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February 20 and 21, 2016 V V V THE GAZETTE, EMPORIA, KANSAS V V TRAFFIC From PAGE 1 tle parent traffic so the middle school isn’t concerned about traffic at that time.” Additional staff will be out to help direct traffic on Monday morning in hopes it will make the transition easier. “We really hope this is a smooth process for parents Page 3 V and the buses,” Harvel said. “Our hope is that parents find this easier for themselves and it keeps their traffic flow moving.” Ortega said she hopes the new process helps makes the pickup process easier. “I’m not sure how this is going to work out,” she said. “But I hope it works better than it does now.” If the changes don’t fix the traffic issue, Harvel said the district will continue to look at “more long-term options.” “I just want folks to know we’re not stopping at this,” she said. “If we feel like it doesn’t meet our needs we’ll continue to look for some things, maybe some changes that we aren’t immediately able to implement.” For any questions or comments, Harvel said to call the phone number for the main transportation office at 341-2219 or send an email to [email protected]. KENDRA JOHNSON/GAZETTE Courtney Romero films Fran Opheim and Alyssa Grissom on a phone for their next “Words of Encouragement” video. YOUTUBE From PAGE 1 topics where Grissom offers up words of encouragement and profound wisdom. “Just remember grades do not determine your self worth.” “Don’t be afraid to love something.” “Don’t focus on what you’ve been, focus on what you can become.” When the YouTube channel began Grissom wrote the scripts and was the face of the videos. Romero focused on editing the videos and getting them online. The system worked well for awhile but the full-time students soon realized they needed a third person to help keep the encouragement coming — enter Opheim who now helps with script writing and can be seen on camera as well. “With the YouTube channel and with the three of us working together we can reach so many more people,” Romero said. And reach people they have. The girls have created more than 60 positive videos. They have an active following of viewers that look forward to the words of encouragement. On occasion one can even spot other ESU students sporting a words of encouragement shirt. “It’s awesome to be walkin r7&