failed. The school district has not passed a bond issue in more than 30 years.The board has not developed a specific plan for the bond issue yet, nor has it set a dollar amount for the bond.DLR suggested the district could shoot for a bond election as soon as April. However, school board members said Monday they are not tied to that timeline."I think there is a word in here that is important to stress, and that is possible April 2022 bond election," board member Tammy Wellbrock said. "There is some concern that we are going fast, but we are just getting started. There is no feeling of rushing.&nbsp;"If it is not where we have the information that is suitable at the time, it is not on a vote in April. We would look at another time."Wilson said he thought rushing would be an extreme term."It has been four years since your last bond attempt," he said. "You've waited a credible amount of time and made due with some facilities and issues we are hoping to address. Rushing is not in this."Wilson said the process will have its critics."If every time the mailman heard the dog barking, he stopped in his tracks or changed direction, he'd never get the mail delivered," he said.Board member Lance Bickle said he wanted to stress the vote Monday included no dates on a bond election. It was a move to get the ball rolling on gathering more information.Wilson said during the KAYS Morning Show Tuesday anyone interested in the community vision team, should contact a board member or the district office. He said the district would have to limit the number of people on the vision team to keep the group manageable.

🎙 Hays USD 489 school board moves forward with forming bond committees

BELOIT — After an entire scholastic year of in-person classes at North Central Kansas Technical College students, faculty, and staff were elated to be celebrating an in-person graduation. The day was scheduled to split up academic programs in order to encourage lower capacity events and ensure students could have multiple family members attend. 

The Beloit campus held four different graduations on Friday, May 14. The morning started with a Practical Nursing pinning and was followed by the Nursing graduation ceremony. The second graduation included Agricultural Technology, Automotive Collision &amp; Repair, Automotive Technology, and Diesel Technology. The third graduation for the day included Automated Controls, Carpentry/ Cabinetmaking, Electrical Technology, Heavy Equipment, Plumbing, Heating, &amp; A.C., and Welding Technology. The final graduation program for the day included Business Office Management and Information Technology.

The following day Saturday, May 15, the NCK Tech Hays campus split their graduations into three programs. The first program, which included a nursing pinning ceremony, was the Practical Nursing program and Associate Degree Nursing program. The second ceremony of the day included Automotive Technology, Carpentry/Cabinetmaking, Electrical Technology, Plumbing, Heating, and AC, Welding Technology, and Welding Engineering. The final graduation program for the Hays campus included Business Office Management, Business Technology, Culinary Arts,&nbsp; and Pharmacy Technician.&nbsp;

Finishing a full year of in-person classes despite the COVID-19 pandemic was no easy task. With the dedications and understanding of students, faculty, and staff we were able to accomplish something not many other schools were able to.&nbsp; We have always been dedicated to hands-on learning and although it was a particularly difficult task this year, we prevailed. NCK Tech President Eric Burks, stated, “NCK Tech has a strong reputation as a leader in technical education. That reputation was built and continues, thanks to the quality of our instructional team and our dedicated staff members. These individuals invest their time and energy into making a difference in the lives of our students and they are committed to helping ALL students succeed. I am very proud of the work they do and honored to work alongside them.”

With an option of one or two year programs, NCK Technical College graduated approximately 141 certifications and 128 degrees on Beloit and Hays campuses combined.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621276430626.png" alt="Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechBELOIT — After an entire scholastic year of in-person classes at North Central Kansas Technical College students, faculty, and staff were elated to be celebrating an in-person graduation. The day was scheduled to split up academic programs in order to encourage lower capacity events and ensure students could have multiple family members attend. The Beloit campus held four different graduations on Friday, May 14. The morning started with a Practical Nursing pinning and was followed by the Nursing graduation ceremony. The second graduation included Agricultural Technology, Automotive Collision &amp; Repair, Automotive Technology, and Diesel Technology. The third graduation for the day included Automated Controls, Carpentry/ Cabinetmaking, Electrical Technology, Heavy Equipment, Plumbing, Heating, &amp; A.C., and Welding Technology. The final graduation program for the day included Business Office Management and Information Technology.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621276477628.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The following day Saturday, May 15, the NCK Tech Hays campus split their graduations into three programs. The first program, which included a nursing pinning ceremony, was the Practical Nursing program and Associate Degree Nursing program. The second ceremony of the day included Automotive Technology, Carpentry/Cabinetmaking, Electrical Technology, Plumbing, Heating, and AC, Welding Technology, and Welding Engineering. The final graduation program for the Hays campus included Business Office Management, Business Technology, Culinary Arts,&nbsp; and Pharmacy Technician.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621276510299.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Finishing a full year of in-person classes despite the COVID-19 pandemic was no easy task. With the dedications and understanding of students, faculty, and staff we were able to accomplish something not many other schools were able to.&nbsp; We have always been dedicated to hands-on learning and although it was a particularly difficult task this year, we prevailed. NCK Tech President Eric Burks, stated, “NCK Tech has a strong reputation as a leader in technical education. That reputation was built and continues, thanks to the quality of our instructional team and our dedicated staff members. These individuals invest their time and energy into making a difference in the lives of our students and they are committed to helping ALL students succeed. I am very proud of the work they do and honored to work alongside them.”With an option of one or two year programs, NCK Technical College graduated approximately 141 certifications and 128 degrees on Beloit and Hays campuses combined.&nbsp;

NCK Tech holds commencement ceremonies in Hays, Beloit

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

Sponsored by Aflac agent Shawn Schwarz.

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

 🎥 2020-21 Hays High Indian basketball highlights

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

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

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