PRESS RELEASE

United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development
1303 SW First American Place, Suite 100, Topeka, KS 66604-4040
VOICE (785) 271-2700, FAX (785) 271-2708, TTY (785) 271-2767, WEB www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks

North Central Kansas Technical College Dedicates USDA Rural Development Funded Facilities in Hays

Hays, KS. - The North Central Kansas Endowment Association and the North Central Kansas Technical College of Beloit today dedicated two new educational buildings located at their Hays campus. The new facilities will house both classrooms and shop facilities for the diesel mechanics and residential electricity studies offered at the technical college's Hays campus

Funding for the remodeling of the two buildings was possible through USDA Rural Development's Community Facility Loan Program, totaling $1.01 million. Emprise Bank of Hays partnered with Rural Development on a portion of the financing package. The project also received a contribution by the Endowment Association.

Dr. George Mihel, President of the North Central Kansas Technical College, stated, "We are very appreciative of the assistance provided by USDA Rural Development, and with the involvement of Emprise Bank of Hays."

USDA Rural Development State Director Chuck Banks, who attended the dedication ceremony commented, "Rural Development is very pleased to have participated in this excellent project. These new educational facilities will train many students, who upon graduation will find jobs across our State. These skilled jobs will improve the economic outlook for many individuals, and ultimately help enhance the quality of life for Kansas."

Rural Development is the economic development agency for USDA, and the lead federal entity for rural development. For additional information, you may log onto the state's Rural Development website at: www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks, or e-mail the Agency at 2002farmbillRD@ks.usda.gov

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