The Hays Recreation Commission’s 13th Annual Dash 4 Disabilities is right around the corner. The fun run is scheduled for Saturday, June 8th at 8:00 a.m. on the West side of the Hays Aquatic Park (4th and Main). Registration will begin at 7:15 a.m. This run will consist of your choice of a 1 mile run/walk or a 5K run/walk.

There is still time to register for this fun event for an entry fee of only $10 on or before June 5th. Cost after June 5th is $12.

The run is for people of all abilities, will not be timed, and the proceeds will go to help support the programs coordinated by the Hays Recreation Commission that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The run helps make the programs free or inexpensive for participants.

Dash 4 Disabilities is sponsored by Hess Services, Papa Murphys and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.

For a registration form, map of the course, or any other information, contact Haley Nixon at 785-623-2650, haley@haysrec.org or go to www.haysrec.org.

<figure>
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 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Recreation Commission’s 13th Annual Dash 4 Disabilities is right around the corner. The fun run is scheduled for Saturday, June 8th at 8:00 a.m. on the West side of the Hays Aquatic Park (4th and Main). Registration will begin at 7:15 a.m. This run will consist of your choice of a 1 mile run/walk or a 5K run/walk.There is still time to register for this fun event for an entry fee of only $10 on or before June 5th. Cost after June 5th is $12.The run is for people of all abilities, will not be timed, and the proceeds will go to help support the programs coordinated by the Hays Recreation Commission that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The run helps make the programs free or inexpensive for participants.Dash 4 Disabilities is sponsored by Hess Services, Papa Murphys and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.For a registration form, map of the course, or any other information, contact Haley Nixon at 785-623-2650, haley@haysrec.org or go to www.haysrec.org.

Dash 4 Disabilities fast approaching

The Riders INC fourth-annual charity Graham Jam will feature musicians with roots in Graham County. This year, it coincides with alumni weekend and is&nbsp;from 4:30 to midnight on Saturday, May 25 at the city park.

This is an open jam, and all singers and musicians are invited and encouraged to participate. All genres are welcome. We have a great lineup again this year, but we can always use more. You can perform with the band or solo.

There will be brats, hamburgers and a beer garden.

Then, on Sunday in Morland, join Riders INC for a fun day of riding with drag racing on Main Street and side-by-side and RC racing thanks to Hays Hobby shop in Hays along with the Morland Fire Department and Lion’s Club.

For more information, follow the Riders INC Facebook Page.

SubmittedThe Riders INC fourth-annual charity Graham Jam will feature musicians with roots in Graham County. This year, it coincides with alumni weekend and is&nbsp;from 4:30 to midnight on Saturday, May 25 at the city park.This is an open jam, and all singers and musicians are invited and encouraged to participate. All genres are welcome. We have a great lineup again this year, but we can always use more. You can perform with the band or solo.There will be brats, hamburgers and a beer garden.Then, on Sunday in Morland, join Riders INC for a fun day of riding with drag racing on Main Street and side-by-side and RC racing thanks to Hays Hobby shop in Hays along with the Morland Fire Department and Lion’s Club.For more information, follow the Riders INC Facebook Page.

Riders INC host fourth annual charity Graham Jam

The avid Hotel of Hays, in conjunction with IHG properties worldwide, is conducting a food drive for World Hunger Day.&nbsp;

They are collecting nonperishable items through May 28. 

These will be given to the Food Bank at Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church in Hays.&nbsp;

For more information, contact the avid Hotel at 785-625-1101.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The avid Hotel of Hays, in conjunction with IHG properties worldwide, is conducting a food drive for World Hunger Day.&nbsp;They are collecting nonperishable items through May 28. These will be given to the Food Bank at Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church in Hays.&nbsp;For more information, contact the avid Hotel at 785-625-1101.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Avid hotel announces food drive

First Responders Appreciation Barbeque planned

Colby Community College alumnus Mark Winger will posthumously be awarded the honorary associate degree during commencement on May 17 at the Colby Event Center. A committee of college employees selects the recipient to highlight an individual's distinguished contributions to Colby Community College and Thomas County.

<a>Raised on a farm in Johnson, Kan., Winger graduated from Stanton County High School before completing a degree at Colby Community College. He continued his education at West Texas State University (now West Texas A&amp;M University) in Canyon, Texas, where he was honored as the Outstanding Senior in the Division of Agriculture. Later, while raising a family and working full time, he completed a master's degree in agribusiness from Kansas State University.</a>

Winger married his high school sweetheart Tonya in 1986, and they moved to Wayne, Neb., where Mark began his banking career.

"He always went home to the family farm to help with harvest," said Tonya. "During one of those trips, he stopped in Colby to visit his former Colby Community College instructor, Virgil Jones. Virgil convinced him to apply for a job at the Federal Land Bank in Colby. Mark got the job, and within a couple of weeks, we moved to Colby and made it our permanent home."

The couple raised their family in Colby. They had three sons: Chaz (Dakota) of Oakley, Zane (Morgan) of Sterling, Colo., and Gage (Kinley) of Colby. They also have five grandchildren: Kobee, Easton, Archer, Mesa, and Canyon.

Mark continued his career with Farm Credit of Western Kansas for 30 years, serving as Chief Credit Officer at the time of his passing on Dec. 16, 2020.

"Mark loved learning and always had stacks of notebooks filled with personal goals and topics he was researching," Tonya said. "He was an avid reader and a big supporter of the Pioneer Memorial Library and its book sales! He was fond of historical and aeronautical museums, exploring the state of Kansas and the world. He enjoyed a sailing trip in the Caribbean, as well as international trips to China, Africa, and India."

Winger served his community in many ways. He assisted with and supported Colby athletics at all levels. His civic work could be seen in the Colby Rotary, where he was named a Paul Harris Fellow. In leadership, he was on the Prairie Museum of Art and History board, was president of the Chamber of Commerce, board chairman and director of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership (KARL) organization, and a Thomas County Leadership graduate. CCC knew him well through his terms on the Board of Trustees and the Endowment Foundation board.

"Mark was very proud to have graduated from Colby Community College," Tonya added. "He will always be remembered for his smile, his kindness, and his generosity. He loved life, and he loved serving others."

The fifty-ninth Colby Community College commencement ceremony begins at 6 p.m. on May 17. It will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://openspacessports.com/wp/live-broadcasts/">OpenSpacesSports.com</a>.

SubmittedColby Community College alumnus Mark Winger will posthumously be awarded the honorary associate degree during commencement on May 17 at the Colby Event Center. A committee of college employees selects the recipient to highlight an individual's distinguished contributions to Colby Community College and Thomas County.<a>Raised on a farm in Johnson, Kan., Winger graduated from Stanton County High School before completing a degree at Colby Community College. He continued his education at West Texas State University (now West Texas A&amp;M University) in Canyon, Texas, where he was honored as the Outstanding Senior in the Division of Agriculture. Later, while raising a family and working full time, he completed a master's degree in agribusiness from Kansas State University.</a>Winger married his high school sweetheart Tonya in 1986, and they moved to Wayne, Neb., where Mark began his banking career."He always went home to the family farm to help with harvest," said Tonya. "During one of those trips, he stopped in Colby to visit his former Colby Community College instructor, Virgil Jones. Virgil convinced him to apply for a job at the Federal Land Bank in Colby. Mark got the job, and within a couple of weeks, we moved to Colby and made it our permanent home."The couple raised their family in Colby. They had three sons: Chaz (Dakota) of Oakley, Zane (Morgan) of Sterling, Colo., and Gage (Kinley) of Colby. They also have five grandchildren: Kobee, Easton, Archer, Mesa, and Canyon.Mark continued his career with Farm Credit of Western Kansas for 30 years, serving as Chief Credit Officer at the time of his passing on Dec. 16, 2020."Mark loved learning and always had stacks of notebooks filled with personal goals and topics he was researching," Tonya said. "He was an avid reader and a big supporter of the Pioneer Memorial Library and its book sales! He was fond of historical and aeronautical museums, exploring the state of Kansas and the world. He enjoyed a sailing trip in the Caribbean, as well as international trips to China, Africa, and India."Winger served his community in many ways. He assisted with and supported Colby athletics at all levels. His civic work could be seen in the Colby Rotary, where he was named a Paul Harris Fellow. In leadership, he was on the Prairie Museum of Art and History board, was president of the Chamber of Commerce, board chairman and director of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership (KARL) organization, and a Thomas County Leadership graduate. CCC knew him well through his terms on the Board of Trustees and the Endowment Foundation board."Mark was very proud to have graduated from Colby Community College," Tonya added. "He will always be remembered for his smile, his kindness, and his generosity. He loved life, and he loved serving others."The fifty-ninth Colby Community College commencement ceremony begins at 6 p.m. on May 17. It will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://openspacessports.com/wp/live-broadcasts/">OpenSpacesSports.com</a>.

CCC posthumously awards honorary degree to Mark Winger

Ellis County Health Department to host Community Fair

Beginning on Thursday, at 8 a.m., the intersection of 11th and Ash in Hays will be closed to through traffic for water line replacements.

 Any residents affected by this project will be notified by the contractor for any interruption of services. 

These repairs are expected to take about a week.

 Please avoid the area if possible. Traffic control devices will be placed to direct the traveling public.

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please call the contractor, J Corp, at 785-650-3995 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699907469122.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning on Thursday, at 8 a.m., the intersection of 11th and Ash in Hays will be closed to through traffic for water line replacements. Any residents affected by this project will be notified by the contractor for any interruption of services. These repairs are expected to take about a week. Please avoid the area if possible. Traffic control devices will be placed to direct the traveling public.The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please call the contractor, J Corp, at 785-650-3995 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

Water line replacements at 11th & Ash to close Hays intersection

Feed Hays blood drive includes meal and T-shirt

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Feeding Hays comedy show fundraiser is Saturday

As Fort Hays State University wraps up the academic year, they are pleased to recognize the following recipients of tenure and promotions:

As Fort Hays State University wraps up the academic year, they are pleased to recognize the following recipients of tenure and promotions:<figure>
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Sign up now for United Way of Ellis County golf tourney fundraiser

Vast prairie, unpredictable weather conditions, long work hours – farming and ranching can be a stressful business. Farm families often face heightened levels of stress because so many factors influencing their livelihood (like the weather and commodity prices) are beyond their control.

Stress is a normal part of life, and farm families are often very resilient! However, sometimes stress can become too much and overwhelm our natural ability to cope. In these challenging times, it’s important to have someone trustworthy to talk things over with.

Here at High Plains Mental Health Center, we understand the unique challenges faced by farm families. Several of our staff also come from agriculture backgrounds, and many of our therapists are AgriSafe Farm Response Certified to better understand your concerns.

With more than 50 access sites in 20 counties and more telehealth options for your family’s privacy and convenience, We’re Here for You. A sliding fee scale is available to make care affordable for any budget.

Help is always just a phone call away, with mobile crisis options and after-hours support also available. Just call 1-800-432-0333 or 988 to be connected with a mental health professional.

There are also self-care steps that may help rural residents cope with rising stress levels:

- Set priorities and plan your time. Say no to extra commitments that you do not have time to do.

- Try to reframe stressful situations. Try to see the big picture and look for solutions.

- Remember that most situations are temporary and strong feelings will fade.

- Take time to notice and appreciate what you have accomplished.

- Focus on relaxing your body and mind. Try taking deep breaths.

- Tune into your body and take care of it. Exercise regularly and eat well-balanced meals.

- Limit intake of alcohol and stimulants such as coffee, soda and tea.

- Take a break. You can exercise for a few minutes, take a walk, or pause to appreciate the beauty of nature.

- Before responding to a stressful situation, pause. Take deep breaths and slowly release them to release unnecessary stress.

- Find someone that you can talk to about your worries and frustrations.

- Engage your social support systems. Families with greater community involvement and stronger social networks are often more resilient.

- Look for the humor in the things that you do.

- Seek help when you need it. Everyone needs help sometimes. If stress is affecting your relationships, your work, or you feel like it is taking over your life, help is available! Mental health care is health care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578344475899.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mdCHuO_HFDI?si=tHECqP8mdLkaO3ky" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>High Plains Mental HealthVast prairie, unpredictable weather conditions, long work hours – farming and ranching can be a stressful business. Farm families often face heightened levels of stress because so many factors influencing their livelihood (like the weather and commodity prices) are beyond their control.Stress is a normal part of life, and farm families are often very resilient! However, sometimes stress can become too much and overwhelm our natural ability to cope. In these challenging times, it’s important to have someone trustworthy to talk things over with.Here at High Plains Mental Health Center, we understand the unique challenges faced by farm families. Several of our staff also come from agriculture backgrounds, and many of our therapists are AgriSafe Farm Response Certified to better understand your concerns.With more than 50 access sites in 20 counties and more telehealth options for your family’s privacy and convenience, We’re Here for You. A sliding fee scale is available to make care affordable for any budget.Help is always just a phone call away, with mobile crisis options and after-hours support also available. Just call 1-800-432-0333 or 988 to be connected with a mental health professional.There are also self-care steps that may help rural residents cope with rising stress levels:- Set priorities and plan your time. Say no to extra commitments that you do not have time to do.- Try to reframe stressful situations. Try to see the big picture and look for solutions.- Remember that most situations are temporary and strong feelings will fade.- Take time to notice and appreciate what you have accomplished.- Focus on relaxing your body and mind. Try taking deep breaths.- Tune into your body and take care of it. Exercise regularly and eat well-balanced meals.- Limit intake of alcohol and stimulants such as coffee, soda and tea.- Take a break. You can exercise for a few minutes, take a walk, or pause to appreciate the beauty of nature.- Before responding to a stressful situation, pause. Take deep breaths and slowly release them to release unnecessary stress.- Find someone that you can talk to about your worries and frustrations.- Engage your social support systems. Families with greater community involvement and stronger social networks are often more resilient.- Look for the humor in the things that you do.- Seek help when you need it. Everyone needs help sometimes. If stress is affecting your relationships, your work, or you feel like it is taking over your life, help is available! Mental health care is health care.

🎥 Sponsored: High Plains Mental Health Center here to help farmers and ranchers

Osborne Community blood drive Friday

Ellis Public Library releases summer Adventures schedule

Help out the Community Assistance Center during the Mail Carriers&nbsp;Food&nbsp;Drive&nbsp;this Saturday, May 11.&nbsp; 

Put non-perishable&nbsp;food&nbsp;in your mailbox this Saturday.&nbsp; All donations benefit the Community Assistance Center&nbsp;Food&nbsp;Bank, Hays.

<figure>
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 </figure>Help out the Community Assistance Center during the Mail Carriers&nbsp;Food&nbsp;Drive&nbsp;this Saturday, May 11.&nbsp; Put non-perishable&nbsp;food&nbsp;in your mailbox this Saturday.&nbsp; All donations benefit the Community Assistance Center&nbsp;Food&nbsp;Bank, Hays.

Mail carriers to collect food in Hays on Saturday

As of October 1, 2024, Hays Post will begin charging $55 per obituary for posting obituaries. This cost will include an unlimited word count and posting of a photo of the deceased.&nbsp;

We understand that obituaries are an important way to honor the memory of loved ones and share their life stories with the community. We remain committed to providing this service. The fees collected will help us continue to offer high-quality obituaries while maintaining the overall sustainability of the Hays Post.&nbsp;

Funeral homes will be able to establish billing with a credit card with Eagle Media, the parent company of the Hays Post.&nbsp;

Please email the form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>, send it by mail to Eagle Media, 2300 Hall, Hays, KS 67601. You can also call Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.

A summary of your charges will be sent to you monthly for funeral homes.

Individuals will still be able to submit obituaries to the Hays Post. They will need to prepay by credit card.&nbsp;

Both the photo and copy of the obituary need to be submitted in digital form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;in the body of an email or as a MicrosoftWord file. Photos should be emailed in a separate attachment as .jpg files if possible.&nbsp;

PLEASE NOTE: We will no longer go directly to funeral home websites to obtain obituaries. They MUST be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;to be published.&nbsp;

Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;

If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;

If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

As of October 1, 2024, Hays Post will begin charging $55 per obituary for posting obituaries. This cost will include an unlimited word count and posting of a photo of the deceased.&nbsp;We understand that obituaries are an important way to honor the memory of loved ones and share their life stories with the community. We remain committed to providing this service. The fees collected will help us continue to offer high-quality obituaries while maintaining the overall sustainability of the Hays Post.&nbsp;Funeral homes will be able to establish billing with a credit card with Eagle Media, the parent company of the Hays Post.&nbsp;Please email the form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>, send it by mail to Eagle Media, 2300 Hall, Hays, KS 67601. You can also call Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.A summary of your charges will be sent to you monthly for funeral homes.Individuals will still be able to submit obituaries to the Hays Post. They will need to prepay by credit card.&nbsp;Both the photo and copy of the obituary need to be submitted in digital form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;in the body of an email or as a MicrosoftWord file. Photos should be emailed in a separate attachment as .jpg files if possible.&nbsp;PLEASE NOTE: We will no longer go directly to funeral home websites to obtain obituaries. They MUST be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;to be published.&nbsp;Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Hays Post obituary policy

Cottonwood Extension District<figure>
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Make the best choices for your health through Dining with Diabetes program in Hays 

The Hays ARC Park splash pad, 3300 Hillcrest, is now open for summer. Operating hours are 10 a.m. - 8p.m. daily.

<figure>
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 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays ARC Park splash pad, 3300 Hillcrest, is now open for summer. Operating hours are 10 a.m. - 8p.m. daily.!

Hays ARC Park splash pad opens for summer

Prairie Garden Club plant giveaway set for May 9

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy begins May 14

There will be a Firearms Expo &amp; Sporting Clay Shoot hosted by H&amp;M Firearms from 8 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4 and 8 a.m. to noon Sunday, May 5 at the LaSada Lodge, 3721 183rd St., Russell.

The Sporting Clay Tournament will be on Saturday and Sunday. The cost for a four-person team is $400.

There will be $50,000 in raffle prizes and giveaways. Door prize drawings will be every hour.

There will be a live range with thousands of rounds spent every day.

Side by sides and golf carts are welcome.

There will be a beer garden and various food vendors.

If you have questions, contact Richard Hodges with H&amp;M Firearms for more information either by phone (316) 512-8808 or by email: events@hmfirearms.com.

You can also find more at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hmfirearms.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2NN0UBUajqhFTlCoLno-vO9vVnWD-RhJl2kVYvcYW2-yYeecOUqszcJ90_aem_ARuNrAXqHaF11aMpmKdeKY9pnW8C3kC2RfmfJtmNJOxHzD5dzuaGtZhxLwBXzaPrXqTwAxCvZqW-OGdfNpXvf3JU" target="_blank">http://www.hmfirearms.com/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714678846799.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There will be a Firearms Expo &amp; Sporting Clay Shoot hosted by H&amp;M Firearms from 8 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4 and 8 a.m. to noon Sunday, May 5 at the LaSada Lodge, 3721 183rd St., Russell.The Sporting Clay Tournament will be on Saturday and Sunday. The cost for a four-person team is $400.There will be $50,000 in raffle prizes and giveaways. Door prize drawings will be every hour.There will be a live range with thousands of rounds spent every day.Side by sides and golf carts are welcome.There will be a beer garden and various food vendors.If you have questions, contact Richard Hodges with H&amp;M Firearms for more information either by phone (316) 512-8808 or by email: events@hmfirearms.com.You can also find more at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hmfirearms.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2NN0UBUajqhFTlCoLno-vO9vVnWD-RhJl2kVYvcYW2-yYeecOUqszcJ90_aem_ARuNrAXqHaF11aMpmKdeKY9pnW8C3kC2RfmfJtmNJOxHzD5dzuaGtZhxLwBXzaPrXqTwAxCvZqW-OGdfNpXvf3JU" target="_blank">http://www.hmfirearms.com/</a>.

Firearms expo, sport clay shoot this weekend in Russell

Red Line Cruisers Cruise Night and Car Show scheduled

American Legion Auxiliary members, Sheri Beisner (left) and Linda Crawford (right), presented $1,000 to the Natoma USD 399 librarian, Dayna Kocinski (center), in honor of Mary Murphy. (Courtesy photo)

By LEAH TUCKER American Legion Auxiliary

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109, Natoma, presented $1,000 to Natoma Unified School District 399 in remembrance of Auxiliary member, Mary Murphy. Sheri Beisner (left) and Linda Crawford (right) presented the memorial donation to the librarian, Dayna Kocinski (center). The funds will purchase Patriotic/Americanism books and educational materials to be divided between the elementary school library and junior high/high school libraries. Auxiliary members, family members, and friends of Mary provided the funds in her memory.

Mary was a devoted teacher and librarian focusing on providing the best materials for students’ character building. Her heart and passion were for students and for veterans. Her husband fought in the Vietnam War. During her Unit 109 membership, a major emphasis incorporated programs from the American Legion Auxiliary. Following retirement from teaching, she continued to promote Americanism with emphasis on America’s Founding Principles through a myriad of programs, including the annual Veterans Salute. The Patriotic musical event is presented annually by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 and Natoma Unified School District 399.

<figure>
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 </figure>American Legion Auxiliary members, Sheri Beisner (left) and Linda Crawford (right), presented $1,000 to the Natoma USD 399 librarian, Dayna Kocinski (center), in honor of Mary Murphy. (Courtesy photo)By LEAH TUCKER American Legion AuxiliaryAmerican Legion Auxiliary Unit 109, Natoma, presented $1,000 to Natoma Unified School District 399 in remembrance of Auxiliary member, Mary Murphy. Sheri Beisner (left) and Linda Crawford (right) presented the memorial donation to the librarian, Dayna Kocinski (center). The funds will purchase Patriotic/Americanism books and educational materials to be divided between the elementary school library and junior high/high school libraries. Auxiliary members, family members, and friends of Mary provided the funds in her memory.Mary was a devoted teacher and librarian focusing on providing the best materials for students’ character building. Her heart and passion were for students and for veterans. Her husband fought in the Vietnam War. During her Unit 109 membership, a major emphasis incorporated programs from the American Legion Auxiliary. Following retirement from teaching, she continued to promote Americanism with emphasis on America’s Founding Principles through a myriad of programs, including the annual Veterans Salute. The Patriotic musical event is presented annually by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 and Natoma Unified School District 399.

American Legion presents Natoma schools $1,000

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