The Plainville Police Department reported the arrest of an individual wanted on a federal warrant following a traffic stop in which a large amount of drugs were located.

The arrest was announced via social media Wednesday morning.

At around 10:30 p.m. May 6, Officer Cordell Stover conducted a traffic stop on North Washington Street, the announcement said.

During the stop, K-9 Handler Officer Lee Vogal and K-9 Bach were called to assist and a probable cause search was conducted.

"Marijuana, THC wax and drug paraphernalia were located, along with over $5,500 in cash," the department said.

 It was also discovered that the driver had a federal warrant out of the state of Washington.

William Dean Thompson, 69, was arrested on suspicion of drug possession with the intent to distribute and related drug offenses.

&nbsp;Thompson is currently being held at the Rooks County Jail. 

The department also reminded the public, suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://www.rookscountysheriff.com/inmatephotos/B21000000065-1.jpg" alt="William Dean Thompson&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>William Dean Thompson&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Plainville Police Department reported the arrest of an individual wanted on a federal warrant following a traffic stop in which a large amount of drugs were located.The arrest was announced via social media Wednesday morning.At around 10:30 p.m. May 6, Officer Cordell Stover conducted a traffic stop on North Washington Street, the announcement said.During the stop, K-9 Handler Officer Lee Vogal and K-9 Bach were called to assist and a probable cause search was conducted."Marijuana, THC wax and drug paraphernalia were located, along with over $5,500 in cash," the department said. It was also discovered that the driver had a federal warrant out of the state of Washington.William Dean Thompson, 69, was arrested on suspicion of drug possession with the intent to distribute and related drug offenses.&nbsp;Thompson is currently being held at the Rooks County Jail. The department also reminded the public, suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FPlainvillePD%2Fposts%2F3026631004221571&width=500&show_text=true&height=778&appId" width="500" height="778" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Plainville traffic stop leads to arrest on drug allegations; federal warrant

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A former professor of agriculture economics told a Kansas food conference Friday the pandemic has shown the current food system is not sustainable and is headed for change.

John Ikerd, professor emeritus of ag economics at the University of Missouri-Columbia, presented to the Local Food Connections virtual conference, which was sponsored by the Kansas Rural Center.

In Ikerd's presentation, "Local Food: Past, Present and Future," he suggested the United States is headed back to a pre-World War II food supply system in which food is grown and sold in a local area.

Ikerd said our current food system is corporately controlled, industrial and global, in which the average calories for humans move 1,200 to 2,ooo miles from location of production to end consumer.

"Even though the farms may be independently owned in many cases, it's the processing corporations that control most of the important decisions on that farm."

He argued this is an unsustainable and environmentally harmful means of feeding people.

"If you go back to the food system of the 1940s and '50s, back when I was growing up in Missouri, we had a local food system at that time," Ikerd said. "We had small diversified farms."

At that time, Ikerd described communities of necessity. People came together at harvest time, socialized together, attended church together, and their children went to school together.

These communities had small, independent grocery stores and small, independent restaurants. Meat and flour where processed by local packers and mills, and local canneries handled produce.

"I would say 70 to 80 percent of everything we ate came within 50 miles of our home," he said.

In 50 years, Americans saw a fundamental change in the food system.&nbsp;

"But I think the trend in the industrialization of the food system has run its course, and we're due for a fundamental change," Ikerd said. "I believe the farms and food systems of the future will be far more like those of the past than those of today."

He said he believes the future holds more diversified farms with more local control.

At the change of the&nbsp;millennium, the United States saw a resurgence of the local food movement. This shift was amplified by the pandemic in 202o, Ikerd said.&nbsp;

"We saw a resurgence of people wanting to go to the farmer's markets, and then when the farmer's markets couldn't function anymore, they went to online sales," Ikerd said.

"Many farmers that were already online saw their sales grow so fast where they could barely keep up. They are still in a situation, and they are still in a situation where the processing plants are scheduled one and two years in advance."

Communities also saw a large increase in home gardening.

The COVID pandemic exposed major risk in the current industrialized food system, Ikerd said.

"This industrial food system that we have created with large-scale production, processing and distribution is very efficient economically, but it's lacking in&nbsp;resilience," he said. ...

"We saw the consequences of that in 2020 in respect to the large processing plants when they had outbreaks of COVID in those plants."

You can't shut down a food system like you shut down a plant, he said. The animals and crops continue to grow, and there was no place for that food to go. However, when consumers went to the supermarkets, the shelves were empty.

"It's not just there in processing and distribution," he said. "It is there on the farms," he said. "The large specialized farming operations are also lacking in resilience. They are inherently risky."

Specialized farms are more susceptible to disease, drought, other weather disasters and insect infestation. They are also susceptible to economic pressures, such as market fluctuations and export interruption.&nbsp;

Large commercial farms require expensive specialized equipment that can't be quickly converted to use for other food production. Capital requirements also require high-debt financing, which leaves independent farmers vulnerable.

Government farm policy and taxpayer subsidy has propped up the industrial farm model and allowed it to continue, Ikerd said.

&nbsp;Smaller, diverse farms rely more on skilled labor and local management and less on technology, which reduces the need for large amounts of capital, he said.&nbsp;These farms can produce more food per acre and per dollar invested, Ikerd said.

Farmers and taxpayers are not the only ones losing out. Consumers are seeing higher food prices.

Food prices increased at rates lower than inflation until about the 1990s. However, over the last 20 years, food prices have gone up faster than the inflation rate. As the food system came under corporate control, large processors and retailers were able to take larger profits from the system.

As farmer and consumers become more aware of the economic and environmental ramifications of commercial farming, they are turning more to local systems, Ikerd said.

Local food opportunities include farmer's markets, community supported agriculture, online food marketing, food hubs and online aggregation.

Community supported agriculture is usually a single farmer who sells directly to consumers through a food box subscription. Food hubs pull small- to medium-size producers together, so they can pool their resources and fill larger orders for school, restaurants, grocery stores or community groups.&nbsp;

Online aggregation in agriculture is a group of independent farmers coming together to market online.

Ikerd said he saw great potential in online marketing for the independent farmer.

Even if someone buys online from a local farmer, Ikerd said, there still can be a greater connection between the farmer and the consumer.

"You can go visit those farms. You can connect with them personally. It's people that care about food that are connected. The customers and the farmers both care about food," he said.

"It's about customers and farmers that care about the land and taking care of the land. That's what sustainability is about — caring for each other and caring for the land and finding a way to make that work economically."

Industrial farming violates ethical social, ecological and economic principles, Ikerd said.

"I can't tell you when it's going to change or how it's going to change," he said, "but it will in fact change, because it's not sustainable. You simply can't keep doing what we've been doing indefinitely. 

"I don't know how long, as taxpayers, we're are going to continue to prop it up, but when enough people wake up to the fundamental flaws in our food system today and the possibility and the potential for the future, we'll see a very different future."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569532458211.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA former professor of agriculture economics told a Kansas food conference Friday the pandemic has shown the current food system is not sustainable and is headed for change.John Ikerd, professor emeritus of ag economics at the University of Missouri-Columbia, presented to the Local Food Connections virtual conference, which was sponsored by the Kansas Rural Center.In Ikerd's presentation, "Local Food: Past, Present and Future," he suggested the United States is headed back to a pre-World War II food supply system in which food is grown and sold in a local area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620746578763.png" alt="John Ikerd" />
 <figcaption>John Ikerd</figcaption>
 </figure>Ikerd said our current food system is corporately controlled, industrial and global, in which the average calories for humans move 1,200 to 2,ooo miles from location of production to end consumer."Even though the farms may be independently owned in many cases, it's the processing corporations that control most of the important decisions on that farm."He argued this is an unsustainable and environmentally harmful means of feeding people.<h2>The future is in the past</h2>"If you go back to the food system of the 1940s and '50s, back when I was growing up in Missouri, we had a local food system at that time," Ikerd said. "We had small diversified farms."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620745508879.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>At that time, Ikerd described communities of necessity. People came together at harvest time, socialized together, attended church together, and their children went to school together.These communities had small, independent grocery stores and small, independent restaurants. Meat and flour where processed by local packers and mills, and local canneries handled produce."I would say 70 to 80 percent of everything we ate came within 50 miles of our home," he said.<h2>Resurgence of local food</h2>In 50 years, Americans saw a fundamental change in the food system.&nbsp;"But I think the trend in the industrialization of the food system has run its course, and we're due for a fundamental change," Ikerd said. "I believe the farms and food systems of the future will be far more like those of the past than those of today."He said he believes the future holds more diversified farms with more local control.At the change of the&nbsp;millennium, the United States saw a resurgence of the local food movement. This shift was amplified by the pandemic in 202o, Ikerd said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620745606425.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>"We saw a resurgence of people wanting to go to the farmer's markets, and then when the farmer's markets couldn't function anymore, they went to online sales," Ikerd said."Many farmers that were already online saw their sales grow so fast where they could barely keep up. They are still in a situation, and they are still in a situation where the processing plants are scheduled one and two years in advance."Communities also saw a large increase in home gardening.<h2>Failures of commercial food</h2>The COVID pandemic exposed major risk in the current industrialized food system, Ikerd said."This industrial food system that we have created with large-scale production, processing and distribution is very efficient economically, but it's lacking in&nbsp;resilience," he said. ..."We saw the consequences of that in 2020 in respect to the large processing plants when they had outbreaks of COVID in those plants."You can't shut down a food system like you shut down a plant, he said. The animals and crops continue to grow, and there was no place for that food to go. However, when consumers went to the supermarkets, the shelves were empty."It's not just there in processing and distribution," he said. "It is there on the farms," he said. "The large specialized farming operations are also lacking in resilience. They are inherently risky."Specialized farms are more susceptible to disease, drought, other weather disasters and insect infestation. They are also susceptible to economic pressures, such as market fluctuations and export interruption.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620745642340.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Large commercial farms require expensive specialized equipment that can't be quickly converted to use for other food production. Capital requirements also require high-debt financing, which leaves independent farmers vulnerable.Government farm policy and taxpayer subsidy has propped up the industrial farm model and allowed it to continue, Ikerd said.&nbsp;Smaller, diverse farms rely more on skilled labor and local management and less on technology, which reduces the need for large amounts of capital, he said.&nbsp;These farms can produce more food per acre and per dollar invested, Ikerd said.Farmers and taxpayers are not the only ones losing out. Consumers are seeing higher food prices.Food prices increased at rates lower than inflation until about the 1990s. However, over the last 20 years, food prices have gone up faster than the inflation rate. As the food system came under corporate control, large processors and retailers were able to take larger profits from the system.<h2>Local food opportunities</h2>As farmer and consumers become more aware of the economic and environmental ramifications of commercial farming, they are turning more to local systems, Ikerd said.Local food opportunities include farmer's markets, community supported agriculture, online food marketing, food hubs and online aggregation.Community supported agriculture is usually a single farmer who sells directly to consumers through a food box subscription. Food hubs pull small- to medium-size producers together, so they can pool their resources and fill larger orders for school, restaurants, grocery stores or community groups.&nbsp;Online aggregation in agriculture is a group of independent farmers coming together to market online.Ikerd said he saw great potential in online marketing for the independent farmer.Even if someone buys online from a local farmer, Ikerd said, there still can be a greater connection between the farmer and the consumer."You can go visit those farms. You can connect with them personally. It's people that care about food that are connected. The customers and the farmers both care about food," he said."It's about customers and farmers that care about the land and taking care of the land. That's what sustainability is about — caring for each other and caring for the land and finding a way to make that work economically."Industrial farming violates ethical social, ecological and economic principles, Ikerd said."I can't tell you when it's going to change or how it's going to change," he said, "but it will in fact change, because it's not sustainable. You simply can't keep doing what we've been doing indefinitely. "I don't know how long, as taxpayers, we're are going to continue to prop it up, but when enough people wake up to the fundamental flaws in our food system today and the possibility and the potential for the future, we'll see a very different future."

Former professor predicts shift to local food systems, COVID hastened process

Partially funded by a Community Action Lab grant, the Hays Area Children’s Center has purchased KODO Kids toys to donate to the Beach Early Childhood Area at the Hays Public Library (HPL). 

These toys support the development of pre-literacy skills and the exploration of STEM concepts for young children.

The Hays Area Children’s Center is donating the toys to the library to make them available to all families in the community. Infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their caregivers will have access to these developmental tools.

Construction is completed on the Beach Early Childhood Area, a space dedicated for early literacy. 

It will open to the public on Friday, May 14 with a special story time at 10 a.m. The Beach-Edwards Family Foundation donated $30,000 to the development of this area, which will serve hundreds of young children and their families.

You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620664308051.jpeg" alt="Beach Early Childhood Area at the Hays Public Library&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Beach Early Childhood Area at the Hays Public Library&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HPLPartially funded by a Community Action Lab grant, the Hays Area Children’s Center has purchased KODO Kids toys to donate to the Beach Early Childhood Area at the Hays Public Library (HPL). These toys support the development of pre-literacy skills and the exploration of STEM concepts for young children.The Hays Area Children’s Center is donating the toys to the library to make them available to all families in the community. Infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their caregivers will have access to these developmental tools.Construction is completed on the Beach Early Childhood Area, a space dedicated for early literacy. It will open to the public on Friday, May 14 with a special story time at 10 a.m. The Beach-Edwards Family Foundation donated $30,000 to the development of this area, which will serve hundreds of young children and their families.You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

New early literacy area opens Friday at Hays Public Library

Fort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,636 graduates during Friday and Saturday’s commencement ceremonies. More than 800 students will cross the stage at four in-person ceremonies, with all graduates being recognized in two virtual ceremonies.

The in-person commencement ceremonies will take place at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC) located on the FHSU campus. The ceremonies will begin on Friday with the College of Education at 8 a.m., followed by a joint ceremony of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship and the Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics at 11 a.m. The ceremonies will continue on Saturday with the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at 8 a.m., followed by the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at 11 a.m.

In addition to the in-person ceremonies, all graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies. The ceremony for Graduate School students will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, and the undergraduate students will be recognized at 4 p.m. All ceremonies will broadcast on Central time and will be located on the Tiger Media Network and the FHSU Facebook.

This spring’s Commencement exercises recognize the accomplishments of 1636 students. The totals are 60 associate degrees; 1,027 bachelor’s degrees; 533 master’s and Education Specialist degrees; and 16 Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees.

The schedule leading to start time is the same both days: Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:00 a.m. Graduates will check-in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduate will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled guest door entrance (located at both gates).&nbsp;

Students are asked to wear their regalia into GMC. Graduates may make arrangements to pick up their regalia prior to May 14 at the Tiger Spirit Shop by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tigerspiritshop@fhsu.edu">tigerspiritshop@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;to arrange a pickup time. Regalia will also be available before the ceremony at the Robbins Center (directly across from GMC) on Friday, May 14, and Saturday, May 15 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of Gross Coliseum. Guests will be seated in the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating arrangements for the disabled are available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the disability seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and southwest corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.&nbsp;

An interpreter for those who are hearing impaired will be located near the left side of the stage and shown within the commencement livestream video feed.

In observance of current university Covid-19 policies, FHSU is limiting the number of guests at each in-person ceremony to six guests per graduate. Though tickets will not be required to enter the ceremonies, the university asks guests to be considerate of other graduates and respect the guest limit. All attendees over the age of 5 are required to wear masks while in Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC).

Traffic in the Gross Coliseum area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to Gross Coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In the event of rain, unpaved lots near Gross Coliseum will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.&nbsp;

Here are a few suggestions from the University Police to help ease the congestion:&nbsp;

All graduates (including those who participated in the in-person ceremonies) who have filed an intent to graduate for Spring or Summer 2021 prior to April 9, 2021, will be recognized during the virtual ceremony at the designated times. Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Spring Graduates” tab.

The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtIUORub-2BxmGZc80Do-2BQ-2F-2Ba7-2B3Ug1Xs-2F73SR9CxngRha8KbdAu6LGZIcn2wDBQMR9nQ-3D-3DZJki_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOKlyfk67tPyjj1gns0C4j8sib6BAx7uvNHWHr76962bCua9xDpQRt1npLG6e3uGHpmqKa0YMQG6Y5fzh-2FLEEqtWjMvCviR5wlb7b-2FO51Gw5Hy6o26LhpOxurESazhinswN3OcIW-2FIviGN3AS-2B7i8D9M-2FzvCB-2Fjjs93wLznT2ms67KaQsju1LCLkCx1rDpmTwdCIv7b-2FE55omMw3cGqY7iqpoiwNjW3yln-2BYTJxxiLOgeYFt0mlnVoWcpFVj5P1t5">https://fhsu.edu/commencement/watch-live</a>&nbsp;and the Fort Hays State University Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYR5zmLwYI8Sa-2FrXYbOW5tG13n16_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOKlyfk67tPyjj1gns0C4j8sib6BAx7uvNHWHr76962bCua9xDpQRt1npLG6e3uGHpmqKa0YMQG6Y5fzh-2FLEEqg-2FvEUK1RHw6dwTxKxJ270s0QYBBL-2Ff-2FQw02Vgu47Ko16DdWEiDLmCRFZhU-2FD56P8LwCDqJMJRCmcz4ytnlblU0AnXQ9GgEM-2F0JflK13sUhn4-2Beym-2FB68gyfSs1qOZzoXFbiWbOvWNBnW3Qzp2YnkerIpoEHG5m7WZ6-2BOSO4YrI9">https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate</a>.

The Commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtKwGCSEfb6-2Fx37KuxE5mpJcnq3UXO20ENBhx-2B1UVzGlSUfi1_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOKlyfk67tPyjj1gns0C4j8sib6BAx7uvNHWHr76962bCua9xDpQRt1npLG6e3uGHpmqKa0YMQG6Y5fzh-2FLEEqtO-2BmphHJ0-2FMAHLNJMtJebKdV73WOj2M2eVvYwkiqlNBDvO2SyK4nzuWpzbdBemfOtNktXFa1CEQw-2ByAk-2BGxwjIPxyxib3Vees3O8GzCgeWT73ssEnEN72i8zdgG6-2FE5am5xoRTSJTiUpFOb5YeU0FR41xM0-2B8zFqSRBBTuQTtaJ">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620751784246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,636 graduates during Friday and Saturday’s commencement ceremonies. More than 800 students will cross the stage at four in-person ceremonies, with all graduates being recognized in two virtual ceremonies.The in-person commencement ceremonies will take place at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC) located on the FHSU campus. The ceremonies will begin on Friday with the College of Education at 8 a.m., followed by a joint ceremony of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship and the Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics at 11 a.m. The ceremonies will continue on Saturday with the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at 8 a.m., followed by the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at 11 a.m.In addition to the in-person ceremonies, all graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies. The ceremony for Graduate School students will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, and the undergraduate students will be recognized at 4 p.m. All ceremonies will broadcast on Central time and will be located on the Tiger Media Network and the FHSU Facebook.This spring’s Commencement exercises recognize the accomplishments of 1636 students. The totals are 60 associate degrees; 1,027 bachelor’s degrees; 533 master’s and Education Specialist degrees; and 16 Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees.The schedule leading to start time is the same both days: Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:00 a.m. Graduates will check-in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduate will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled guest door entrance (located at both gates).&nbsp;Students are asked to wear their regalia into GMC. Graduates may make arrangements to pick up their regalia prior to May 14 at the Tiger Spirit Shop by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tigerspiritshop@fhsu.edu">tigerspiritshop@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;to arrange a pickup time. Regalia will also be available before the ceremony at the Robbins Center (directly across from GMC) on Friday, May 14, and Saturday, May 15 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of Gross Coliseum. Guests will be seated in the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating arrangements for the disabled are available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the disability seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and southwest corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.&nbsp;An interpreter for those who are hearing impaired will be located near the left side of the stage and shown within the commencement livestream video feed.In observance of current university Covid-19 policies, FHSU is limiting the number of guests at each in-person ceremony to six guests per graduate. Though tickets will not be required to enter the ceremonies, the university asks guests to be considerate of other graduates and respect the guest limit. All attendees over the age of 5 are required to wear masks while in Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC).Traffic in the Gross Coliseum area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to Gross Coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In the event of rain, unpaved lots near Gross Coliseum will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.&nbsp;Here are a few suggestions from the University Police to help ease the congestion:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Guest arriving each day for the second ceremony are encouraged to arrive no more than 15 to 30 minutes before 10 a.m. Arriving too early will result in guests being forced to park further away or face departing traffic from the first ceremony. Delaying arrival will also allow time for departing guests from the first ceremony to clear the area in preparation for the second ceremony.</li><li>Graduates driving themselves are encouraged to arrive early and park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to GMC. This will better insure they avoid traffic congestion, get a parking spot, and arrive on time for their ceremony.&nbsp; Shuttles will be available both days before and after both ceremonies with the drop-off station at Gate 3.</li><li>Faculty and staff attending are also encouraged to park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to the ceremonies.</li><li>All guests are encouraged to carpool when possible. Fewer cars will ease traffic congestion and increase the amount of parking at GMC.</li><li>Please slow down and have patience with the traffic and parking. If everybody practices this, the day will be more enjoyable for all.</li>
 </ul>All graduates (including those who participated in the in-person ceremonies) who have filed an intent to graduate for Spring or Summer 2021 prior to April 9, 2021, will be recognized during the virtual ceremony at the designated times. Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Spring Graduates” tab.The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtIUORub-2BxmGZc80Do-2BQ-2F-2Ba7-2B3Ug1Xs-2F73SR9CxngRha8KbdAu6LGZIcn2wDBQMR9nQ-3D-3DZJki_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOKlyfk67tPyjj1gns0C4j8sib6BAx7uvNHWHr76962bCua9xDpQRt1npLG6e3uGHpmqKa0YMQG6Y5fzh-2FLEEqtWjMvCviR5wlb7b-2FO51Gw5Hy6o26LhpOxurESazhinswN3OcIW-2FIviGN3AS-2B7i8D9M-2FzvCB-2Fjjs93wLznT2ms67KaQsju1LCLkCx1rDpmTwdCIv7b-2FE55omMw3cGqY7iqpoiwNjW3yln-2BYTJxxiLOgeYFt0mlnVoWcpFVj5P1t5">https://fhsu.edu/commencement/watch-live</a>&nbsp;and the Fort Hays State University Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYR5zmLwYI8Sa-2FrXYbOW5tG13n16_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOKlyfk67tPyjj1gns0C4j8sib6BAx7uvNHWHr76962bCua9xDpQRt1npLG6e3uGHpmqKa0YMQG6Y5fzh-2FLEEqg-2FvEUK1RHw6dwTxKxJ270s0QYBBL-2Ff-2FQw02Vgu47Ko16DdWEiDLmCRFZhU-2FD56P8LwCDqJMJRCmcz4ytnlblU0AnXQ9GgEM-2F0JflK13sUhn4-2Beym-2FB68gyfSs1qOZzoXFbiWbOvWNBnW3Qzp2YnkerIpoEHG5m7WZ6-2BOSO4YrI9">https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate</a>.The Commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtKwGCSEfb6-2Fx37KuxE5mpJcnq3UXO20ENBhx-2B1UVzGlSUfi1_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOKlyfk67tPyjj1gns0C4j8sib6BAx7uvNHWHr76962bCua9xDpQRt1npLG6e3uGHpmqKa0YMQG6Y5fzh-2FLEEqtO-2BmphHJ0-2FMAHLNJMtJebKdV73WOj2M2eVvYwkiqlNBDvO2SyK4nzuWpzbdBemfOtNktXFa1CEQw-2ByAk-2BGxwjIPxyxib3Vees3O8GzCgeWT73ssEnEN72i8zdgG6-2FE5am5xoRTSJTiUpFOb5YeU0FR41xM0-2B8zFqSRBBTuQTtaJ">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

Fort Hays State set to confer degrees to more than 1,600

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from Vine St. to Indian Trail between 27th St. and 22nd St. and also from Vine St. to Main St. between 12th St. and 22nd St. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. 

Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes.

The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617817711819.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from Vine St. to Indian Trail between 27th St. and 22nd St. and also from Vine St. to Main St. between 12th St. and 22nd St. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes.The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.

Fire hydrant testing and inspection continues Thursday

SCOTT COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged privacy crime.

Just before midnight Sunday, the Scott City Police Department responded to an address in Scott City after the reporting party stated someone had been observed standing outside a woman’s window recording her, according to a social media report from police.

 An investigation began immediately and on Tuesday after the execution of a search warrant police arrested 20-year-old Jose Angel Rodriguez of Scott City, on a requested charge of felony breach of privacy. He is currently housed in the Scott County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620771372401.png" alt=" Rodriguez photo Scott County Jail" />
 <figcaption> Rodriguez photo Scott County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTT COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged privacy crime.Just before midnight Sunday, the Scott City Police Department responded to an address in Scott City after the reporting party stated someone had been observed standing outside a woman’s window recording her, according to a social media report from police. An investigation began immediately and on Tuesday after the execution of a search warrant police arrested 20-year-old Jose Angel Rodriguez of Scott City, on a requested charge of felony breach of privacy. He is currently housed in the Scott County Jail.

Peeping Tom accused of recording woman at Kan. home

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

The first good thunderstorm of the season swept through my area late Saturday night and early Sunday morning. It rolled in from the west with a brilliant light show and booming bass of thunder reverberating through our windows. It started simply enough. The air, still warm from the day, stirred. Trees began to shake in a cool breeze that grew to a howl. My daughter was home from college for the weekend, and we took in the sights and sounds from the front porch until the chilly air and sheets of rain chased us inside. I’ve never grown tired of watching storms come in, even in Kansas where they occur with regularity. The mix of beauty and the potential for destruction tap into something primal. The allure and angst are as intertwined as lightning and thunder. Some of my first memories of watching storms are in the small sunroom in my childhood home. The thick panes of glass in the south-facing room coupled with the home’s hillside elevation provided the ideal enclosure for viewing the ferocity of Mother Nature. The best storms are always at night. Darkness heightens your other senses, so you feel the ground shake from thunder or hearing the rain come in wind-blown sheets. The smell of damp earth is strong enough to taste. Even when a bolt of electricity illuminates the sky, it offers only a flash of the world around you. Usually, I’d watch storms alone by virtue of being the only one awake when one passed through. Sometimes though my dad would pull up a chair beside me and we’d take it all in silence for a few minutes before he chided me to get to bed. I get a sense of calm watching a storm system move over me, though being a few steps from the basement certainly helps. I know there are those who chase so-called “supercells” in hopes of spotting the truly terrifying phenomenon of tornadoes. I understand it, but that’s a little too much thrill seeking for my taste. Living in Kansas, I’ve had enough close calls with twisters to satisfy my curiosity. Another good perspective for watching a storm was from the hayfield. While we usually didn’t want any rain on the drying grasses, we also could see for miles. Sometimes that was enough to see the cumulonimbus clouds build thousands of feet in the air as the squall line developed far enough away the sun was still shining on us. Whether I’m watching a storm from near or far, I always feel incredibly small. The combination of wind and rain and lightning and thunder is the result of two air masses colliding and releasing more energy than the atomic bomb blast at Hiroshima. Despite all the havoc thunderstorms can cause, they do bring rain that helps crops grow in fields and gardens. Sometimes they provide a much-needed respite from working those fields. Other times the cool, calm day after the storm is the reward. Either way, I usually find myself looking forward to the chance to watch the next one.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauThe first good thunderstorm of the season swept through my area late Saturday night and early Sunday morning. It rolled in from the west with a brilliant light show and booming bass of thunder reverberating through our windows. It started simply enough. The air, still warm from the day, stirred. Trees began to shake in a cool breeze that grew to a howl. My daughter was home from college for the weekend, and we took in the sights and sounds from the front porch until the chilly air and sheets of rain chased us inside. I’ve never grown tired of watching storms come in, even in Kansas where they occur with regularity. The mix of beauty and the potential for destruction tap into something primal. The allure and angst are as intertwined as lightning and thunder. Some of my first memories of watching storms are in the small sunroom in my childhood home. The thick panes of glass in the south-facing room coupled with the home’s hillside elevation provided the ideal enclosure for viewing the ferocity of Mother Nature. The best storms are always at night. Darkness heightens your other senses, so you feel the ground shake from thunder or hearing the rain come in wind-blown sheets. The smell of damp earth is strong enough to taste. Even when a bolt of electricity illuminates the sky, it offers only a flash of the world around you. Usually, I’d watch storms alone by virtue of being the only one awake when one passed through. Sometimes though my dad would pull up a chair beside me and we’d take it all in silence for a few minutes before he chided me to get to bed. I get a sense of calm watching a storm system move over me, though being a few steps from the basement certainly helps. I know there are those who chase so-called “supercells” in hopes of spotting the truly terrifying phenomenon of tornadoes. I understand it, but that’s a little too much thrill seeking for my taste. Living in Kansas, I’ve had enough close calls with twisters to satisfy my curiosity. Another good perspective for watching a storm was from the hayfield. While we usually didn’t want any rain on the drying grasses, we also could see for miles. Sometimes that was enough to see the cumulonimbus clouds build thousands of feet in the air as the squall line developed far enough away the sun was still shining on us. Whether I’m watching a storm from near or far, I always feel incredibly small. The combination of wind and rain and lightning and thunder is the result of two air masses colliding and releasing more energy than the atomic bomb blast at Hiroshima. Despite all the havoc thunderstorms can cause, they do bring rain that helps crops grow in fields and gardens. Sometimes they provide a much-needed respite from working those fields. Other times the cool, calm day after the storm is the reward. Either way, I usually find myself looking forward to the chance to watch the next one."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Eyes to the stormy skies

Eagle Radio of Hays is looking for our next account executive. Job responsibilities include proposing radio and digital marketing solutions to existing clients and new business prospects, and copy writing. Sales experience preferred but not necessary. 

Benefits include health insurance, 401K, paid vacation, and employee stock ownership. 

For information go to&nbsp;<a href="http://eagleradio.net/careers">eagleradio.net/careers</a>, or call Todd Lynd at&nbsp;785-301-2211. Eagle Communications is an employee owned company and an EEO employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio of Hays is looking for our next account executive. Job responsibilities include proposing radio and digital marketing solutions to existing clients and new business prospects, and copy writing. Sales experience preferred but not necessary. Benefits include health insurance, 401K, paid vacation, and employee stock ownership. For information go to&nbsp;<a href="http://eagleradio.net/careers">eagleradio.net/careers</a>, or call Todd Lynd at&nbsp;785-301-2211. Eagle Communications is an employee owned company and an EEO employer.

Three-day weather outlook

COLBY — Kansas Board of Regents' Vice President of Workforce Development Scott Smathers is the featured speaker at the Colby Community College commencement ceremony on Friday.&nbsp;The event begins at 6 p.m. in the Colby Community Building.

Smathers provides executive leadership for the Kansas Postsecondary Technical Education Authority. In this position, he is the state leader for issues involving the postsecondary education and training system in developing an educated workforce that aligns with the needs of the Kansas economy. His scope of responsibility includes developing a policy agenda for postsecondary technical education, curriculum and program evaluation, system funding, benchmarks and accountability, management of federal initiatives, GED testing and administration, and serving as the Kansas state director for both the Carl D. Perkins and Adult Education programs.&nbsp;

Prior to his current role, Smathers worked as an economic developer and as a retail consultant, helping companies with their location and operational decisions around the world.

The commencement ceremony, and the 2 p.m. nurses pinning earlier in the day, can be viewed live on&nbsp;<a href="http://openspacessports.com/wp/live-broadcasts/" target="_blank">Open Spaces Sports</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581529246979.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Kansas Board of Regents' Vice President of Workforce Development Scott Smathers is the featured speaker at the Colby Community College commencement ceremony on Friday.&nbsp;The event begins at 6 p.m. in the Colby Community Building.Smathers provides executive leadership for the Kansas Postsecondary Technical Education Authority. In this position, he is the state leader for issues involving the postsecondary education and training system in developing an educated workforce that aligns with the needs of the Kansas economy. His scope of responsibility includes developing a policy agenda for postsecondary technical education, curriculum and program evaluation, system funding, benchmarks and accountability, management of federal initiatives, GED testing and administration, and serving as the Kansas state director for both the Carl D. Perkins and Adult Education programs.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620746447469.jpeg" alt="Scott Smathers" />
 <figcaption>Scott Smathers</figcaption>
 </figure>Prior to his current role, Smathers worked as an economic developer and as a retail consultant, helping companies with their location and operational decisions around the world.The commencement ceremony, and the 2 p.m. nurses pinning earlier in the day, can be viewed live on&nbsp;<a href="http://openspacessports.com/wp/live-broadcasts/" target="_blank">Open Spaces Sports</a>.

Regents VP to speak at Colby Community College commencement

Kansas State Department of Education

TOPEKA — Stockton Grade School, Stockton Unified School District 271, was recognized as a 2021 Kansas School of Character on Tuesday, May 11.

Recognition is given through the&nbsp;<a>Kansas Schools of Character Recognition Program&nbsp;</a>and sponsoring organizations -&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,55M0k7f32fPdGOk2HATIrkv7_9kFd7WuhVBapFlCiaxTOy4GmVkNcfgRbKLN84mHaeOmDiqawzJC89_KltC02Wt5z3Ghbijv9TfK06oqPz_BGBXD&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>, the Kansas State Department of Education and the Smoky Hill Education Service Center.

“We are so pleased to announce Stockton Grade School as a 2021 State School of Character,” said Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson. “The past two school years have been filled with many challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Stockton’s students, educators and parents worked hard and consistently practiced character development. Kansas is proud to recognize their hard work and unwavering dedication.”

Stockton Grade School is one of 76 schools and one school district across the country to be certified by&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,a0OP1HHyZEWOhBkGZgzyQICAC4AH_F6A342yPwJTfBaTLXNOcBbSFLSaRvcB45Um1Bk9qH3MhjYIKtrcigQYULrXF7ALcTnBhubYuxQiRw,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;as 2021 State Schools of Character.

The State Schools of Character award program recognizes schools and districts that have worked to enhance social, emotional and character development.&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,Y3h8KPIoaJ3bINBnARLmquX0ReQmBwKmaIZ0qfwLeqlLB37emG6EPUGVtduZzADhr7zPVRKjtozzP_nM992-gCXAE1mGHEtjkxWKDuGS0kvg&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;certifies schools and districts at the state level that demonstrate a dedicated focus on character development, which has been shown to have a positive effect on academic achievement, student behavior and school climate, according to&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">character.org</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,vwlNYifuMIEhUJ3s8EX73d2WOpF1sk33qTjdgD4SZPmnVIjyfzBARPSAgItp4T-Zzhgac265yKX19p_W8XQaINdWe1_QNyGzuDIAX2fjHbDapscXcVUzBd3jcJOS-Q,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;was founded in 1993 and is a national nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. Since its inception,&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">Character.org</a>’s Schools of Character program has impacted nearly 3 million students, staff members, parents and other community members.

Criteria for selection are based on&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">Character.org</a>’s ​11 Principles of Character, which include providing students with opportunities for moral action, fostering shared leadership and engaging families and communities as partners in the character-building effort.&nbsp;

More information on Kansas’ Social, Emotional and Character Development Standards, which the state adopted in 2012, is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.ksde.org%2fAgency%2fDivision-of-Learning-Services%2fCareer-Standards-and-Assessment-Services%2fContent-Area-M-Z%2fSchool-Counseling%2fSocial-Emotional-and-Character-Development&amp;c=E,1,un1WbpJYH5FCibVQ_R7GvF-GdSsweKWtGPIFxt0rYMP4HyteXEfmSl5xdCDp-7L_UsdiLjG8oN3HQublYComnEzEoRVP402a8-2foM_M7ycFkiq1Vw,,&amp;typo=1">http://www.ksde.org/Agency/Division-of-Learning-Services/Career-Standards-and-Assessment-Services/Content-Area-M-Z/School-Counseling/Social-Emotional-and-Character-Development</a>. The 11 Principles of Effective Character Education by&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,3-PR25jLhLoIhofPV_H9rlsJvq-HMZnYpm3EJnTJoJX7AFuPxZO4UuCiXwlDtcUbVsj3kBP4VALuYv5nGATClKiwkDuqQxuabYreY4_1mseZ0h23SXNDv-jQ6A,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.character.org&amp;c=E,1,bNqitmuQEDhLHbEJn4l6TRHnA_aPR7wdpplGmUoKhljsHs0tTi3DoXhEqGFMRF826iBA3-rBbwIX9F0eqVs-jpQRcaj7IOF7vLYcaU3wRYtWHX6F&amp;typo=1">www.character.org</a>.

One Kansas school and one Kansas school district received&nbsp;<a>Shifting School Culture Recognition</a>through the Kansas Schools of Character Recognition Program. This recognizes schools and districts that have developed and implemented a social-emotional character-development (SECD) initiative or program for at least one year and are transforming the school/district culture, as well as growing students’ SECD skills.

<a>The school and district receiving Shifting School Culture Recognition are:</a>

Eight schools and one district received Enhanced Spotlight Recognition through the Kansas Schools of Character Recognition Program. This recognizes schools and districts that are implementing new initiatives or are enhancing existing initiatives that will strengthen the SECD skills in their students and school climate.

<a>The schools and district receiving Enhanced Spotlight Recognition are:</a>

For more information about State Schools of Character or National Schools of Character, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">character.org</a>. For more information about KSDE, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.ksde.org&amp;c=E,1,LPmEbLNsOEtnqlOVW27jE0LknwZjGPss2TmJU8Ui-A2TeWZLUYd4jby642WQuYhu6aF-naLsobVZw_0CYs4yto0yN_meWZ3N3tj9KIUUFi6jM8M8xQ,,&amp;typo=1">www.ksde.org</a>. For more information about Smoky Hill Education Service Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.smokyhill.org&amp;c=E,1,tk_Dy1bkBZLUvetRJxyuKEq_xYgrYZlkilMUGVMKof9l1VMbsqPzWbC_BWbHph1bFqLYyfXfL3i7cCngkFq9AqneFGHB993K-K7-e_9o&amp;typo=1">www.smokyhill.org</a>.

Kansas State Department of EducationTOPEKA — Stockton Grade School, Stockton Unified School District 271, was recognized as a 2021 Kansas School of Character on Tuesday, May 11.Recognition is given through the&nbsp;<a>Kansas Schools of Character Recognition Program&nbsp;</a>and sponsoring organizations -&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,55M0k7f32fPdGOk2HATIrkv7_9kFd7WuhVBapFlCiaxTOy4GmVkNcfgRbKLN84mHaeOmDiqawzJC89_KltC02Wt5z3Ghbijv9TfK06oqPz_BGBXD&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>, the Kansas State Department of Education and the Smoky Hill Education Service Center.“We are so pleased to announce Stockton Grade School as a 2021 State School of Character,” said Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson. “The past two school years have been filled with many challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Stockton’s students, educators and parents worked hard and consistently practiced character development. Kansas is proud to recognize their hard work and unwavering dedication.”Stockton Grade School is one of 76 schools and one school district across the country to be certified by&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,a0OP1HHyZEWOhBkGZgzyQICAC4AH_F6A342yPwJTfBaTLXNOcBbSFLSaRvcB45Um1Bk9qH3MhjYIKtrcigQYULrXF7ALcTnBhubYuxQiRw,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;as 2021 State Schools of Character.The State Schools of Character award program recognizes schools and districts that have worked to enhance social, emotional and character development.&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,Y3h8KPIoaJ3bINBnARLmquX0ReQmBwKmaIZ0qfwLeqlLB37emG6EPUGVtduZzADhr7zPVRKjtozzP_nM992-gCXAE1mGHEtjkxWKDuGS0kvg&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;certifies schools and districts at the state level that demonstrate a dedicated focus on character development, which has been shown to have a positive effect on academic achievement, student behavior and school climate, according to&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">character.org</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,vwlNYifuMIEhUJ3s8EX73d2WOpF1sk33qTjdgD4SZPmnVIjyfzBARPSAgItp4T-Zzhgac265yKX19p_W8XQaINdWe1_QNyGzuDIAX2fjHbDapscXcVUzBd3jcJOS-Q,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;was founded in 1993 and is a national nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. Since its inception,&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">Character.org</a>’s Schools of Character program has impacted nearly 3 million students, staff members, parents and other community members.Criteria for selection are based on&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">Character.org</a>’s ​11 Principles of Character, which include providing students with opportunities for moral action, fostering shared leadership and engaging families and communities as partners in the character-building effort.&nbsp;More information on Kansas’ Social, Emotional and Character Development Standards, which the state adopted in 2012, is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.ksde.org%2fAgency%2fDivision-of-Learning-Services%2fCareer-Standards-and-Assessment-Services%2fContent-Area-M-Z%2fSchool-Counseling%2fSocial-Emotional-and-Character-Development&amp;c=E,1,un1WbpJYH5FCibVQ_R7GvF-GdSsweKWtGPIFxt0rYMP4HyteXEfmSl5xdCDp-7L_UsdiLjG8oN3HQublYComnEzEoRVP402a8-2foM_M7ycFkiq1Vw,,&amp;typo=1">http://www.ksde.org/Agency/Division-of-Learning-Services/Career-Standards-and-Assessment-Services/Content-Area-M-Z/School-Counseling/Social-Emotional-and-Character-Development</a>. The 11 Principles of Effective Character Education by&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fCharacter.org&amp;c=E,1,3-PR25jLhLoIhofPV_H9rlsJvq-HMZnYpm3EJnTJoJX7AFuPxZO4UuCiXwlDtcUbVsj3kBP4VALuYv5nGATClKiwkDuqQxuabYreY4_1mseZ0h23SXNDv-jQ6A,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Character.org</a>&nbsp;are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.character.org&amp;c=E,1,bNqitmuQEDhLHbEJn4l6TRHnA_aPR7wdpplGmUoKhljsHs0tTi3DoXhEqGFMRF826iBA3-rBbwIX9F0eqVs-jpQRcaj7IOF7vLYcaU3wRYtWHX6F&amp;typo=1">www.character.org</a>.One Kansas school and one Kansas school district received&nbsp;<a>Shifting School Culture Recognition</a>through the Kansas Schools of Character Recognition Program. This recognizes schools and districts that have developed and implemented a social-emotional character-development (SECD) initiative or program for at least one year and are transforming the school/district culture, as well as growing students’ SECD skills.<a>The school and district receiving Shifting School Culture Recognition are:</a><ul>
 <li><a>Barber County North USD 254.</a></li><li>Bickerdyke Elementary School, Russell USD 407.</li>
 </ul>Eight schools and one district received Enhanced Spotlight Recognition through the Kansas Schools of Character Recognition Program. This recognizes schools and districts that are implementing new initiatives or are enhancing existing initiatives that will strengthen the SECD skills in their students and school climate.<a>The schools and district receiving Enhanced Spotlight Recognition are:</a><ul>
 <li><a>Barber County North USD 254.</a></li><li>Bickerdyke Elementary School, Russell USD 407.</li><li>Hesston Middle School, Hesston USD 460.</li><li>Lakeside Elementary School, Waconda USD 272.</li><li>Kennedy Primary, McKinley Intermediate School and Eisenhower Elementary School, Abilene USD 435.</li><li>Meade Elementary/Junior High School, Meade USD 226.</li><li>Spring Valley Elementary School, Geary County USD 475.</li>
 </ul>For more information about State Schools of Character or National Schools of Character, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://character.org/">character.org</a>. For more information about KSDE, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.ksde.org&amp;c=E,1,LPmEbLNsOEtnqlOVW27jE0LknwZjGPss2TmJU8Ui-A2TeWZLUYd4jby642WQuYhu6aF-naLsobVZw_0CYs4yto0yN_meWZ3N3tj9KIUUFi6jM8M8xQ,,&amp;typo=1">www.ksde.org</a>. For more information about Smoky Hill Education Service Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.smokyhill.org&amp;c=E,1,tk_Dy1bkBZLUvetRJxyuKEq_xYgrYZlkilMUGVMKof9l1VMbsqPzWbC_BWbHph1bFqLYyfXfL3i7cCngkFq9AqneFGHB993K-K7-e_9o&amp;typo=1">www.smokyhill.org</a>.

Stockton Grade School named 2021 State School of Character

GRAHAM COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Tuesday in Graham County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Malibu driven by Tammy J.&nbsp;Sumpter, 47, Tipton, was eastbound on U.S. 24 one mile east of Hill City. 

The car struck a 1998 Dodge Ram pickup driven by&nbsp; Dylan&nbsp;Edwards, 17, Great Bend, who failed to yield and pulled out in from of the Chevy.&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Sumpter and&nbsp;Edwards to the hospital in Hill City. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

GRAHAM COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Tuesday in Graham County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Malibu driven by Tammy J.&nbsp;Sumpter, 47, Tipton, was eastbound on U.S. 24 one mile east of Hill City. The car struck a 1998 Dodge Ram pickup driven by&nbsp; Dylan&nbsp;Edwards, 17, Great Bend, who failed to yield and pulled out in from of the Chevy.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Sumpter and&nbsp;Edwards to the hospital in Hill City. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after 2-vehicle NW Kansas crash

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications, Scott Gross and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share details about the upcoming Business Showcase and recap their annual Golf Tournament.

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

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber preparing for next Business Showcase" 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=x6mce-103370b-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications, Scott Gross and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share details about the upcoming Business Showcase and recap their annual Golf Tournament.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber preparing for next Business Showcase

By RHONDA McCURRY <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com">Kansas Living</a>

This statement was heard across the country in small, medium and 
large meat processing plants during the COVID-19 pandemic, including at 
Heritage Meats in Leoti. The meat locker was started in 2003 by the 
Decker family. Darwin Decker is the owner and self-proclaimed 
jack-of-all-trades, his wife, Darlene, manages the finances and their 
son, Tyler, is the production manager.

In March 2020, the family meat processing business changed 
dramatically. Decker says once the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United 
States, he could not keep ground beef packages on his store shelves. 
Customers began calling nonstop to preorder beef and pork and local 
ranchers began booking processing dates for multiple animals on multiple
 days on the 2020 calendar.

“It was pure panic,” Decker says. “There was no way to keep up with 
retail demand. Ground beef flew off the shelves even though we did the 
best we could. Scheduling was through the roof.”

Heritage Meats kept processing normal numbers (12 beef and 15 pigs each week) but began scheduling farther and farther out.

Decker compared the beef and pork sales spike to that of the demand on toilet paper.

Decker says the COVID-19 panic was evident when many customers asked to preorder large amounts of ground beef.

“Why would an old lady living by herself need 100 pounds of ground 
beef?” he says. “There was also panic that big beef-packing houses 
wouldshut down. Large plants may have closed for a week or so, but the 
supply chain never totally stopped.”

During the spring of 2020, national news media reported ranchers were
 in fear of no market for their cattle and began putting down cows and 
burying them. Although there were reports of this, no large-scale 
depopulation of cattle or other livestock occurred in Kansas because of 
the pandemic.

And, to add to the chaos, Decker says when customers chose to stock 
up on beef and pork, they also realized the need for freezer space. That
 meant a run on deep freezers in stores and online. He says his meat 
customers came in asking if he knew of freezers for sale.

As a business owner, Decker says it was great to have customer demand
 for his product, but the stress of questions, rumors and overall panic 
wore on the Decker family. He says he would wake up each morning and say
 a prayer asking for grace from God to handle the stress before going to
 work.

The COVID-19 pandemic altered marketing plans for many ranchers as 
well, Decker says. One rancher called Heritage Meats and scheduled to 
bring in four head of cattle every two weeks for the next few months. 
Decker put the beef on the locker schedule with intentions to process 
them, but when demand settled down last winter, he learned the same 
local rancher was stuck with six freezers at home full of beef. Without a
 solid marketing plan to sell his beef, Decker says this rancher had to 
cancel 15 head of cattle coming to Heritage Meats for processing.

“Producers thought, ‘I have beef and I want to sell it to bigger 
cities like Wichita and Kansas City,’” Decker says. “The price of cattle
 went down in March 2020 so low that ranchers began to worry they 
wouldn’t have a place for their cattle, so they scheduled unrealistic 
plans to sell beef. The problem arose when, for example, a rancher who 
normally schedules two head for processing every six months called to 
schedule two and three times as many head.”

This issue caused a backlog in processing and any rancher who was not
 on the meat processor’s schedule was pushed out for weeks and sometimes
 even months.

Cattle and hogs become physically market ready at specific weights. 
The lack of processor availability meant some animals were harvested 
under or over weights for ideal meat flavor and palatability. As of 
March 2021, Heritage Meats doesn’t have available processing space for 
cattle or hogs until January 2022.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Heritage Meats would sell a box of 20 
individually wrapped one-pound beef bundles to a customer every so 
often. After March 2020, Decker says customers were buying multiple 
boxes at a time so his store limited customers to one box per day.

“We were selling 500 pounds of ground beef a day compared to our 
normal 80 to 100 pounds,” Decker says. “We had to tell customers, ‘We 
are here. We are not going anywhere. We just can’t produce it any 
faster. Come back and we will take care of you.’”

Most of Darlene Decker’s days were spent on the phone talking people 
down from panic and reassuring them they would have food to eat. She 
says customers needed to understand cattle and hogs were still being 
processed and beef and pork would still be sold from their hometown meat
 processor.

When the scheduling of cattle and hogs to process became panic 
driven, Decker knew he had to help control the stress level of his 
employees. Controlling emotions was a big part of the COVID-19 pandemic 
challenge for his business.

“We made it through all that,” he says. “We are back to normal now. 
At the time, we had customers coming from Colorado to buy beef and we 
processed pigs from Nebraska. Now that emotion has slowed down.”

One outcome of the pandemic, Decker says, could be that folks who 
purchased freezers will feel pressure to fill those freezers on a 
regular basis. The visual of a large, empty freezer could mean the 
demand for a quarter beef and a half hog from the middle-American family
 could continue.

Decker has expanded the focus of Heritage Meats to include delivery 
service to grocery stores and residences in southwestern Kansas. Decker 
began the delivery service by creating an email list distributed once a 
month to interested customers. Readers can look through Heritage Meats 
inventory, send in their orders and Decker will deliver to their home 
area.

The impact Heritage Meats may have had on future meat consumers is 
impossible to realize but Decker says the panic created among consumers 
for large quantities of beef and pork has showcased where meat comes 
from.

“Folks in cities relied on Kroger and King Soopers and Sam’s Club for
 their quality beef because that’s all they knew,” Decker says. “Those 
stores sell the volume but today we see customers willing to pay for, 
and wait for, quality beef grown locally. It’s always been there but now
 they know it.”

Heritage Meats has a family history in meat processing, stemming from
 Decker’s business partner whose grandfather worked in the industry. The
 business has six full-time and two part-time employees. To keep up with
 industry trends and continuing education, Heritage Meats is a member of
 the Kansas Meat Processing Association and the American Meat Processing
 Association. Decker is also active with an online chat group with 
processors from Canada to Louisiana. He says he has learned the most on 
how to handle COVID-19 pandemic demands from these memberships.

“I’ve learned a lot about curing and processing from those groups,” 
Decker says. “Nothing accounts for hands-on experience but having the 
chat group to visit with was valuable during the challenge of the past 
year. Everyone was facing stressful times in the meat processing 
business.”

The Decker family raises cattle themselves, with a small cow-calf 
operation as a side gig to owning and operating Heritage Meats. And 
despite the crazy ride of 2020, Decker says he will keep his promise to 
southwestern Kansas customers that his business is not going anywhere.

“I like the story that goes along with our business,” Decker says. 
“We see a product grow from birth to the end result. And it’s a family 
business for so many of our beef and pork customers who sell their 
animals to us.”

Decker received federal CARES Act funding and purchased new equipment
 to improve efficiency at Heritage Meats. He offers a full line of fresh
 beef and pork products including 15 kinds of sausage and a wide variety
 of ready-to-eat products including beef and pork snack sticks and 
summer sausage.

As for the future of the meat processing industry, Decker says there 
is a new sense of normal. He knows he’s filled a lot more freezers than 
before COVID-19 came to town and until those empty out, Decker doesn’t 
expect demand to slow down completely. He says when folks who’ve been 
selling beef to their friends and neighbors need a new batch, he hopes 
they call Heritage Meats.

To view Heritage Meats' inventory, go to <a href="http://www.heritage-meats.com">www.heritage-meats.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620744443598.png" alt="Kansas Living" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Living</figcaption>
 </figure>By RHONDA McCURRY <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com">Kansas Living</a>"We couldn't keep up with the demand"This statement was heard across the country in small, medium and 
large meat processing plants during the COVID-19 pandemic, including at 
Heritage Meats in Leoti. The meat locker was started in 2003 by the 
Decker family. Darwin Decker is the owner and self-proclaimed 
jack-of-all-trades, his wife, Darlene, manages the finances and their 
son, Tyler, is the production manager.In March 2020, the family meat processing business changed 
dramatically. Decker says once the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United 
States, he could not keep ground beef packages on his store shelves. 
Customers began calling nonstop to preorder beef and pork and local 
ranchers began booking processing dates for multiple animals on multiple
 days on the 2020 calendar.“It was pure panic,” Decker says. “There was no way to keep up with 
retail demand. Ground beef flew off the shelves even though we did the 
best we could. Scheduling was through the roof.”Heritage Meats kept processing normal numbers (12 beef and 15 pigs each week) but began scheduling farther and farther out.Decker compared the beef and pork sales spike to that of the demand on toilet paper.Decker says the COVID-19 panic was evident when many customers asked to preorder large amounts of ground beef.“Why would an old lady living by herself need 100 pounds of ground 
beef?” he says. “There was also panic that big beef-packing houses 
wouldshut down. Large plants may have closed for a week or so, but the 
supply chain never totally stopped.”During the spring of 2020, national news media reported ranchers were
 in fear of no market for their cattle and began putting down cows and 
burying them. Although there were reports of this, no large-scale 
depopulation of cattle or other livestock occurred in Kansas because of 
the pandemic.And, to add to the chaos, Decker says when customers chose to stock 
up on beef and pork, they also realized the need for freezer space. That
 meant a run on deep freezers in stores and online. He says his meat 
customers came in asking if he knew of freezers for sale.As a business owner, Decker says it was great to have customer demand
 for his product, but the stress of questions, rumors and overall panic 
wore on the Decker family. He says he would wake up each morning and say
 a prayer asking for grace from God to handle the stress before going to
 work.<h2>BEEF BACKLOG</h2>The COVID-19 pandemic altered marketing plans for many ranchers as 
well, Decker says. One rancher called Heritage Meats and scheduled to 
bring in four head of cattle every two weeks for the next few months. 
Decker put the beef on the locker schedule with intentions to process 
them, but when demand settled down last winter, he learned the same 
local rancher was stuck with six freezers at home full of beef. Without a
 solid marketing plan to sell his beef, Decker says this rancher had to 
cancel 15 head of cattle coming to Heritage Meats for processing.“Producers thought, ‘I have beef and I want to sell it to bigger 
cities like Wichita and Kansas City,’” Decker says. “The price of cattle
 went down in March 2020 so low that ranchers began to worry they 
wouldn’t have a place for their cattle, so they scheduled unrealistic 
plans to sell beef. The problem arose when, for example, a rancher who 
normally schedules two head for processing every six months called to 
schedule two and three times as many head.”This issue caused a backlog in processing and any rancher who was not
 on the meat processor’s schedule was pushed out for weeks and sometimes
 even months.Cattle and hogs become physically market ready at specific weights. 
The lack of processor availability meant some animals were harvested 
under or over weights for ideal meat flavor and palatability. As of 
March 2021, Heritage Meats doesn’t have available processing space for 
cattle or hogs until January 2022.<h2>FOOD PANIC</h2>Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Heritage Meats would sell a box of 20 
individually wrapped one-pound beef bundles to a customer every so 
often. After March 2020, Decker says customers were buying multiple 
boxes at a time so his store limited customers to one box per day.“We were selling 500 pounds of ground beef a day compared to our 
normal 80 to 100 pounds,” Decker says. “We had to tell customers, ‘We 
are here. We are not going anywhere. We just can’t produce it any 
faster. Come back and we will take care of you.’”Most of Darlene Decker’s days were spent on the phone talking people 
down from panic and reassuring them they would have food to eat. She 
says customers needed to understand cattle and hogs were still being 
processed and beef and pork would still be sold from their hometown meat
 processor.When the scheduling of cattle and hogs to process became panic 
driven, Decker knew he had to help control the stress level of his 
employees. Controlling emotions was a big part of the COVID-19 pandemic 
challenge for his business.“We made it through all that,” he says. “We are back to normal now. 
At the time, we had customers coming from Colorado to buy beef and we 
processed pigs from Nebraska. Now that emotion has slowed down.”One outcome of the pandemic, Decker says, could be that folks who 
purchased freezers will feel pressure to fill those freezers on a 
regular basis. The visual of a large, empty freezer could mean the 
demand for a quarter beef and a half hog from the middle-American family
 could continue.Decker has expanded the focus of Heritage Meats to include delivery 
service to grocery stores and residences in southwestern Kansas. Decker 
began the delivery service by creating an email list distributed once a 
month to interested customers. Readers can look through Heritage Meats 
inventory, send in their orders and Decker will deliver to their home 
area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620744540565.png" alt="Kansas Living" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Living</figcaption>
 </figure>The impact Heritage Meats may have had on future meat consumers is 
impossible to realize but Decker says the panic created among consumers 
for large quantities of beef and pork has showcased where meat comes 
from.“Folks in cities relied on Kroger and King Soopers and Sam’s Club for
 their quality beef because that’s all they knew,” Decker says. “Those 
stores sell the volume but today we see customers willing to pay for, 
and wait for, quality beef grown locally. It’s always been there but now
 they know it.”<h2>FAMILY BUSINESS FOR THE LONG HAUL</h2>Heritage Meats has a family history in meat processing, stemming from
 Decker’s business partner whose grandfather worked in the industry. The
 business has six full-time and two part-time employees. To keep up with
 industry trends and continuing education, Heritage Meats is a member of
 the Kansas Meat Processing Association and the American Meat Processing
 Association. Decker is also active with an online chat group with 
processors from Canada to Louisiana. He says he has learned the most on 
how to handle COVID-19 pandemic demands from these memberships.“I’ve learned a lot about curing and processing from those groups,” 
Decker says. “Nothing accounts for hands-on experience but having the 
chat group to visit with was valuable during the challenge of the past 
year. Everyone was facing stressful times in the meat processing 
business.”The Decker family raises cattle themselves, with a small cow-calf 
operation as a side gig to owning and operating Heritage Meats. And 
despite the crazy ride of 2020, Decker says he will keep his promise to 
southwestern Kansas customers that his business is not going anywhere.“I like the story that goes along with our business,” Decker says. 
“We see a product grow from birth to the end result. And it’s a family 
business for so many of our beef and pork customers who sell their 
animals to us.”Decker received federal CARES Act funding and purchased new equipment
 to improve efficiency at Heritage Meats. He offers a full line of fresh
 beef and pork products including 15 kinds of sausage and a wide variety
 of ready-to-eat products including beef and pork snack sticks and 
summer sausage.As for the future of the meat processing industry, Decker says there 
is a new sense of normal. He knows he’s filled a lot more freezers than 
before COVID-19 came to town and until those empty out, Decker doesn’t 
expect demand to slow down completely. He says when folks who’ve been 
selling beef to their friends and neighbors need a new batch, he hopes 
they call Heritage Meats.To view Heritage Meats' inventory, go to <a href="http://www.heritage-meats.com">www.heritage-meats.com</a>.

Western Kansas meat locker battles through pandemic

Youth ages 1 through 18 will be eligible for free drive-through meals again this summer.

Jessica Younker, Hays USD 489 director of nutrition services, said the school district has been cleared to continue its popular drive-through program.

"It was really successful last year," Younker said, "and we had a lot of families who were thankful they could just pick it up and go instead of having to stay on site to eat."

Meals can be picked up between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays on the east side of the Hays High School parking lot.&nbsp;

The meals will start June 1 and go through July 29. There will be no service July 5 because of the Fourth of July holiday.

A child does not have to be enrolled in USD 489 to participate in the food program, and there are no income requirements to participate in the program.&nbsp;

Children need to be in the vehicle when picking up food. If that is not possible, you can contact USD 489 nutrition services to obtain a waiver for that requirement.

Children will be provided with a hot lunch and cold breakfast for the following morning. On Thursdays, they also will be provided with a second cold breakfast and lunch for Friday.

You can find menus at <a href="http://usd489nutritionservices.com">usd489nutritionservices.com</a>.

Younker said she was unsure how many families to expect. The program will initially base food service on numbers from last summer and then adjust according. Last summer, the program served 300 to 400 children daily.

"All children in the community are welcome to join us for our free drive-through meals, and we are excited to serve the kids this summer," Younker said.&nbsp;

The United States Department of Agriculture<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3b4f108-78ac-49a7-bfb8-2f91ba67f475">&nbsp;is also funding free school breakfasts and lunches nationwide for all students for the 2021-22 school year.</a> Younker said food insecurity for children continues to be an issue across the nation due to economic hardship as a result of the pandemic.

She said it is difficult to determine how the pandemic affected food insecurity among Hays children within the last year, because meals were also free for the 2020-21 school year.

She said some families may have not applied for free or reduced-price lunch status because free meals were provided for all students.

"There is definitely food insecurity in Hays," Younker said. "There are definitely kids whose only meals come from school. That is why we are excited to provide meals for all kids through the summer and next school year."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593032722887.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., helps Hays volunteers hand out free meals to children as part of the 2020 summer meal program. USD 489 will offer free drive-through meals for children again this summer. File photo" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., helps Hays volunteers hand out free meals to children as part of the 2020 summer meal program. USD 489 will offer free drive-through meals for children again this summer. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostYouth ages 1 through 18 will be eligible for free drive-through meals again this summer.Jessica Younker, Hays USD 489 director of nutrition services, said the school district has been cleared to continue its popular drive-through program."It was really successful last year," Younker said, "and we had a lot of families who were thankful they could just pick it up and go instead of having to stay on site to eat."Meals can be picked up between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays on the east side of the Hays High School parking lot.&nbsp;The meals will start June 1 and go through July 29. There will be no service July 5 because of the Fourth of July holiday.A child does not have to be enrolled in USD 489 to participate in the food program, and there are no income requirements to participate in the program.&nbsp;Children need to be in the vehicle when picking up food. If that is not possible, you can contact USD 489 nutrition services to obtain a waiver for that requirement.Children will be provided with a hot lunch and cold breakfast for the following morning. On Thursdays, they also will be provided with a second cold breakfast and lunch for Friday.You can find menus at <a href="http://usd489nutritionservices.com">usd489nutritionservices.com</a>.Younker said she was unsure how many families to expect. The program will initially base food service on numbers from last summer and then adjust according. Last summer, the program served 300 to 400 children daily."All children in the community are welcome to join us for our free drive-through meals, and we are excited to serve the kids this summer," Younker said.&nbsp;The United States Department of Agriculture<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3b4f108-78ac-49a7-bfb8-2f91ba67f475">&nbsp;is also funding free school breakfasts and lunches nationwide for all students for the 2021-22 school year.</a> Younker said food insecurity for children continues to be an issue across the nation due to economic hardship as a result of the pandemic.She said it is difficult to determine how the pandemic affected food insecurity among Hays children within the last year, because meals were also free for the 2020-21 school year.She said some families may have not applied for free or reduced-price lunch status because free meals were provided for all students."There is definitely food insecurity in Hays," Younker said. "There are definitely kids whose only meals come from school. That is why we are excited to provide meals for all kids through the summer and next school year."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620670938599.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

USD 489 offering free drive-through meals for kids again this summer

The first five winners of the Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation scholarships to attend Fort Hays State University have been announced.

The inaugural class of Schmidt Foundation Scholars is comprised of Edwin Garcia-Arreola, Lakin; Bianca Bultman, Elkhart; Makenna Bartholomew, Gypsum; Julina Wall, Ingalls; and German Hernandez, Leoti. Those incoming freshmen will receive full-ride, $14,900 scholarships for the 2021-22 school year.

Those students’ counselors, teachers, coaches, or principals made arrangements with the FHSU Foundation last week for a surprise announcement with the students via Zoom.

Preference for these scholarships are given to first-generation students from Kansas planning to&nbsp;major in healthcare, education, business, entrepreneurship, arts, or communication programs.&nbsp;

The Schmidt Foundation scholarship includes 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, room and board. Recipients can renew their scholarships for up to three additional years by maintaining their academic standing and continuing to meet the scholarship requirements.&nbsp;

The selection committee made its selections based on&nbsp;demonstrations of strong academic ability, resilience, and the leadership skills necessary to make significant contributions to the university, the community of Hays, and the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

“We hoped to find students who would value the mentoring opportunities included in the Schmidt Foundation Scholars program and would make the most of the future networking connections that will come,” said Jessica Albin, case manager for FHSU’s Kelly Center and chair of the selection committee. “Bianca, Edwin, German, Julina, and Makenna are exactly the type of students we hoped to connect with through this process and we fully believe they will find great success at FHSU.”&nbsp;

More information about the scholarship can be&nbsp;found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtPUrLTjW28lVttfnSUy1OFGxuXcVV9j-2BZ9sLwzdIs5qwgVs8_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIempwxMwTgoIjKsD2YEn3DZ7kGrIm-2FjET2c78u6HYl7NKwEX1l4qsi-2FrF9Kr3Kll3Lp3VJrmDLUOhVVFJlQqRTL8pEH1JeMJXVlcPkBIaYK-2B6O6QRHH3F8XpK1eNifl6cF2x-2BM68lwbFG4Wx-2BY0yJXF11cjIQ-2FGof2H0L2WI5gCiRN3HFA7RrLQmU6WRVL63N-2BCv8wv8KdkKgRhEHe9w9MOkgo7jlmnZPGwu7M8pxOge8R7QASAfazfCHbnXA5IcEbl">https://fhsu.edu/schmidtfoundation</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620655057488.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe first five winners of the Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation scholarships to attend Fort Hays State University have been announced.The inaugural class of Schmidt Foundation Scholars is comprised of Edwin Garcia-Arreola, Lakin; Bianca Bultman, Elkhart; Makenna Bartholomew, Gypsum; Julina Wall, Ingalls; and German Hernandez, Leoti. Those incoming freshmen will receive full-ride, $14,900 scholarships for the 2021-22 school year.Those students’ counselors, teachers, coaches, or principals made arrangements with the FHSU Foundation last week for a surprise announcement with the students via Zoom.Preference for these scholarships are given to first-generation students from Kansas planning to&nbsp;major in healthcare, education, business, entrepreneurship, arts, or communication programs.&nbsp;The Schmidt Foundation scholarship includes 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, room and board. Recipients can renew their scholarships for up to three additional years by maintaining their academic standing and continuing to meet the scholarship requirements.&nbsp;The selection committee made its selections based on&nbsp;demonstrations of strong academic ability, resilience, and the leadership skills necessary to make significant contributions to the university, the community of Hays, and the state of Kansas.&nbsp;“We hoped to find students who would value the mentoring opportunities included in the Schmidt Foundation Scholars program and would make the most of the future networking connections that will come,” said Jessica Albin, case manager for FHSU’s Kelly Center and chair of the selection committee. “Bianca, Edwin, German, Julina, and Makenna are exactly the type of students we hoped to connect with through this process and we fully believe they will find great success at FHSU.”&nbsp;More information about the scholarship can be&nbsp;found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtPUrLTjW28lVttfnSUy1OFGxuXcVV9j-2BZ9sLwzdIs5qwgVs8_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIempwxMwTgoIjKsD2YEn3DZ7kGrIm-2FjET2c78u6HYl7NKwEX1l4qsi-2FrF9Kr3Kll3Lp3VJrmDLUOhVVFJlQqRTL8pEH1JeMJXVlcPkBIaYK-2B6O6QRHH3F8XpK1eNifl6cF2x-2BM68lwbFG4Wx-2BY0yJXF11cjIQ-2FGof2H0L2WI5gCiRN3HFA7RrLQmU6WRVL63N-2BCv8wv8KdkKgRhEHe9w9MOkgo7jlmnZPGwu7M8pxOge8R7QASAfazfCHbnXA5IcEbl">https://fhsu.edu/schmidtfoundation</a>.

Fort Hays State announces first class of Schmidt Foundation Scholars

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly is encouraging qualifying Kansas residents to apply for the Federal Communications Commission’s Emergency Broadband Program to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. 

Vyve Communications and Nex-Tech, with offices in Hays, are participants in the program which opens on May 12.

“We know broadband is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for Kansans and our communities to participate in the digital economy,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I strongly encourage every Kansas family eligible to take advantage of the opportunity and apply for the Emergency Broadband Program.” &nbsp;

The Emergency Broadband Program provides a discount of up to $50 monthly towards internet service for eligible households, and up to $75 monthly for eligible households on tribal lands. In addition, all eligible households will qualify for a one-time discount of up to $100 on a computer, laptop, or tablet after a $10-$50 contribution toward the purchase price.

“This program is important to address broadband affordability issues and drive progress on digital equity in Kansas,”&nbsp;Stan Adams, director of the Office of Broadband, said.&nbsp;“Given the criticality of broadband for so many Kansans and the increasing digital divide, we as a community need to do more to remove barriers to robust broadband utilization. We are grateful for Governor Kelly’s leadership to ensure as many eligible Kansans as possible take advantage of the program.”

A household is eligible for the Emergency Broadband Program if one of its members:

“The pandemic has demonstrated just how critical it is for every Kansas student to have access to affordable and reliable internet connection,”&nbsp;Dr. Randy Watson, commissioner of the Kansas State Department of Education, said. “We are grateful to the Governor for launching the Emergency Broadband Program to ensure equity in education is maintained.”

All eligible Kansans are encouraged to take part in the Emergency Broadband Program. You can learn more about the program&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.MaHQ_URLN9Ce3jAqSMfVGiJDGqLa3BfYT46Rugc5JU4/s/1303135927/br/106141635336-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606345559018.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly is encouraging qualifying Kansas residents to apply for the Federal Communications Commission’s Emergency Broadband Program to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. Vyve Communications and Nex-Tech, with offices in Hays, are participants in the program which opens on May 12.“We know broadband is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for Kansans and our communities to participate in the digital economy,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I strongly encourage every Kansas family eligible to take advantage of the opportunity and apply for the Emergency Broadband Program.” &nbsp;The Emergency Broadband Program provides a discount of up to $50 monthly towards internet service for eligible households, and up to $75 monthly for eligible households on tribal lands. In addition, all eligible households will qualify for a one-time discount of up to $100 on a computer, laptop, or tablet after a $10-$50 contribution toward the purchase price.“This program is important to address broadband affordability issues and drive progress on digital equity in Kansas,”&nbsp;Stan Adams, director of the Office of Broadband, said.&nbsp;“Given the criticality of broadband for so many Kansans and the increasing digital divide, we as a community need to do more to remove barriers to robust broadband utilization. We are grateful for Governor Kelly’s leadership to ensure as many eligible Kansans as possible take advantage of the program.”A household is eligible for the Emergency Broadband Program if one of its members:<ul>
 <li>Qualifies for the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.MMQZ8BUgwA1uaLzVp8NiJ-V__X0i1sVR0X7lavdqpmE/s/1303135927/br/106141635336-l" target="_blank">Lifeline</a>&nbsp;program;</li><li>Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, or did so in the 2019-2020 school year;</li><li>Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;</li><li>Experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers; or</li><li>Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating providers' existing low-income or COVID-19 program.</li>
 </ul>“The pandemic has demonstrated just how critical it is for every Kansas student to have access to affordable and reliable internet connection,”&nbsp;Dr. Randy Watson, commissioner of the Kansas State Department of Education, said. “We are grateful to the Governor for launching the Emergency Broadband Program to ensure equity in education is maintained.”All eligible Kansans are encouraged to take part in the Emergency Broadband Program. You can learn more about the program&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.MaHQ_URLN9Ce3jAqSMfVGiJDGqLa3BfYT46Rugc5JU4/s/1303135927/br/106141635336-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Vyve, Nex-Tech participating in aid program for pandemic internet service 

&nbsp;The Hays Public Library Summer Challenge is almost here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620426785206.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPL&nbsp;The Hays Public Library Summer Challenge is almost here. This year’s theme of Tails and Tales will explore literature and animals with a variety of in-person and virtual activities and events. The challenge will run from May 24 to July 31.The library will use the online program Beanstack to track summer reading for children and teens. Through Beanstack, families register participants and use the program to log their reading progress. Staff will assist with sign-up and logging for those without computer access. Challenges have been created for each age group, early literacy, elementary, and young adult.For children and teens, the Summer Challenge is an exciting way to improve literacy during the summer months.&nbsp;Numerous studies show that kids who don't read during&nbsp;summer&nbsp;vacation, actually slip in reading ability by the time school begins in the fall.The kids will receive a journal and gel pen when they register. A prize will be given to each child who completes their challenge by the end of the event on July 31. Those who complete the challenge also will put their name in a drawing for the grand prize of their choice.Adults participate in the Summer Challenge by completing activities on a bookmark that can be picked up at the library, beginning May 24. They will receive a water bottle when they sign up. As in the past, there will be ten challenges. Adults will have until July 31 to complete all the challenges and submit an entry into the end of the summer prize drawing.&nbsp;For more information about the Summer Challenge and to sign up on Beanstack, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/srp21" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org/srp21</a>&nbsp;or call 785-625-9014.