Join the Cancer Council of Ellis County during the Hays Summer Art Walk at Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, 1012 Main St., Hays, for the In Defiance of Cancer Fundraiser on June 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

We will host local artist Jordan Brown for the art walk.

Get your tickets now to win some great prizes.&nbsp;

Grand prize is “Time for Tea”, a five-piece European style porcelain tea set. Other prizes are VIP tickets to Wild West Festival, Fort Hays State University season football tickets, Zoom Whitening certificate and many more. 

See flyer for list of all prizes and ticket information. Mail your tickets to the Cancer Council of Ellis County, 701 Riley St., Hays, KS 67601.

<figure>
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 </figure>Cancer Council of Ellis CountyJoin the Cancer Council of Ellis County during the Hays Summer Art Walk at Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, 1012 Main St., Hays, for the In Defiance of Cancer Fundraiser on June 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. We will host local artist Jordan Brown for the art walk.Get your tickets now to win some great prizes.&nbsp;Grand prize is “Time for Tea”, a five-piece European style porcelain tea set. Other prizes are VIP tickets to Wild West Festival, Fort Hays State University season football tickets, Zoom Whitening certificate and many more. See flyer for list of all prizes and ticket information. Mail your tickets to the Cancer Council of Ellis County, 701 Riley St., Hays, KS 67601.<figure>
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In Defiance of Cancer fundraiser for Cancer Council of Ellis County

LOGAN — We are looking for creative high school students!&nbsp; In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation are returning this summer.

This week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming high school freshman through outgoing college freshman).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists. There will be three workshops this June, including a residential option.

June 9 – 13 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater)

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.&nbsp;June 9, 10 &amp; 11 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. June 12 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. June 13— Performance at 7:00 p.m. at the Brown Grand Theater

June 19 – 23 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center)

• 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. June 16, 17 &amp; 18 • 9:00 a.m.&nbsp; to 7:00 p.m. June 19 • 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. June 20— Performance at 7:00 at the Huck Boyd Center

Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit<a href="https://lovewell.org/"> lovewell.org</a>, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.

PARTICIPTION COSTS &amp; SCHOLARSIPS

The Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops for students who reside in the Foundation’s 26-county service area so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50 for day camps.

No student who is truly committed to participating will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available to students who reside in the Hansen Foundation service area.

The week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. 

No previous music or theater experience is required. 

To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of all kinds.

The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.

This is the eighth summer the Lovewell workshops have been offered in Kansas.&nbsp; Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore music and theater in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers has been overwhelmingly positive.

Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, play writes, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.

Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United States and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.lovewell.org/">www.lovewell.org</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748972919333.png" alt="Photo courtesy Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts</figcaption>
 </figure>Dane G. Hansen FoundationLOGAN — We are looking for creative high school students!&nbsp; In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation are returning this summer.This week-long musical theatre workshop is open to high school students (incoming high school freshman through outgoing college freshman).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists. There will be three workshops this June, including a residential option.June 9 – 13 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater)9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.&nbsp;June 9, 10 &amp; 11 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. June 12 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. June 13— Performance at 7:00 p.m. at the Brown Grand TheaterJune 19 – 23 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center)• 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. June 16, 17 &amp; 18 • 9:00 a.m.&nbsp; to 7:00 p.m. June 19 • 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. June 20— Performance at 7:00 at the Huck Boyd CenterStudents from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit<a href="https://lovewell.org/"> lovewell.org</a>, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.PARTICIPTION COSTS &amp; SCHOLARSIPSThe Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops for students who reside in the Foundation’s 26-county service area so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50 for day camps.No student who is truly committed to participating will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available to students who reside in the Hansen Foundation service area.ABOUT THE LOVEWELL WORKSHOPSThe week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. No previous music or theater experience is required. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of all kinds.The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.This is the eighth summer the Lovewell workshops have been offered in Kansas.&nbsp; Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore music and theater in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers has been overwhelmingly positive.ABOUT LOVEWELLLovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, play writes, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United States and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.lovewell.org/">www.lovewell.org</a>.

Spaces open for high school summer theater workshop in Phillipsburg

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Leadership Hays presents Backpack the Pool celebration on Thursday

PHILLIPSBURG&nbsp; — The first Phillips County Farmers Market this season is Tuesday, June 10, 4-7 p.m. in the courthouse square in Phillipsburg.

The market is held the second Tuesday of each month through October.

Find more than 40 vendors with produce, beef, fresh farm eggs, candles, baked goods, candy and more.

The market features five food trucks, a free kids corner and live music.

Visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/phillipscomarket">Phillips County Farmers Market on Facebook</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>SubmittedPHILLIPSBURG&nbsp; — The first Phillips County Farmers Market this season is Tuesday, June 10, 4-7 p.m. in the courthouse square in Phillipsburg.The market is held the second Tuesday of each month through October.Find more than 40 vendors with produce, beef, fresh farm eggs, candles, baked goods, candy and more.The market features five food trucks, a free kids corner and live music.Visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/phillipscomarket">Phillips County Farmers Market on Facebook</a>.

Phillips County Farmers Market opens June 10 in Phillipsburg

&nbsp;Fort Hays State University Communications

Fort Hays State University’s Esports Club and Department of Informatics are excited to announce a&nbsp;free, four-day STEM-based Gaming Development Camp&nbsp;in July for students entering grades 8 through 12. The day camp will be held in two identical sessions:&nbsp;July 8–11&nbsp;and&nbsp;July 14–17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at FHSU’s Tomanek Hall, Room 123.&nbsp;

Led by&nbsp;Kevin Shaffer, associate professor and interim chair of FHSU’s Department of Informatics, along with members and alumni of the FHSU Esports Club, the camp offers a hands-on introduction to game development using&nbsp;Minecraft for PC. Campers will explore creative and survival modes, learn command line interaction, design gameplay arenas, and develop custom modules. They’ll also dive into 3D modeling to create character skins and participate in a gameplay contest.

“This camp gives students the chance to get under the hood of the game and change gameplay variables—sometimes in very entertaining ways,” Shaffer said.

Lunch, a camp T-shirt, and all materials are free of charge.&nbsp;Each session is limited to 12 participants to ensure a focused, interactive experience.

Important Notes:&nbsp;All participants must have a&nbsp;Minecraft for PC account. Those without one should bring a&nbsp;Minecraft for PC gift card, and camp staff will assist with setup on-site.&nbsp; This is a day camp only, so accommodations are not provided.&nbsp;

Registration is now open,&nbsp;and spots are limited. Interested students should register early to secure their place. Special thanks to McDonald’s for sponsoring this exciting opportunity for young learners.

For more information or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/informatics/esports">fhsu.edu/esports</a>&nbsp;or contact the Department of Informatics at&nbsp;785-628-5373.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749047202990.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Fort Hays State University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s Esports Club and Department of Informatics are excited to announce a&nbsp;free, four-day STEM-based Gaming Development Camp&nbsp;in July for students entering grades 8 through 12. The day camp will be held in two identical sessions:&nbsp;July 8–11&nbsp;and&nbsp;July 14–17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at FHSU’s Tomanek Hall, Room 123.&nbsp;Led by&nbsp;Kevin Shaffer, associate professor and interim chair of FHSU’s Department of Informatics, along with members and alumni of the FHSU Esports Club, the camp offers a hands-on introduction to game development using&nbsp;Minecraft for PC. Campers will explore creative and survival modes, learn command line interaction, design gameplay arenas, and develop custom modules. They’ll also dive into 3D modeling to create character skins and participate in a gameplay contest.“This camp gives students the chance to get under the hood of the game and change gameplay variables—sometimes in very entertaining ways,” Shaffer said.Lunch, a camp T-shirt, and all materials are free of charge.&nbsp;Each session is limited to 12 participants to ensure a focused, interactive experience.Important Notes:&nbsp;All participants must have a&nbsp;Minecraft for PC account. Those without one should bring a&nbsp;Minecraft for PC gift card, and camp staff will assist with setup on-site.&nbsp; This is a day camp only, so accommodations are not provided.&nbsp;Registration is now open,&nbsp;and spots are limited. Interested students should register early to secure their place. Special thanks to McDonald’s for sponsoring this exciting opportunity for young learners.For more information or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/informatics/esports">fhsu.edu/esports</a>&nbsp;or contact the Department of Informatics at&nbsp;785-628-5373.

FHSU hosts free STEM-based gaming development camp for teens

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Babysitting clinic for youth 10 and older offered July 30

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Prenatal education series 'Becoming a Mom' offered in Hays this summer

RPM announced on Facebook that the races for this weekend have been canceled for safety improvements to be made.

Okay, after taking about 24 hours to think about and digest yesterday, I want to get everyone in the loop ahead of the weekend.

I received a phone call from the county yesterday explaining that this weekends event will need to be put on hold.

After a walk through, they have decided that the front stretch catch fence needs to be replaced. This is an effort to keep racers and spectators as safe as possible while you are taking in an event at RPM Speedway with your family and friends.

The goal is to have the fence project completed by the July 11-12 Ellis County Fair races.

I am thankful to have the unwavering support of the Ellis County Commissioners, the Ellis County Fair Board, and I am thankful that when a need arises at RPM Speedway, they step up and support this place. Disappointed, yes... but not upset with safety and improvements. — Chris Sutton

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 <figcaption>ra rpm speedway l 20200228.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>RPM announced on Facebook that the races for this weekend have been canceled for safety improvements to be made.See the track's Facebook post below.Okay, after taking about 24 hours to think about and digest yesterday, I want to get everyone in the loop ahead of the weekend. I received a phone call from the county yesterday explaining that this weekends event will need to be put on hold. After a walk through, they have decided that the front stretch catch fence needs to be replaced. This is an effort to keep racers and spectators as safe as possible while you are taking in an event at RPM Speedway with your family and friends. The goal is to have the fence project completed by the July 11-12 Ellis County Fair races. I am thankful to have the unwavering support of the Ellis County Commissioners, the Ellis County Fair Board, and I am thankful that when a need arises at RPM Speedway, they step up and support this place. Disappointed, yes... but not upset with safety and improvements. — Chris Sutton

RPM races canceled for this weekend

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Stockton Rodders will 'Swing into Summer' June 13-14

Ellis citywide garage sale, VFW sausage meal set for Saturday

ELLSWORTH&nbsp;– The Bureau of Land Management will offer the public an opportunity to adopt a wild horse at an adoption event held at the Svaty Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture on Saturday, June 21.

The event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will feature 12 yearling and 2-year-old wild horses available for adoption. Pictures and more information about the wild horses available for adoption&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/svatyranch/posts/pfbid02RbQsjJKUmaF14iWbjeoVFCgksMdavk5oHtP2K1Pdfh93DewEjQ6rhmqpW1CTtLql">can be found on Facebook</a>. The Svaty Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture is located at 1016 Avenue J, Ellsworth.

BLM staff will be onsite to assist with and approve applications. To qualify to adopt, applicants must be at least 18 years old, with no record of animal abuse. Qualified homes must have a minimum of four hundred square feet of corral space per animal, with access to food, water, and shelter. A six-foot corral fence is required for adult horses; five-feet for yearlings; and four-and-a-half feet for burros. All animals must be loaded in covered, stock-type trailers with swing gates and sturdy walls and floors.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/wild-horse-and-burro/adoptions-and-sales">Find more information about the BLM’s Adoption and Sales programs</a>.

The Svaty Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture is one of four BLM-contracted off-range pasture facilities that are open to the public by appointment. Situated on more than 1,700 acres of pristine Kansas&nbsp;prairie south of the Smoky Hill River near Ellsworth, KS, the Svaty Ranch provides an idyllic home for 225 horses gathered from public rangelands throughout the West.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.svatyranch.com/">Learn more about Svaty Ranch</a>.

The BLM manages and protects wild horses and burros across 25.5 million acres of public lands in 10 Western states. Since 1971, the BLM has placed more than 300,000 wild horses and burros into good homes. These efforts help ensure healthy animals and healthy rangelands for future generations.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.blm.gov/whb">Learn more about the Wild Horse and Burro Program</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750178406632.jpeg" alt="Bureau of Land Management photo" />
 <figcaption>Bureau of Land Management photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Bureau of Land ManagementELLSWORTH&nbsp;– The Bureau of Land Management will offer the public an opportunity to adopt a wild horse at an adoption event held at the Svaty Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture on Saturday, June 21.The event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will feature 12 yearling and 2-year-old wild horses available for adoption. Pictures and more information about the wild horses available for adoption&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/svatyranch/posts/pfbid02RbQsjJKUmaF14iWbjeoVFCgksMdavk5oHtP2K1Pdfh93DewEjQ6rhmqpW1CTtLql">can be found on Facebook</a>. The Svaty Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture is located at 1016 Avenue J, Ellsworth.BLM staff will be onsite to assist with and approve applications. To qualify to adopt, applicants must be at least 18 years old, with no record of animal abuse. Qualified homes must have a minimum of four hundred square feet of corral space per animal, with access to food, water, and shelter. A six-foot corral fence is required for adult horses; five-feet for yearlings; and four-and-a-half feet for burros. All animals must be loaded in covered, stock-type trailers with swing gates and sturdy walls and floors.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/wild-horse-and-burro/adoptions-and-sales">Find more information about the BLM’s Adoption and Sales programs</a>.The Svaty Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture is one of four BLM-contracted off-range pasture facilities that are open to the public by appointment. Situated on more than 1,700 acres of pristine Kansas&nbsp;prairie south of the Smoky Hill River near Ellsworth, KS, the Svaty Ranch provides an idyllic home for 225 horses gathered from public rangelands throughout the West.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.svatyranch.com/">Learn more about Svaty Ranch</a>.The BLM manages and protects wild horses and burros across 25.5 million acres of public lands in 10 Western states. Since 1971, the BLM has placed more than 300,000 wild horses and burros into good homes. These efforts help ensure healthy animals and healthy rangelands for future generations.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.blm.gov/whb">Learn more about the Wild Horse and Burro Program</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Adopt wild horse at Svaty Ranch wild horse pasture in Ellsworth

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Hays Larks baseball camps on the field during June

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Wacky Sport Scramble to benefit local dementia programs

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Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program offered by Cottonwood Extension District 

LA CROSSE — The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive in La Crosse at the city auditorium from noon until 6 p.m. Friday, June 20.

<figure>
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 </figure>SubmittedLA CROSSE — The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive in La Crosse at the city auditorium from noon until 6 p.m. Friday, June 20.Walk-in donors are welcome.

Blood drive in La Crosse Friday

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Hoxie Hotrodders drag races to benefit Grinnell tornado victims

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Father's Day Breakfast at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church 

Beginning Wednesday, the south side of 33rd Street between Willow Street and Vine Street will be closed to through traffic for road replacement. Westbound traffic in this area is allowed only.

It is anticipated that this shutdown will be until September 2025 or until further notice.

There will be no street parking permitted adjacent to the project during construction. The map provided shows the section of 33rd St. that will be under construction.

Motorists should use caution and allow more time for travel.

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. For questions, please contact the Project Contractor, Vogts-Parga Construction LLC, at 316-320-6650 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

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 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Wednesday, the south side of 33rd Street between Willow Street and Vine Street will be closed to through traffic for road replacement. Westbound traffic in this area is allowed only.It is anticipated that this shutdown will be until September 2025 or until further notice.There will be no street parking permitted adjacent to the project during construction. The map provided shows the section of 33rd St. that will be under construction.Motorists should use caution and allow more time for travel.The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. For questions, please contact the Project Contractor, Vogts-Parga Construction LLC, at 316-320-6650 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

South side of 33rd to close between Willow and Vine in Hays

Logan, KS — The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is delighted to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Hope Blakely of Arvada, Colorado, for two Magic of Painting classes on June 21 and 22. On Saturday, participants will create a Wilson Bickford-inspired painting titled Night Ride, while Sunday’s session will focus on the Marion Dutton-inspired piece Lilacs. Both classes will take place in the Hansen Museum Community Room, located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with a one-hour lunch break.

These classes offer a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to painting. Students will be guided step-by-step through the process of completing a finished painting each day. No prior experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Participants need only bring a roll of paper towels. Open to individuals aged 13 and older, these sessions provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere that fosters creativity and camaraderie.

Registration is available online at hansenmuseum.org under the “Classes &amp; Workshops” section. Discounts are offered to Patron and Sustaining Members of the Hansen Museum. These classes are part of the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program and are made possible through generous support from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, call 785-689-4846.

The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 4:00, Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 5:00, and Sundays and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The facility is handicap-accessible, and thanks to the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free.

<figure>
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 </figure>Hansen MuseumLogan, KS — The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is delighted to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Hope Blakely of Arvada, Colorado, for two Magic of Painting classes on June 21 and 22. On Saturday, participants will create a Wilson Bickford-inspired painting titled Night Ride, while Sunday’s session will focus on the Marion Dutton-inspired piece Lilacs. Both classes will take place in the Hansen Museum Community Room, located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with a one-hour lunch break.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749479230290.jpeg" alt=""Night Ride." Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>"Night Ride." Courtesy image</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749479215514.jpeg" alt=""Lilacs." Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>"Lilacs." Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>These classes offer a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to painting. Students will be guided step-by-step through the process of completing a finished painting each day. No prior experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Participants need only bring a roll of paper towels. Open to individuals aged 13 and older, these sessions provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere that fosters creativity and camaraderie.Registration is available online at hansenmuseum.org under the “Classes &amp; Workshops” section. Discounts are offered to Patron and Sustaining Members of the Hansen Museum. These classes are part of the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program and are made possible through generous support from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, call 785-689-4846.The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 4:00, Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 5:00, and Sundays and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The facility is handicap-accessible, and thanks to the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free.

Upcoming beginner-friendly painting class at Hansen Museum

The <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a> is kicking off a summer adventure like no other! Introducing the Heartland No Bummer Summer — a creative challenge dreamed up by members of the Trego County Youth Action Council to help kids and teens get out, explore, and have fun this summer — without spending a fortune or staying glued to their phones.

From June 1 through July 31, teens and kids of all ages, living in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties are invited to complete fun, quirky and community-centered challenges — all designed to make the most of summer. From ice cream taste tests and sidewalk chalk art to choreographed dance videos and backyard obstacle courses, these activities are anything but boring. Maybe you can even get a local elected official to join in on a TikTok dance!

Participants simply complete a challenge, snap a photo, and text it with their name and hometown to 785-639-2003. Each completed challenge earns one entry into the end-of-summer prize drawings, with winners announced in August! Participants can complete as many challenges as they like — more entries mean more chances to win.

Core Challenges: 21 fun and free ideas you can do anywhere

Bonus Challenges: 23 location-based activities that showcase projects supported by past Heartland grant dollars -- from murals and splash pads to trails and campsites and more. Summer in our Heartland communities is made sweeter, thanks in part to Heartland grant dollars! Get out and explore the Heartland-area communities.

Special thanks to Nex-Tech Wireless, proud sponsor of the 2025 Heartland No Bummer Summer for prizes and for facilitating the dedicated phone number for this challenge! Flyers with full challenge lists are available on the Heartland Community Foundation’s Facebook page, online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or stop by a local HCF office.

“This is such a fun way to celebrate all the great things our communities already have,” said Sarah Meitner, Executive Director of Heartland Community Foundation. “We’re proud to support local youth leadership and community engagement in such a creative way.”


Let’s make it a No Bummer Summer in the Heartland — and don’t forget take photos along the way and text them to 785-639-2003 for a chance to WIN!


Heartland No Bummer Summer Challenge Rules:

Open to children and teens who live in Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties.

The Heartland No Bummer Summer Challenge runs from June 1 to July 31, 2025.

Complete a challenge, snap a photo, and text it with your NAME and HOMETOWN to 785-639-2003.

Each completed challenge = 1 entry in the end-of-summer prize drawing.

You can complete as many challenges, in any order, as you want — more challenges = more chances to win!

Entries are counted per child, not per family/group. Each participant submits their own photos to earn entries.

By submitting a photo, you give permission for it to be shared on our social media or in promotional materials.

Winners will be announced in August and contacted by text.

Keep it safe, respectful, and fun — be creative! 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748889923646.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Heartland Community FoundationThe <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a> is kicking off a summer adventure like no other! Introducing the Heartland No Bummer Summer — a creative challenge dreamed up by members of the Trego County Youth Action Council to help kids and teens get out, explore, and have fun this summer — without spending a fortune or staying glued to their phones.From June 1 through July 31, teens and kids of all ages, living in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties are invited to complete fun, quirky and community-centered challenges — all designed to make the most of summer. From ice cream taste tests and sidewalk chalk art to choreographed dance videos and backyard obstacle courses, these activities are anything but boring. Maybe you can even get a local elected official to join in on a TikTok dance!Participants simply complete a challenge, snap a photo, and text it with their name and hometown to 785-639-2003. Each completed challenge earns one entry into the end-of-summer prize drawings, with winners announced in August! Participants can complete as many challenges as they like — more entries mean more chances to win.Two challenge lists are available:Core Challenges: 21 fun and free ideas you can do anywhereBonus Challenges: 23 location-based activities that showcase projects supported by past Heartland grant dollars -- from murals and splash pads to trails and campsites and more. Summer in our Heartland communities is made sweeter, thanks in part to Heartland grant dollars! Get out and explore the Heartland-area communities.Special thanks to Nex-Tech Wireless, proud sponsor of the 2025 Heartland No Bummer Summer for prizes and for facilitating the dedicated phone number for this challenge! Flyers with full challenge lists are available on the Heartland Community Foundation’s Facebook page, online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or stop by a local HCF office.“This is such a fun way to celebrate all the great things our communities already have,” said Sarah Meitner, Executive Director of Heartland Community Foundation. “We’re proud to support local youth leadership and community engagement in such a creative way.”
Let’s make it a No Bummer Summer in the Heartland — and don’t forget take photos along the way and text them to 785-639-2003 for a chance to WIN!
Heartland No Bummer Summer Challenge Rules:Open to children and teens who live in Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties.The Heartland No Bummer Summer Challenge runs from June 1 to July 31, 2025.Complete a challenge, snap a photo, and text it with your NAME and HOMETOWN to 785-639-2003.Each completed challenge = 1 entry in the end-of-summer prize drawing.You can complete as many challenges, in any order, as you want — more challenges = more chances to win!Entries are counted per child, not per family/group. Each participant submits their own photos to earn entries.By submitting a photo, you give permission for it to be shared on our social media or in promotional materials.Winners will be announced in August and contacted by text.Keep it safe, respectful, and fun — be creative!

Heartland launches “No Bummer Summer” challenge for teens and kids across Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties

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WaKeeney Speedway Sweepstakes

The Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a bridge repair project along K-27 in Sherman County the week of June 2.

The bridge spans the Kyle Railroad and is located 0.84 mile north of the I-70 junction in Goodland. Project work will include a concrete overlay, deck patching and replacement of the bridge rails and approach slabs.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone and directed by a temporary traffic signal. An 18-foot width restriction will also be in effect. Motorists should anticipate delays of up to 15 minutes during the project. Work is expected to be completed in October, conditions permitting.

Bridges Inc., of Newton, is the primary contractor with a total contract cost of approximately $1.2 million. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748616894341.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a bridge repair project along K-27 in Sherman County the week of June 2.The bridge spans the Kyle Railroad and is located 0.84 mile north of the I-70 junction in Goodland. Project work will include a concrete overlay, deck patching and replacement of the bridge rails and approach slabs.Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone and directed by a temporary traffic signal. An 18-foot width restriction will also be in effect. Motorists should anticipate delays of up to 15 minutes during the project. Work is expected to be completed in October, conditions permitting.Bridges Inc., of Newton, is the primary contractor with a total contract cost of approximately $1.2 million. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.Project map:

Bridge repair project to begin on K-27 near Goodland

Wakeeney Pizza Hut fundraiser set for June 17

For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the CVB website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748357281877.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the CVB website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

June 2025 community events in Hays 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Leadership Hays class of 2025 is sponsoring a school supply drive for local students in cooperation with First Call for Help's Backpack for Kids program.

First Call for Help will distribute the supplies to students in need in late summer.

You can fill out an application for supplies <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/backpacks">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

See the flyer above for needed items and a map of drop-off locations. Monetary donations are also being accepted.

The Leadership Hays class will also be conducting a free pool night from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at the Hays Aquatic Park.&nbsp;

All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring school supplies to donate.

The first 200 people will receive free hot dogs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747845381413.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Leadership Hays class of 2025 is sponsoring a school supply drive for local students in cooperation with First Call for Help's Backpack for Kids program.First Call for Help will distribute the supplies to students in need in late summer.You can fill out an application for supplies <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/backpacks">HERE</a>.&nbsp;See the flyer above for needed items and a map of drop-off locations. Monetary donations are also being accepted.The Leadership Hays class will also be conducting a free pool night from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at the Hays Aquatic Park.&nbsp;All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring school supplies to donate.The first 200 people will receive free hot dogs.<figure>
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