As Ellis County governments work to finalize next year's budget, Grow Hays is seeking a different way to fund the organization they believe will positively impact economic development in the county.

“It’s that time of year — all of the
local governments are going through their budget process,” said Grow Hays
Executive Director Doug Williams.

“This year, we have a different spin on
it.”

Currently, he said they receive about half of their funding from private the public
sector and the rest from Ellis County, along with the cities of Hays, Ellis and Victoria.

But he argued if Hays wants to fully
benefit from economic development efforts — the way other western Kansas
towns have — more funding is needed.

“Our budget is about half of what comparable
communities are that have done a good job of economic development,” he said. “We
have not had the level of investment to do some of the things that we would
like to do over a long sustained period of time.”

So this year, Williams said the approach to funding requests has changed.

He has proposed each taxing agency implement
a one-half mill levy specifically for economic development.

“We felt that that would get us to a
budget level that would be comparable to other communities our size, but also
more importantly, fund the plans that we have,” Williams said.

But even if the mill is not the chosen
method of funding, the important part of the proposal, Williams said, is
increasing the financial support for economic development.

“We like the idea, we believe it’s a
sustainable way to do it, but we are just asking them for additional investment
that we think will get the taxing entities a good return,” Williams said.

Using Ford and Finney counties as
examples, he said budgets for economic development are around $500,000 and
that investment has led to growing local economies.

Grow Hays’ budget is approximately half
of that amount.

With that money, the group can employ more
staff and overall can accomplish more development, he said.

“They can get a lot more done, and they
have,” Williams said. 

While many in Ellis County may note the
desires of the local population are different than those counties, the return
on investment, dollars could potentially create a strong economy and tax base, which will help Ellis County continue to be a regional economic hub.

Using their natural resources and with
their investment into development, other counties have brought in industry and created jobs.

“It’s a great lesson in using the
resources you have and leveraging those into growth,” Williams said. 

He said local resources are
different, but just as valuable, pointing to the Interstate highway that runs by
Hays carrying 15,000 to 20,000 cars a day, Fort Hays State University, NCK
Technical College and Hays Medical Center.

“These are resources that we can
leverage,” Williams said. “And we need to do that and take the lessons from
these other communities.”

If given an increase by local
governments, he said that money would be used in a variety of ways, but
increasing staff who could be used to identify and source economic development
opportunities would be the most costly.

“We want to add a couple of people,”
Williams said. “We want to add somebody that is completely focused on
recruitment and retention of business to our community — whether it be retail or
otherwise. We want to expand our programming offerings in the area of entrepreneurship
and do more programs and get more people involved.”

He said that would help delve into areas
of development that are currently untapped.

“We are coming out of this pandemic, we
are in a competitive world, we have lots and lots of urban migrators leaving
metropolitan areas, we think we have a great story to tell,” Willams said.

“Hays is a great community, but we need
to get to those people and make sure they understand what we do have to offer.
We just can’t do that if we are short-staffed. We don’t want to miss that opportunity.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624648976000.jpeg" alt="Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams presents his budget request to the Ellis City Council." />
 <figcaption>Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams presents his budget request to the Ellis City Council.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Grow Hays seeking additional funding from area governments" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; overflow: scroll; -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch; min-width: 100%; *width: 100%; width: 1px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=aimtf-10732e4-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs Ellis County governments work to finalize next year's budget, Grow Hays is seeking a different way to fund the organization they believe will positively impact economic development in the county.“It’s that time of year — all of the
local governments are going through their budget process,” said Grow Hays
Executive Director Doug Williams.“This year, we have a different spin on
it.”Currently, he said they receive about half of their funding from private the public
sector and the rest from Ellis County, along with the cities of Hays, Ellis and Victoria.But he argued if Hays wants to fully
benefit from economic development efforts — the way other western Kansas
towns have — more funding is needed.“Our budget is about half of what comparable
communities are that have done a good job of economic development,” he said. “We
have not had the level of investment to do some of the things that we would
like to do over a long sustained period of time.”So this year, Williams said the approach to funding requests has changed.He has proposed each taxing agency implement
a one-half mill levy specifically for economic development.“We felt that that would get us to a
budget level that would be comparable to other communities our size, but also
more importantly, fund the plans that we have,” Williams said.But even if the mill is not the chosen
method of funding, the important part of the proposal, Williams said, is
increasing the financial support for economic development.“We like the idea, we believe it’s a
sustainable way to do it, but we are just asking them for additional investment
that we think will get the taxing entities a good return,” Williams said.Using Ford and Finney counties as
examples, he said budgets for economic development are around $500,000 and
that investment has led to growing local economies.Grow Hays’ budget is approximately half
of that amount.With that money, the group can employ more
staff and overall can accomplish more development, he said.“They can get a lot more done, and they
have,” Williams said. While many in Ellis County may note the
desires of the local population are different than those counties, the return
on investment, dollars could potentially create a strong economy and tax base, which will help Ellis County continue to be a regional economic hub.Using their natural resources and with
their investment into development, other counties have brought in industry and created jobs.“It’s a great lesson in using the
resources you have and leveraging those into growth,” Williams said. He said local resources are
different, but just as valuable, pointing to the Interstate highway that runs by
Hays carrying 15,000 to 20,000 cars a day, Fort Hays State University, NCK
Technical College and Hays Medical Center.“These are resources that we can
leverage,” Williams said. “And we need to do that and take the lessons from
these other communities.”If given an increase by local
governments, he said that money would be used in a variety of ways, but
increasing staff who could be used to identify and source economic development
opportunities would be the most costly.“We want to add a couple of people,”
Williams said. “We want to add somebody that is completely focused on
recruitment and retention of business to our community — whether it be retail or
otherwise. We want to expand our programming offerings in the area of entrepreneurship
and do more programs and get more people involved.”He said that would help delve into areas
of development that are currently untapped.“We are coming out of this pandemic, we
are in a competitive world, we have lots and lots of urban migrators leaving
metropolitan areas, we think we have a great story to tell,” Willams said.“Hays is a great community, but we need
to get to those people and make sure they understand what we do have to offer.
We just can’t do that if we are short-staffed. We don’t want to miss that opportunity.”

🎙 Grow Hays pitching Ellis Co. governments for increased funding

PHILLIPS COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3p.m. Saturday in Phillips County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Honda ATV driven by Terry Lynn Gitchel, 64, Phillipsburg, was northbound in a pasture&nbsp; at 550 East 700 Road&nbsp; attempting to go up a steep incline. 

The ATV was unable to make the incline and flipped over backwards. Gitchel was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

PHILLIPS COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3p.m. Saturday in Phillips County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Honda ATV driven by Terry Lynn Gitchel, 64, Phillipsburg, was northbound in a pasture&nbsp; at 550 East 700 Road&nbsp; attempting to go up a steep incline. The ATV was unable to make the incline and flipped over backwards. Gitchel was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Phillipsburg man dies after ATV flips on steep incline

&nbsp;It is almost time to redistrict Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;This means using 2020 Census data to create new districts for the Kansas House, Kansas Senate, and U.S. Congress.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ten years ago, the process was a mess.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, no reforms were put in place afterwards.&nbsp;&nbsp;The detailed Census data will be ready later this year--but will lawmakers be ready?

In 2012, Kansas won the dubious distinction of being the last state in the U.S. to complete its Congressional districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite having only four to draw, the Kansas Legislature could not agree on a map, forcing the federal courts to intervene and draw the districts themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;By contrast, California’s nonpartisan citizens commissions had already completed their first set of districts drawn under a new system championed by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger--53 U.S. House Districts, plus the ones for both houses of the state General Assembly.

What was the problem here?&nbsp;&nbsp;First, Kansas has an archaic system in which the state legislature draws the maps with no oversight except the Governor’s veto.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only do they draw the Congressional districts, they also draw the ones for the statehouse itself--a classic “fox guarding the chicken house” scenario.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas’ Legislature is only in session for about four months per year (January-April) meaning that this will require either a special session or doing it at the last minute.&nbsp;&nbsp;By early 2022, many other states will have already finalized their districts.

Many states do this better.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Iowa, a bipartisan commission draws the districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;The commission has an equal number of Democrats and Republicans, they cannot look at political data, and they cannot split counties on the Congressional map. Also, the state legislature cannot redraw their maps.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Missouri, the General Assembly redraws Congressional districts, but a balanced, bipartisan commission redraws the ones for the General Assembly itself.&nbsp;&nbsp;As in Iowa, that commission has an equal number of appointments from Democrats and Republicans.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Missouri, ties are broken by a three-judge panel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Missouri also has its veto session in October, which makes this a good time to schedule a special session at about the same time to begin the redistricting process.&nbsp;&nbsp;By contrast, Kansas’ veto session is immediately after the regular session and is popularly referred to as the “wrap up session” instead.

In 2012, Kansas legislators deadlocked because they were worried about moving Manhattan from the 2nd to the “Big First” district.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lawmakers did not want firebrand Congressman Tim Huelskamp responsible for federal funding to the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) project, which brought substantial money and jobs into Manhattan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Manhattan got moved anyway, but by the Courts, not the Legislature.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hueslkamp and former 2nd District Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins are no longer in office, but the Court-drawn districts remain.

With no reforms to the redistricting process, Kansas may face another mess.&nbsp;&nbsp;To be fair, legislative committees will of course have hearings around the state and review many drafts, but the maps may still end up getting finalized at the last minute, on the floors of the house and senate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, partisan Republican influencers from out of state may force Kansas Republicans to ram through Congressional maps splitting up the state in weird ways, particularly Johnson County.&nbsp;&nbsp;This would be an attempt to remove Democratic Congresswoman Sharice Davids from office.&nbsp;&nbsp;Democrats gerrymander too, but that does not make it right.

Voters need to hold Kansas politicians accountable during this next round of redistricting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only that, the process itself needs to be reformed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579108824567.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;It is almost time to redistrict Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;This means using 2020 Census data to create new districts for the Kansas House, Kansas Senate, and U.S. Congress.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ten years ago, the process was a mess.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, no reforms were put in place afterwards.&nbsp;&nbsp;The detailed Census data will be ready later this year--but will lawmakers be ready?In 2012, Kansas won the dubious distinction of being the last state in the U.S. to complete its Congressional districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite having only four to draw, the Kansas Legislature could not agree on a map, forcing the federal courts to intervene and draw the districts themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;By contrast, California’s nonpartisan citizens commissions had already completed their first set of districts drawn under a new system championed by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger--53 U.S. House Districts, plus the ones for both houses of the state General Assembly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>What was the problem here?&nbsp;&nbsp;First, Kansas has an archaic system in which the state legislature draws the maps with no oversight except the Governor’s veto.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only do they draw the Congressional districts, they also draw the ones for the statehouse itself--a classic “fox guarding the chicken house” scenario.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas’ Legislature is only in session for about four months per year (January-April) meaning that this will require either a special session or doing it at the last minute.&nbsp;&nbsp;By early 2022, many other states will have already finalized their districts.Many states do this better.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Iowa, a bipartisan commission draws the districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;The commission has an equal number of Democrats and Republicans, they cannot look at political data, and they cannot split counties on the Congressional map. Also, the state legislature cannot redraw their maps.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Missouri, the General Assembly redraws Congressional districts, but a balanced, bipartisan commission redraws the ones for the General Assembly itself.&nbsp;&nbsp;As in Iowa, that commission has an equal number of appointments from Democrats and Republicans.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Missouri, ties are broken by a three-judge panel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Missouri also has its veto session in October, which makes this a good time to schedule a special session at about the same time to begin the redistricting process.&nbsp;&nbsp;By contrast, Kansas’ veto session is immediately after the regular session and is popularly referred to as the “wrap up session” instead.In 2012, Kansas legislators deadlocked because they were worried about moving Manhattan from the 2nd to the “Big First” district.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lawmakers did not want firebrand Congressman Tim Huelskamp responsible for federal funding to the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) project, which brought substantial money and jobs into Manhattan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Manhattan got moved anyway, but by the Courts, not the Legislature.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hueslkamp and former 2nd District Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins are no longer in office, but the Court-drawn districts remain.With no reforms to the redistricting process, Kansas may face another mess.&nbsp;&nbsp;To be fair, legislative committees will of course have hearings around the state and review many drafts, but the maps may still end up getting finalized at the last minute, on the floors of the house and senate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, partisan Republican influencers from out of state may force Kansas Republicans to ram through Congressional maps splitting up the state in weird ways, particularly Johnson County.&nbsp;&nbsp;This would be an attempt to remove Democratic Congresswoman Sharice Davids from office.&nbsp;&nbsp;Democrats gerrymander too, but that does not make it right.Voters need to hold Kansas politicians accountable during this next round of redistricting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only that, the process itself needs to be reformed.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Time to reform redistricting process

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas Alpha chapter of Phi Beta Kappa academic honor society recently initiated 153 new members in a joint ceremony for 2020 and 2021.

David Slusky, president of KU’s Phi Beta Kappa chapter and associate professor of economics, presided at the virtual ceremony in May. The national secretary and CEO of Phi Beta Kappa, Frederick Lawrence, was a guest speaker. Jennifer Harrison, vice president of the chapter and director of the Business Leadership Program and the Jack Dicus Business Honors Program; Dietrich Earnhart, professor of economics and chapter historian, and Anne Wallen, secretary-treasurer and director of the Office of Fellowships, welcomed and congratulated the new initiates. Students received certificates and signed the register by appointment to allow for social distancing.

Sarah Crawford-Parker, director of the University Honors Program, was inducted as an honorary member of the chapter and gave an address on the value of the liberal arts and sciences.

Sam Steuart, a 2020 graduate and 2019 inductee, and Laura Phillips, a 2021 graduate and 2020 inductee, gave the student responses on the Phi Beta Kappa value of friendship.

Election to Phi Beta Kappa recognizes a student’s high academic achievement while pursuing a broad and substantive liberal arts curriculum. To be eligible for consideration for membership, students must be graduating seniors with a minimum grade-point average of 3.65 on a 4.0 scale, or be juniors with a minimum 3.9. Anonymous transcripts of candidates are reviewed holistically by a committee of Phi Beta Kappa faculty and staff members. For 2020, 47 seniors and 20 juniors were initiated. For 2021, 58 seniors and 28 juniors were initiated.

Elected members from Kansas are listed below. There may be multiple initiates from your coverage area. A complete list of new members&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/2021/06/23/ku-chapter-phi-beta-kappa-announces-2020-2021-initiates">is available online</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606950387926.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — The University of Kansas Alpha chapter of Phi Beta Kappa academic honor society recently initiated 153 new members in a joint ceremony for 2020 and 2021.David Slusky, president of KU’s Phi Beta Kappa chapter and associate professor of economics, presided at the virtual ceremony in May. The national secretary and CEO of Phi Beta Kappa, Frederick Lawrence, was a guest speaker. Jennifer Harrison, vice president of the chapter and director of the Business Leadership Program and the Jack Dicus Business Honors Program; Dietrich Earnhart, professor of economics and chapter historian, and Anne Wallen, secretary-treasurer and director of the Office of Fellowships, welcomed and congratulated the new initiates. Students received certificates and signed the register by appointment to allow for social distancing.Sarah Crawford-Parker, director of the University Honors Program, was inducted as an honorary member of the chapter and gave an address on the value of the liberal arts and sciences.Sam Steuart, a 2020 graduate and 2019 inductee, and Laura Phillips, a 2021 graduate and 2020 inductee, gave the student responses on the Phi Beta Kappa value of friendship.Election to Phi Beta Kappa recognizes a student’s high academic achievement while pursuing a broad and substantive liberal arts curriculum. To be eligible for consideration for membership, students must be graduating seniors with a minimum grade-point average of 3.65 on a 4.0 scale, or be juniors with a minimum 3.9. Anonymous transcripts of candidates are reviewed holistically by a committee of Phi Beta Kappa faculty and staff members. For 2020, 47 seniors and 20 juniors were initiated. For 2021, 58 seniors and 28 juniors were initiated.Elected members from Kansas are listed below. There may be multiple initiates from your coverage area. A complete list of new members&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/2021/06/23/ku-chapter-phi-beta-kappa-announces-2020-2021-initiates">is available online</a>.Seniors 2021:<ul>
 <li>Karla Arana Vasquez, Pittsburg</li><li>Ilexa Axelrod, Overland Park</li><li>Taelyr Blehm, Russell</li><li>Jessica Blom, Lenexa</li><li>Rebecca Brodine, Overland Park</li><li>Abigail Byrd, Olathe</li><li>Nyla Chaudhry, Lawrence</li><li>Emily Curl, Ulysses</li><li>Uma Desai, Overland Park</li><li>Ashley Devore, Ulysses</li><li>Emily Doffing, Wichita (67209)</li><li>Arianna Fallahian, Overland Park</li><li>Zach Fesen, Hutchinson</li><li>Gabriela Guerrero, Lawrence</li><li>Grace Hermes, Bucyrus</li><li>Cheyenne Hillman, Wichita (67209)</li><li>Faith Hofaker, Logan</li><li>Noah Johnson, Humboldt</li><li>Catherine Johnston, Overland Park</li><li>Daegan Kingery, Overland Park</li><li>Hayley Koontz, Benton</li><li>Ye Joo Lee, Halstead</li><li>Sarra Ann Mahoney, Meriden</li><li>Laura Malagon-Palacios, Garden City</li><li>Natalie Martens, Shawnee</li><li>Naomi Mendoza, Olathe</li><li>Jen Meysing, Canton</li><li>Sarah Milgrim, Prairie Village</li><li>Mary Mylar, Salina</li><li>Kara Neely, Olathe</li><li>Amu Nuney, Overland Park</li><li>Abbie Pfannes, Louisburg</li><li>Katherine Price, Lawrence</li><li>Shimon Rosenblum, Lawrence</li><li>Hunter Schneider, Pittsburg</li><li>Sierra Sparbanie, Manhattan</li><li>Wil Ullmann, Wichita (67230)</li><li>Jaden Wilcoxson, Clay Center</li><li>Annabelle Wilder, Overland Park</li>
 </ul>Juniors 2021<ul>
 <li>Diego Acosta, Kansas City</li><li>Halle Arnold, Leawood</li><li>Emily Binkley, Overland Park</li><li>Neelie Browne, Olathe</li><li>Christina Carrington, Topeka</li><li>Ava Cormaney, Lawrence</li><li>Marilyn Curtis, Olathe</li><li>Emma Fornelli, Emporia</li><li>Savannah Glaves, Easton</li><li>Rachel Hall, Lenexa</li><li>Michaela Harding, Olathe</li><li>Natalie Lamb, Lenexa</li><li>Hannah Nuest, Hutchinson</li><li>Fernanda Reyes, Wichita (67230)</li><li>Evan Schrader, Overland Park</li><li>Leah Stein, Dodge City</li><li>Erin Sturd, Overland Park</li><li>Chloe VanBecelaere, Pittsburg</li>
 </ul>Seniors 2020:<ul>
 <li>Azeez Baig, Leawood</li><li>Saif Bajwa, Overland Park</li><li>Elsa Bernauer, Leawood</li><li>Nolan Brey, Fairview</li><li>Tyler Cargill, Wichita (67220)</li><li>Grace Claman, Salina</li><li>Haley Cooper, Wichita (67205)</li><li>Alix Fisk, Topeka</li><li>Olivia Hansen, McPherson</li><li>Odalis Hernandez, Emporia</li><li>Maria Teresa Herrera, Overland Park</li><li>Katherine Hughes, McPherson</li><li>Henry Kircher, Prairie Village</li><li>Rylie Koester, Hoisington</li><li>Mackenzie Lawrence, Overland Park</li><li>Ally Lowden, Wichita (67206)</li><li>Audrey Meacham, Shawnee</li><li>Kate O'Keefe, Prairie Village</li><li>Paola Ramírez Peña, Wichita (67219)</li><li>Maranda Scheller, Emporia</li><li>Mikayla Schmitz, Olathe</li><li>Katherine Schroeder, Larned</li><li>Gwendolyn Sibley, Garnett</li><li>Emily Simmons, Spring Hill</li><li>Shelby Stauch, Lawrence</li><li>Christa Stenzel, Shawnee</li><li>Chelsea Stitt, Ottawa</li><li>Jennifer Straub, Bucyrus</li><li>Catalina Wedman, Harper</li><li>Emily Weiss, Baldwin City</li><li>Max Woodbury, Topeka</li>
 </ul>Juniors 2020:<ul>
 <li>Raegan Billinger, Hays</li><li>Saron Demeke, Shawnee</li><li>Amelia Dunlap, Lawrence</li><li>Ross Fitzpatrick, Overland Park</li><li>Alissa Gilmer, Lenexa</li><li>Arman Hadjian, Overland Park</li><li>Andrew Hartnett, Fairway</li><li>Aroog Khaliq, Overland Park</li><li>Sarah Knisely, Overland Park</li><li>Liam Magathan, Meriden</li><li>Eleanor Matheis, Lawrence</li><li>Laura Phillips, Perry</li><li>Elaine Pope, Overland Park</li><li>Molly Reed, Lawrence</li><li>Ryan Sieben, Overland Park.</li>
 </ul>

NW Kansas students among Phi Beta Kappa inductees at KU

After many years of service to the Political Science and Sociology departments, online advisor and mentor, Micki Armstrong, has retired. Faculty, staff, and students from both departments gathered at Gella’s Diner and Brewing Co. in Hays to eat, share memories, and celebrate Armstrong’s accomplishments at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Armstrong joined Fort Hays State University in 1998, and as of this year, has spent 23 years with the university teaching, mentoring, and advising students. She has worked meticulously to guide students through Fort Hays State online degree programs and has ensured that students graduate in a timely fashion.&nbsp; Students have praised Armstrong’s expertise and her ability to put them at ease as they work through the advising process. Faculty, staff, and students will certainly miss her go-to advice and understanding of FHSU programs. &nbsp;

In addition to her work with the University, Armstrong has also long contributed to the Hays community through her counseling, mediation and corrections work.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624462374662.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAfter many years of service to the Political Science and Sociology departments, online advisor and mentor, Micki Armstrong, has retired. Faculty, staff, and students from both departments gathered at Gella’s Diner and Brewing Co. in Hays to eat, share memories, and celebrate Armstrong’s accomplishments at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Armstrong joined Fort Hays State University in 1998, and as of this year, has spent 23 years with the university teaching, mentoring, and advising students. She has worked meticulously to guide students through Fort Hays State online degree programs and has ensured that students graduate in a timely fashion.&nbsp; Students have praised Armstrong’s expertise and her ability to put them at ease as they work through the advising process. Faculty, staff, and students will certainly miss her go-to advice and understanding of FHSU programs. &nbsp;In addition to her work with the University, Armstrong has also long contributed to the Hays community through her counseling, mediation and corrections work.&nbsp;

FHSU political science, sociology departments honor longtime mentor

Three-day weather outlook

RUSSELL COUNTY —Five people were injured in an accident just after midnight Saturday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Chevy Tahoe driven by Kyle R. Stephens, 60, Parker, Colorado, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Wilson, Lucas exit.

The SUV rear-ended a 2016 Nissan&nbsp; Pathfinder driven by Noble R. Haskell, 16, Centennial, Colorado.

EMS transported Stephens and a passenger in the Pathfinder Dylan C. Harmon, 17, Centennial, Colorado, to Hays Medical Center.&nbsp; There were two others in the Pathfinder identified as Marco F. Canas Munoz, 18 and Daniel A. Bechle, 17, both of Aurora, Colorado. 

Canas Munoz was transported to Salina Regional Medical Center. Bechele was transported Russell Regional Hospital. The passengers in the Pathfinder were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY —Five people were injured in an accident just after midnight Saturday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Chevy Tahoe driven by Kyle R. Stephens, 60, Parker, Colorado, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Wilson, Lucas exit.The SUV rear-ended a 2016 Nissan&nbsp; Pathfinder driven by Noble R. Haskell, 16, Centennial, Colorado.EMS transported Haskell to Via Christie.EMS transported Stephens and a passenger in the Pathfinder Dylan C. Harmon, 17, Centennial, Colorado, to Hays Medical Center.&nbsp; There were two others in the Pathfinder identified as Marco F. Canas Munoz, 18 and Daniel A. Bechle, 17, both of Aurora, Colorado. Canas Munoz was transported to Salina Regional Medical Center. Bechele was transported Russell Regional Hospital. The passengers in the Pathfinder were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

5 hospitalized after I-70 rear-end crash

	When Jim Leyritz played for the Hays Larks, he said the local summer-collegiate team was lucky to have about 20 fans in the stands.

	Leyritz, who played in the major leagues for 11 years before retiring after the 2000 season, marveled at what he saw at last weekend’s celebration of the Larks’ 75th anniversary season, with about 1,000 fans in attendance. He attributed the dramatic increase in interest in the Larks program through the years to longtime manager Frank Leo.

	“It’s amazing what Frank has been able to build here,” said Leyritz, 57, one of about 60 former Larks who came back for the anniversary. “He has given his whole heart and soul to this town, to this team. It’s enjoyable to come back here and watch, and realize you were part of starting something.”

	Back in 1985, Leyritz and his teammate at Kentucky, Hays outfielder Rusty Schueler, both expected to be selected in the major league draft. After neither player was picked, they decided to play that summer for the Larks.

	Leyritz wanted a chance to catch while in Hays, and he had a big showing at the NBC tournament to catch the eye of scouts from both the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals. The Royals went on to win the World Series that year, and Leyritz’s father thought he would have a better chance to make the majors with the Yankees. The Yankees also promised to pay for Leyritz’s education, which sold his mother. Leyritz chose the Yankees, receiving a signing bonus of $8,000.

	In his one summer in a Larks uniform, Leyritz batted .416 with 13 homers and 66 RBI. He added 21 doubles, 46 runs scored and had a .471 on-base percentage. Leyritz will be remembered by Yankee fans for a pair of postseason home runs. In Game 2 of the 1995 American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners, he hit a walk-off homer in the 15th inning. In the 1996 World Series against the Atlanta Braves, Leyritz belted a three-run homer in the eighth to tie the game, and the Yankees won in 10 innings. The Yankees went on to win the World Series.

	Leyritz, who owns two World Series rings with the Yankees, said his ability to come up with clutch hits goes all the way back to a lesson he learned when he was a 14-year-old bat boy in spring training for the Cincinnati Reds. He asked Pete Rose how he was such a good hitter in pressure situations. Leyritz remembered Rose saying that he treated each at-bat the same, whether it was in spring training or Game 7 of the World Series, so he never got caught up in the moment.

	“That advice really stuck with me,” Leyritz said.

	Inspiration of another sort helped Leyritz after a 2007 fatal car crash. Leyritz was involved in a car accident in which the driver in the other car died. Leyritz was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and vehicular homicide. When the case went to trial in 2010, Leyritz was found guilty on the misdemeanor DUI charge but was acquitted on the DUI manslaughter charge.

	Leyritz said a book written by pastor Rick Warren, “The Purpose Driven Life,” helped him get through those tough times. Leyritz also met his future second wife, Michelle, at that time, who went to Warren’s church.

	“Pastor Rick Warren did a prayer over me after I told him everything I was going through,” Leyritz said, adding after his legal troubles were over he was able to move on with his life. He married Michelle and moved to California.

	Leyritz these days also spends time in New York, where he is an ambassador at Yankees home games. He signs autographs and greets corporate sponsors. Leyritz also started a podcast this spring, “Catching Heat,” which focuses on athletes’ redemption stories and on athletes who found success in other areas after their playing days.

	But last weekend for Leyritz, it was reliving the days of summer 36 years ago.

	“Great memories here,” Leyritz said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624632913759.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted	When Jim Leyritz played for the Hays Larks, he said the local summer-collegiate team was lucky to have about 20 fans in the stands.	Leyritz, who played in the major leagues for 11 years before retiring after the 2000 season, marveled at what he saw at last weekend’s celebration of the Larks’ 75th anniversary season, with about 1,000 fans in attendance. He attributed the dramatic increase in interest in the Larks program through the years to longtime manager Frank Leo.	“It’s amazing what Frank has been able to build here,” said Leyritz, 57, one of about 60 former Larks who came back for the anniversary. “He has given his whole heart and soul to this town, to this team. It’s enjoyable to come back here and watch, and realize you were part of starting something.”	Back in 1985, Leyritz and his teammate at Kentucky, Hays outfielder Rusty Schueler, both expected to be selected in the major league draft. After neither player was picked, they decided to play that summer for the Larks.	Leyritz wanted a chance to catch while in Hays, and he had a big showing at the NBC tournament to catch the eye of scouts from both the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals. The Royals went on to win the World Series that year, and Leyritz’s father thought he would have a better chance to make the majors with the Yankees. The Yankees also promised to pay for Leyritz’s education, which sold his mother. Leyritz chose the Yankees, receiving a signing bonus of $8,000.	In his one summer in a Larks uniform, Leyritz batted .416 with 13 homers and 66 RBI. He added 21 doubles, 46 runs scored and had a .471 on-base percentage. Leyritz will be remembered by Yankee fans for a pair of postseason home runs. In Game 2 of the 1995 American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners, he hit a walk-off homer in the 15th inning. In the 1996 World Series against the Atlanta Braves, Leyritz belted a three-run homer in the eighth to tie the game, and the Yankees won in 10 innings. The Yankees went on to win the World Series.	Leyritz, who owns two World Series rings with the Yankees, said his ability to come up with clutch hits goes all the way back to a lesson he learned when he was a 14-year-old bat boy in spring training for the Cincinnati Reds. He asked Pete Rose how he was such a good hitter in pressure situations. Leyritz remembered Rose saying that he treated each at-bat the same, whether it was in spring training or Game 7 of the World Series, so he never got caught up in the moment.	“That advice really stuck with me,” Leyritz said.	Inspiration of another sort helped Leyritz after a 2007 fatal car crash. Leyritz was involved in a car accident in which the driver in the other car died. Leyritz was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and vehicular homicide. When the case went to trial in 2010, Leyritz was found guilty on the misdemeanor DUI charge but was acquitted on the DUI manslaughter charge.	Leyritz said a book written by pastor Rick Warren, “The Purpose Driven Life,” helped him get through those tough times. Leyritz also met his future second wife, Michelle, at that time, who went to Warren’s church.	“Pastor Rick Warren did a prayer over me after I told him everything I was going through,” Leyritz said, adding after his legal troubles were over he was able to move on with his life. He married Michelle and moved to California.	Leyritz these days also spends time in New York, where he is an ambassador at Yankees home games. He signs autographs and greets corporate sponsors. Leyritz also started a podcast this spring, “Catching Heat,” which focuses on athletes’ redemption stories and on athletes who found success in other areas after their playing days.	But last weekend for Leyritz, it was reliving the days of summer 36 years ago.	“Great memories here,” Leyritz said.

LARKS MEMORIES: Leyritz returns to Larks Park

As construction progresses on the reconstruction of 27th Street from Hall to Fort in Hays, the construction zone will advance eastward. 

&nbsp;On Tuesday, 27th Street will be opened from the Hall Street intersection to the entrance into Dillons and closed through the intersection of Canal Blvd. to just west of Elm Street.&nbsp;

As such, 27th Street traffic will be detoured using Elm Street and 29th Street or Walnut and 17th Street. &nbsp;Those two detour options are shown on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=4035" target="_blank">above map</a>&nbsp;in blue and yellow respectively.

The reconstruction of 27th Street from Hall to Fort will progress steadily from west to east through the remainder of the year.

All this information and more can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/778/27th-St-Project" target="_blank">project webpage at haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or by contacting the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624632815623.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysAs construction progresses on the reconstruction of 27th Street from Hall to Fort in Hays, the construction zone will advance eastward. &nbsp;On Tuesday, 27th Street will be opened from the Hall Street intersection to the entrance into Dillons and closed through the intersection of Canal Blvd. to just west of Elm Street.&nbsp;As such, 27th Street traffic will be detoured using Elm Street and 29th Street or Walnut and 17th Street. &nbsp;Those two detour options are shown on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=4035" target="_blank">above map</a>&nbsp;in blue and yellow respectively.The reconstruction of 27th Street from Hall to Fort will progress steadily from west to east through the remainder of the year.All this information and more can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/778/27th-St-Project" target="_blank">project webpage at haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or by contacting the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350. &nbsp;&nbsp;

27th Street reconstruction zone moves eastward

Water in your garden can be for more than just plants. From birds to butterflies, and for things in between, bird baths can help bring a diverse range of life to your yard.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Zw30FECv2kg"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Water in your garden can be for more than just plants. From birds to butterflies, and for things in between, bird baths can help bring a diverse range of life to your yard.

🎥 Green & Growing 2021: Bird baths

NORTON — Norton County Community Foundation has announced the participating organizations in its fourth annual Norton County MatchDay. 

MatchDay 2021 will be held on July 21 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Heaton Building in Norton.&nbsp;

This year’s match pool will be $70,000 and is generously provided by Norton County Community Foundation and the Jim and Lida Sharp Family. 

A complete set of match rules/guidelines can be found on NCCF’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021</a>.&nbsp;

Organizations with an endowed fund at NCCF will receive a 2:1 match. Participating funds include:

Organizations without an endowed fund at NCCF will receive a 1:1 match. Participating groups and their respective projects are listed below:&nbsp;

“We’re really looking forward to this year’s MatchDay,” said Tara Vance, executive director of Norton County Community Foundation. “This will be the largest group of participants we’ve ever had, so we’re excited to see how the community responds to such a diverse set of funds and projects to support. We also want to thank the Sharp family for their generous commitment to this program and their desire to see our community’s nonprofits succeed in their respective missions.”

Donors can make in-person donations at the Heaton Building between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on July 21. Online donations will be accepted via NCCF’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021</a>&nbsp;between 12:00 a.m. to 11:59:59 p.m. on July 21.

For more information, contact Tara Vance at 785-874-5106 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org" target="_blank">tara@nortonccf.org</a>.&nbsp;

About Norton County Community Foundation The Norton County Community Foundation was established in 1994 for the purpose of supporting local charitable activities in Norton County through endowments made to the foundation. Dedicated to serving today for tomorrow, to make our community a better place in which to live. Connect with the Norton County Community Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624440063597.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedNORTON — Norton County Community Foundation has announced the participating organizations in its fourth annual Norton County MatchDay. MatchDay 2021 will be held on July 21 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Heaton Building in Norton.&nbsp;This year’s match pool will be $70,000 and is generously provided by Norton County Community Foundation and the Jim and Lida Sharp Family. A complete set of match rules/guidelines can be found on NCCF’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021</a>.&nbsp;Organizations with an endowed fund at NCCF will receive a 2:1 match. Participating funds include:<ul>
 <li>NCHS Alumni Association</li><li>Norton Area Child Care Association</li><li>Norton County Community Foundation Operating Endowment</li><li>Norton County Community Services Association</li><li>Norton County Endowment for the Arts</li><li>Norton County Health Department</li><li>Norton PRIDE</li><li>Norton Rotary Club</li><li>Norton Theatre Association</li>
 </ul>Organizations without an endowed fund at NCCF will receive a 1:1 match. Participating groups and their respective projects are listed below:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Norton Public Library,&nbsp;Art Club Fund</li><li>Norton Flower Fund,&nbsp;Beautification of Public Areas</li><li>Norton County Genealogical Society,&nbsp;Purchase of View Scanner</li><li>First Church of God – Celebrate Recovery,&nbsp;Outreach Expansion</li><li>Norton Regional Health Foundation,&nbsp;New Patient Beds for NCH</li><li>Valley Hope Foundation,&nbsp;Norton Extended Treatment &amp; Sober Housing Project</li><li>Star Spangled Stitchers,&nbsp;Quilts of Valor</li><li>Norton Booster Club,&nbsp;Vinyl Banner Hardware</li><li>Moms 4 Kids,&nbsp;Summer Backpack Food Program</li><li>Thrift Shop,&nbsp;New Building Fund</li><li>Rock Christian Youth Center,&nbsp;Re-Launch The Rock</li>
 </ul>“We’re really looking forward to this year’s MatchDay,” said Tara Vance, executive director of Norton County Community Foundation. “This will be the largest group of participants we’ve ever had, so we’re excited to see how the community responds to such a diverse set of funds and projects to support. We also want to thank the Sharp family for their generous commitment to this program and their desire to see our community’s nonprofits succeed in their respective missions.” Donors can make in-person donations at the Heaton Building between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on July 21. Online donations will be accepted via NCCF’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org/matchday2021</a>&nbsp;between 12:00 a.m. to 11:59:59 p.m. on July 21.For more information, contact Tara Vance at 785-874-5106 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org" target="_blank">tara@nortonccf.org</a>.&nbsp;About Norton County Community Foundation The Norton County Community Foundation was established in 1994 for the purpose of supporting local charitable activities in Norton County through endowments made to the foundation. Dedicated to serving today for tomorrow, to make our community a better place in which to live. Connect with the Norton County Community Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org</a>.

Norton Co. foundation announces MatchDay 2021 participants

SMITH CENTER — A Beloit roofer has been temporarily banned from performing roofing services in Kansas and ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution after being found in violation of consumer protection laws, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Friday in a news release.

Quincy Justus, of Beloit, who does business as JAQ’s Ultimate Service, was ordered to repay a Smith County consumer $5,000. He was also temporarily enjoined from operating as a roofing contractor in Kansas until such time he has obtained a roofing contractor registration certificate from the attorney general as required by law. Smith County District Judge Preston A. Pratt yesterday entered default judgment after Justus failed to respond to a lawsuit filed in May in Smith County District Court. Justus was also ordered to pay a $90,000 civil penalty.

Schmidt had alleged that Justus accepted payment from a consumer for roofing services but failed to perform any work despite having a signed agreement. The defendant also allegedly failed to register as a roofing contractor with the attorney general’s office as required by law. The allegations constitute violations of the Kansas Roofing Registration Act (KRRA) and Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA). A copy of the judgment is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ag.ks.gov/roofer-enforcement">www.ag.ks.gov/roofer-enforcement</a>.

Schmidt reminded consumers to make sure roofing contractors are properly registered before signing any contract or having any work done. Consumers should request a copy of their roofer’s registration certificate and then should check the attorney general’s consumer protection website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;to confirm that the roofer’s registration is in good standing.

SMITH CENTER — A Beloit roofer has been temporarily banned from performing roofing services in Kansas and ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution after being found in violation of consumer protection laws, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Friday in a news release.Quincy Justus, of Beloit, who does business as JAQ’s Ultimate Service, was ordered to repay a Smith County consumer $5,000. He was also temporarily enjoined from operating as a roofing contractor in Kansas until such time he has obtained a roofing contractor registration certificate from the attorney general as required by law. Smith County District Judge Preston A. Pratt yesterday entered default judgment after Justus failed to respond to a lawsuit filed in May in Smith County District Court. Justus was also ordered to pay a $90,000 civil penalty.Schmidt had alleged that Justus accepted payment from a consumer for roofing services but failed to perform any work despite having a signed agreement. The defendant also allegedly failed to register as a roofing contractor with the attorney general’s office as required by law. The allegations constitute violations of the Kansas Roofing Registration Act (KRRA) and Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA). A copy of the judgment is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ag.ks.gov/roofer-enforcement">www.ag.ks.gov/roofer-enforcement</a>.Schmidt reminded consumers to make sure roofing contractors are properly registered before signing any contract or having any work done. Consumers should request a copy of their roofer’s registration certificate and then should check the attorney general’s consumer protection website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;to confirm that the roofer’s registration is in good standing.Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Smith Co. resident will be reimbursed; roofer temporarily banned

UPDATE 3:30 p.m. Friday: The Hays Police Department has reported Hoffman has been located.

The Hays Police Department is asking for assistance in locating Joshua Hoffman, suspect in an aggravated battery. He was last seen in a 2007 Toyota Sequoia, gold in color, missing the rear bumper. (Vehicle displayed is a stock photo.) 

If seen, contact the Hays Police Department at 785-625-1011.

Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysPD">HERE</a> for more.

UPDATE 3:30 p.m. Friday: The Hays Police Department has reported Hoffman has been located.HPDThe Hays Police Department is asking for assistance in locating Joshua Hoffman, suspect in an aggravated battery. He was last seen in a 2007 Toyota Sequoia, gold in color, missing the rear bumper. (Vehicle displayed is a stock photo.) If seen, contact the Hays Police Department at 785-625-1011.Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysPD">HERE</a> for more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624574427065.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

UPDATE: Hays PD reports aggravated battery suspect located

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported no new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday — with just one new case reported since June 16.

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

As of Friday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported there were no COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,760 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624642727027.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported no new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday — with just one new case reported since June 16.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported there were no COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,760 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Last new virus case reported in Ellis Co. was June 16

Hays Post and Eagle Radio of Hays are looking for people who would be interested in joining our sports crew in 2021-22 to cover the local high school football and basketball sports seasons. This is our ninth season we have live streamed the Hays High and Thomas More Prep-Marian football and basketball seasons. We also cover other high school sports throughout the year.

If you have experience running a camera or running production, we want to hear from you. Training is available, and crew members are responsible for the safe care of the equipment.

If you are interested in joining our team or for more information, email Eagle Production Director Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschaeffer@eagleradio.net">jschaeffer@eagleradio.net</a>&nbsp;or call (785) 301-2211.

Candidates must have a familiarity of the sports we cover, have an eye for good composition, and good problem-solving skills. There will be some heavy lifting involved. There is travel that comes with the position and you would be traveling with a small crew. 

During football season, work is typically once a week on Fridays. During basketball season, games are typically Tuesdays and Fridays, in addition to tournaments.

We are accepting applications immediately and would like to have crews set up and trained at least two weeks prior to season start in September. Please bring a resume and, if possible, a link to video of previous work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post and Eagle Radio of Hays are looking for people who would be interested in joining our sports crew in 2021-22 to cover the local high school football and basketball sports seasons. This is our ninth season we have live streamed the Hays High and Thomas More Prep-Marian football and basketball seasons. We also cover other high school sports throughout the year.If you have experience running a camera or running production, we want to hear from you. Training is available, and crew members are responsible for the safe care of the equipment.If you are interested in joining our team or for more information, email Eagle Production Director Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschaeffer@eagleradio.net">jschaeffer@eagleradio.net</a>&nbsp;or call (785) 301-2211.Candidates must have a familiarity of the sports we cover, have an eye for good composition, and good problem-solving skills. There will be some heavy lifting involved. There is travel that comes with the position and you would be traveling with a small crew. During football season, work is typically once a week on Fridays. During basketball season, games are typically Tuesdays and Fridays, in addition to tournaments.We are accepting applications immediately and would like to have crews set up and trained at least two weeks prior to season start in September. Please bring a resume and, if possible, a link to video of previous work.If you are interested in joining our team or for more information, email Eagle Production Director Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschaeffer@eagleradio.net">jschaeffer@eagleradio.net</a>&nbsp;or call (785) 301-2211.

Eagle seeking video crew members for high school sports season

Gov. Laura Kelly has sent a letter to the U.S. Small Business Administration requesting SBA Disaster Loan Assistance for Osborne County as a result of flooding that occurred in the county May 15 and 16.

During that time, local rainfall totals of 8.5 inches over a short period caused flooding that affected much of the rural community of Natoma and surrounding areas. Residents were forced to evacuate in advance of and through rising flood waters on May 16.

“Flooding can be devastating to any Kansas community because of its widespread nature,” Kelly said. “This Disaster Loan Assistance will help these Kansans restore the damage the flooding caused and get back on their feet.”

The SBA provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters. If the request is granted, homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations, and businesses of all sizes will be eligible to apply for physical disaster assistance. These loans cover disaster losses not fully covered by insurance or other sources. Proceeds from insurance coverage on home or property may be deducted from the eligible loan amount.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584386106306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorGov. Laura Kelly has sent a letter to the U.S. Small Business Administration requesting SBA Disaster Loan Assistance for Osborne County as a result of flooding that occurred in the county May 15 and 16.During that time, local rainfall totals of 8.5 inches over a short period caused flooding that affected much of the rural community of Natoma and surrounding areas. Residents were forced to evacuate in advance of and through rising flood waters on May 16.“Flooding can be devastating to any Kansas community because of its widespread nature,” Kelly said. “This Disaster Loan Assistance will help these Kansans restore the damage the flooding caused and get back on their feet.”The SBA provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters. If the request is granted, homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations, and businesses of all sizes will be eligible to apply for physical disaster assistance. These loans cover disaster losses not fully covered by insurance or other sources. Proceeds from insurance coverage on home or property may be deducted from the eligible loan amount.

Kelly requests disaster loan assistance for Osborne Co. floods

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) section was added to the city of Hays' economic development policy in 2013.&nbsp;

City commissioners have been talking for more than a year about&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f62d158a-871c-418d-8b07-545f5344bd6a">changes to the RHID to encourage more development</a>, especially as the housing shortage in Hays has <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ba8e9249-7537-49ea-bfc0-f16cfc942dc1">worsened</a>.

Originally intended for&nbsp;higher density, income qualified and low-income housing, city commissioners &nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2a5a257d7daa72b30eba32">modified the policy in 2020</a>&nbsp;to allow not-for-profit developers&nbsp;to utilize RHIDs for single-family homes.

To date, the sole RHID in Hays is located near the intersection of&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66af44cc-f075-4270-88d1-65f0c09e5070">Wheatland and 22nd</a>, spearheaded by Heart of America Development Corporation, a non-profit&nbsp; investment consortium in Ellis County.&nbsp; &nbsp;The 75-lot development will be built in three phases with homes&nbsp;ranging in price from $175,000 to $225,000.

An RHID captures the incremental increase in real property taxes created by a housing development project for up to 25 years, allowing the developer to recoup the cost of infrastructure development. 

The city of Hays and Ellis County forgo 100% of their property tax increments  during the 25-year term of the RHID. The Hays school district, USD 489, forgoes all but the state-issued 20 mills.

Earlier this year the Kansas legislature approved a bill expanding RHIDs to allow&nbsp;renovations on the second floor or higher of buildings located in central business areas in any city or county in Kansas with a population smaller than 60,000.

The buildings must be at least 25 years old and the renovations must be for residential housing.

After several in-depth discussions this spring, the commission voted 4-1 Thursday night to approve modifications to the RHID. Ron Mellick, who has voiced concerns about the changes throughout the discussions, voted no.

At the May 6 work session, the consensus was to "remove most of the restrictions, over and above state statutes," Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser reminded the commission Thursday.

"The only exception is developer reimbursement is required underneath this policy. Bond financing would not be allowed."

On May 20, there was discussion to make a "minor revision that would allow the commission to vary from the policy. So that was strengthened," Bielser added.

Last week commissioners agreed the time between housing assessment studies, which have been done by the Fort Hays State University Docking Institute, should be lengthened to three years. It previously had been two years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As we all know, we need more housing," said Commissioner Shaun Musil. "My goal is maybe we'll build even more. We don't know, but I think it's a good option to have out there."

"Certainly an opportunity if somebody is interested," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor.

"I'm excited to see what happens," added Mason Ruder, vice-mayor.

* Approved a change to the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) 457 plan for city employees from&nbsp;MassMutual (which was recently bought out by Empower). According to Erin Giebler, human resources director, there are 47 city employees currently participating in the retirement plan. There is no additional cost to the city.

* Adopted the updated Ellis County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan presented by Hays Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. There is no cost to the city. The plan identifies the natural disasters associated with the county and&nbsp;suggests actions that can be taken to address hazards based on probability and&nbsp;vulnerability.

* Approved a low bid award to Moran Brothers, LaCrosse, of $617,000 for construction of street, water, stormwater, and sanitary sewer improvements to the development of 22 lots in King's Gate Second Addition off 41st Street in northwest Hays.

* Approved rezoning 32 acres of land at 5809 230th Avenue owned by Hess Land from agriculture to heavy industrial district. Although outside city limits, the area is within the three mile Extra-Terrestrial Jurisdiction (ETJ).

* Heard a recent progress report of city departments activity from Bielser.

* Heard about upcoming July events in Hays from Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors executive director, who noted the new Avid Hotel Hays, an IHG hotel, opened last week at&nbsp;206 W. 43rd Street, north of Interstate 70.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624590794940.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners voted 4-1 Thursday to ease restrictions in the RHID section of the&nbsp; city's economic development policy in hopes of&nbsp; encouraging developers to build more housing." />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners voted 4-1 Thursday to ease restrictions in the RHID section of the&nbsp; city's economic development policy in hopes of&nbsp; encouraging developers to build more housing.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) section was added to the city of Hays' economic development policy in 2013.&nbsp;It's been utilized just once.City commissioners have been talking for more than a year about&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f62d158a-871c-418d-8b07-545f5344bd6a">changes to the RHID to encourage more development</a>, especially as the housing shortage in Hays has <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ba8e9249-7537-49ea-bfc0-f16cfc942dc1">worsened</a>.Originally intended for&nbsp;higher density, income qualified and low-income housing, city commissioners &nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2a5a257d7daa72b30eba32">modified the policy in 2020</a>&nbsp;to allow not-for-profit developers&nbsp;to utilize RHIDs for single-family homes.To date, the sole RHID in Hays is located near the intersection of&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66af44cc-f075-4270-88d1-65f0c09e5070">Wheatland and 22nd</a>, spearheaded by Heart of America Development Corporation, a non-profit&nbsp; investment consortium in Ellis County.&nbsp; &nbsp;The 75-lot development will be built in three phases with homes&nbsp;ranging in price from $175,000 to $225,000.An RHID captures the incremental increase in real property taxes created by a housing development project for up to 25 years, allowing the developer to recoup the cost of infrastructure development. The city of Hays and Ellis County forgo 100% of their property tax increments during the 25-year term of the RHID. The Hays school district, USD 489, forgoes all but the state-issued 20 mills.Earlier this year the Kansas legislature approved a bill expanding RHIDs to allow&nbsp;renovations on the second floor or higher of buildings located in central business areas in any city or county in Kansas with a population smaller than 60,000.The buildings must be at least 25 years old and the renovations must be for residential housing.After several in-depth discussions this spring, the commission voted 4-1 Thursday night to approve modifications to the RHID. Ron Mellick, who has voiced concerns about the changes throughout the discussions, voted no.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aDh50UvaL5U"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>At the May 6 work session, the consensus was to "remove most of the restrictions, over and above state statutes," Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser reminded the commission Thursday."The only exception is developer reimbursement is required underneath this policy. Bond financing would not be allowed."On May 20, there was discussion to make a "minor revision that would allow the commission to vary from the policy. So that was strengthened," Bielser added.Last week commissioners agreed the time between housing assessment studies, which have been done by the Fort Hays State University Docking Institute, should be lengthened to three years. It previously had been two years.&nbsp;&nbsp;"As we all know, we need more housing," said Commissioner Shaun Musil. "My goal is maybe we'll build even more. We don't know, but I think it's a good option to have out there.""Certainly an opportunity if somebody is interested," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor."I'm excited to see what happens," added Mason Ruder, vice-mayor.In other business, commissioners:* Approved a change to the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) 457 plan for city employees from&nbsp;MassMutual (which was recently bought out by Empower). According to Erin Giebler, human resources director, there are 47 city employees currently participating in the retirement plan. There is no additional cost to the city.* Adopted the updated Ellis County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan presented by Hays Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. There is no cost to the city. The plan identifies the natural disasters associated with the county and&nbsp;suggests actions that can be taken to address hazards based on probability and&nbsp;vulnerability.* Approved a low bid award to Moran Brothers, LaCrosse, of $617,000 for construction of street, water, stormwater, and sanitary sewer improvements to the development of 22 lots in King's Gate Second Addition off 41st Street in northwest Hays.* Approved rezoning 32 acres of land at 5809 230th Avenue owned by Hess Land from agriculture to heavy industrial district. Although outside city limits, the area is within the three mile Extra-Terrestrial Jurisdiction (ETJ).* Heard a recent progress report of city departments activity from Bielser.* Heard about upcoming July events in Hays from Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors executive director, who noted the new Avid Hotel Hays, an IHG hotel, opened last week at&nbsp;206 W. 43rd Street, north of Interstate 70.

🎥 City commission approves changes to relax RHID rules in eco devo policy

Summer camp season for youth is back at Fort Hays State University. After all youth camps were canceled a year ago because of the pandemic, youth from near and far are gathering on campus this summer to participate in a myriad of activities.

On weekdays during June and July, youth can be seen making their way across campus, on their way to participate in some sort of camp, ranging from science to athletics, from math to music.

Those interested in math or science have the opportunity to enroll in programs such as robotics or engineering, through the Science and Mathematics Institute (SMEI) or the Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS).

The SMEI is holding “come-on-back” activities from 9 to 10:30 a.m. this week outside Forsyth Library. For more information on those activities, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIbWkKLWq-2BAH9EOMnpKiWtF21cgruX7hnOpjSWWak0MV5y6K_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemO-2BMP9k2PSJHnyBUwP5fvDJ9TErW68qohQzsY35BPmX8V4KtvtgekoS0HaF9wgXi6y5Z3XwRUAe7CvMkWuXrhf2nnJuhdNEUGgsQa7XNt3HD0dTuewFWtLoFaxHW1p0XXTPszgrFhwkUFOHHREAbbvwsXlh21qi-2F90ExzItsETeQwBgn041I5rXxdl-2FrV2czpFxvmcOM3sCbb5M2DLAG-2F-2FUKj2Z1tImZIuiYWgojgUAztUr9gnJLDed-2F2BDPlQBsVq-2BbkhAaU5p4fzuFioY2ygw-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>&nbsp;and click on the “free summer activities” link.

Sports camps have ranged from football at Lewis Field Stadium on the east side of campus to basketball, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling on the west.

Mark Johnson, head coach of the FHSU men’s basketball team, noticed an extra spark of enthusiasm in many campers who attended the Tiger basketball camp earlier this month.

“You could tell kids were excited, glad to get back to the things they are used to doing during the summer, and their parents were excited for them,” Johnson said.&nbsp;

The “so-good-to-be-back” feeling was a personal one for Johnson, who said he had been attending some kind of sports camp since he was in third grade.

“Last year was the first time I hadn’t participated in or coached at a camp for longer than I can remember,” said Johnson, who will enter his 21st year coaching at FHSU this fall. “It felt so good to be back, and I think the kids felt the same way.”

Next month, musically inclined students will converge on campus, toting instruments from building to building at the week-long 74th annual High Plains Music Camp.

Although not classified as a camp, the Hispanic College Institute will bring about 50 students to campus for several days in July. The HCI is a three-day residential program that prepares high school students to enter and succeed in higher education.

All the while, new on-campus first-year and transfer students are participating in Summer Orientation sessions throughout June and July.

“It’s invigorating to look out my window and see the campus alive this summer,” said Lisa Karlin, career advisor for Career Services. Her office is in Sheridan Hall and faces the campus quad.

“The other day, I saw a group of students participating in a fun activity on the quad during Summer Orientation,” Karlin added. “I can’t wait to welcome our new and returning students this fall.”

Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC), which Fort Hays State manages in cooperation with the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism, also has summer programs available. KWEC, which overlooks Cheyenne Bottoms, is the largest inland marsh south of the United States located northeast of Great Bend.

Most of the traditional camps at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History are being conducted virtually as last year, with plans to return to the full-scale, in-person model next year. However, after the success of last year’s virtual camps, David Levering, Sternberg camps director, said he is considering offering camps both online and in-person next year.

“Last year, virtual was the only option for camps,” he said. “We learned some things that only came about because of COVID-19. In the future, what we learned during the pandemic is going to be really beneficial in our camp offerings. We are going to take advantage of gaining something positive out of it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624545067303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsSummer camp season for youth is back at Fort Hays State University. After all youth camps were canceled a year ago because of the pandemic, youth from near and far are gathering on campus this summer to participate in a myriad of activities.On weekdays during June and July, youth can be seen making their way across campus, on their way to participate in some sort of camp, ranging from science to athletics, from math to music.Those interested in math or science have the opportunity to enroll in programs such as robotics or engineering, through the Science and Mathematics Institute (SMEI) or the Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS).The SMEI is holding “come-on-back” activities from 9 to 10:30 a.m. this week outside Forsyth Library. For more information on those activities, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIbWkKLWq-2BAH9EOMnpKiWtF21cgruX7hnOpjSWWak0MV5y6K_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemO-2BMP9k2PSJHnyBUwP5fvDJ9TErW68qohQzsY35BPmX8V4KtvtgekoS0HaF9wgXi6y5Z3XwRUAe7CvMkWuXrhf2nnJuhdNEUGgsQa7XNt3HD0dTuewFWtLoFaxHW1p0XXTPszgrFhwkUFOHHREAbbvwsXlh21qi-2F90ExzItsETeQwBgn041I5rXxdl-2FrV2czpFxvmcOM3sCbb5M2DLAG-2F-2FUKj2Z1tImZIuiYWgojgUAztUr9gnJLDed-2F2BDPlQBsVq-2BbkhAaU5p4fzuFioY2ygw-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>&nbsp;and click on the “free summer activities” link.Sports camps have ranged from football at Lewis Field Stadium on the east side of campus to basketball, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling on the west.Mark Johnson, head coach of the FHSU men’s basketball team, noticed an extra spark of enthusiasm in many campers who attended the Tiger basketball camp earlier this month.“You could tell kids were excited, glad to get back to the things they are used to doing during the summer, and their parents were excited for them,” Johnson said.&nbsp;The “so-good-to-be-back” feeling was a personal one for Johnson, who said he had been attending some kind of sports camp since he was in third grade.“Last year was the first time I hadn’t participated in or coached at a camp for longer than I can remember,” said Johnson, who will enter his 21st year coaching at FHSU this fall. “It felt so good to be back, and I think the kids felt the same way.”Next month, musically inclined students will converge on campus, toting instruments from building to building at the week-long 74th annual High Plains Music Camp.Although not classified as a camp, the Hispanic College Institute will bring about 50 students to campus for several days in July. The HCI is a three-day residential program that prepares high school students to enter and succeed in higher education.All the while, new on-campus first-year and transfer students are participating in Summer Orientation sessions throughout June and July.“It’s invigorating to look out my window and see the campus alive this summer,” said Lisa Karlin, career advisor for Career Services. Her office is in Sheridan Hall and faces the campus quad.“The other day, I saw a group of students participating in a fun activity on the quad during Summer Orientation,” Karlin added. “I can’t wait to welcome our new and returning students this fall.”Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC), which Fort Hays State manages in cooperation with the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism, also has summer programs available. KWEC, which overlooks Cheyenne Bottoms, is the largest inland marsh south of the United States located northeast of Great Bend.Most of the traditional camps at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History are being conducted virtually as last year, with plans to return to the full-scale, in-person model next year. However, after the success of last year’s virtual camps, David Levering, Sternberg camps director, said he is considering offering camps both online and in-person next year.“Last year, virtual was the only option for camps,” he said. “We learned some things that only came about because of COVID-19. In the future, what we learned during the pandemic is going to be really beneficial in our camp offerings. We are going to take advantage of gaining something positive out of it.”

FHSU welcomes summer events back to campus

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Architecture &amp; Design will host a&nbsp;free, one-day&nbsp;photography workshop for high school students&nbsp;at the Hays Arts Center on July 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Students will spend the day developing camera skills and learning about the art, science and history of photography. Led by Mike Sinclair, professional photographer and the KU photography program’s professor of practice, and assisted by KU photography students, the workshop will give participants the opportunity to see how creative interests, personal experiences and technical know-how can combine to communicate ideas in new ways.

The free event will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to students entering their freshman through senior year of high school. Space is limited, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://design.ku.edu/ku-photography-workshop-hays-arts-center">registration deadline</a>&nbsp;is July 2.

Students will explore photography by shooting a variety of photographs in different settings. In the morning, students will take an expedition into the area surrounding the Hay Arts Center where participants will learn how technique and individual perspectives can tell stories, challenge assumptions, clarify complicated ideas and make the familiar unfamiliar.

During afternoon sessions, students will learn how to utilize camera controls, environmental conditions and compositional strategies to create intriguing still life photographs and evocative portraits that capture movement, emotion and personality.

This day of guided instruction and open discussion will be an educational and enlightening experience for students who are looking to broaden their creative skillset, develop their portfolio and deepen their understanding of what is possible through photography and visual communication.

About workshop instructor Mike Sinclair Commercial and fine art photographer Mike Sinclair’s subjects have included state and county fairs, parades, Fourth of July celebrations, parks, amateur musicals, artist’s studios, and the parks, boulevards and architecture of his hometown Kansas City. His 2016 book, “The Nelson,” documented the museum’s transformation from temple of culture to civic hub. His most recent book, “Troost Avenue,” was self-published in 2020. His photographs have been published in The New York Times, Time and Harpers, and they are in several public and private collections including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. He has received a Guggenheim Fellowship and a Charlotte Street Award.

KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Architecture &amp; Design will host a&nbsp;free, one-day&nbsp;photography workshop for high school students&nbsp;at the Hays Arts Center on July 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students will spend the day developing camera skills and learning about the art, science and history of photography. Led by Mike Sinclair, professional photographer and the KU photography program’s professor of practice, and assisted by KU photography students, the workshop will give participants the opportunity to see how creative interests, personal experiences and technical know-how can combine to communicate ideas in new ways.The free event will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to students entering their freshman through senior year of high school. Space is limited, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://design.ku.edu/ku-photography-workshop-hays-arts-center">registration deadline</a>&nbsp;is July 2.Students will explore photography by shooting a variety of photographs in different settings. In the morning, students will take an expedition into the area surrounding the Hay Arts Center where participants will learn how technique and individual perspectives can tell stories, challenge assumptions, clarify complicated ideas and make the familiar unfamiliar.During afternoon sessions, students will learn how to utilize camera controls, environmental conditions and compositional strategies to create intriguing still life photographs and evocative portraits that capture movement, emotion and personality.This day of guided instruction and open discussion will be an educational and enlightening experience for students who are looking to broaden their creative skillset, develop their portfolio and deepen their understanding of what is possible through photography and visual communication.About workshop instructor Mike Sinclair Commercial and fine art photographer Mike Sinclair’s subjects have included state and county fairs, parades, Fourth of July celebrations, parks, amateur musicals, artist’s studios, and the parks, boulevards and architecture of his hometown Kansas City. His 2016 book, “The Nelson,” documented the museum’s transformation from temple of culture to civic hub. His most recent book, “Troost Avenue,” was self-published in 2020. His photographs have been published in The New York Times, Time and Harpers, and they are in several public and private collections including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. He has received a Guggenheim Fellowship and a Charlotte Street Award.

KU will host photography workshop in Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 will send a link for the free- and reduced-priced lunch application on July 1 to all families in district.

School meals are being provided free for all students for the coming school year thanks to funding from the United States Department of Agriculture.

The application will be used to determine who receives reduced fees during enrollment. The application will ask for household income and number of people in the household.

It will also be used to determine at-risk funding for the school district.

The state uses the number of students who receive free and reduced lunches to determine the amount of at-risk funding the district receives.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said it is very important for any family who thinks they may be even close to qualifying for reduced fees to fill out the application.

In person enrollment will be Aug. 3 and 4 at Hays High School. Get more information about enrollment on the <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/enrollment-2021-2022">USD 489 website</a>.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 will send a link for the free- and reduced-priced lunch application on July 1 to all families in district.School meals are being provided free for all students for the coming school year thanks to funding from the United States Department of Agriculture.The application will be used to determine who receives reduced fees during enrollment. The application will ask for household income and number of people in the household.It will also be used to determine at-risk funding for the school district.The state uses the number of students who receive free and reduced lunches to determine the amount of at-risk funding the district receives.Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said it is very important for any family who thinks they may be even close to qualifying for reduced fees to fill out the application.In person enrollment will be Aug. 3 and 4 at Hays High School. Get more information about enrollment on the <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/enrollment-2021-2022">USD 489 website</a>.

USD 489 free- and reduced-fee application linked to state funding

Wheat farmers adore the hot dry weather during wheat harvest, as it dries the crop and allows for harvesting without worrying about wet spots in fields. But, along with extended periods of hot dry weather often come blue-green algae blooms at lake and reservoirs.&nbsp; I know all you K State fans love your “Royal Purple”, and KU fans adore your red and blue, and those colors are just the ticket to adorn T shirts, umbrellas and ball caps in support of your chosen team. But when the waters of your favorite lake take on those same colors, lookout!&nbsp;

Welcome to algae bloom season again in Kansas. This period of summer runs from May through October, the months sporting the longest days of sunlight and the warmest water temperatures, and unfortunately this time frame also encompasses the three holidays when our lakes are used the most, Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Blue-Green Algae are bacteria with a scientific name as long as a yardstick, that exist naturally in rivers, lakes and ponds and all aquatic ecosystems here in Kansas. When certain conditions align, such as exceptionally high nutrient content in the water, and long hot days with lots of sunlight, those bacteria can reproduce more rapidly than usual, causing a dense growth of algae known as “a bloom.” Some algae blooms are harmless, but when the blooming organisms contain toxins, noxious chemicals or pathogens in levels harmful to humans and animals, it is declared to be a “Harmful Algae Bloom,” and warnings or advisories are issued by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, (KDHE.) These blue-green algae blooms can be blue, bright green, brown or even red, and may look like foam or a thick frothy slurry. Some blooms, however may not even affect the appearance of the water.&nbsp;

When KDHE receives notice from anyone that a harmful algae bloom is noticed or suspected, they take water samples at the most frequently used locations at the site, such as swim beaches and boat docks. The samples are analyzed, and according to the density of the algae found, either a Public Health Watch or a Public Health Warning is issued for that water impoundment.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A Public Health Watch

There are no current public health watches for any Kansas lakes.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Public Health Watches are currently in effect at the following lakes; Big Hill Lake in Labette County, Milford Lake Zone “C” in Geary County and South Lake in Johnson County. Public Health Warnings are currently in effect at Big Eleven Lake in Wyandotte County, Jerry Ivey Pond in Saline County, Keith Sebelius Reservoir in Norton County, both Marion County Lake and Marion County Reservoir in Marion County, Melvern Outlet Pond in Osage County and Webster Reservoir in Rooks County. Keep abreast of current algae watches and warnings on www.ksoutdoors.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Wheat farmers adore the hot dry weather during wheat harvest, as it dries the crop and allows for harvesting without worrying about wet spots in fields. But, along with extended periods of hot dry weather often come blue-green algae blooms at lake and reservoirs.&nbsp; I know all you K State fans love your “Royal Purple”, and KU fans adore your red and blue, and those colors are just the ticket to adorn T shirts, umbrellas and ball caps in support of your chosen team. But when the waters of your favorite lake take on those same colors, lookout!&nbsp;Welcome to algae bloom season again in Kansas. This period of summer runs from May through October, the months sporting the longest days of sunlight and the warmest water temperatures, and unfortunately this time frame also encompasses the three holidays when our lakes are used the most, Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Blue-Green Algae are bacteria with a scientific name as long as a yardstick, that exist naturally in rivers, lakes and ponds and all aquatic ecosystems here in Kansas. When certain conditions align, such as exceptionally high nutrient content in the water, and long hot days with lots of sunlight, those bacteria can reproduce more rapidly than usual, causing a dense growth of algae known as “a bloom.” Some algae blooms are harmless, but when the blooming organisms contain toxins, noxious chemicals or pathogens in levels harmful to humans and animals, it is declared to be a “Harmful Algae Bloom,” and warnings or advisories are issued by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, (KDHE.) These blue-green algae blooms can be blue, bright green, brown or even red, and may look like foam or a thick frothy slurry. Some blooms, however may not even affect the appearance of the water.&nbsp;When KDHE receives notice from anyone that a harmful algae bloom is noticed or suspected, they take water samples at the most frequently used locations at the site, such as swim beaches and boat docks. The samples are analyzed, and according to the density of the algae found, either a Public Health Watch or a Public Health Warning is issued for that water impoundment.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A Public Health Watch<ul>
 <li>Notifies the public that a hazardous condition MAY exist</li><li>Signs MAY be posted at all public access locations</li><li>Water MAY be unsafe for humans/animals</li><li>Contact with the water is discouraged&nbsp; &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>There are no current public health watches for any Kansas lakes.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;A Public Health Warning<ul>
 <li>Notifies the public that condition ARE unsafe</li><li>Signs WILL be posted at public access locations</li><li>Contact with the water SHOULD NOT OCCUR</li>
 </ul>Public Health Watches are currently in effect at the following lakes; Big Hill Lake in Labette County, Milford Lake Zone “C” in Geary County and South Lake in Johnson County. Public Health Warnings are currently in effect at Big Eleven Lake in Wyandotte County, Jerry Ivey Pond in Saline County, Keith Sebelius Reservoir in Norton County, both Marion County Lake and Marion County Reservoir in Marion County, Melvern Outlet Pond in Osage County and Webster Reservoir in Rooks County. Keep abreast of current algae watches and warnings on www.ksoutdoors.com.&nbsp;Health effects can occur when surface scum or water containing high levels of blue-green algal toxins are swallowed or have contact with exposed skin, or when airborne droplets containing toxins are inhaled while swimming, boating or skiing. Most people report the effects as “allergic” type reactions like intestinal or respiratory problems or skin irritations. Animal reactions may range from general weakness and lethargy, to vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing or even convulsion. Algae blooms don’t usually envelope an entire lake, so places can still be found to fish on lakes under blue-green algae watches and warnings, and according to the folks in-the-know at the Kansas Dept of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, fish caught from affected lakes can still be safely eaten, just wash the meat thoroughly.&nbsp; My friend used to say “Everybody always tells me – Cheer up, things could be worse. So, I cheered up, and sure enough – things got worse!” Sorry to say that health warnings at area lakes because of toxic algae blooms will probably get more numerous before they get better. I guess your options are to sell the boat, skis and fishing poles, or just drive a little farther to a lake where no warnings exist, and continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

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