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<div><iframe title="FHSU Management Development Center strengthens area businesses" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2ubnf-1001df0-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU Management Development Center strengthens area businesses

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Following several consecutive 80-degree sunny days in Hays, the bottom fell out of the thermometer and snow fell out of the sky Wednesday.

According to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Center, Hays received 0.51 inches of moisture, a mix of big snowflakes early on and then rain.

The high temperature April 7 was 46 degrees, 38 degrees cooler than the day before when the mercury reached 84 degrees.&nbsp;

At 6.01 inches, Hays is about an inch and a half above normal moisture for the year. The 152-year cumulative average accumulation by the end of April is 4.61 inches.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/79e54a39-6457-4550-b7f0-6f0841a4fd88">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for sunshine through Saturday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617894306444.jpeg" alt="After a sunny 84-degree Tuesday, snow fell in Hays Wednesday as the daytime high reached just 46 degrees.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>After a sunny 84-degree Tuesday, snow fell in Hays Wednesday as the daytime high reached just 46 degrees.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostFollowing several consecutive 80-degree sunny days in Hays, the bottom fell out of the thermometer and snow fell out of the sky Wednesday.According to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Center, Hays received 0.51 inches of moisture, a mix of big snowflakes early on and then rain.The high temperature April 7 was 46 degrees, 38 degrees cooler than the day before when the mercury reached 84 degrees.&nbsp;At 6.01 inches, Hays is about an inch and a half above normal moisture for the year. The 152-year cumulative average accumulation by the end of April is 4.61 inches.&nbsp;The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/79e54a39-6457-4550-b7f0-6f0841a4fd88">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for sunshine through Saturday.&nbsp;

April snow and rain brings moisture to Hays on Wednesday

As locations across the U.S. deal with a shortage of
available housing, Hays and Ellis County have not been immune to the growing
problem.

With housing a critical part of the local economy, Grow Hays
Executive Director Doug Williams on Wednesday released a report on the housing market
as it stands now, how we got here and how it may be best addressed moving into
the future.

“This is the first time we have done this, but we believe
housing is such an integral part of economic development and growth that we thought
we would start an annual report as to what the situation is,” Williams said.

Through the report, Williams explains why housing is such a
critical part of the economic health of the area.

“I get asked sometimes by people, ‘Why are you so concerned
about housing? Why aren’t you out recruiting new businesses and manufacturers
and retails and restaurants and that type of thing?’ The reality is, we are,”
he said.

Williams said housing is a baseline for that recruitment,
noting in the report the base of economic needs is housing.

“If you don’t have adequate housing your ability to recruit
a business is negligible because they can’t find workforce,” Williams said.
“Housing and workforce tie directly together. We have got to resolve that issue
before we resolve any others.”

Last week, he noted in Ellis County there were only 31 homes
for sale, with only 15 of those below $250,000, 13 above $375,000, and — in
what he calls the sweet spot for housing prices, $175,000 to $225,000 — only
three homes were available.

And the year-built average of those three houses was 1971,
Williams said.

“So somebody moving to town, looking to relocate here, they
just don’t have much selection,” Williams said. “That presents some real
serious barriers for us to do some other things.”

That lack of affordable housing might be a reason why
potential businesses pass over Hays for another location.

“If a major employer is looking at relocating here and they
have got to bring in 40-50 to 100 people there isn’t any way we can do that
right now,” Williams said. “We have got to fix that problem.”

The lack of available housing in general also drives up
prices for the homes that are available, again echoing what is being seen on a
national scale.

In Hays, Williams said the average sale price for a single
family home in the Hays market went from $177,000 to $196,000 — about an 11
percent increase — in the last year alone, primarily due to the limited supply.

“When supply goes down and demand goes up, prices go up,”
Williams said. 

With the decreasing supply, he said another key measure of
the health of the housing market is the months supply of inventory available.

Ideally, a six-month supply will allow for an ideal balance
between buyers and sellers, Williams said.

One year ago, a five-month supply was available, but by year-end
that had dropped to only two months.

“And I would say we are a little bit lower than that right
now,” Williams said. “Two or less is way too low. We need to fix that.”

Williams said he believes the key driver for the low number
of houses on the market is ongoing low interest rates, which is also believed
to be a key reason for the national shortage.

“These are historically low interest rates,” Williams said.
“They make homes much more affordable and so traditional renters are able to
afford a new home, so that’s a big driver.”

He said overall population growth in Ellis County could be
affecting home availability as well.

“The two combined create a situation where we just don’t
have enough housing,” Williams said. 

Watch the housing report below or on youtube at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBXb5-apxKU">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBXb5-apxKU</a>.

<a href="http://growhays.com">For more information about Grow Hays, visit growhays.com.
</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GrowHays/">The organization also maintains a presence on Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574881377018.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs locations across the U.S. deal with a shortage of
available housing, Hays and Ellis County have not been immune to the growing
problem.With housing a critical part of the local economy, Grow Hays
Executive Director Doug Williams on Wednesday released a report on the housing market
as it stands now, how we got here and how it may be best addressed moving into
the future.“This is the first time we have done this, but we believe
housing is such an integral part of economic development and growth that we thought
we would start an annual report as to what the situation is,” Williams said.Through the report, Williams explains why housing is such a
critical part of the economic health of the area.“I get asked sometimes by people, ‘Why are you so concerned
about housing? Why aren’t you out recruiting new businesses and manufacturers
and retails and restaurants and that type of thing?’ The reality is, we are,”
he said.Williams said housing is a baseline for that recruitment,
noting in the report the base of economic needs is housing.“If you don’t have adequate housing your ability to recruit
a business is negligible because they can’t find workforce,” Williams said.
“Housing and workforce tie directly together. We have got to resolve that issue
before we resolve any others.”Last week, he noted in Ellis County there were only 31 homes
for sale, with only 15 of those below $250,000, 13 above $375,000, and — in
what he calls the sweet spot for housing prices, $175,000 to $225,000 — only
three homes were available.And the year-built average of those three houses was 1971,
Williams said.“So somebody moving to town, looking to relocate here, they
just don’t have much selection,” Williams said. “That presents some real
serious barriers for us to do some other things.”That lack of affordable housing might be a reason why
potential businesses pass over Hays for another location.“If a major employer is looking at relocating here and they
have got to bring in 40-50 to 100 people there isn’t any way we can do that
right now,” Williams said. “We have got to fix that problem.”The lack of available housing in general also drives up
prices for the homes that are available, again echoing what is being seen on a
national scale.In Hays, Williams said the average sale price for a single
family home in the Hays market went from $177,000 to $196,000 — about an 11
percent increase — in the last year alone, primarily due to the limited supply.“When supply goes down and demand goes up, prices go up,”
Williams said. With the decreasing supply, he said another key measure of
the health of the housing market is the months supply of inventory available.Ideally, a six-month supply will allow for an ideal balance
between buyers and sellers, Williams said.One year ago, a five-month supply was available, but by year-end
that had dropped to only two months.“And I would say we are a little bit lower than that right
now,” Williams said. “Two or less is way too low. We need to fix that.”Williams said he believes the key driver for the low number
of houses on the market is ongoing low interest rates, which is also believed
to be a key reason for the national shortage.“These are historically low interest rates,” Williams said.
“They make homes much more affordable and so traditional renters are able to
afford a new home, so that’s a big driver.”He said overall population growth in Ellis County could be
affecting home availability as well.“The two combined create a situation where we just don’t
have enough housing,” Williams said. Watch the housing report below or on youtube at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBXb5-apxKU">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBXb5-apxKU</a>.<a href="http://growhays.com">For more information about Grow Hays, visit growhays.com.
</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GrowHays/">The organization also maintains a presence on Facebook.</a><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sBXb5-apxKU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Housing crisis hits home: Grow Hays releases Ellis Co. housing report

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Health officials in Kansas say more than 30 percent of
adults, or nearly 932,000 people in the state, have received at least one dose
of the COVID-19 vaccine. In Ellis County, that number is nearing 10,000.

At this week’s county commission meeting, Health Services
Director Jason Kennedy told the commission in his weekly COVID-19 update, “for
the first time in what feels like forever, for myself and really everybody
else, we truly just have good news to report for Ellis County.”

At the start of the week, the seven-day average for Ellis
County was at or below five cases per day for 45 straight days. 

As the number of cases has declined, so has the number of
people getting vaccinated.

Kennedy told the commission the county health department
has administered 7,000 first doses of the vaccine through the community
partnerships. They estimate another 3,700 first doses have been given out
through other entities within the community.

He said the nearly 10,000 first doses ranks Ellis County
among the top of Kansas counties in the per-capita vaccination rate.

He added there are plenty of options if you haven’t.

“We do encourage people, if they want to be vaccinated,
there’s multiple opportunities for that,” Kennedy said. 

He also said there will be a drive-through event at HaysMed
on Saturday where 900 doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine will be
available.

Kenney also added his department is working with FHSU to set up
availability for students.

"We’ve got some good things moving with the vaccine,” Kennedy
said. “We have plenty of availability now. We just need to encourage people to
come in and get it.”

In other business Monday, the commission:

•&nbsp; Approved a motion
moving forward with engineering work on a bridge northeast of Catharine.

• Approved the destruction of previous election ballots and
appointed a Democratic and Republican representative to oversee the process.

• Approved annual township reports and gave staff input on a
roof design for the Law Enforcement Center.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostHealth officials in Kansas say more than 30 percent of
adults, or nearly 932,000 people in the state, have received at least one dose
of the COVID-19 vaccine. In Ellis County, that number is nearing 10,000.At this week’s county commission meeting, Health Services
Director Jason Kennedy told the commission in his weekly COVID-19 update, “for
the first time in what feels like forever, for myself and really everybody
else, we truly just have good news to report for Ellis County.”At the start of the week, the seven-day average for Ellis
County was at or below five cases per day for 45 straight days. As the number of cases has declined, so has the number of
people getting vaccinated.Kennedy told the commission the county health department
has administered 7,000 first doses of the vaccine through the community
partnerships. They estimate another 3,700 first doses have been given out
through other entities within the community.He said the nearly 10,000 first doses ranks Ellis County
among the top of Kansas counties in the per-capita vaccination rate.He added there are plenty of options if you haven’t.“We do encourage people, if they want to be vaccinated,
there’s multiple opportunities for that,” Kennedy said. He also said there will be a drive-through event at HaysMed
on Saturday where 900 doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine will be
available.Kenney also added his department is working with FHSU to set up
availability for students."We’ve got some good things moving with the vaccine,” Kennedy
said. “We have plenty of availability now. We just need to encourage people to
come in and get it.”In other business Monday, the commission:•&nbsp; Approved a motion
moving forward with engineering work on a bridge northeast of Catharine.• Approved the destruction of previous election ballots and
appointed a Democratic and Republican representative to oversee the process.• Approved annual township reports and gave staff input on a
roof design for the Law Enforcement Center.

Coronavirus vaccination efforts continue in Ellis County

When it comes to musicals, Sterling College Theatre seems to believe in the adage: bigger is better. Even in this pandemic year Sterling’s music and theatre departments have combined to present two big cast musicals. After presenting “Carousel” January the directors, students and designers are hard at work for “Catch Me If You Can,” which will be performed Friday and Saturday, April 23 and 24, at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, April 25, at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Based on the popular movie of the same name, “Catch Me If You Can” tells the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr who traveled the globe posing as an airline pilot, surgeon, and lawyer before being caught by the FBI. The score is by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the team behind the popular musical “Hairspray.”

“The songs just kind of weave in and out between scenes, so everything moves really quickly,” Marisa Callan, the show’s music director said. She described the music as, “modern, rock and roll, fun, a little bit jazzy, too, kind of crooner style.”&nbsp;

“Because this kind of music is so familiar to our ears,” Callan said, “on first listen, it doesn’t seem like the music is going to be very hard. However, when we started learning things, we realized how much it requires really tight singing and really sticking vocal parts.”&nbsp;

Callan said the music is particularly challenging for the three leading men who play Frank Jr., his father Frank Sr., and the detective Carl Hanratty. The Sterling College students in those roles are Dylan Werth, Nilo Reynoso, and Will Dutton. “The three lead guys sing a lot, and they sing hard stuff, things that are really extensive vocal ranges,” she said. “They have to train, work up endurance, to be able to sustain a show like that.”&nbsp;

After the three lead men, Callan said, the ensemble has the most challenging part in the show. With choreography, in addition to the difficult music, “they have a lot to learn,” Callan said. She’s confident they can do it.&nbsp;

“We have a good core group in the music and theater department who really enjoy a challenge and kind of thrive on that,” Callan said.

She said that given Sterling’s small size, “It could be easy for us to pick shows where it just requires one or two good leads, because at every school you have one or two superstars.” But the department doesn’t have to rely on one or two talented people to carry the show.&nbsp;

“I think the beauty of this show is that we are so deep as far as our talent goes,” Callan said. “Even the ladies who are in the choral ensemble have to sing really hard things. Plus, they each have a solo line.”

Callan said this is also true of the men in the ensemble, “We have a lot of talented guys right now: guys that are competitive and desire that challenge.”&nbsp;

Big also describes the show’s costume needs. Many of the show’s female ensemble will have five costume changes. The “Catch Me If You Can” set has been a big challenge, too. It is being designed and constructed with the help of Michael Downs, a creative designer from Wichita. Downs has designed concert spaces and lighting designs for performers such as Snoop Dogg, Fifth Harmony and Rihanna. He has also worked for four different Olympics, designing the medals pavilion for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. “Catch Me If You Can” marks the 994th theater set Downs has designed.&nbsp;

Theater professor Sasha Hildebrand said she told Michael, “Create me a stage that looks kind of like a 1960’s or 70’s variety show TV show set. Give me different levels to play with.”&nbsp;

Hildebrand said Downs did just that, creating a set that will feel like a rock concert or a Vegas show, complete with light up elements.&nbsp;

Since the show is set in the mid-1960’s when color TV’s were first becoming common, and the first song in the show is entitled “Live in Living Color,” the show’s set design includes four large TV shaped platforms, which will be used for dance numbers and other elements of the show.&nbsp;

Callan said “Catch Me If You Can,” was selected as the spring musical because it is a high energy, colorful, bright show, “will be a good show for really anyone who remotely likes music and theater.”&nbsp;

All performances of “Catch Me If You Can” will take place in Culbertson Auditorium on the Sterling College campus. Social distancing and masks for audience members will be required. Tickets are available at the door or online through sterling-college.ticketleap.com. Tickets are $15.00 for adults and $5.00 for seniors and students.&nbsp;

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.sterling.edu/">www.sterling.edu</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617714390341.png" alt="Sterling College Theatre students Dylan Werth (standing) from Hays, KS and Nilo Reynoso from Compton, CA play the father and son duo Frank Abagnale Jr and Sr in the musical “Catch Me If You Can.” Here they rehearse their big duet “Butter Outta Cream.”" />
 <figcaption>Sterling College Theatre students Dylan Werth (standing) from Hays, KS and Nilo Reynoso from Compton, CA play the father and son duo Frank Abagnale Jr and Sr in the musical “Catch Me If You Can.” Here they rehearse their big duet “Butter Outta Cream.”</figcaption>
 </figure>Sterling CollegeWhen it comes to musicals, Sterling College Theatre seems to believe in the adage: bigger is better. Even in this pandemic year Sterling’s music and theatre departments have combined to present two big cast musicals. After presenting “Carousel” January the directors, students and designers are hard at work for “Catch Me If You Can,” which will be performed Friday and Saturday, April 23 and 24, at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, April 25, at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp;Based on the popular movie of the same name, “Catch Me If You Can” tells the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr who traveled the globe posing as an airline pilot, surgeon, and lawyer before being caught by the FBI. The score is by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the team behind the popular musical “Hairspray.”“The songs just kind of weave in and out between scenes, so everything moves really quickly,” Marisa Callan, the show’s music director said. She described the music as, “modern, rock and roll, fun, a little bit jazzy, too, kind of crooner style.”&nbsp;“Because this kind of music is so familiar to our ears,” Callan said, “on first listen, it doesn’t seem like the music is going to be very hard. However, when we started learning things, we realized how much it requires really tight singing and really sticking vocal parts.”&nbsp;Callan said the music is particularly challenging for the three leading men who play Frank Jr., his father Frank Sr., and the detective Carl Hanratty. The Sterling College students in those roles are Dylan Werth, Nilo Reynoso, and Will Dutton. “The three lead guys sing a lot, and they sing hard stuff, things that are really extensive vocal ranges,” she said. “They have to train, work up endurance, to be able to sustain a show like that.”&nbsp;After the three lead men, Callan said, the ensemble has the most challenging part in the show. With choreography, in addition to the difficult music, “they have a lot to learn,” Callan said. She’s confident they can do it.&nbsp;“We have a good core group in the music and theater department who really enjoy a challenge and kind of thrive on that,” Callan said.She said that given Sterling’s small size, “It could be easy for us to pick shows where it just requires one or two good leads, because at every school you have one or two superstars.” But the department doesn’t have to rely on one or two talented people to carry the show.&nbsp;“I think the beauty of this show is that we are so deep as far as our talent goes,” Callan said. “Even the ladies who are in the choral ensemble have to sing really hard things. Plus, they each have a solo line.”Callan said this is also true of the men in the ensemble, “We have a lot of talented guys right now: guys that are competitive and desire that challenge.”&nbsp;Big also describes the show’s costume needs. Many of the show’s female ensemble will have five costume changes. The “Catch Me If You Can” set has been a big challenge, too. It is being designed and constructed with the help of Michael Downs, a creative designer from Wichita. Downs has designed concert spaces and lighting designs for performers such as Snoop Dogg, Fifth Harmony and Rihanna. He has also worked for four different Olympics, designing the medals pavilion for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. “Catch Me If You Can” marks the 994th theater set Downs has designed.&nbsp;Theater professor Sasha Hildebrand said she told Michael, “Create me a stage that looks kind of like a 1960’s or 70’s variety show TV show set. Give me different levels to play with.”&nbsp;Hildebrand said Downs did just that, creating a set that will feel like a rock concert or a Vegas show, complete with light up elements.&nbsp;Since the show is set in the mid-1960’s when color TV’s were first becoming common, and the first song in the show is entitled “Live in Living Color,” the show’s set design includes four large TV shaped platforms, which will be used for dance numbers and other elements of the show.&nbsp;Callan said “Catch Me If You Can,” was selected as the spring musical because it is a high energy, colorful, bright show, “will be a good show for really anyone who remotely likes music and theater.”&nbsp;All performances of “Catch Me If You Can” will take place in Culbertson Auditorium on the Sterling College campus. Social distancing and masks for audience members will be required. Tickets are available at the door or online through sterling-college.ticketleap.com. Tickets are $15.00 for adults and $5.00 for seniors and students.&nbsp;Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.sterling.edu/">www.sterling.edu</a>.&nbsp;-END-

Hays student featured in Sterling's 'Catch Me If You Can' musical

Visit the pages for Research and Scholarly Activities on our Fort Hays State University website, and you will find numerous opportunities to learn about scholarly research and creative work. At Fort Hays State, even undergrad students can participate in groundbreaking research activities. Research opportunities like the ones our students have are often reserved for upperclassmen and sometimes not accessible until grad school.

One of my favorite events for all students, faculty, and staff each year is the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day, and the 2021 SACAD is quickly approaching.

This annual celebration of scholarly research and creative activities showcases on-campus and virtual undergraduate, graduate, Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, faculty, and staff research and creative works. This year’s virtual program will be held on April 12-16, 2021. We will showcase student and faculty research, scholarship, and creative works at <a href="http://symposium.foragerone.com/fhsuscad">symposium.foragerone.com/fhsuscad</a> – so please join us!

While our faculty and graduate research are always impressive, near and dear to my heart is undergraduate research, something I really value. There are several things I value about undergraduate research.

First, it is an excellent example of how we embrace our mission as a learning organization. A learning organization, according to Peter Senge, centers around people working together to enhance their capabilities to create results they deeply care about.

“People working together” on research and creative activity at FHSU is the second thing I value about SACAD. For our purposes, people working together means that faculty and students join forces around shared interests and curiosity. Faculty mentor our students through a process of learning and creativity that awakens confidence and new skills in our students. Faculty are very engaged in this process that fuels their passion for both their teaching and for scholarly and creative inquiry.&nbsp;

“I am always amazed at the high quality and creativity that is showcased at this event,” said Leslie Paige, director of the Office of Scholarships and Sponsored Projects at FHSU. “This is an opportunity for our students to present work that they are passionate about without worrying about the expenses associated with travel.”

Intellectual curiosity: check. Genuine relationships formed around common interests: check. Students feeling they matter, and they are learning: check!&nbsp;

Another thing I love about this program is that it builds off of the latter part of the definition: to enhance their capabilities to create results they care about. That is what makes these student-faculty relationships so powerful. Both the mentor and mentee care about the research they are generating, and both are learning about content and process. Our students build confidence in their research as well as their presentation skills by participating in scholarly and creative research. They are in a personal transformation process – like a cocoon becoming a butterfly. New doors will be opened to them and they will leave this university a much different person than the one who arrived.

“I think educating the general public about the criminal justice system is important, especially in today's climate, and my poster is specific to the juvenile justice system, which is something the general public is not super familiar with,” said Beatrice Walsh, a senior from Thornton, Colo., who is majoring in criminal justice.&nbsp;

Walsh stated that creating a poster helped her learn more about why she chose her career field. “Laying out the problems within the juvenile justice system, as well as understanding what some of these kids go through in and out of the court system, allows us to understand how we can try to help them, and that is what I want to do, help,” she said.

I appreciate the fact that there are opportunities for our students to participate in undergraduate research or creative activity in virtually every department. This highly enriching activity is inclusive of all academic areas and all students. I am amazed each year when I visit the presentations and see such a diverse set of activities – from art to science to business. This just reinforces our laser-focused identity as an incubator of academic and artistic discovery. &nbsp;

Finally, I must mention how much I appreciate that the Scholarship Environment Committee, which sponsors SACAD, named this program after professor of geosciences, Dr. John Heinrichs (1957-2014). I had the opportunity to work closely with John when I served as Vice President for Student Affairs. I know first-hand how passionate he was about teaching and research. Indeed, that passion was contagious. John saw hope and dignity in every student who walked through our door, regardless of ACT score or other “standard indicators” of a student’s propensity to succeed. He believed. He mentored. He inspired. He was a living testament to our ethic of care and resilience. Dr. John Heinrichs was a popular teacher, an internationally renowned scientist, and an esteemed colleague who had a tremendous impact on Fort Hays State University – and I believe he still does.

Corrected 1 p.m. April 26 to correct the title of Dr. John Heinrichs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="FHSU President Tisa Mason" />
 <figcaption>FHSU President Tisa Mason</figcaption>
 </figure>Visit the pages for Research and Scholarly Activities on our Fort Hays State University website, and you will find numerous opportunities to learn about scholarly research and creative work. At Fort Hays State, even undergrad students can participate in groundbreaking research activities. Research opportunities like the ones our students have are often reserved for upperclassmen and sometimes not accessible until grad school.One of my favorite events for all students, faculty, and staff each year is the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day, and the 2021 SACAD is quickly approaching.This annual celebration of scholarly research and creative activities showcases on-campus and virtual undergraduate, graduate, Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, faculty, and staff research and creative works. This year’s virtual program will be held on April 12-16, 2021. We will showcase student and faculty research, scholarship, and creative works at <a href="http://symposium.foragerone.com/fhsuscad">symposium.foragerone.com/fhsuscad</a> – so please join us!While our faculty and graduate research are always impressive, near and dear to my heart is undergraduate research, something I really value. There are several things I value about undergraduate research.First, it is an excellent example of how we embrace our mission as a learning organization. A learning organization, according to Peter Senge, centers around people working together to enhance their capabilities to create results they deeply care about.“People working together” on research and creative activity at FHSU is the second thing I value about SACAD. For our purposes, people working together means that faculty and students join forces around shared interests and curiosity. Faculty mentor our students through a process of learning and creativity that awakens confidence and new skills in our students. Faculty are very engaged in this process that fuels their passion for both their teaching and for scholarly and creative inquiry.&nbsp;“I am always amazed at the high quality and creativity that is showcased at this event,” said Leslie Paige, director of the Office of Scholarships and Sponsored Projects at FHSU. “This is an opportunity for our students to present work that they are passionate about without worrying about the expenses associated with travel.”Intellectual curiosity: check. Genuine relationships formed around common interests: check. Students feeling they matter, and they are learning: check!&nbsp;Another thing I love about this program is that it builds off of the latter part of the definition: to enhance their capabilities to create results they care about. That is what makes these student-faculty relationships so powerful. Both the mentor and mentee care about the research they are generating, and both are learning about content and process. Our students build confidence in their research as well as their presentation skills by participating in scholarly and creative research. They are in a personal transformation process – like a cocoon becoming a butterfly. New doors will be opened to them and they will leave this university a much different person than the one who arrived.“I think educating the general public about the criminal justice system is important, especially in today's climate, and my poster is specific to the juvenile justice system, which is something the general public is not super familiar with,” said Beatrice Walsh, a senior from Thornton, Colo., who is majoring in criminal justice.&nbsp;Walsh stated that creating a poster helped her learn more about why she chose her career field. “Laying out the problems within the juvenile justice system, as well as understanding what some of these kids go through in and out of the court system, allows us to understand how we can try to help them, and that is what I want to do, help,” she said.I appreciate the fact that there are opportunities for our students to participate in undergraduate research or creative activity in virtually every department. This highly enriching activity is inclusive of all academic areas and all students. I am amazed each year when I visit the presentations and see such a diverse set of activities – from art to science to business. This just reinforces our laser-focused identity as an incubator of academic and artistic discovery. &nbsp;Finally, I must mention how much I appreciate that the Scholarship Environment Committee, which sponsors SACAD, named this program after professor of geosciences, Dr. John Heinrichs (1957-2014). I had the opportunity to work closely with John when I served as Vice President for Student Affairs. I know first-hand how passionate he was about teaching and research. Indeed, that passion was contagious. John saw hope and dignity in every student who walked through our door, regardless of ACT score or other “standard indicators” of a student’s propensity to succeed. He believed. He mentored. He inspired. He was a living testament to our ethic of care and resilience. Dr. John Heinrichs was a popular teacher, an internationally renowned scientist, and an esteemed colleague who had a tremendous impact on Fort Hays State University – and I believe he still does.Corrected 1 p.m. April 26 to correct the title of Dr. John Heinrichs.

MASON: Celebrate scholarly research and creative work with FHSU

NORTON —Law enforcement authorities are investigating what they believe to be an explosive device on Wednesday in Norton County, according to a media release from the sheriff's department.

The device was found at the NortonCounty impound lot. The sheriff's office&nbsp;asked the&nbsp;Fort Riley Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team to respond and they were able to neutralize the device.

Authorities are working to determine who owns and who built the device.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORTON —Law enforcement authorities are investigating what they believe to be an explosive device on Wednesday in Norton County, according to a media release from the sheriff's department.The device was found at the NortonCounty impound lot. The sheriff's office&nbsp;asked the&nbsp;Fort Riley Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team to respond and they were able to neutralize the device.Authorities are working to determine who owns and who built the device.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sheriff's deputies find explosive device in Norton Co.

Three-day weather outlook

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Mon., March 29, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Credit Card
Violations—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 3/26 4 PM; 4:30 PM 
Animal At Large—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 7:27 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—4500 block Vine St, Hays; 3/27 8 AM; 3/29
11:17 AM 
Stalking—1000 block Main St, Hays; 1/29 12 PM; 3/29 12:52 PM 
Animal At Large--13th and Main, Hays; 1:13 PM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:18 PM; 2:20 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—1000 block E 29th St, Hays; 4:27 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 18th St, Hays; 4:54 PM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 12/30/20 
Theft (general)—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 6:10 PM 
Battery – simple—500 block Ash St, Hays; 5:30 PM; 6 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Tue., March 30, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-City Street/Alley—100 block W 13th St, Hays; 8:31 AM 
Theft (general)—4600 block Van Buren, Hays; 11/1/19; 3/29/2 
Parking Complaint--3000 block Limestone Ct, Hays; 9:27 AM 
Suspicious Person—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 10:18 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1700 block Donald Dr, Hays; 3/26 11:15 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY--2200 block Main St, Hays; 1:14 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—Hays; 1:20 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation--23rd and Walnut, Hays; 2:11 PM 
Animal At Large--1800 block Main St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Unwanted Person—1900 block Fort St, Hays; 3:40 PM; 4 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--500 block W 27th St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 5:04 PM 
Animal At Large—2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 5:08 PM 
Animal At Large--1600 block Allen St, Hays; 5:33 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury—400 block Elm St, Hays; 5:44 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 10:22 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 11:57 PM; 11:59 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 5 traffic stops Wed., March 31, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence—700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:20 AM; 3:32 AM 
Dead Animal Call--2700 block Sternberg Dr, Hays; 8:01 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:24 AM 
Animal At Large--1800 block Main St, Hays; 10:36 AM 
Suspicious Person--2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 12:57 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3/24 5 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3:04 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—600 block Oak St, Hays; 3:35 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 9 traffic stops Thu., April 1, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Animal At
Large—1300 block Golden Belt Dr, Hays; 8:24 AM 
Search Warrant—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 10:56 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—400 block E 22nd St, Hays; 11:06 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—1400 block W 42nd St, Hays; 11:08 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents--1200 block E 27th St, Hays;12:10 PM 
Disorderly Conduct--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:27 PM 
Theft (general)—4400 block Vine St, Hays; 1/1/21 8 AM; 4/1 2:20 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 3:58 PM 
Drug Offenses--1700 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 4:52 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Fri., April 2, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--1100 block Ash St, Hays; 1:41 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:59 AM; 2
AM 
Welfare Check—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 6:32 AM 
Welfare Check--2000 block Patio Dr, Hays; 12:17 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—300 block E 24th St, Hays; 3/23 1:36 PM; 3/29 4:30 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—800 block Walnut St, Hays; 2:33 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 2:50 PM 
Aggravated Assault—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:57 PM; 3 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 7th St, Hays; 3:20 PM 
Theft (general)—1000 block W 28th St, Hays; 3:39 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--3600 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 10:43 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Fort St, Hays; 11:03 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 21st St, Hays; 11:37 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sat., April 3, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—800 block Ash St, Hays; 12:54 AM; 1:14 AM 
Battery – Domestic--200 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:44 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block Main St, Hays; 2:10 AM 
Stalking—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 2 AM; 3:04 AM 
Drug Offenses--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 3:11 AM 
Dangerous Animal—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 10:42 AM 
Drug Offenses—500 block Vine St, Hays; 1:38 PM 
Disturbance – General—500 block Halladay St, Hays; 3:42 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:51 PM 
Drug Offenses-- 500 block E 20th St, Hays; 6:14 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 6:30 PM; 7:58 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—1300 block Haney Dr, Hays; 8:33 PM 
False/Altered ID—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 9:28 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Sun., April 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Underage
Possession of CMB/LIQ--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:10 AM; 12:29 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Park St, Hays; 1:34 AM; 3:15 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Park St, Hays; 1:38 AM 
Theft (general)--4000 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 2 AM; 2:20 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 8:51 AM 
Drug Offenses—400 block Fort St, Hays; 10:39 AM; 11:44 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 4/3 3 PM; 4/4 12:34 PM 
Theft (general)—200 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:04 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block E 22nd St, Hays; 1:15 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 1:19 PM; 3:51 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:45 PM; 4:03 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 4:51 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Mon., March 29, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Credit Card
Violations—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 3/26 4 PM; 4:30 PM 
Animal At Large—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 7:27 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—4500 block Vine St, Hays; 3/27 8 AM; 3/29
11:17 AM 
Stalking—1000 block Main St, Hays; 1/29 12 PM; 3/29 12:52 PM 
Animal At Large--13th and Main, Hays; 1:13 PM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:18 PM; 2:20 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—1000 block E 29th St, Hays; 4:27 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 18th St, Hays; 4:54 PM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 12/30/20 
Theft (general)—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 6:10 PM 
Battery – simple—500 block Ash St, Hays; 5:30 PM; 6 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Tue., March 30, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-City Street/Alley—100 block W 13th St, Hays; 8:31 AM 
Theft (general)—4600 block Van Buren, Hays; 11/1/19; 3/29/2 
Parking Complaint--3000 block Limestone Ct, Hays; 9:27 AM 
Suspicious Person—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 10:18 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1700 block Donald Dr, Hays; 3/26 11:15 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY--2200 block Main St, Hays; 1:14 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—Hays; 1:20 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation--23rd and Walnut, Hays; 2:11 PM 
Animal At Large--1800 block Main St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Unwanted Person—1900 block Fort St, Hays; 3:40 PM; 4 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--500 block W 27th St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 5:04 PM 
Animal At Large—2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 5:08 PM 
Animal At Large--1600 block Allen St, Hays; 5:33 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury—400 block Elm St, Hays; 5:44 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 10:22 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 11:57 PM; 11:59 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 5 traffic stops Wed., March 31, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence—700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:20 AM; 3:32 AM 
Dead Animal Call--2700 block Sternberg Dr, Hays; 8:01 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:24 AM 
Animal At Large--1800 block Main St, Hays; 10:36 AM 
Suspicious Person--2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 12:57 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3/24 5 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3:04 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—600 block Oak St, Hays; 3:35 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 9 traffic stops Thu., April 1, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Animal At
Large—1300 block Golden Belt Dr, Hays; 8:24 AM 
Search Warrant—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 10:56 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—400 block E 22nd St, Hays; 11:06 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—1400 block W 42nd St, Hays; 11:08 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents--1200 block E 27th St, Hays;12:10 PM 
Disorderly Conduct--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:27 PM 
Theft (general)—4400 block Vine St, Hays; 1/1/21 8 AM; 4/1 2:20 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 3:58 PM 
Drug Offenses--1700 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 4:52 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Fri., April 2, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--1100 block Ash St, Hays; 1:41 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:59 AM; 2
AM 
Welfare Check—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 6:32 AM 
Welfare Check--2000 block Patio Dr, Hays; 12:17 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—300 block E 24th St, Hays; 3/23 1:36 PM; 3/29 4:30 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—800 block Walnut St, Hays; 2:33 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 2:50 PM 
Aggravated Assault—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:57 PM; 3 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 7th St, Hays; 3:20 PM 
Theft (general)—1000 block W 28th St, Hays; 3:39 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--3600 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 10:43 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Fort St, Hays; 11:03 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 21st St, Hays; 11:37 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sat., April 3, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—800 block Ash St, Hays; 12:54 AM; 1:14 AM 
Battery – Domestic--200 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:44 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block Main St, Hays; 2:10 AM 
Stalking—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 2 AM; 3:04 AM 
Drug Offenses--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 3:11 AM 
Dangerous Animal—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 10:42 AM 
Drug Offenses—500 block Vine St, Hays; 1:38 PM 
Disturbance – General—500 block Halladay St, Hays; 3:42 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:51 PM 
Drug Offenses-- 500 block E 20th St, Hays; 6:14 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 6:30 PM; 7:58 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—1300 block Haney Dr, Hays; 8:33 PM 
False/Altered ID—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 9:28 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Sun., April 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Underage
Possession of CMB/LIQ--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:10 AM; 12:29 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Park St, Hays; 1:34 AM; 3:15 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Park St, Hays; 1:38 AM 
Theft (general)--4000 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 2 AM; 2:20 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 8:51 AM 
Drug Offenses—400 block Fort St, Hays; 10:39 AM; 11:44 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 4/3 3 PM; 4/4 12:34 PM 
Theft (general)—200 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:04 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block E 22nd St, Hays; 1:15 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 1:19 PM; 3:51 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:45 PM; 4:03 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 4:51 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, March 29-April 4

WAKEENEY, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has made an arrest in a child pornography case.

Just after 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 7, KBI agents served an arrest warrant at 209 N. 4th&nbsp;St. in WaKeeney and arrested Blaine D. Dryden, 62, of WaKeeney, on requested charges of aggravated internet trading of child pornography, and multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a child, according to a media release from the agency. The arrest occurred without incident.

The alleged crimes are suspected to have occurred between November 2019 and June 2020. Dryden was employed as a lieutenant with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office until July 2020. When made aware of the allegations, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office cooperated fully in the investigation, and immediately placed Dryden on administrative leave.

After his arrest, Dryden was booked into to the Graham County Jail. Bond was set at $750,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617849662382.png" alt="Dryden-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Dryden-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>WAKEENEY, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has made an arrest in a child pornography case.Just after 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 7, KBI agents served an arrest warrant at 209 N. 4th&nbsp;St. in WaKeeney and arrested Blaine D. Dryden, 62, of WaKeeney, on requested charges of aggravated internet trading of child pornography, and multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a child, according to a media release from the agency. The arrest occurred without incident.The alleged crimes are suspected to have occurred between November 2019 and June 2020. Dryden was employed as a lieutenant with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office until July 2020. When made aware of the allegations, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office cooperated fully in the investigation, and immediately placed Dryden on administrative leave.After his arrest, Dryden was booked into to the Graham County Jail. Bond was set at $750,000.

Former Ellis Co. Sheriff's Lt. accused of trading child porn

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from 230th Avenue to Commerce Parkway along and south of U.S. 40 Bypass to Reservation Road. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency.

 Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617817711819.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from 230th Avenue to Commerce Parkway along and south of U.S. 40 Bypass to Reservation Road. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;

Fire department inspects hydrants in south Hays on Thursday 

Midland Marketing and Hays Post asked FFA chapters to submit a video to Hays Post for their chance to win $250. Five schools participated from around the listening/viewing area. Then the readers voted on their favorite video. 

Community support was shown for all chapters with over 1,300 total votes. Plainville FFA had the most votes and was the recipient of a $250 check from Midland Marketing.

Plainville FFA currently has 26 members. Jonah Smith, a senior, is the current president and will be attending Fort Hays State University in the fall, playing football and studying physical therapy. Vice President is Ben Hansen, who was was at the state wrestling tournament the day the video was shot. Brianna Augustine is the secretary also a senior and will be attending NCK Tech in the fall studying to become a pharmacy technician.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j80IAt_SquU"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midland Marketing and Hays Post asked FFA chapters to submit a video to Hays Post for their chance to win $250. Five schools participated from around the listening/viewing area. Then the readers voted on their favorite video. Community support was shown for all chapters with over 1,300 total votes. Plainville FFA had the most votes and was the recipient of a $250 check from Midland Marketing.Plainville FFA currently has 26 members. Jonah Smith, a senior, is the current president and will be attending Fort Hays State University in the fall, playing football and studying physical therapy. Vice President is Ben Hansen, who was was at the state wrestling tournament the day the video was shot. Brianna Augustine is the secretary also a senior and will be attending NCK Tech in the fall studying to become a pharmacy technician.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎥 Midland Marketing awards winner of FFA video contest

RUSSELL – A Russell man has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/11/16/kbi-russell-man-arrested-for-murder-of-14-month-old/">second-degree murder and abuse of a child, </a>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Wednesday in a news release.

Jody Steven Fox, 29, Russell, was sentenced April 5 by Senior Judge Edward Bouker in Russell County District Court. Fox pleaded no contest to the death of a 14-month-old child in 2017. He was sentenced to 200 months in prison for second-degree murder and 34 months for child abuse to be served consecutively. Fox was also ordered to register as a violent offender for 15 years after his release.

The mother of the child, Brandi Niehoff, entered a no contest plea in December 2020 to aggravated child endangerment and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 13.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Vic Braden and Assistant Attorney General CJ Rieg of Schmidt’s office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617817596757.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL – A Russell man has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/11/16/kbi-russell-man-arrested-for-murder-of-14-month-old/">second-degree murder and abuse of a child, </a>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Wednesday in a news release.Jody Steven Fox, 29, Russell, was sentenced April 5 by Senior Judge Edward Bouker in Russell County District Court. Fox pleaded no contest to the death of a 14-month-old child in 2017. He was sentenced to 200 months in prison for second-degree murder and 34 months for child abuse to be served consecutively. Fox was also ordered to register as a violent offender for 15 years after his release.The mother of the child, Brandi Niehoff, entered a no contest plea in December 2020 to aggravated child endangerment and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 13.The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Vic Braden and Assistant Attorney General CJ Rieg of Schmidt’s office.

Russell man sentenced for murder, abuse of toddler 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported three new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday — the first cases reported in April.&nbsp;

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

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,725 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617816587238.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported three new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday — the first cases reported in April.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Wednesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported four COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, three active and one recovering.Since reporting began, there have been 3,725 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Three new cases of COVID-19 in Ellis Co. since Monday

<div><iframe title="Sunflower Senior Solutions returns to delivering in person workshops" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m3hra-fffc2f-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Sunflower Senior Solutions offering in person workshops

ELLIS — Visitors to Ellis City Hall are no longer required to wear a facemask after the City Council ended the provision during their regular meeting Monday.

The motion to remove the mandate was made by council member&nbsp;Kellie Crnkovich.

"The state has dropped all mandates, so I don't see why we have to have a mandate," Crnkovich said.&nbsp;

Council member Martin LaBarge seconded the motion.

Along with the end of the mask mandate, council chambers will also be returned to a pre-pandemic configuration.

With no discussion, the council voted 4-2 in favor of the measure.

Council member Jolene Niernberger and council president John Walz made up the dissenting votes.

Council members Devin Henderson and Tricia Pritchett, along with LaBarge and Crnkovich, voted in favor of the measure.

Walz said after the vote he was in favor of removing the mask mandate but hoped to continue with the newer configuration of the council chambers.

The measure took effect immediately, with most present immediately removing their masks.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — Visitors to Ellis City Hall are no longer required to wear a facemask after the City Council ended the provision during their regular meeting Monday.The motion to remove the mandate was made by council member&nbsp;Kellie Crnkovich."The state has dropped all mandates, so I don't see why we have to have a mandate," Crnkovich said.&nbsp;Council member Martin LaBarge seconded the motion.Along with the end of the mask mandate, council chambers will also be returned to a pre-pandemic configuration.With no discussion, the council voted 4-2 in favor of the measure.Council member Jolene Niernberger and council president John Walz made up the dissenting votes.Council members Devin Henderson and Tricia Pritchett, along with LaBarge and Crnkovich, voted in favor of the measure.Walz said after the vote he was in favor of removing the mask mandate but hoped to continue with the newer configuration of the council chambers.The measure took effect immediately, with most present immediately removing their masks.

Face masks no longer required in Ellis City Hall

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new program under the umbrella of DSNWK helps parents form better relationships with their children and boost brain development.

Fam-Link, which is in its first year, is free for families with children 6 to 24 months.

The program provides attachment and biobehavior catch up. The 10-week free program seeks to enhance the parents' or caregivers' bonds with their children.

Caregivers meet with the coaches for about one hour per week. Parents can choose to participate in the program through home visits or virtually. When the family competes the course, they receive a free keepsake video montage taken from the sessions.

The coaches help parents identify the signals their children are giving the caregiver and how the caregiver responds to the child, said Franses Schmidt, parent coach.

The child-caregiver bond is critical for brain connection and development, Schmidt said.

By picking up a child who is crying, that shows the child they can rely on their parent. The program helps the children learn emotional regulation that will help them later when they attend school, Schmidt said.

A child who is not talking yet communicates through facial expressions or they may turn away from the caregiver, Schmidt said.

"During a time like this with the pandemic, times can be stressful," Schmidt said. "Your child might cry and cry and cry. You might not know how to calm them down."

The coaches give caregivers ideas on how they can nurture their children.

"The take away from attachment and biobehavior catch up, is that it is really uplifting for the parent and enhances the bond between the child and parent or caregiver," Schmidt said.

The program has two parent coaches who serve nine Northwest Kansas counties — Ellis, Russell, Rooks, Phillips, Smith, Osborne, Norton, Graham and Trego counties.

The program initially took families who were referred by the Kansas Department of Children and Families. However, the program has now been opened to all families.

"Really, it is a program that is good for a new parent or someone just looking for parenting techniques, because it is really just working on how to respond to your child and building that bond," Schmidt said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617736701433.jpeg" alt="Natalie Ellis with her son works with Fam-Link parent coach Fransis Schmidt." />
 <figcaption>Natalie Ellis with her son works with Fam-Link parent coach Fransis Schmidt.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new program under the umbrella of DSNWK helps parents form better relationships with their children and boost brain development.Fam-Link, which is in its first year, is free for families with children 6 to 24 months.The program provides attachment and biobehavior catch up. The 10-week free program seeks to enhance the parents' or caregivers' bonds with their children.Caregivers meet with the coaches for about one hour per week. Parents can choose to participate in the program through home visits or virtually. When the family competes the course, they receive a free keepsake video montage taken from the sessions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617736812269.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The coaches help parents identify the signals their children are giving the caregiver and how the caregiver responds to the child, said Franses Schmidt, parent coach.The child-caregiver bond is critical for brain connection and development, Schmidt said.By picking up a child who is crying, that shows the child they can rely on their parent. The program helps the children learn emotional regulation that will help them later when they attend school, Schmidt said.A child who is not talking yet communicates through facial expressions or they may turn away from the caregiver, Schmidt said."During a time like this with the pandemic, times can be stressful," Schmidt said. "Your child might cry and cry and cry. You might not know how to calm them down."The coaches give caregivers ideas on how they can nurture their children."The take away from attachment and biobehavior catch up, is that it is really uplifting for the parent and enhances the bond between the child and parent or caregiver," Schmidt said.The program has two parent coaches who serve nine Northwest Kansas counties — Ellis, Russell, Rooks, Phillips, Smith, Osborne, Norton, Graham and Trego counties.The program initially took families who were referred by the Kansas Department of Children and Families. However, the program has now been opened to all families."Really, it is a program that is good for a new parent or someone just looking for parenting techniques, because it is really just working on how to respond to your child and building that bond," Schmidt said.

DSNWK's Fam-Link helps parents build bonds with infants, toddlers

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

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

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

The city has been offered the purchase of a 20.33-acre tract of land on the east side of the airport. It has has been identified for future growth in the airport layout plan, therefore making the purchase eligible for federal funding.

Expansion into the area would be used for future hangar development.&nbsp;

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

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

City commissioners will consider authoring City Manager Toby Dougherty to execute the land purchase during their Thursday meeting.&nbsp;

In other business, commissioners are scheduled to vote on a quitclaim deed for transfer of mineral rights requested by Rick and Betty Wolf.

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

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

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

According to figure from City Attorney John Bird, the one-tenth acre the city owns would amount to an annual barrel&nbsp;production of 0.0168 barrels, or an annual income of approximately $1.

The complete April 8 city commission agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082021-1263">here</a>.

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617721464450.jpeg" alt="The city is considering purchase of 20 acres directly east of Hays Regional Airport for future expansion, including new&nbsp; airplane hangar construction.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The city is considering purchase of 20 acres directly east of Hays Regional Airport for future expansion, including new&nbsp; airplane hangar construction.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Regional Airport master plan and airport layout plan includes acquisition of land for existing and future aviation demand.There are 43 hangars at the airport and all are occupied. There is limited space for new hangar construction within the airport's current layout.&nbsp;According to information from city staff, the demand for hangars continues to increase.&nbsp;The city has been offered the purchase of a 20.33-acre tract of land on the east side of the airport. It has has been identified for future growth in the airport layout plan, therefore making the purchase eligible for federal funding.Expansion into the area would be used for future hangar development.&nbsp;Total cost of the land, owned by JoAnn Koerner, and its acquisition, is $261, 692.&nbsp;The purchase is eligible for 90 percent funding through the FAA, with a 10 percent city match of $26, 129.City commissioners will consider authoring City Manager Toby Dougherty to execute the land purchase during their Thursday meeting.&nbsp;In other business, commissioners are scheduled to vote on a quitclaim deed for transfer of mineral rights requested by Rick and Betty Wolf.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617724036879.jpeg" alt="The city of Hays owns the right of way at the northeast corner of 260th Avenue and East 41st Street." />
 <figcaption>The city of Hays owns the right of way at the northeast corner of 260th Avenue and East 41st Street.</figcaption>
 </figure>Several years ago, the city acquired the right of way for the northeast portion of what would be the 260th&nbsp;Avenue and East 41st Street intersection. Along with that acquisition came the mineral rights.&nbsp;The owners of the&nbsp;contiguous tract want to sell the property along with the mineral rights and have asked the&nbsp;city to deed those rights back to the adjacent property.There is a&nbsp;producing oil well on the property and because the city owns the street tract it&nbsp;has a small interest in the production of the oil and gas.According to figure from City Attorney John Bird, the one-tenth acre the city owns would amount to an annual barrel&nbsp;production of 0.0168 barrels, or an annual income of approximately $1.The complete April 8 city commission agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082021-1263">here</a>.The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays commission to consider land purchase for future airport expansion

The word is out and excitement is building in Hays for the
opening of Arcade 11 Bar and Restaurant in downtown Hays, a new establishment
that will offer arcade-style gaming for all ages in a restaurant setting.

“We are going to be a full restaurant and full bar,” said
Kelly DePiesse, one of the four owners, who also include his wife Sarah, along
with another husband-and-wife Tyrel and Jessica Somers. 

And the arcade will cater to fans of both classic and
modern games.

“We are going to have a pretty good list of different arcade
machines.” DePiesse said.

Many of those he said will be the old cabinet-style machines,
but some newer machines will be presented as well.

He also said, they have some “surprises” they plan to bring
in, as well, and cocktail-type games.

The idea behind Arcade 11 came from the owners own
experiences and their desire to see something similar to their favorite
locations locally.

“The group of us travel together quite a bit to different
things and a lot of times when we are traveling, we are always seeking out
different bars or arcades,” he said. “We always really enjoy going to them and
we were at one time, like ‘Why not at home?’ ”

And he believes area residents will take to the fresh
concept.

“Overall, the business is going to be marketed more toward
college students, 30-year olds, 40-years olds and working professionals,” he
said. “I think there is a need for it. Everyone from college-age kids to older
adults will find something fun here.”

<div><iframe title="Arcade 11 Bar and Restaurant coming to Hays this summer" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9wvqi-ffd1c6-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=1"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617669622486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe word is out and excitement is building in Hays for the
opening of Arcade 11 Bar and Restaurant in downtown Hays, a new establishment
that will offer arcade-style gaming for all ages in a restaurant setting.“We are going to be a full restaurant and full bar,” said
Kelly DePiesse, one of the four owners, who also include his wife Sarah, along
with another husband-and-wife Tyrel and Jessica Somers. And the arcade will cater to fans of both classic and
modern games.“We are going to have a pretty good list of different arcade
machines.” DePiesse said.Many of those he said will be the old cabinet-style machines,
but some newer machines will be presented as well.He also said, they have some “surprises” they plan to bring
in, as well, and cocktail-type games.The idea behind Arcade 11 came from the owners own
experiences and their desire to see something similar to their favorite
locations locally.“The group of us travel together quite a bit to different
things and a lot of times when we are traveling, we are always seeking out
different bars or arcades,” he said. “We always really enjoy going to them and
we were at one time, like ‘Why not at home?’ ”And he believes area residents will take to the fresh
concept.“Overall, the business is going to be marketed more toward
college students, 30-year olds, 40-years olds and working professionals,” he
said. “I think there is a need for it. Everyone from college-age kids to older
adults will find something fun here.”But while the restaurant and bar may shift to an adult-only
crowd during the evening, he said during the day the establishment will be
family-friendly.“Having a full restaurant, we are definitely expecting to have full families,”
he said. “Throughout the day, we definitely want to be welcoming to everybody
and let everyone have an opportunity to enjoy our business.”Their location downtown also feeds into the desire to open a
place locals can enjoy. “It’s a great location, there is a lot of historical value
downtown,” DePiesse said. “There are a lot of great businesses around and we
also have the college not too far away and all of the different apartments,
sororities, fraternities and whatnot.”“We are right on the corner of Fort and 10th,” DePiesse
said. “Most notably, we are right across from the railroad tracks, just right
next to Sip and Spin, right on the corner.”The establishment will be located at 201 W 10th.The building has been the home to a variety of businesses
including a retail outlet, a gym, a music store and most recently Tang’s
Market, an Asian grocery.“When we got into the building, it was completely stocked
full of different merchandise from when Tang’s Market was in here,” DePiesse
said. “It was kind of frozen in time, it was kind of apocalyptic looking.”But the group of owners, doing much of the work themselves,
have already removed almost everything from the interior to prepare for the
ongoing construction.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617669711685.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s been a process and we are just working on getting the
building up to code and getting it cleaned,” Depiesse said. “We are going to be
pretty proud once it is done,” he said. “It is going to be pretty sharp.”Larger scale projects, like replacing the floors are also
underway and the roof has already been replaced.While the owners are hoping to open this summer, their first
focus is on creating a venue that people can enjoy.“We want everyone a good experience in here, so it is
important to us to make sure everything is done properly, and everything looks
good,” he said. “We don’t want to rush anything.”Currently, they believe the restaurant will be open before
the fall school term begins, but they are hopeful it may open sooner.“We appreciate the positive feedback and interest we have
gotten from everybody in the community, and we ask people to check out the
facebook,” he said. “If you want to see something particular let us know…we are
always open to ideas.”More information about the project can be found at the <a href="http://arcade-11.com/">Arcade
11 website </a>and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/arcade11bar">on social media.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617669664462.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

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