The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance has partnered with Hays Post to bring you Encouraging Words, a series of messages from Ellis County faith leaders.

Check Hays Post on Wednesdays and Sundays for the latest Encouraging Words.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MHeymvafEG8"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance has partnered with Hays Post to bring you Encouraging Words, a series of messages from Ellis County faith leaders.Check Hays Post on Wednesdays and Sundays for the latest Encouraging Words.

🎥 Encouraging Words: Micah Sanderson, CrossPoint Church

HOXIE — Registrations are currently open for the Main Street Arts Council’s 2020 Main Street Summer Theater Festival which has been restructured to a virtual format in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With so many unknowns related to the virus and out of concern for the safety of our participants, staff and volunteers, not to mention the amount of preparatory time required, we believe modifying this year’s festival is the best decision for us at this time. We are excited, in essence, to break down a typical show into its various components, allowing us to continue to provide educational, musical and performance opportunities for youth in northwest Kansas, ages 5-18, in a new medium,” said Karl Pratt, MSAC executive director.

Participation in the festival components remains free of charge to youth from the designated festival counties, including Cheyenne, Gove, Rawlins, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace. Preference will be given to youth from these counties, though those in the surrounding areas are still encouraged to apply/participate.

 This is made possible, collectively, through the tremendous support of Dane G. Hansen Community Fund grants from the ACE Foundation, Cheyenne County Community Foundation, Gove County Community Foundation, Sheridan County Community Foundation, Sherman County Community Foundation, Thomas County Community Foundation and Wallace County Foundation. All organizations are affiliates of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation based in Bird City.

Additional financial support for our student director internship program was made possible with a grant from the Friends of the Cottonwood Ranch, as well as our selection into the Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, Inc. Intern program. And a marketing intern position was made possible through the Dane G. Hansen Summer Intern Initiative facilitated by K-State Research and Extension.

“We are so grateful to our funding organizations as well as our business sponsors and individual donors for their support of our program and belief in our mission to help spread the arts across the region,” noted Pratt. “We simply can’t say ‘thank you’ enough!”

The festival includes the following components:

1) Theater Workshops - June 1 through July 24

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Workshops will be held weekly for 30 minutes, broken into age groups of 5-7, 8-10, 11-13 and 14-18 years.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topics will include a variety of acting exercises with weekly “homework” assignments.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These will be held throughout June and July.

2) Skits and Scenes Program - June 1 through July 24

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants will be cast into monologues, duets or small ensemble skits/scenes based on age (broken into age groups of 5-7, 8-10, 11-13 and 14-18 years) and ability.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Individual skit/scene rehearsals will be scheduled with each receiving, at minimum, one rehearsal per week for 10, 20 or up to 30 minutes depending on length.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Skits/scenes will be recorded, edited and made available for public viewing throughout the summer.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants will have the opportunity to participate in up to two different skits/scenes throughout the summer.

3) Dance Program - June 1 through June 26

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants will rehearse a dance routine culminating in individual participants recording themselves and submitting them to be edited into a comprehensive video that will be shared online.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rehearsals will be held twice weekly for 30 minutes each broken into age groups of 5-7, 8-12, 13-18 years. Each rehearsal session will be recorded and posted to the private MSAC Vimeo page for practice purposes in between sessions.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The program will last for four weeks in June.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ***Age groups are suggestions; if individual student dance ability permits them to join a higher age group, we are happy to accommodate such requests.

4) Virtual/Zoom Musical Production of "Mirror Image" - June 1 through July 31

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The full-length musical “Mirror Image” will be produced virtually for students grades 7-12, including graduating seniors, only.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants from all seven designated festival counties as well as the surrounding areas will be eligible, though, casting will be limited to 31 participants.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rehearsals will be held Mondays through Thursdays for up to an hour in length, held weekly throughout June and July.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As part of the recording process, participants will record themselves singing and acting scenes individually, submitting videos to be professionally edited (both sound and video) through a contract with the professional audio/video engineering firm, Arts Laureate.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The final video will be made available for public viewing on our website at the conclusion of the summer.

Adjustments to the program schedules may be made as needed.

Those wishing to participate are required to register online at <a href="http://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/msstf2020" target="_blank">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/msstf2020</a> where they can also find more detailed festival and schedule information as well as audition requirements.

A priority deadline of Friday, May 29 has been set. Those wishing to register after that date are asked to contact the arts council at <a href="mailto:mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com" target="_blank">mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com</a> to ensure availability.

The arts council is led by Karl Pratt, executive director, and Bonnie Cameron, creative director/founder. They are assisted by Jan Moore, regional office manager. While based in Hoxie, the Main Street Art Council aims to serve the northwest Kansas region.

Along with the summer theater festival, the arts council is currently offering FREE Virtual Art Classes for all ages via Facebook Live. Visit <a href="http://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events" target="_blank">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events</a> to learn more and register, then plan to follow along on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mainstreetartscouncil" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/mainstreetartscouncil</a>.

At this time, the annual Main Street Art Walk is still scheduled for Friday, Aug. 21. A determination of whether to continue with the live event or reformat to a virtual offering as well will be decided at a later date.

All MSAC programming is made possible through the financial support of paid members, donations, and grants.

 To support MSAC in its endeavor to promote the arts, encourage creativity, serve the Arts community, and act as an advocate for the Arts, please consider paid membership. Varying levels are available for both individuals and businesses, each offering a multitude of benefits and advertising premiums in acknowledgment of support.

Visit <a href="http://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/join-us" target="_blank">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/join-us</a> for more information and to join today.

Contact Pratt at <a href="mailto:mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com" target="_blank">mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com</a> with questions related to the summer theater festival or other general inquiries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590614456838.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HOXIE — Registrations are currently open for the Main Street Arts Council’s 2020 Main Street Summer Theater Festival which has been restructured to a virtual format in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.“With so many unknowns related to the virus and out of concern for the safety of our participants, staff and volunteers, not to mention the amount of preparatory time required, we believe modifying this year’s festival is the best decision for us at this time. We are excited, in essence, to break down a typical show into its various components, allowing us to continue to provide educational, musical and performance opportunities for youth in northwest Kansas, ages 5-18, in a new medium,” said Karl Pratt, MSAC executive director.Participation in the festival components remains free of charge to youth from the designated festival counties, including Cheyenne, Gove, Rawlins, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace. Preference will be given to youth from these counties, though those in the surrounding areas are still encouraged to apply/participate. This is made possible, collectively, through the tremendous support of Dane G. Hansen Community Fund grants from the ACE Foundation, Cheyenne County Community Foundation, Gove County Community Foundation, Sheridan County Community Foundation, Sherman County Community Foundation, Thomas County Community Foundation and Wallace County Foundation. All organizations are affiliates of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation based in Bird City.Additional financial support for our student director internship program was made possible with a grant from the Friends of the Cottonwood Ranch, as well as our selection into the Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, Inc. Intern program. And a marketing intern position was made possible through the Dane G. Hansen Summer Intern Initiative facilitated by K-State Research and Extension.“We are so grateful to our funding organizations as well as our business sponsors and individual donors for their support of our program and belief in our mission to help spread the arts across the region,” noted Pratt. “We simply can’t say ‘thank you’ enough!”The festival includes the following components:1) Theater Workshops - June 1 through July 24●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Workshops will be held weekly for 30 minutes, broken into age groups of 5-7, 8-10, 11-13 and 14-18 years.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topics will include a variety of acting exercises with weekly “homework” assignments.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These will be held throughout June and July.2) Skits and Scenes Program - June 1 through July 24●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants will be cast into monologues, duets or small ensemble skits/scenes based on age (broken into age groups of 5-7, 8-10, 11-13 and 14-18 years) and ability.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Individual skit/scene rehearsals will be scheduled with each receiving, at minimum, one rehearsal per week for 10, 20 or up to 30 minutes depending on length.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Skits/scenes will be recorded, edited and made available for public viewing throughout the summer.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants will have the opportunity to participate in up to two different skits/scenes throughout the summer.3) Dance Program - June 1 through June 26●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants will rehearse a dance routine culminating in individual participants recording themselves and submitting them to be edited into a comprehensive video that will be shared online.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rehearsals will be held twice weekly for 30 minutes each broken into age groups of 5-7, 8-12, 13-18 years. Each rehearsal session will be recorded and posted to the private MSAC Vimeo page for practice purposes in between sessions.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The program will last for four weeks in June.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ***Age groups are suggestions; if individual student dance ability permits them to join a higher age group, we are happy to accommodate such requests.4) Virtual/Zoom Musical Production of "Mirror Image" - June 1 through July 31●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The full-length musical “Mirror Image” will be produced virtually for students grades 7-12, including graduating seniors, only.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Participants from all seven designated festival counties as well as the surrounding areas will be eligible, though, casting will be limited to 31 participants.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rehearsals will be held Mondays through Thursdays for up to an hour in length, held weekly throughout June and July.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As part of the recording process, participants will record themselves singing and acting scenes individually, submitting videos to be professionally edited (both sound and video) through a contract with the professional audio/video engineering firm, Arts Laureate.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The final video will be made available for public viewing on our website at the conclusion of the summer.Adjustments to the program schedules may be made as needed.Those wishing to participate are required to register online at <a href="http://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/msstf2020" target="_blank">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/msstf2020</a> where they can also find more detailed festival and schedule information as well as audition requirements. A priority deadline of Friday, May 29 has been set. Those wishing to register after that date are asked to contact the arts council at <a href="mailto:mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com" target="_blank">mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com</a> to ensure availability.The arts council is led by Karl Pratt, executive director, and Bonnie Cameron, creative director/founder. They are assisted by Jan Moore, regional office manager. While based in Hoxie, the Main Street Art Council aims to serve the northwest Kansas region.Along with the summer theater festival, the arts council is currently offering FREE Virtual Art Classes for all ages via Facebook Live. Visit <a href="http://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events" target="_blank">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events</a> to learn more and register, then plan to follow along on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mainstreetartscouncil" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/mainstreetartscouncil</a>. At this time, the annual Main Street Art Walk is still scheduled for Friday, Aug. 21. A determination of whether to continue with the live event or reformat to a virtual offering as well will be decided at a later date.All MSAC programming is made possible through the financial support of paid members, donations, and grants. To support MSAC in its endeavor to promote the arts, encourage creativity, serve the Arts community, and act as an advocate for the Arts, please consider paid membership. Varying levels are available for both individuals and businesses, each offering a multitude of benefits and advertising premiums in acknowledgment of support.Visit <a href="http://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/join-us" target="_blank">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/join-us</a> for more information and to join today.Contact Pratt at <a href="mailto:mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com" target="_blank">mainstreetartscouncil@gmail.com</a> with questions related to the summer theater festival or other general inquiries.News release

Main Street Arts Council’s Summer Theater Festival goes virtual

Fort Hays State University’s&nbsp;Department of Applied Business Studies, a division of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, recently honored six students as outstanding graduating seniors for the 2019-20 school year.&nbsp;

The department creates an environment where students can cultivate and master techniques to become tomorrow’s business leaders. The program’s goal is not only to prepare students for a productive, gratifying career, but also to ensure their growth to become balanced leaders who are interested and invested in their communities.&nbsp;

The inaugural Outstanding Student Awards recognize graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional performance in academics, leadership, and overall excellence in their respective programs at FHSU. The honorees are role models who positively characterize the core values of the awarding programs.&nbsp;

The department houses three different programs with various concentrations.&nbsp;

Business Education Outstanding Student Award Winners:&nbsp;

Ashten Slater, Richmond, Mo.&nbsp;

Paige Tobias, Larkspur, Colo.&nbsp;

The business education program offers concentration areas in corporate communication, talent development, and teacher licensure.&nbsp;

Marketing Outstanding Student Award Winners:&nbsp;

Daniela Buttini,&nbsp;Dominican Republic&nbsp;

The marketing program offers concentrations in business sales and development, digital marketing, or general marketing.&nbsp;

Tourism and Hospitality Management Outstanding Student Award Winners:&nbsp;

The Tourism and Hospitality Management program offers courses including, but not limited to, hotel management, event planning, casino management, food and beverage, health and wellness, and sustainable tourism.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590761430038.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University’s&nbsp;Department of Applied Business Studies, a division of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, recently honored six students as outstanding graduating seniors for the 2019-20 school year.&nbsp;The department creates an environment where students can cultivate and master techniques to become tomorrow’s business leaders. The program’s goal is not only to prepare students for a productive, gratifying career, but also to ensure their growth to become balanced leaders who are interested and invested in their communities.&nbsp;The inaugural Outstanding Student Awards recognize graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional performance in academics, leadership, and overall excellence in their respective programs at FHSU. The honorees are role models who positively characterize the core values of the awarding programs.&nbsp;The department houses three different programs with various concentrations.&nbsp;Business Education Outstanding Student Award Winners:&nbsp;Ashten Slater, Richmond, Mo.&nbsp;Paige Tobias, Larkspur, Colo.&nbsp;The business education program offers concentration areas in corporate communication, talent development, and teacher licensure.&nbsp;Marketing Outstanding Student Award Winners:&nbsp;Brooks Barber, HaysDaniela Buttini,&nbsp;Dominican Republic&nbsp;The marketing program offers concentrations in business sales and development, digital marketing, or general marketing.&nbsp;Tourism and Hospitality Management Outstanding Student Award Winners:&nbsp;Taryn Rupp, HaysHeather Steckel, Russell&nbsp;The Tourism and Hospitality Management program offers courses including, but not limited to, hotel management, event planning, casino management, food and beverage, health and wellness, and sustainable tourism.&nbsp;

FHSU honors graduating seniors outstanding academic performance

Three-day weather outlook

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

<div><iframe title="Firefighters to gain experience with airplane fires during upcoming training" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/38ktk-de24e3?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Area firefighters to train for airplane fires in Hays

Help is on its way, but reopening Kansas schools won’t be easy.&nbsp; With the state’s economy in free fall and Kansas COVID-19 cases still on the rise, educators are meeting in school districts across Kansas to plan for reopening schools this fall even though start-up dates remain uncertain.

Planning help is available from Center for Disease Control guidelines, and federal legislation is ready to provide funds for school health safety and broadband technology.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an Oklahoma state representative announced through his weekly report that the legislature’s budget reduction for the coming year “protected” schools because federal relief funds would fully offset Oklahoma’s three percent K-12 school funding reduction. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Before “creative budgeting” gains a foothold in Kansas, let’s remember that federal relief funds are for costs incurred by the virus and may not cover all those costs.&nbsp; New routines will likely require additional consumable supplies and equipment for school sanitation.&nbsp;&nbsp; Food service changes and individual health checks such as temperature-taking will continue indefinitely.&nbsp;

The anticipated broadband technology funding cannot provide computers/tablets for each student or ongoing upgrades.

School health safety and technology requirements will increase the workload and could require more teachers as well as increase operating costs.&nbsp; Despite this, offering remote learning for each school’s students will be necessary to address possible future outbreaks of COVID-19 or new emergencies that may require students to remain at home.

The virus taught us that fully online access for students is necessary, but it can’t replace traditional schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our virus lockdown renewed our sense that human connection is fundamental and crucial to the full experience of individual learning, teamwork and community building that traditional public schools bring.&nbsp;

Consequently, the return to school means creating two systems—remote and traditional—because we can’t ignore a future need to learn from home and because in-person school is essential both to learning and getting Kansans back to work.&nbsp;

Each school district is responsible to find its own way to meet the challenges working within three CDC guidelines “where feasible.” &nbsp;Each option is costly and problematic.&nbsp; They are:

Traditional school.&nbsp; The problem is all health safety guidelines published in fall would need to be met because no school would accept the moral or legal responsibility of reopening with even one child in danger of infection.&nbsp; Providing classrooms, cafeterias and buses with six-foot social distancing would be expensive.

All remote.&nbsp; This option is probably the least added expense to schools and safest for students and educators but costly to families who would have to provide home support for children.&nbsp; Moreover, its effectiveness is questioned by parents and researchers.

Blended.&nbsp;&nbsp;This option is some combination of remote and traditional.&nbsp; Proposals include traditional school for elementary students using high school space for separation while middle and high school students study online. Other suggestions are a longer school day with half of students attending in the morning and half in the afternoon; or having students alternate two days in school and two online with academically challenged students attending school a third day each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Given current tax revenue projections, schools may face a state budget cut. But before we take a hatchet to K-12 school funding, we need to take a realistic look at the considerable added expense of restarting our schools and provide ways to “come back better” for Kansas students.&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576185211786.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Help is on its way, but reopening Kansas schools won’t be easy.&nbsp; With the state’s economy in free fall and Kansas COVID-19 cases still on the rise, educators are meeting in school districts across Kansas to plan for reopening schools this fall even though start-up dates remain uncertain.Planning help is available from Center for Disease Control guidelines, and federal legislation is ready to provide funds for school health safety and broadband technology.&nbsp;Meanwhile, an Oklahoma state representative announced through his weekly report that the legislature’s budget reduction for the coming year “protected” schools because federal relief funds would fully offset Oklahoma’s three percent K-12 school funding reduction. &nbsp;&nbsp;Before “creative budgeting” gains a foothold in Kansas, let’s remember that federal relief funds are for costs incurred by the virus and may not cover all those costs.&nbsp; New routines will likely require additional consumable supplies and equipment for school sanitation.&nbsp;&nbsp; Food service changes and individual health checks such as temperature-taking will continue indefinitely.&nbsp;The anticipated broadband technology funding cannot provide computers/tablets for each student or ongoing upgrades.School health safety and technology requirements will increase the workload and could require more teachers as well as increase operating costs.&nbsp; Despite this, offering remote learning for each school’s students will be necessary to address possible future outbreaks of COVID-19 or new emergencies that may require students to remain at home.The virus taught us that fully online access for students is necessary, but it can’t replace traditional schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our virus lockdown renewed our sense that human connection is fundamental and crucial to the full experience of individual learning, teamwork and community building that traditional public schools bring.&nbsp;Consequently, the return to school means creating two systems—remote and traditional—because we can’t ignore a future need to learn from home and because in-person school is essential both to learning and getting Kansans back to work.&nbsp;Each school district is responsible to find its own way to meet the challenges working within three CDC guidelines “where feasible.” &nbsp;Each option is costly and problematic.&nbsp; They are:Traditional school.&nbsp; The problem is all health safety guidelines published in fall would need to be met because no school would accept the moral or legal responsibility of reopening with even one child in danger of infection.&nbsp; Providing classrooms, cafeterias and buses with six-foot social distancing would be expensive.All remote.&nbsp; This option is probably the least added expense to schools and safest for students and educators but costly to families who would have to provide home support for children.&nbsp; Moreover, its effectiveness is questioned by parents and researchers.Blended.&nbsp;&nbsp;This option is some combination of remote and traditional.&nbsp; Proposals include traditional school for elementary students using high school space for separation while middle and high school students study online. Other suggestions are a longer school day with half of students attending in the morning and half in the afternoon; or having students alternate two days in school and two online with academically challenged students attending school a third day each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Given current tax revenue projections, schools may face a state budget cut. But before we take a hatchet to K-12 school funding, we need to take a realistic look at the considerable added expense of restarting our schools and provide ways to “come back better” for Kansas students.&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Educators plan for an uncertain future

Free webinar will be hosted via Zoom on June 4

MANHATTAN – Registration is now open for a webinar that will help Kansas beef cattle producers make management decisions in light of Kansas’ current weather patterns, ranging from flooding to drought, and calf market volatility following COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The webinar will be hosted by the Kansas State University Department of Animal Sciences and Industry and K-State Research and Extension via Zoom on Thursday, June 4, at noon.

“This webinar is being conducted to help beef producers better prepare for the upcoming summer environmental conditions and current market conditions resulting from COVID-19,” said AJ Tarpoff, K-State beef cattle extension veterinarian.

Temperature and moisture variations can yield unanticipated stress on cattle as well as producers in an already volatile marketplace, Tarpoff said. Understanding the use of available environmental and marketing forecasting tools can help managers mitigate these potential impacts on their operations.&nbsp;

The program will feature brief updates on the current weather situation and forecast from K-State climatologist Mary Knapp. Members of the university beef extension team will discuss management strategies and tools for abating heat stress in cattle and the use of&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://705795FB-AAA9-448C-AD15-D4CB59094F2B/BeefBasis.com">BeefBasis.com</a>&nbsp;for making calf management and market decisions.

Register for the webinar online at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/KSUBeef-ToolsandTips">https://tinyurl.com/KSUBeef-ToolsandTips</a>&nbsp;or at<a href="http://www.ksubeef.org/">www.KSUBeef.org</a>.

For questions about the event or to register,&nbsp;please contact Lois Schreiner,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lschrein@ksu.edu">lschrein@ksu.edu,</a>&nbsp;785-532-1267.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590681306227.jpeg" alt="Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/Shutterbug75-2077322/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1238273">Shutterbug75</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1238273">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/Shutterbug75-2077322/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1238273">Shutterbug75</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1238273">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Free webinar will be hosted via Zoom on June 4</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN – Registration is now open for a webinar that will help Kansas beef cattle producers make management decisions in light of Kansas’ current weather patterns, ranging from flooding to drought, and calf market volatility following COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;The webinar will be hosted by the Kansas State University Department of Animal Sciences and Industry and K-State Research and Extension via Zoom on Thursday, June 4, at noon.“This webinar is being conducted to help beef producers better prepare for the upcoming summer environmental conditions and current market conditions resulting from COVID-19,” said AJ Tarpoff, K-State beef cattle extension veterinarian.Temperature and moisture variations can yield unanticipated stress on cattle as well as producers in an already volatile marketplace, Tarpoff said. Understanding the use of available environmental and marketing forecasting tools can help managers mitigate these potential impacts on their operations.&nbsp;The program will feature brief updates on the current weather situation and forecast from K-State climatologist Mary Knapp. Members of the university beef extension team will discuss management strategies and tools for abating heat stress in cattle and the use of&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://705795FB-AAA9-448C-AD15-D4CB59094F2B/BeefBasis.com">BeefBasis.com</a>&nbsp;for making calf management and market decisions.Register for the webinar online at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/KSUBeef-ToolsandTips">https://tinyurl.com/KSUBeef-ToolsandTips</a>&nbsp;or at<a href="http://www.ksubeef.org/">www.KSUBeef.org</a>.For questions about the event or to register,&nbsp;please contact Lois Schreiner,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lschrein@ksu.edu">lschrein@ksu.edu,</a>&nbsp;785-532-1267.

K-State beef experts to discuss weather, cattle markets

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Sgt. Mitch Berens "stood on the wall" to serve and protect his community for 25 years, training a new generation in law enforcement how to not only be good officers, but members of the community.

This week, he retired to concentrate on his health as he battles cancer.

HPD Chief Don Scheibler and Berens both worked in the patrol division when they started on the police force in the 1990s.

"Mitch has served the community for 25 years. He's stood the wall to serve and protect this community," Scheibler said. "I am a firm believer that we take care of our people and our people will take care of the community and, in a time of need, our community will take care of us."

Berens, 51, marked his last day on the job Thursday.

He has been fighting cancer in his abdomen and brain since the fall. He was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic melanoma.

"The cancer meds that I am taking right now are really doing a good job," he said. "I don't always feel 100 percent, but I'm not going to let that ruin my retirement."

Berens has had two rounds of radiation on his brain and has been taking chemotherapy medication. His first round of treatment shrunk the tumors in his abdomen 65 percent.

"For me, it's a daily fight," he said, "but I think I'm winning it right now. I don't always feel 100 percent, but I am thankful I feel as good as I do."

Berens was diagnosed with melanoma 19 years ago, but&nbsp; the cancer went into remission.

"I have been dealing with this most of my career while I'm working," he said. "I can tell you the police department and the City of Hays administration have been wonderful working with me while I have been dealing with that."

Berens said he always wanted to be a police officer, once dreaming of being a trooper for the Kansas Highway Patrol. He was working as an officer in Oakley and going through the application process for the KHP when he received an offer to work for the HPD.

A Victoria native, Berens opted to take the job closer to home and drop out of the application process for the KHP.

He said being from the area has made it easier for him to relate to the public that he serves.

Berens' son, Shane, is now working his way through that same process and will start training for the KHP in June. Berens said he is very proud of his son.

"Any organization would be lucky to have him," he said.

Berens spoke about the legacy he hoped to leave for other young officers.

"It would be to be approachable," he said. "Don't come out of the academy and the training and try to be this macho police officer, because that doesn't always work.

"We have more positive contacts with the public than negative. You want to be able to visit with the public and be approachable. ... Nobody wants to be talked down to."

Scheibler said, "I think since Mitch got here he understood that we are here for the public and not because of the public. We are here for the community not because of the community and he understood that this is a service organization."

Berens said he has seen many changes law enforcement technology and gear in 25 years. Berens hit the streets carrying a revolver and a can of mace. When he went to the academy, he made the change over to a semi-automatic weapon.&nbsp;

Now officers have a continuum of non-lethal means at their disposal.

Cellphones have also been a gamer-changer, he said. Now citizens can report immediately what they see going on in the community. Most businesses and even many residences have video cameras, which has boosted apprehension rates.

Scheibler said as a sergeant, Berens has trained a new generation of officers who have gone on to be very successful.

"There is a long list of those officers who have learned under Mitch how to&nbsp; be a police officer and how to be a member of this community," Scheibler said.&nbsp;

Berens said he has always enjoyed working in the patrol division because that has kept him connected to the community.

"I think everyone enjoys patrol," Scheibler said. "That's the boots on the ground. That's the first in the door, the last to leave. Those are the guys having the contact with the public every day. When the bad things happen in the community, those are the first guys to respond and are going to deal with that, whatever it might be."

Berens said said he also enjoyed working with other officers.

"Probably the best part of being a police officer is the comradery that you develop among your fellow officers," Berens said.

Scheibler said Berens has been a good supervisor, making good decisions to take care of his fellow officers and to take care of the community.

"Mitch has been a rock for us for 25 years," Scheibler said. "For a quarter of a century, he has been the guy there for us."

The Fraternal Order of Police sponsored a chili feed and raffle fundraiser to assist Berens with the costs of his treatment. He said he was moved by the community support.

"Yeah, that was wonderful. I didn't expect that," he said. "I was overwhelmed by the support of the community."

Berens and his wife, Tisha, were newlyweds, when Berens learned last fall of reoccurrence of his cancer. She is also a cancer survivor.

"It's been tough at times," Berens said, "but she has been a great support for me."

In addition to his hopes to feel better as he continues his cancer treatment, Berens said he hopes to spend time during his retirement fishing and golfing.&nbsp;

Scheibler said, "I want to stress that we are going to miss Mitch. He has done a great job serving this community. He has been a great leader and a great example of what a police officer should do.&nbsp;

"He chose a profession that is hard, long hours, odd hours and stressful and even on top of that his continued battle with cancer. He was a guy that came to work everyday with a positive attitude and has been a shinning example of what we should do in this profession. If I can have 10 more just like him, I'd take them."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590778495767.jpeg" alt="Sgt. Mitch Berens retired this week from the Hays Police Department after 25 years of service as a police officer. Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Mitch Berens retired this week from the Hays Police Department after 25 years of service as a police officer. Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSgt. Mitch Berens "stood on the wall" to serve and protect his community for 25 years, training a new generation in law enforcement how to not only be good officers, but members of the community.This week, he retired to concentrate on his health as he battles cancer.HPD Chief Don Scheibler and Berens both worked in the patrol division when they started on the police force in the 1990s."Mitch has served the community for 25 years. He's stood the wall to serve and protect this community," Scheibler said. "I am a firm believer that we take care of our people and our people will take care of the community and, in a time of need, our community will take care of us."Berens, 51, marked his last day on the job Thursday.He has been fighting cancer in his abdomen and brain since the fall. He was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic melanoma."The cancer meds that I am taking right now are really doing a good job," he said. "I don't always feel 100 percent, but I'm not going to let that ruin my retirement."Berens has had two rounds of radiation on his brain and has been taking chemotherapy medication. His first round of treatment shrunk the tumors in his abdomen 65 percent."For me, it's a daily fight," he said, "but I think I'm winning it right now. I don't always feel 100 percent, but I am thankful I feel as good as I do."Berens was diagnosed with melanoma 19 years ago, but&nbsp; the cancer went into remission."I have been dealing with this most of my career while I'm working," he said. "I can tell you the police department and the City of Hays administration have been wonderful working with me while I have been dealing with that."Berens said he always wanted to be a police officer, once dreaming of being a trooper for the Kansas Highway Patrol. He was working as an officer in Oakley and going through the application process for the KHP when he received an offer to work for the HPD.A Victoria native, Berens opted to take the job closer to home and drop out of the application process for the KHP.He said being from the area has made it easier for him to relate to the public that he serves.Berens' son, Shane, is now working his way through that same process and will start training for the KHP in June. Berens said he is very proud of his son."Any organization would be lucky to have him," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576168409042.jpeg" alt="Berens, center, with his wife, Tisha, and their family. Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Berens, center, with his wife, Tisha, and their family. Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Berens spoke about the legacy he hoped to leave for other young officers."It would be to be approachable," he said. "Don't come out of the academy and the training and try to be this macho police officer, because that doesn't always work."We have more positive contacts with the public than negative. You want to be able to visit with the public and be approachable. ... Nobody wants to be talked down to."Scheibler said, "I think since Mitch got here he understood that we are here for the public and not because of the public. We are here for the community not because of the community and he understood that this is a service organization."Berens said he has seen many changes law enforcement technology and gear in 25 years. Berens hit the streets carrying a revolver and a can of mace. When he went to the academy, he made the change over to a semi-automatic weapon.&nbsp;Now officers have a continuum of non-lethal means at their disposal.Cellphones have also been a gamer-changer, he said. Now citizens can report immediately what they see going on in the community. Most businesses and even many residences have video cameras, which has boosted apprehension rates.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583438282696.jpeg" alt="Sgt. Mitch Berens / Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Mitch Berens / Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Scheibler said as a sergeant, Berens has trained a new generation of officers who have gone on to be very successful."There is a long list of those officers who have learned under Mitch how to&nbsp; be a police officer and how to be a member of this community," Scheibler said.&nbsp;Berens said he has always enjoyed working in the patrol division because that has kept him connected to the community."I think everyone enjoys patrol," Scheibler said. "That's the boots on the ground. That's the first in the door, the last to leave. Those are the guys having the contact with the public every day. When the bad things happen in the community, those are the first guys to respond and are going to deal with that, whatever it might be."Berens said said he also enjoyed working with other officers."Probably the best part of being a police officer is the comradery that you develop among your fellow officers," Berens said.Scheibler said Berens has been a good supervisor, making good decisions to take care of his fellow officers and to take care of the community."Mitch has been a rock for us for 25 years," Scheibler said. "For a quarter of a century, he has been the guy there for us."The Fraternal Order of Police sponsored a chili feed and raffle fundraiser to assist Berens with the costs of his treatment. He said he was moved by the community support."Yeah, that was wonderful. I didn't expect that," he said. "I was overwhelmed by the support of the community."Berens and his wife, Tisha, were newlyweds, when Berens learned last fall of reoccurrence of his cancer. She is also a cancer survivor."It's been tough at times," Berens said, "but she has been a great support for me."In addition to his hopes to feel better as he continues his cancer treatment, Berens said he hopes to spend time during his retirement fishing and golfing.&nbsp;Scheibler said, "I want to stress that we are going to miss Mitch. He has done a great job serving this community. He has been a great leader and a great example of what a police officer should do.&nbsp;"He chose a profession that is hard, long hours, odd hours and stressful and even on top of that his continued battle with cancer. He was a guy that came to work everyday with a positive attitude and has been a shinning example of what we should do in this profession. If I can have 10 more just like him, I'd take them."

Officer battling cancer retires from HPD after 25 years of service

Nine tourism and hospitality management students at Fort Hays State University were recently inducted into the Eta Sigma Delta Honor Society in a ceremony conducted via Zoom.&nbsp;

Melissa Dixon, executive director for the Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau, was inducted as an honorary member for her continued support of the THM program. That support includes a regular internship with the CVB that has provided opportunities to both on-campus and virtual students.&nbsp;

The society, which recognizes outstanding students, is sponsored by the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education.&nbsp;

“The professional benefits of ESD include opportunities for outstanding students to distinguish themselves in the eyes of educators, recruiters and industry executives in an increasingly competitive industry,” said Dr. Stacey Smith, chair of the Department of Applied Business Studies and associate professor of tourism and hospitality management.&nbsp;

“Educational benefits include opportunities for ESD chapters to provide a stimulus for students to strive for academic excellence,” she said.&nbsp;

Eta Sigma Delta has more than 90 active chapters throughout the world.&nbsp;

“The growth is a testament to the dedication of both students and professionals in hospitality and tourism to the pursuit of academic, professional and personal excellence,” said Smith.&nbsp;

Guest speakers included Dr. Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn, interim dean of the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, and Jordan Carlisle, 2014 FHSU alumnus and assistant general manager of Moxy NYC Downtown.&nbsp;

Students who were inducted are listed alphabetically by hometowns.&nbsp;

GNERRO, Italy:&nbsp;Carlotta Bava&nbsp;

HAYS:&nbsp;Leon Luna-Gonzalez&nbsp; Melissa Dixon, honorary member&nbsp;

HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo.:&nbsp;Abbie Hayes&nbsp;

PAXICO:&nbsp;Mackenzie Howey&nbsp;

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia:&nbsp;Chantreametrey Tram&nbsp;

POTTSTOWN, Pa.:&nbsp;Janine Borders

SAN JOSE, Calif.:&nbsp;Lauren Bicknell

TRIBUNE:&nbsp;Cordell Waggoner&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590600842389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsNine tourism and hospitality management students at Fort Hays State University were recently inducted into the Eta Sigma Delta Honor Society in a ceremony conducted via Zoom.&nbsp;Melissa Dixon, executive director for the Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau, was inducted as an honorary member for her continued support of the THM program. That support includes a regular internship with the CVB that has provided opportunities to both on-campus and virtual students.&nbsp;The society, which recognizes outstanding students, is sponsored by the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education.&nbsp;“The professional benefits of ESD include opportunities for outstanding students to distinguish themselves in the eyes of educators, recruiters and industry executives in an increasingly competitive industry,” said Dr. Stacey Smith, chair of the Department of Applied Business Studies and associate professor of tourism and hospitality management.&nbsp;“Educational benefits include opportunities for ESD chapters to provide a stimulus for students to strive for academic excellence,” she said.&nbsp;Eta Sigma Delta has more than 90 active chapters throughout the world.&nbsp;“The growth is a testament to the dedication of both students and professionals in hospitality and tourism to the pursuit of academic, professional and personal excellence,” said Smith.&nbsp;Guest speakers included Dr. Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn, interim dean of the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, and Jordan Carlisle, 2014 FHSU alumnus and assistant general manager of Moxy NYC Downtown.&nbsp;Students who were inducted are listed alphabetically by hometowns.&nbsp;ELLIS:&nbsp;Haley Reiter&nbsp;GNERRO, Italy:&nbsp;Carlotta Bava&nbsp;HAYS:&nbsp;Leon Luna-Gonzalez&nbsp; Melissa Dixon, honorary member&nbsp;HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo.:&nbsp;Abbie Hayes&nbsp;PAXICO:&nbsp;Mackenzie Howey&nbsp;PHNOM PENH, Cambodia:&nbsp;Chantreametrey Tram&nbsp;POTTSTOWN, Pa.:&nbsp;Janine BordersSAN JOSE, Calif.:&nbsp;Lauren BicknellTRIBUNE:&nbsp;Cordell Waggoner&nbsp;

Tourism, hospitality management students inducted into honor society

I just noticed that May was designated as Older Americans Month, so I’ll take advantage of the last day of the month to share some information from Erin Yelland, our Adult Development and Aging specialist at KSU. We are hearing a lot these days about how our seniors may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Let’s take a closer look and share some ways to combat this.

Loneliness is a feeling or experience that some people might have. It can occur when you do not have as much social interaction as you would like or even after a major life transition – such as divorce, death, a move, or even quarantine due to COVID19. Social isolation is when someone has little contact with other people on a regular basis. &nbsp;

So, what are some ways to combat loneliness and social isolation?&nbsp;

Connecting can be difficult during COVID19 but here are some easy ideas. Pick up the phone and call your friends, step outside and chat with neighbors, mail a letter, connect via video calls, send silly pictures, and try to have fun from afar.

Give me a call for some excellent fact sheets from our Keys to Embracing Aging resources. I am happy to share.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574802720194.jpeg" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I just noticed that May was designated as Older Americans Month, so I’ll take advantage of the last day of the month to share some information from Erin Yelland, our Adult Development and Aging specialist at KSU. We are hearing a lot these days about how our seniors may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Let’s take a closer look and share some ways to combat this.Loneliness is a feeling or experience that some people might have. It can occur when you do not have as much social interaction as you would like or even after a major life transition – such as divorce, death, a move, or even quarantine due to COVID19. Social isolation is when someone has little contact with other people on a regular basis. &nbsp;So, what are some ways to combat loneliness and social isolation?&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Focus on your sense of purpose</li><li>Maintain your sense of belonging</li><li>Connect with community groups, family members and friends.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Connecting can be difficult during COVID19 but here are some easy ideas. Pick up the phone and call your friends, step outside and chat with neighbors, mail a letter, connect via video calls, send silly pictures, and try to have fun from afar.Give me a call for some excellent fact sheets from our Keys to Embracing Aging resources. I am happy to share.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KRUG: Happy Older Americans month

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🎙 Post Podcast: Local extension district shifts wheat field day online

&nbsp;Fort Hays State University has selected third-generation alumna Tammy Wellbrock, who is also a university instructor and a current member of the FHSU Foundation Board of Trustees, as its interim alumni association director.&nbsp;

Wellbrock will succeed retiring Director DeBra Prideaux, who served as director of alumni and government relations for 23 years. Wellbrock will assume her duties on June 8.&nbsp;

FHSU President Tisa Mason said she believes the university has found the right person to guide the Alumni Association.&nbsp;

“Tammy Wellbrock is well known and highly respected among FHSU alumni, donors, and the Hays community,” said President Mason. “She has served our university in a variety of roles over the years and has a very keen understanding of the value of Fort Hays State University to the people we serve. I am very grateful Tammy agreed to lead our Alumni Association during this important period of transition.”&nbsp;

“When President Mason reached out to me, I was so honored and humbled by her request to serve,” Wellbrock said. “To return to the Alumni Association at this point in my career is an opportunity I could not refuse. I basically bleed black and gold.”&nbsp;

The former president of the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce, Wellbrock’s leadership garnered the Hays Chamber national recognition as one of three finalists for the National Chamber of the Year award from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. She plans to spend much of this upcoming year listening and learning from alumni, donors, and the Alumni Association staff.&nbsp;

“If my experience and education has taught me anything, many challenges can be overcome and most strategic directions can be identified through thoughtful listening and healthy dialogue,” Wellbrock said. “Whatever direction the Alumni Association takes after this year, it won’t be solely dictated by me.”&nbsp;

After leaving her post as Chamber president, she started her own professional training and coaching business, Girl Twin Solutions, LLC, and last fall she was elected to the USD 489 Board of Education for a four-year term.&nbsp;

Wellbrock holds two communicationsdegrees from FHSU, a B.A. in 1994 and an M.S. in 2002. In 1994, she received the university’s Torch Award as the outstanding graduating senior, an award sponsored by the Alumni Association.&nbsp;

She served as the assistant alumni director at FHSU from 1997 to 2001. Since 2008, Wellbrock has served as an adjunct instructor, teaching both on-campus and online classes. She also serves on the provost’s Adjunct Faculty Advisory Committee.&nbsp;

Wellbrock’s husband, Gerard Wellbrock, is also an FHSU alum (B.A., 1990). He currently serves as the “Voice of the Tigers” calling FHSU games for Eagle Radio. Their son, Garrett, is a junior at Hays High School.&nbsp;

Disclosure: Eagle Radio is the parent of Hays Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590760357732.jpeg" alt="Wellbrock" />
 <figcaption>Wellbrock</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University Relations&nbsp;Fort Hays State University has selected third-generation alumna Tammy Wellbrock, who is also a university instructor and a current member of the FHSU Foundation Board of Trustees, as its interim alumni association director.&nbsp;Wellbrock will succeed retiring Director DeBra Prideaux, who served as director of alumni and government relations for 23 years. Wellbrock will assume her duties on June 8.&nbsp;FHSU President Tisa Mason said she believes the university has found the right person to guide the Alumni Association.&nbsp;“Tammy Wellbrock is well known and highly respected among FHSU alumni, donors, and the Hays community,” said President Mason. “She has served our university in a variety of roles over the years and has a very keen understanding of the value of Fort Hays State University to the people we serve. I am very grateful Tammy agreed to lead our Alumni Association during this important period of transition.”&nbsp;“When President Mason reached out to me, I was so honored and humbled by her request to serve,” Wellbrock said. “To return to the Alumni Association at this point in my career is an opportunity I could not refuse. I basically bleed black and gold.”&nbsp;The former president of the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce, Wellbrock’s leadership garnered the Hays Chamber national recognition as one of three finalists for the National Chamber of the Year award from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. She plans to spend much of this upcoming year listening and learning from alumni, donors, and the Alumni Association staff.&nbsp;“If my experience and education has taught me anything, many challenges can be overcome and most strategic directions can be identified through thoughtful listening and healthy dialogue,” Wellbrock said. “Whatever direction the Alumni Association takes after this year, it won’t be solely dictated by me.”&nbsp;After leaving her post as Chamber president, she started her own professional training and coaching business, Girl Twin Solutions, LLC, and last fall she was elected to the USD 489 Board of Education for a four-year term.&nbsp;Wellbrock holds two communicationsdegrees from FHSU, a B.A. in 1994 and an M.S. in 2002. In 1994, she received the university’s Torch Award as the outstanding graduating senior, an award sponsored by the Alumni Association.&nbsp;She served as the assistant alumni director at FHSU from 1997 to 2001. Since 2008, Wellbrock has served as an adjunct instructor, teaching both on-campus and online classes. She also serves on the provost’s Adjunct Faculty Advisory Committee.&nbsp;Wellbrock’s husband, Gerard Wellbrock, is also an FHSU alum (B.A., 1990). He currently serves as the “Voice of the Tigers” calling FHSU games for Eagle Radio. Their son, Garrett, is a junior at Hays High School.&nbsp;Disclosure: Eagle Radio is the parent of Hays Post.

Wellbrock named interim director of alumni relations at FHSU

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The deadline for candidates to file for the fall election is
quickly approaching. 

Party candidates in local and statewide elections have until
noon on Monday, June 1, to file the necessary paperwork and pay the associated
fees at the county election office. 

In Ellis County, there are two county commission seats up for
election as well as the county clerk, treasurer, attorney, sheriff and register
of deeds positions. Township trustee and treasurer and precinct committee
positions are also up from election.

In the city of Ellis, three city council positions are also up
for election this fall.

The deadline for Independent candidates to file is noon Aug. 3. Independent candidates must file by petition.

A list of offices up for election and candidates who have
filed for election can be found by clicking <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/2769/Candidate-Filings">HERE</a>.

Monday is also the deadline for voters to change party
affiliation for the Aug. 4 primary election.

Both Democrat and Republican parties in Kansas elected to
have closed primary elections in 2020 which means voters must be registered to
participate in the party’s primary.

Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Donna Maskus encouraged voters to use the Kansas Secretary of State’s Voter View <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">website</a>.

There, voters can access their districts, voting history and
polling location. 

Residents who are not registered to vote in Kansas can do so
through the website. 

Maskus also encouraged Ellis County voters who are
interested in receiving a mail-in advanced ballot to return their application
to the clerk’s office.

Earlier this month, advance ballot request forms for both the
Aug. 4 primary and Nov. 3 general election went out to registered voters in Ellis
County.

Maskus said the forms give voters an option to vote by mail
in light of the current uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“This is just an option,” Maskus said. “They can still go to
the polling site election day, (and) they can still come in and vote advanced
voting, which starts July 20.”

Maskus said there have been almost 1,000 requests for primary
advanced ballot.

Those requests have to be returned to the county election
office by is July 28.

Residents who did not receive the forms or are not sure of
their registration status are encouraged to use the Voter View website or
contact the Ellis County Election office.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe deadline for candidates to file for the fall election is
quickly approaching. Party candidates in local and statewide elections have until
noon on Monday, June 1, to file the necessary paperwork and pay the associated
fees at the county election office. In Ellis County, there are two county commission seats up for
election as well as the county clerk, treasurer, attorney, sheriff and register
of deeds positions. Township trustee and treasurer and precinct committee
positions are also up from election.In the city of Ellis, three city council positions are also up
for election this fall.The deadline for Independent candidates to file is noon Aug. 3. Independent candidates must file by petition.A list of offices up for election and candidates who have
filed for election can be found by clicking <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/2769/Candidate-Filings">HERE</a>.Monday is also the deadline for voters to change party
affiliation for the Aug. 4 primary election.Both Democrat and Republican parties in Kansas elected to
have closed primary elections in 2020 which means voters must be registered to
participate in the party’s primary.Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Donna Maskus encouraged voters to use the Kansas Secretary of State’s Voter View <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview">website</a>.There, voters can access their districts, voting history and
polling location. Residents who are not registered to vote in Kansas can do so
through the website. Maskus also encouraged Ellis County voters who are
interested in receiving a mail-in advanced ballot to return their application
to the clerk’s office.Earlier this month, advance ballot request forms for both the
Aug. 4 primary and Nov. 3 general election went out to registered voters in Ellis
County.Maskus said the forms give voters an option to vote by mail
in light of the current uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. “This is just an option,” Maskus said. “They can still go to
the polling site election day, (and) they can still come in and vote advanced
voting, which starts July 20.”Maskus said there have been almost 1,000 requests for primary
advanced ballot.Those requests have to be returned to the county election
office by is July 28.Residents who did not receive the forms or are not sure of
their registration status are encouraged to use the Voter View website or
contact the Ellis County Election office.

Election deadlines quickly approaching

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The first step in the $13.1 million North Vine Street Traffic Corridor Improvement Project in Hays starts Monday.

The contractor, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, will begin reconstruction of the west frontage road between Whiskey Creek to just north of the 24/7 store, starting with the east side. Traffic will be reduced to one northbound lane.

The frontage road will be widened with a slight curve added at the south end.

An online preconstruction informational meeting was held Wednesday evening at Hays City Hall.&nbsp;

Outlining the nine-phase project was John Braun, city project manager. He was joined by Kevin Zimmer, Kansas Dept. of Transportation Area Engineer, Jon Halbgewachs, Kirkland Michael Engineers, Ellsworth, and Steve Bartholomew, Smoky Hill vice president.

Bartholomew is determined his team will "get in and get out just as quick as we can." 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590623333294.png" alt="Work on the Hays North Vine Street Corridor Improvement Project starts June 1 with reconstruction of the east side of the west frontage road. The nine-phase project is scheduled to be completed in November 2021." />
 <figcaption>Work on the Hays North Vine Street Corridor Improvement Project starts June 1 with reconstruction of the east side of the west frontage road. The nine-phase project is scheduled to be completed in November 2021.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe first step in the $13.1 million North Vine Street Traffic Corridor Improvement Project in Hays starts Monday.The contractor, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, will begin reconstruction of the west frontage road between Whiskey Creek to just north of the 24/7 store, starting with the east side. Traffic will be reduced to one northbound lane.The frontage road will be widened with a slight curve added at the south end.An online preconstruction informational meeting was held Wednesday evening at Hays City Hall.&nbsp;Outlining the nine-phase project was John Braun, city project manager. He was joined by Kevin Zimmer, Kansas Dept. of Transportation Area Engineer, Jon Halbgewachs, Kirkland Michael Engineers, Ellsworth, and Steve Bartholomew, Smoky Hill vice president.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590628636983.jpeg" alt="Kevin Zimmer, KDOT Area Engineer, Jon Halbgewachs, Kirkland Michael Engineers, and Steve Bartholomew, Smoky Hill construction, at Monday's preconstruction meeting." />
 <figcaption>Kevin Zimmer, KDOT Area Engineer, Jon Halbgewachs, Kirkland Michael Engineers, and Steve Bartholomew, Smoky Hill construction, at Monday's preconstruction meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bartholomew is determined his team will "get in and get out just as quick as we can." "We'll build it right and build it fast," but most importantly, "we'll build it safely," he said."We're going to be out in the middle of a busy street and we'd like to have everybody pay attention to the signage for traffic control," Bartholomew added, "and we'll be as safe as we possibly can."Throughout the 17-month process, left&nbsp;turns will be restricted in the construction zones to reduce traffic backup; however, there will always access to all businesses, Bartholomew and Braun stressed.&nbsp;Residents can <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/list.aspx">sign up on the city's home page to be notified of the traffic changes</a> as they occur.&nbsp;Fact sheets will also be available on the website and in affected businesses about changing traffic flows during construction.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/32PoopmWeV0"></iframe>
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 </figure>Once both lanes of the frontage road are built, work starts on the west half of the 32/33rd Streets traffic roundabout, followed by the east half of the roundabout. The 35th Street intersection pavement will also be widened at that time.&nbsp;Finally, center islands will be constructed through the 32nd/33rd Streets roundabout.&nbsp;Construction Season 1 includes four phases starting June 1 and concluding in August.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590624986746.jpeg" alt="Associated work off of Vine Street will be done during Construction Season 1 and into the winter months." />
 <figcaption>Associated work off of Vine Street will be done during Construction Season 1 and into the winter months.</figcaption>
 </figure>Throughout that time and into the winter season, off-site work will include extension of 37th Street west to Skyline and Skyline will be extended north to 41st Street.&nbsp;Season 2 construction begins in March 2021 with four phases. Roundabouts will be built at 37th Street, I-70 exit ramps, and 41st and Mopar Drive."Similar to 32nd/33rd, the west half will be built first, the east half will be built, and then the centers as well," Braun said. "Work on the I-70 ramps will also be done at that time."The traffic signals currently in place on Vine between 32nd and 41st Streets will replaced by the roundabouts.&nbsp;KDOT is the pass-through agency between the U.S. Department of Transportation and the city of Hays for the project. Vine Street is also U.S. 183. KDOT will assist in disbursement of the $6 million federal BUILD grant the city received.&nbsp;"At KDOT, we're excited to see this project kick off," Zimmer said. "Through the years there's been many iterations of this — what can we do with this intersection or that. Now it's finally coming to reality."Zimmer has worked on city-owned projects through KDOT for more than 20 years. He knows the traveling public and businesses don't like torn up roads."But rest assured, we have put together a team between the city, KDOT, the consultant, and also Smoky Hill, that will work in a fashion that's going to be very safe and very efficient to try and minimized any of those discomforts," Zimmer said.The<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/vine"> project</a> is scheduled for completion in Nov. 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590628939391.png" alt="Hays North Vine Street Improvement Corridor Project timeline" />
 <figcaption>Hays North Vine Street Improvement Corridor Project timeline</figcaption>
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