By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post

In an effort to thank them for all they do, the four entities that make up the Hays Welcome Center teamed with McDonald’s Tuesday to provide breakfast for City of Hays first responders.

Hays Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tammy Wellbrock, Director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau Rick Rekoske, Aaron White of the Ellis County Coalition for Economic Development and Downtown Hays Development Corp. Executive Director Sara Bloom teamed with Deana Rupp from McDonald’s to provide breakfast from 5:30 to 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Welcome Center, 2700 Vine.

Wellbrock said the event was a good way to thank the first responders.

“We sometimes forget about what they are doing for us,” Wellbrock said. “This was our opportunity to say thanks.”

The group served around 65 meals to first responders and members of the city of Hays dispatch unit as they were headed to work or just getting off work. The breakfast included burritos, yogurt parfaits, granola bars and a beverage.

The breakfasts also came with a thank-you card featuring pictures and art created by the kids from Victory Christian Academy.

Wellbrock said the Bloom came up with the idea, and they were all happy to help with the event recognizing the first responders for all they do for the city of Hays.