By BECKY KISER Hays Post

More than 70 people attended last week's town hall meeting with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., at BriefSpace in downtown Hays.

Earlier in the afternoon, Moran was a guest speaker at the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/871103cd-28bc-4251-9282-c72cfc0d29df">Camber Children's Mental Health ribbon cutting</a> for its new youth acute and residential mental health treatment facility near the Hays Regional Airport.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Then it was on to his first town hall meeting of this congressional session, where Moran told the crowd he was "home for a dose of common sense" from his Hays constituents.&nbsp;

Moran started his talk with a review of his anticipated committee assignments, including reappointment to Veterans Affairs, which he has chaired. Although he is not a veteran, when he became a member of Congress, "I decided my responsibilities were greater than just paying respect, and so we work to try to make sure that the promises were made to those who served are promises that are kept."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Moran said he is one of the longest serving Republicans ever on Veterans Affairs, first as a member of the U.S. House and now the Senate.&nbsp;

Working with Democrats has been fairly smooth, according to Moran, and he is particularly happy with community care legislation that allows veterans in rural areas to access their federal healthcare close to home, instead of having to travel to Veterans Administration centers in Topeka, Wichita or Leavenworth.&nbsp;

More recently, legislative work has been done on issues of veteran suicide, as well as toxic chemical exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam or southeast Asia burn pits, which is still being implemented.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm not looking for another big piece of legislation. Let's just do what we said we're going to do and do it well, do it right.

"It's time for us to do oversight on a department that is always struggling to do what they're supposed to do by law and take care of people that they are legally responsible for caring for."

The senator recently made his fourth visit to the southern U.S. border, near El Paso and in New Mexico, which he described as "a mess."

"In my view, the issue is you're not legally entitled to be here," he said of the amassed immigrants wanting to cross into the United States, "and therefore we ought to enforce the law.

"There's a process by which you can become entitled, so go through the process."

Moran believes the U.S. is "shortchanged" on the border.

"The president is wrong to eliminate Section 42 which allows for the administration to insist those people claiming asylum stay on the other side of the border until their asylum claim is determined."

Moran added that the U.S.-built border wall is "important."&nbsp;

"It helps our border patrol narrow the places they have to pay the most attention to," he said, and expressed support for more border agents to be hired.&nbsp;

Moran also is concerned about other U.S.-Mexico border issues — the longtime flow of illegal drugs across the border, particularly today's deadly fentanyl, and human trafficking.

Around the globe, Moran considers the Chinese "our greatest adversary challenge ... and they now have a relationship with the Mexican cartels."

After returning to the U.S., Moran and a number of his colleagues want to revive law enforcement efforts at the border.&nbsp;

"This administration is doing way too little."

Despite considering himself an optimist, Moran said he is "as concerned about our country's future as I've ever been."&nbsp;

Inflation, and lack of an energy policy are other issues that concern Moran. He supports all types of energy production, including renewables and passive.

 "We ought to be encouraging more production, not discouraging more production. That's a component of inflation, but it's a component of our national security. Don't be dependent on somebody else for our energy supplies.

"Think about the European countries that are trying to stand up to Russia and they're nervous and sometimes unwilling to do so because who has the keys to their energy?"&nbsp;

During the question-and-answer portion of the meeting, Moran came under fire from several people in the audience for <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/70457981-1c01-4b7b-8da8-7b0329db96b5">voting with Democrats for the $1.7 trillion budget bill</a>,&nbsp;which kept the federal government from going into a partial shutdown just before the Christmas holiday recess.

"I know my vote is controversial," he acknowledged. "I had people tell me to 'just shut the government down. It doesn't matter to us.' [But] I have too many examples where people are hugely harmed during that period of time."

Moran pointed out that the appropriations bill included half a billion dollars in new money for the U.S.-Mexican border and patrol agents. More money is allotted for defense spending overall than the rate of inflation.

"In my view that we're in a dangerous world, our military men and women and the equipment that we provide them is hugely important to us being in a position to make sure that fear I have because of China and other adversaries, that we're prepared for."&nbsp; &nbsp;

Junior Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., voted against advancing the 4,155-page omnibus spending plan.

When it comes to the $31.45 trillion government debt, Moran agreed with another audience member that, unfortunately, it's "much easier to spend money than to not spend money. It does take people saying no. We can't continue doing what we're doing. Now that we have a Republican majority in the House, we'll see if we can do something that moves us in a different direction."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675197054950.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., answers questions from constituents at a town hall meeting in Hays on Jan. 27. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., answers questions from constituents at a town hall meeting in Hays on Jan. 27. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMore than 70 people attended last week's town hall meeting with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., at BriefSpace in downtown Hays.Earlier in the afternoon, Moran was a guest speaker at the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/871103cd-28bc-4251-9282-c72cfc0d29df">Camber Children's Mental Health ribbon cutting</a> for its new youth acute and residential mental health treatment facility near the Hays Regional Airport.&nbsp;&nbsp;Then it was on to his first town hall meeting of this congressional session, where Moran told the crowd he was "home for a dose of common sense" from his Hays constituents.&nbsp;Moran started his talk with a review of his anticipated committee assignments, including reappointment to Veterans Affairs, which he has chaired. Although he is not a veteran, when he became a member of Congress, "I decided my responsibilities were greater than just paying respect, and so we work to try to make sure that the promises were made to those who served are promises that are kept."&nbsp;&nbsp;Moran said he is one of the longest serving Republicans ever on Veterans Affairs, first as a member of the U.S. House and now the Senate.&nbsp;Working with Democrats has been fairly smooth, according to Moran, and he is particularly happy with community care legislation that allows veterans in rural areas to access their federal healthcare close to home, instead of having to travel to Veterans Administration centers in Topeka, Wichita or Leavenworth.&nbsp;More recently, legislative work has been done on issues of veteran suicide, as well as toxic chemical exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam or southeast Asia burn pits, which is still being implemented.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm not looking for another big piece of legislation. Let's just do what we said we're going to do and do it well, do it right."It's time for us to do oversight on a department that is always struggling to do what they're supposed to do by law and take care of people that they are legally responsible for caring for."The senator recently made his fourth visit to the southern U.S. border, near El Paso and in New Mexico, which he described as "a mess.""In my view, the issue is you're not legally entitled to be here," he said of the amassed immigrants wanting to cross into the United States, "and therefore we ought to enforce the law."There's a process by which you can become entitled, so go through the process."Moran believes the U.S. is "shortchanged" on the border."The president is wrong to eliminate Section 42 which allows for the administration to insist those people claiming asylum stay on the other side of the border until their asylum claim is determined."Moran added that the U.S.-built border wall is "important."&nbsp;"It helps our border patrol narrow the places they have to pay the most attention to," he said, and expressed support for more border agents to be hired.&nbsp;Moran also is concerned about other U.S.-Mexico border issues — the longtime flow of illegal drugs across the border, particularly today's deadly fentanyl, and human trafficking.Around the globe, Moran considers the Chinese "our greatest adversary challenge ... and they now have a relationship with the Mexican cartels."After returning to the U.S., Moran and a number of his colleagues want to revive law enforcement efforts at the border.&nbsp;"This administration is doing way too little."Despite considering himself an optimist, Moran said he is "as concerned about our country's future as I've ever been."&nbsp;Inflation, and lack of an energy policy are other issues that concern Moran. He supports all types of energy production, including renewables and passive. "We ought to be encouraging more production, not discouraging more production. That's a component of inflation, but it's a component of our national security. Don't be dependent on somebody else for our energy supplies."Think about the European countries that are trying to stand up to Russia and they're nervous and sometimes unwilling to do so because who has the keys to their energy?"&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/vY03G1Nr-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Moran Town Hall 1" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>During the question-and-answer portion of the meeting, Moran came under fire from several people in the audience for <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/70457981-1c01-4b7b-8da8-7b0329db96b5">voting with Democrats for the $1.7 trillion budget bill</a>,&nbsp;which kept the federal government from going into a partial shutdown just before the Christmas holiday recess."I know my vote is controversial," he acknowledged. "I had people tell me to 'just shut the government down. It doesn't matter to us.' [But] I have too many examples where people are hugely harmed during that period of time."Moran pointed out that the appropriations bill included half a billion dollars in new money for the U.S.-Mexican border and patrol agents. More money is allotted for defense spending overall than the rate of inflation."In my view that we're in a dangerous world, our military men and women and the equipment that we provide them is hugely important to us being in a position to make sure that fear I have because of China and other adversaries, that we're prepared for."&nbsp; &nbsp;Junior Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., voted against advancing the 4,155-page omnibus spending plan.When it comes to the $31.45 trillion government debt, Moran agreed with another audience member that, unfortunately, it's "much easier to spend money than to not spend money. It does take people saying no. We can't continue doing what we're doing. Now that we have a Republican majority in the House, we'll see if we can do something that moves us in a different direction."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675199140625.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 Moran at Hays town hall: 'We can't continue doing what we're doing' 

Hays High head football coach Tony Crough describes senior Bryce Salmans as "one of the five best football players in my five years here." Lofty praise for a program that has turned out numerous players every year that have landed every where from the junior college ranks to Division I. Thursday morning, Salmans signed his National Letter of Intent to stay in Hays and play for the Tigers of Fort Hays State University. Bryce Salmans

Salmans missed his entire freshman sports campaign with a broken leg. He would have been back in time for track season but that was canceled when school was shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. His sophomore season was spent at the varsity level primarily on special teams. Offense was the home for him as a junior and then became a two-way starter his senior year. On defense he became a defensive end, where he is projected to start his collegiate career, and was name the Defensive Player of the Year in the Western Athletic Conference. The 2022 campaign ended with Salmans recording 57 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, three fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.

While on offense, Salmans was an H-back and tight end. However, for one playoff game, he was starting running back when Malik Bah was out with injury. He piled up 120 rushing yards on 16 carries and scored two times.

Staying in Hays and playing for the Tigers at Lewis Field Stadium was something that appealed to the senior who has had a lifelong dream of playing college football. Now instead of maroon and gold, he will wear the black and gold of Fort Hays State University.

Hays High head football coach Tony Crough describes senior Bryce Salmans as "one of the five best football players in my five years here." Lofty praise for a program that has turned out numerous players every year that have landed every where from the junior college ranks to Division I. Thursday morning, Salmans signed his National Letter of Intent to stay in Hays and play for the Tigers of Fort Hays State University. Bryce Salmans<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1438582816&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bryce-salmans-signing" title="Bryce Salmans Signing" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Bryce Salmans Signing</a></div></div> Salmans missed his entire freshman sports campaign with a broken leg. He would have been back in time for track season but that was canceled when school was shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. His sophomore season was spent at the varsity level primarily on special teams. Offense was the home for him as a junior and then became a two-way starter his senior year. On defense he became a defensive end, where he is projected to start his collegiate career, and was name the Defensive Player of the Year in the Western Athletic Conference. The 2022 campaign ended with Salmans recording 57 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, three fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.While on offense, Salmans was an H-back and tight end. However, for one playoff game, he was starting running back when Malik Bah was out with injury. He piled up 120 rushing yards on 16 carries and scored two times.Coach Tony Crough<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1438582873&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tony-crough-about-bryce-salmans" title="Tony Crough About Bryce Salmans" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tony Crough About Bryce Salmans</a></div></div>Staying in Hays and playing for the Tigers at Lewis Field Stadium was something that appealed to the senior who has had a lifelong dream of playing college football. Now instead of maroon and gold, he will wear the black and gold of Fort Hays State University.

🏈 Salmans stays in town; signs with FHSU

Area residents will once again have the opportunity to hear directly
from their local legislators during the Hays Chamber’s 2023 Legislative Coffee
Series.

The first of the three Saturday morning events is scheduled to begin at
8 a.m. Feb. 4 at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.

“This is
one of my favorite events, actually, because it gives us an opportunity just to
interact with our elected officials,” said Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah
Wasinger. “There are so many important issues that are being addressed at this
local, state and national level. And really, the reason behind this event is to
give our community members a chance to express their concerns and make sure
that their voices are being heard.”

The
follow-up events are scheduled for March 4 and April 1.

“We
really try to keep it as low-key as possible,” Wasinger said. “They open up
with some opening remarks, a couple of minutes each. And then really we open
that up to the question-and answer-portion after that.”

Questions
for the participating legislators can be submitted in advance.

“We had
probably more questions submitted, actually, at the first legislative coffee
last year than I've at least had since I've been with the chamber,” Wasinger
said. “People are engaged. They're paying attention to what's going on, and you
get to hear a variety of thoughts and perspectives from different individuals
across the community. And then, of course, our elected officials will weigh in
with where their heads and hearts are sitting at the moment. And it's just a
good dialogue.”

The format of the sessions will be
the same as previous years, featuring coffee and scones from Breathe Coffee
House, with the formal program scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m.

“We usually
have about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes, it really just depends on how
many representatives or legislators we have there that day,” Wasinger said. “And
then we finish with some closing remarks.”

The
sessions, she said, can also serve as a way to network with the legislators.

“I think
many people oftentimes are stuck in these situations or problems, and they
don't necessarily know who to reach out to,” Wasinger said. “That's when your
elected officials can really come in and roll up their sleeves and do the work
that they need to do to support you.

“There's
definitely value in building those relationships and attending.”

Topics
covered during the sessions will vary based on what is happening in the
legislature and submitted questions.

“Things
that we may talk about, at least what we talked about last year, was Medicaid
expansion,” Wasinger said. “Obviously, education funding is always a hot topic,
gun legislation, as western Kansas citizens appreciate that topic usually. And
then, of course, water access. We'd be remiss not to talk about economic
development and housing. Of course, childcare and ag industry, those are all
things that tend to be hot topics, regardless of what is going on in the
legislative session.”

So far, she said Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland,
Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays, plan to attend Saturday’s
kickoff event along with a representative from the office of U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall.

“I think
it'll be a great crowd, we always look forward to the answers that they will
share,” Wasinger said. “I think it's interesting that everybody can kind of
just understand that dialogue and conversation is important.”

Midwest
Energy and the Hays Daily News sponsored the legislative coffee series.

Questions
can be sent to <a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646612730538.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Chamber’s Legislative Coffee series returns for 2023" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j3zu7-1378a82-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostArea residents will once again have the opportunity to hear directly
from their local legislators during the Hays Chamber’s 2023 Legislative Coffee
Series.The first of the three Saturday morning events is scheduled to begin at
8 a.m. Feb. 4 at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.“This is
one of my favorite events, actually, because it gives us an opportunity just to
interact with our elected officials,” said Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah
Wasinger. “There are so many important issues that are being addressed at this
local, state and national level. And really, the reason behind this event is to
give our community members a chance to express their concerns and make sure
that their voices are being heard.”The
follow-up events are scheduled for March 4 and April 1.“We
really try to keep it as low-key as possible,” Wasinger said. “They open up
with some opening remarks, a couple of minutes each. And then really we open
that up to the question-and answer-portion after that.”Questions
for the participating legislators can be submitted in advance.“We had
probably more questions submitted, actually, at the first legislative coffee
last year than I've at least had since I've been with the chamber,” Wasinger
said. “People are engaged. They're paying attention to what's going on, and you
get to hear a variety of thoughts and perspectives from different individuals
across the community. And then, of course, our elected officials will weigh in
with where their heads and hearts are sitting at the moment. And it's just a
good dialogue.”The format of the sessions will be
the same as previous years, featuring coffee and scones from Breathe Coffee
House, with the formal program scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m.“We usually
have about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes, it really just depends on how
many representatives or legislators we have there that day,” Wasinger said. “And
then we finish with some closing remarks.”The
sessions, she said, can also serve as a way to network with the legislators.“I think
many people oftentimes are stuck in these situations or problems, and they
don't necessarily know who to reach out to,” Wasinger said. “That's when your
elected officials can really come in and roll up their sleeves and do the work
that they need to do to support you.“There's
definitely value in building those relationships and attending.”Topics
covered during the sessions will vary based on what is happening in the
legislature and submitted questions.“Things
that we may talk about, at least what we talked about last year, was Medicaid
expansion,” Wasinger said. “Obviously, education funding is always a hot topic,
gun legislation, as western Kansas citizens appreciate that topic usually. And
then, of course, water access. We'd be remiss not to talk about economic
development and housing. Of course, childcare and ag industry, those are all
things that tend to be hot topics, regardless of what is going on in the
legislative session.”So far, she said Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland,
Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays, plan to attend Saturday’s
kickoff event along with a representative from the office of U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall.“I think
it'll be a great crowd, we always look forward to the answers that they will
share,” Wasinger said. “I think it's interesting that everybody can kind of
just understand that dialogue and conversation is important.”Midwest
Energy and the Hays Daily News sponsored the legislative coffee series.Questions
can be sent to <a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>

🎙 Hays Chamber’s Legislative Coffee series returns for 2023

After a high in the upper-30s on Thursday, the National Weather Service is predicting a much warmer weekend and start to next week.

Daytime highs in the mid-50s and sunny skies are expected Saturday through Monday.&nbsp;

There is a very slight chance of rain or snow beginning Tuesday, the only precipitation in the long-term forecast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675361515351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a high in the upper-30s on Thursday, the National Weather Service is predicting a much warmer weekend and start to next week.Daytime highs in the mid-50s and sunny skies are expected Saturday through Monday.&nbsp;There is a very slight chance of rain or snow beginning Tuesday, the only precipitation in the long-term forecast.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A much warmer weekend is on tap for southwest KS, with highs in the mid 50s to low 60s under mostly sunny skies! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yq7DLSdV7g">pic.twitter.com/Yq7DLSdV7g</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1621188312030670848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Much warmer weekend on the way for northwest Kansas

Beginning Thursday morning, some Eagle Radio of stations could experience occasional disruption due to transmitter updates.

The online streams will be unaffected. Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3385e3ba-4a05-4f97-be47-3d54dc97ed41">HERE</a> to listen to your favorite station online.

We apologize for any inconvenience — and thanks for listening!

Beginning Thursday morning, some Eagle Radio of stations could experience occasional disruption due to transmitter updates.The online streams will be unaffected. Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3385e3ba-4a05-4f97-be47-3d54dc97ed41">HERE</a> to listen to your favorite station online.We apologize for any inconvenience — and thanks for listening!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Eagle Radio stations could be disrupted Thursday

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington.

Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, a&nbsp;report was made to the Hoisington Police Department in reference to an attempted kidnapping in the 800 Block of W 2nd Street, according to a media release.

 The victim told police as he was walking he was approached by subjects in a white van. The victim reports a man in the van attempted to force him into the vehicle, although the victim was able to free himself and run. 

The vehicle is described as a white full size van with peeling paint, a sliding rear passenger door and occupied by at least two subjects. 

The van reportedly left Hoisington on W 2nd Street after the incident occurred. 

Police asked anyone with video surveillance or cameras in the area of W 2nd Street in Hoisington at or around the time of this incident to also contact the Police Department.

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington.Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, a&nbsp;report was made to the Hoisington Police Department in reference to an attempted kidnapping in the 800 Block of W 2nd Street, according to a media release. The victim told police as he was walking he was approached by subjects in a white van. The victim reports a man in the van attempted to force him into the vehicle, although the victim was able to free himself and run. The vehicle is described as a white full size van with peeling paint, a sliding rear passenger door and occupied by at least two subjects. The van reportedly left Hoisington on W 2nd Street after the incident occurred. Police asked anyone with video surveillance or cameras in the area of W 2nd Street in Hoisington at or around the time of this incident to also contact the Police Department.

Police report alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington

From the Fort Larned National Historic Site...

If you have ever attended one of Fort Larned’s annual events, you may have been to one of our most popular types of programs — a firing demonstration. Though this is a fun experience for our visitors, it takes trained and skilled presenters in order to do it safely. This is where we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to help us safely present firing demonstrations with both small arms (rifles) and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. 

In order to be part of the Rifle Corps or the Cannon Crew, you must be 18 or older, able to attend the fort’s events, willing to travel, and will be expected to eventually provide their own living history uniform. The Rifle Corps will be trained on how to give presentations on and fire both muzzleloading Springfield Rifles as well as Trapdoor Springfield Rifles. The Cannon Crew on the other hand, will be focused on giving presentations on and firing the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. 

Training for both the Rifle Corps and the Cannon Crew will take place on the same day in April (date has yet to be set), so at the end of that day, you’ll be certified in both small arms and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer to help us give our most popular programs! 

If this is something that interests you, please feel free to message us here on social media, email us at fols_internet@nps.gov, or call us at 620-285-6911. We look forward to hearing from you!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675269532908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Fort Larned National Historic Site...If you have ever attended one of Fort Larned’s annual events, you may have been to one of our most popular types of programs — a firing demonstration. Though this is a fun experience for our visitors, it takes trained and skilled presenters in order to do it safely. This is where we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to help us safely present firing demonstrations with both small arms (rifles) and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. In order to be part of the Rifle Corps or the Cannon Crew, you must be 18 or older, able to attend the fort’s events, willing to travel, and will be expected to eventually provide their own living history uniform. The Rifle Corps will be trained on how to give presentations on and fire both muzzleloading Springfield Rifles as well as Trapdoor Springfield Rifles. The Cannon Crew on the other hand, will be focused on giving presentations on and firing the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. Training for both the Rifle Corps and the Cannon Crew will take place on the same day in April (date has yet to be set), so at the end of that day, you’ll be certified in both small arms and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer to help us give our most popular programs! If this is something that interests you, please feel free to message us here on social media, email us at fols_internet@nps.gov, or call us at 620-285-6911. We look forward to hearing from you!&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675269578810.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Volunteers needed for Fort Larned's mountain gun firing demos 

Twice a year, North Central Kansas Technical College awards
 a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 
212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior 
dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree. 212 degrees is 
the&nbsp;boiling point of water. We’ve all watched it happen as water goes 
from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling 
point is a transformation point. The water is transformed from calm and 
still, to boiling, and things start to happen. Recipients of this award 
will be employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of 
duty.&nbsp;These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to 
their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the 
mission of NCK Tech.

The recipient of 2022 Fall 212° Award is Jessica Garcia, an admissions counselor on the Hays campus.

Another unique aspect of this award is that it is peer-driven.&nbsp; The 
selection process includes being nominated by peers and then a committee
 of previous recipients make the selection. Administration’s only role 
is to present the employee with the award.

“Jessica is an outstanding member of the NCK Tech family and very 
deserving of this recognition,"  said NCK Tech President Eric Burks. "She cares tremendously about students and
 is always willing to go the extra mile to help them. I greatly 
appreciate her positive attitude and approach toward her work.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675106259362.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechTwice a year, North Central Kansas Technical College awards
 a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 
212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior 
dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree. 212 degrees is 
the&nbsp;boiling point of water. We’ve all watched it happen as water goes 
from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling 
point is a transformation point. The water is transformed from calm and 
still, to boiling, and things start to happen. Recipients of this award 
will be employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of 
duty.&nbsp;These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to 
their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the 
mission of NCK Tech.The recipient of 2022 Fall 212° Award is Jessica Garcia, an admissions counselor on the Hays campus.Another unique aspect of this award is that it is peer-driven.&nbsp; The 
selection process includes being nominated by peers and then a committee
 of previous recipients make the selection. Administration’s only role 
is to present the employee with the award.“Jessica is an outstanding member of the NCK Tech family and very 
deserving of this recognition," said NCK Tech President Eric Burks. "She cares tremendously about students and
 is always willing to go the extra mile to help them. I greatly 
appreciate her positive attitude and approach toward her work.”

Hays admissions counselor honored by NCK Tech

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.

<div><a href="https://www.sunflowerbank.com/hays/"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665496178318.jpeg"/></a></div>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Recent obituaries and service times

GREAT BEND — The Barton Community College Foundation presents scholarships each year from funds received through its fundraising events, endowments and annual scholarship gifts. For the 2022-23 academic year, the Foundation has selected the following students (listed by hometown) for scholarship offers:

Burdett 
Elizabeth Rasmussen, Golda Underhill Bailey Memorial Scholarship

Claflin 
Matthew Donecker, Schmidt Foundation Scholarship 
Brooke Farmer, Monica Bell Reser Memorial Scholarship 
Callie Zink, Loren and Maxine Pease Scholarship

Hays 
Adisyn Jacobs, The Vink Family Honorarium 
Tasiah Nunnery, Verna S. Davis Memorial Scholarship

Hill City 
Drake Stephen, Isbell Wesley Endowment Fund

La Crosse 
Ashton Waggoner, Schmidt Foundation Scholarship

Larned 
Katherine Alnor, Rosalie Jean Pennington Memorial Scholarship 
Tina Dimarzo, George Tregellas Chairman's Scholarship 
Matthew Figger, Mamie Robl Memorial Scholarship 
Jessica Grosfield, Roger and Mary Lou Murphy Endowment 
Samantha Haney, Nancy Bartley Scholarship 
Jessica Linarez, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship 
Jared McFadden, Les and Carol Hopkins Scholarship 
Tyson Nicholson, Lee Turner Endowment 
Jessica Runnels, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship 
Taryn Sieg, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship

Osborne 
Charlie Seifert, Farmers Bank &amp; Trust Financial Management Scholarship

Otis 
Chloe Schenk, BEST Scholarship (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team)

Phillipsburg 
Jacie Roth, G.E. and Lois Alban Academic Scholarship

Russell 
Rylee Miller, The Vink Family Honorarium 
Emicka Shoemaker, Barton County Medical Society Scholarship

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675079053655.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton Community CollegeGREAT BEND — The Barton Community College Foundation presents scholarships each year from funds received through its fundraising events, endowments and annual scholarship gifts. For the 2022-23 academic year, the Foundation has selected the following students (listed by hometown) for scholarship offers:Burdett 
Elizabeth Rasmussen, Golda Underhill Bailey Memorial ScholarshipClaflin 
Matthew Donecker, Schmidt Foundation Scholarship 
Brooke Farmer, Monica Bell Reser Memorial Scholarship 
Callie Zink, Loren and Maxine Pease ScholarshipHays 
Adisyn Jacobs, The Vink Family Honorarium 
Tasiah Nunnery, Verna S. Davis Memorial ScholarshipHill City 
Drake Stephen, Isbell Wesley Endowment FundLa Crosse 
Ashton Waggoner, Schmidt Foundation ScholarshipLarned 
Katherine Alnor, Rosalie Jean Pennington Memorial Scholarship 
Tina Dimarzo, George Tregellas Chairman's Scholarship 
Matthew Figger, Mamie Robl Memorial Scholarship 
Jessica Grosfield, Roger and Mary Lou Murphy Endowment 
Samantha Haney, Nancy Bartley Scholarship 
Jessica Linarez, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship 
Jared McFadden, Les and Carol Hopkins Scholarship 
Tyson Nicholson, Lee Turner Endowment 
Jessica Runnels, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship 
Taryn Sieg, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical ScholarshipOsborne 
Charlie Seifert, Farmers Bank &amp; Trust Financial Management ScholarshipOtis 
Chloe Schenk, BEST Scholarship (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team)Phillipsburg 
Jacie Roth, G.E. and Lois Alban Academic ScholarshipRussell 
Rylee Miller, The Vink Family Honorarium 
Emicka Shoemaker, Barton County Medical Society Scholarship

NW Kan. students awarded scholarships at Barton CC

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://amberwaveusa.com/">HERE</a>&nbsp;for more information or to apply.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674148030475.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://amberwaveusa.com/">HERE</a>&nbsp;for more information or to apply.

Heart of a Tiger: FHSU Online at 25 years

<div> <script src="https://embed-957763.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="f8888d7b-17f9-4bce-af00-08a5a135fb18" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

Turn-Key Properties Rent-Free Sweepstakes

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675278686480.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

Wednesday was National Signing Day as Fort Hays State head football coach Chris Brown&nbsp;and the Tiger football coaching staff announce signings for the 2023 season. The next Tiger Football recruiting class will be sending in their National Letters of Intent throughout the day.

The Tigers announced the signing of 52 players, 39 are high school seniors who join 14 transfers who are already enrolled and currently taking classes and a part of the team.

Breakdown by state: Kansas-21, Florida-12, Texas-7, California-4, Arizona-2, Arkansas-3, California-1, Colorado-1, Oklahoma-1, Utah-1

Breakdown by position: Quarterback-3, Running Back-5, Wide Receiver-9, Tight End-4, Offensive Linemen-8, Defensive Linemen-7, Linebacker-6, Defensive Back-9, Kicker-2

Updated at 6:30 p.m. on 2/1/2023 Nijel Akpom, 6-4, 360, OL, Irving, Texas / MacArthur HS MacArthur HS: Named school's Lineman of the Year twice. Landen Allen, 6-0, 200, LB, Salina, Kan. / Southeast of Saline HS Southeast of Saline HS: KFCA 2A All-State selection in 2022...All-state selection by Wichita Eagle on defense and Sports in Kansas on offense in 2022...All-league selection on defense in 2021 and 2022 and on offense in 2022...Two-time all-state and all-league selection in baseball. Keamonie Archie, 6-3, 180, DB, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Lawson Bailey, 6-0, 190, RB, Scott City, Kan. / Scott Community HS Scott Community HS: All-state honorable mention selection on offense...All-league first team on offense and second team on defense...All-state and all-league selection in baseball...All-league selection in basketball. Tayshaun Balmir, 5-9, 195, RB, Dade City, Fla. / Pasco HS Pasco HS: All-conference first team selection…Conference Offensive Player of the Year…Broke his school's single-season rushing yards record…Had over 1,900 yards with 23 touchdowns. Donovan Beckom, 5-11, 180, DB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Cathedral HS Cathedral HS: All-league first team selection...Named team's MVP on defense...Had seven interceptions. Neville Brown, 6-4, 310, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Evans HS Evans HS: All-Metro Third Team selection...Named to academic honor roll. Avery Coleman, 6-5, 255, OL, Tyler, Texas / Tyler HS Tyler HS: All-district first team selection. Keyshawn Dooley, 5-9, 165, WR, Colorado Springs, Colo. / Vista Ridge HS Vista Ridge HS: All-state second team selection...Had 130 receptions for over 2,000 yards with 25 touchdowns during his prep career...Two-time all-conference selection, including first-team honors as a senior...State qualifier in track and field. Kameron Graham, 6-4, 225, DE, Orlando, Fla. / Boone HS Boone HS: All-conference first team selection during junior and senior years...Recorded 62 tackles, eight sacks, and 22 tackles for loss. Kyreese Groen, 6-1, 160, WR, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Amel Hadzisabic, 5-11, 175, K, Amarillo, Texas / Randall HS Randall HS: First-team all-district kicker…Ranked among the Top 30 kickers nationally by a kicker rating service…Made 90 percent of his field goal attempts…Team defensive MVP in soccer…Second-team all-district defender in soccer. Kade Harris, 5-11, 180, S, Hays, Kan. / TMP-Marian HS TMP-Marian HS: Four-time All-MCL League selection, including four times on defensive, four times as a return specialist, and three times on offense…Sports in Kansas 2A Defensive Player of the Year finalist in both 2020 and 2022 and Offensive Player of the Year finalist in 2021…All-state selection by the Wichita Eagle and Topeka Capital Journal…Owns career rushing record and scoring record at TMP-Marian…All-state selection in basketball. Mason Hernandez, 5-10, 180, RB, Goodland, Kan. / Goodland HS Goodland HS: All-state honorable mention selection...All-league selection at running back. Chance Kerr, 6-0, 205, LB, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS Dodge City HS: All-conference selection as both a linebacker and running back...Served as team captain...Received KSHSAA Citizenship Award. Kaden Lonard, 6-5, 300, OL, Lawrence, Kan. / Free State HS Free State HS: Two-time all-state and two-time all-league selection. Elijah Lynn, 6-6, 240, DT, Phoenix, Ariz. / Moon Valley HS Moon Valley HS: All-region first team selection...Named Lineman of the Year...Sectional champion in wrestling and twice earned Most Outstanding Wrestler honors at tournaments. Braxton McDaniel, 6-4, 310, OL, Silver Lake, Kan. / Silver Lake HS Silver Lake HS: All-county and all-league selection as an offensive lineman...All-league academic selection all four years. Mason McGavran, 6-0, 215, QB/ATH, Olathe, Kan. / Olathe West HS Olathe West HS: All-Sunflower League selection at quarterback...Helped Olathe West to a regional championship in 2022...All-state first team selection in Kansas Class 6A...Sports in Kansas Player of the Year finalist...Threw for over 5,900 yards in his prep career with 72 touchdowns...As a senior threw for over 1,400 yards and rushed for over 1,300 yards. Kreighton Modrow, 5-10, 170, WR, Salina, Kan. / Salina South HS Salina South HS: All-league selection...Served as team captain. Jacob Orozco, 6-3, 215, LB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Salesian HS Taderian Partee, 6-4, 240, DT, Blytheville, Ark. / Gosnell HS TreVian Pierce, 6-0, 155, DB, Parsons, Kan. / Parsons HS Parsons HS: Two-year starter at cornerback...Named team's Most Improved Defensive Player in 2021...Helped lead Parsons to a playoff win in 2021. Jaheim Reed, 6-4, 300, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Olympia HS Olympia HS: Selected to play in the Orlando Cure Classic all-star game...Served as a team captain. Jamai Rutherford, 6-3, 180, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Tampa Catholic HS Tampa Catholic HS: All-district selection...Recorded 22 catches for 380 yards and five touchdowns as a senior. Bryce Salmans, 6-1, 225, DE, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Hays HS: Two-time all-state selection...Three-time all-league selection...2022 WAC Defensive Player of the Year...Selected to compete in the 2023 Kansas Shrine Bowl...State qualifier in track and field for both throwing and running events. Guyteau Salvador, 6-4, 220, DE, Miami, Fla. / Dr. Krop HS Dr. Krop HS: All-Dade County Second Team selection...Selected to Dade vs. Broward All-Star Game...Recorded 15.5 sacks, 30 tackles for loss, and 70 solo tackles. Omar Shah, 5-10, 220, LB, Salt Lake City, Utah / East HS Jakobe Smith, 6-0, 180, DB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-conference selection...Earned the Marion Patriot Award...Recorded over 50 tackles and had four interceptions. Wyatt Spexarth, 6-3, 175, QB, Andale, Kan. / Andale HS Andale HS: All-state honorable mention in Kansas Class 3A...Never lost a game in high school with 51 straight wins...Helped Andale to four Class 3A state titles from 2019 to 2022...All-league selection...All-state and all-league selection in basketball and all-league selection in baseball. Gavin Stanford, 6-2, 180, S, Sarasota, Fla. / Booker HS Booker HS: Recorded five interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, along with 13 pass breakups and 35 tackles. Reid Tedford, 6-7, 225, QB, Crawford, Texas / Midway HS Midway HS: As a senior, recorded 1,995 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns...Served as team captain. Lamaj Travis, 6-0, 195, RB, Fresno, Calif. / Clovis East HS Clovis East HS:&nbsp;Rushed for 1,081 yards as a senior with 16 touchdowns. Jackson Turnbull, 6-5, 230, DE, Pittsburg, Kan. / Pittsburg HS Pittsburg HS: All-state honorable mention selection in Kansas Class 5A as a junior and senior...Helped team to a regional championship as a senior...Two-time all-state selection in baseball...All-state honorable mention selection in basketball. Carter Waldo, 6-0, 200, LB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-state selection as a senior...Served as team captain...Recorded 54 tackles during senior year...Member of track and field team that holds the school record in the 4x200 meters. Keron Watson, 6-4, 220, TE, Tucson, Ariz. / Cienega HS Cienega HS: Had 555 receiving yards with eight touchdowns...Recorded 48 tackles on defense. Caleb Wiese, 6-3, 200, DB, Garden City, Kan. / Garden City HS Garden City HS: Five-time all-conference selection between football, basketball, and baseball...All-state selection...Recorded over 200 tackles in his prep career with six interceptions. Joshua Willhite, 6-1, 215, TE, Broken Arrow, Okla. / Broken Arrow HS Broken Arrow HS: Recorded 40 receptions throughout his prep career with six touchdowns. Marquis Williams, 6-1, 160, WR, Wichita, Kan. / Sunrise Christian Academy Sunrise Christian Academy: Two-time all-state selection both on offense and defense. Transfers Carson Arndt, 6-0, 170, K, Wichita, Kan. / Butler (Kan.) CC Blake Batarse, 6-0, 185, WR, Simi Valley, Calif. / Moorpark College Arundel Briggs, 6-2, 310, OL, Waxahachie, Texas / Prairie View A&amp;M Manuel Chavez, 6-1, 230, LB, Leoti, Kan. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Sean Delaughter, 5-9, 160, WR, Miami, Fla. / Upper Iowa University Travis Dixon, 5-10, 220, RB, Hollywood, Fla. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Seth Falley, 6-4, 295, OL, Haysville, Kan. / Middle Tennessee State Sloan Hayden, 6-4, 240, TE, Ulysses, Kan. / Hutchinson (Kan.) CC Jayden Horace, 6-1, 170, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Allen University Donnell Johnson III, 6-2, 310, DL, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. / Florida International University John Thomas Jones, 6-3, 240, TE, Devers, Texas / Butler (Kan.) CC Solomon MacFoy, 5-11, 175, DB, Tyler, Texas / Midwestern State University Hosia Stokes, 5-9, 175, WR, Adelanto, Calif. / Victor Valley College Benyon Williams, 5-9, 175, DB, Tampa, Fla. / North Carolina Wesleyan

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675264722575.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsWednesday was National Signing Day as Fort Hays State head football coach Chris Brown&nbsp;and the Tiger football coaching staff announce signings for the 2023 season. The next Tiger Football recruiting class will be sending in their National Letters of Intent throughout the day.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1437678454&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-brown-signing-day-press-conference" title="Chris Brown Signing Day Press Conference" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Signing Day Press Conference</a></div></div>The Tigers announced the signing of 52 players, 39 are high school seniors who join 14 transfers who are already enrolled and currently taking classes and a part of the team.Breakdown by state: Kansas-21, Florida-12, Texas-7, California-4, Arizona-2, Arkansas-3, California-1, Colorado-1, Oklahoma-1, Utah-1Breakdown by position: Quarterback-3, Running Back-5, Wide Receiver-9, Tight End-4, Offensive Linemen-8, Defensive Linemen-7, Linebacker-6, Defensive Back-9, Kicker-2Updated at 6:30 p.m. on 2/1/2023 Nijel Akpom, 6-4, 360, OL, Irving, Texas / MacArthur HS MacArthur HS: Named school's Lineman of the Year twice. Landen Allen, 6-0, 200, LB, Salina, Kan. / Southeast of Saline HS Southeast of Saline HS: KFCA 2A All-State selection in 2022...All-state selection by Wichita Eagle on defense and Sports in Kansas on offense in 2022...All-league selection on defense in 2021 and 2022 and on offense in 2022...Two-time all-state and all-league selection in baseball. Keamonie Archie, 6-3, 180, DB, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Lawson Bailey, 6-0, 190, RB, Scott City, Kan. / Scott Community HS Scott Community HS: All-state honorable mention selection on offense...All-league first team on offense and second team on defense...All-state and all-league selection in baseball...All-league selection in basketball. Tayshaun Balmir, 5-9, 195, RB, Dade City, Fla. / Pasco HS Pasco HS: All-conference first team selection…Conference Offensive Player of the Year…Broke his school's single-season rushing yards record…Had over 1,900 yards with 23 touchdowns. Donovan Beckom, 5-11, 180, DB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Cathedral HS Cathedral HS: All-league first team selection...Named team's MVP on defense...Had seven interceptions. Neville Brown, 6-4, 310, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Evans HS Evans HS: All-Metro Third Team selection...Named to academic honor roll. Avery Coleman, 6-5, 255, OL, Tyler, Texas / Tyler HS Tyler HS: All-district first team selection. Keyshawn Dooley, 5-9, 165, WR, Colorado Springs, Colo. / Vista Ridge HS Vista Ridge HS: All-state second team selection...Had 130 receptions for over 2,000 yards with 25 touchdowns during his prep career...Two-time all-conference selection, including first-team honors as a senior...State qualifier in track and field. Kameron Graham, 6-4, 225, DE, Orlando, Fla. / Boone HS Boone HS: All-conference first team selection during junior and senior years...Recorded 62 tackles, eight sacks, and 22 tackles for loss. Kyreese Groen, 6-1, 160, WR, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Amel Hadzisabic, 5-11, 175, K, Amarillo, Texas / Randall HS Randall HS: First-team all-district kicker…Ranked among the Top 30 kickers nationally by a kicker rating service…Made 90 percent of his field goal attempts…Team defensive MVP in soccer…Second-team all-district defender in soccer. Kade Harris, 5-11, 180, S, Hays, Kan. / TMP-Marian HS TMP-Marian HS: Four-time All-MCL League selection, including four times on defensive, four times as a return specialist, and three times on offense…Sports in Kansas 2A Defensive Player of the Year finalist in both 2020 and 2022 and Offensive Player of the Year finalist in 2021…All-state selection by the Wichita Eagle and Topeka Capital Journal…Owns career rushing record and scoring record at TMP-Marian…All-state selection in basketball. Mason Hernandez, 5-10, 180, RB, Goodland, Kan. / Goodland HS Goodland HS: All-state honorable mention selection...All-league selection at running back. Chance Kerr, 6-0, 205, LB, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS Dodge City HS: All-conference selection as both a linebacker and running back...Served as team captain...Received KSHSAA Citizenship Award. Kaden Lonard, 6-5, 300, OL, Lawrence, Kan. / Free State HS Free State HS: Two-time all-state and two-time all-league selection. Elijah Lynn, 6-6, 240, DT, Phoenix, Ariz. / Moon Valley HS Moon Valley HS: All-region first team selection...Named Lineman of the Year...Sectional champion in wrestling and twice earned Most Outstanding Wrestler honors at tournaments. Braxton McDaniel, 6-4, 310, OL, Silver Lake, Kan. / Silver Lake HS Silver Lake HS: All-county and all-league selection as an offensive lineman...All-league academic selection all four years. Mason McGavran, 6-0, 215, QB/ATH, Olathe, Kan. / Olathe West HS Olathe West HS: All-Sunflower League selection at quarterback...Helped Olathe West to a regional championship in 2022...All-state first team selection in Kansas Class 6A...Sports in Kansas Player of the Year finalist...Threw for over 5,900 yards in his prep career with 72 touchdowns...As a senior threw for over 1,400 yards and rushed for over 1,300 yards. Kreighton Modrow, 5-10, 170, WR, Salina, Kan. / Salina South HS Salina South HS: All-league selection...Served as team captain. Jacob Orozco, 6-3, 215, LB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Salesian HS Taderian Partee, 6-4, 240, DT, Blytheville, Ark. / Gosnell HS TreVian Pierce, 6-0, 155, DB, Parsons, Kan. / Parsons HS Parsons HS: Two-year starter at cornerback...Named team's Most Improved Defensive Player in 2021...Helped lead Parsons to a playoff win in 2021. Jaheim Reed, 6-4, 300, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Olympia HS Olympia HS: Selected to play in the Orlando Cure Classic all-star game...Served as a team captain. Jamai Rutherford, 6-3, 180, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Tampa Catholic HS Tampa Catholic HS: All-district selection...Recorded 22 catches for 380 yards and five touchdowns as a senior. Bryce Salmans, 6-1, 225, DE, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Hays HS: Two-time all-state selection...Three-time all-league selection...2022 WAC Defensive Player of the Year...Selected to compete in the 2023 Kansas Shrine Bowl...State qualifier in track and field for both throwing and running events. Guyteau Salvador, 6-4, 220, DE, Miami, Fla. / Dr. Krop HS Dr. Krop HS: All-Dade County Second Team selection...Selected to Dade vs. Broward All-Star Game...Recorded 15.5 sacks, 30 tackles for loss, and 70 solo tackles. Omar Shah, 5-10, 220, LB, Salt Lake City, Utah / East HS Jakobe Smith, 6-0, 180, DB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-conference selection...Earned the Marion Patriot Award...Recorded over 50 tackles and had four interceptions. Wyatt Spexarth, 6-3, 175, QB, Andale, Kan. / Andale HS Andale HS: All-state honorable mention in Kansas Class 3A...Never lost a game in high school with 51 straight wins...Helped Andale to four Class 3A state titles from 2019 to 2022...All-league selection...All-state and all-league selection in basketball and all-league selection in baseball. Gavin Stanford, 6-2, 180, S, Sarasota, Fla. / Booker HS Booker HS: Recorded five interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, along with 13 pass breakups and 35 tackles. Reid Tedford, 6-7, 225, QB, Crawford, Texas / Midway HS Midway HS: As a senior, recorded 1,995 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns...Served as team captain. Lamaj Travis, 6-0, 195, RB, Fresno, Calif. / Clovis East HS Clovis East HS:&nbsp;Rushed for 1,081 yards as a senior with 16 touchdowns. Jackson Turnbull, 6-5, 230, DE, Pittsburg, Kan. / Pittsburg HS Pittsburg HS: All-state honorable mention selection in Kansas Class 5A as a junior and senior...Helped team to a regional championship as a senior...Two-time all-state selection in baseball...All-state honorable mention selection in basketball. Carter Waldo, 6-0, 200, LB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-state selection as a senior...Served as team captain...Recorded 54 tackles during senior year...Member of track and field team that holds the school record in the 4x200 meters. Keron Watson, 6-4, 220, TE, Tucson, Ariz. / Cienega HS Cienega HS: Had 555 receiving yards with eight touchdowns...Recorded 48 tackles on defense. Caleb Wiese, 6-3, 200, DB, Garden City, Kan. / Garden City HS Garden City HS: Five-time all-conference selection between football, basketball, and baseball...All-state selection...Recorded over 200 tackles in his prep career with six interceptions. Joshua Willhite, 6-1, 215, TE, Broken Arrow, Okla. / Broken Arrow HS Broken Arrow HS: Recorded 40 receptions throughout his prep career with six touchdowns. Marquis Williams, 6-1, 160, WR, Wichita, Kan. / Sunrise Christian Academy Sunrise Christian Academy: Two-time all-state selection both on offense and defense. Transfers Carson Arndt, 6-0, 170, K, Wichita, Kan. / Butler (Kan.) CC Blake Batarse, 6-0, 185, WR, Simi Valley, Calif. / Moorpark College Arundel Briggs, 6-2, 310, OL, Waxahachie, Texas / Prairie View A&amp;M Manuel Chavez, 6-1, 230, LB, Leoti, Kan. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Sean Delaughter, 5-9, 160, WR, Miami, Fla. / Upper Iowa University Travis Dixon, 5-10, 220, RB, Hollywood, Fla. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Seth Falley, 6-4, 295, OL, Haysville, Kan. / Middle Tennessee State Sloan Hayden, 6-4, 240, TE, Ulysses, Kan. / Hutchinson (Kan.) CC Jayden Horace, 6-1, 170, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Allen University Donnell Johnson III, 6-2, 310, DL, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. / Florida International University John Thomas Jones, 6-3, 240, TE, Devers, Texas / Butler (Kan.) CC Solomon MacFoy, 5-11, 175, DB, Tyler, Texas / Midwestern State University Hosia Stokes, 5-9, 175, WR, Adelanto, Calif. / Victor Valley College Benyon Williams, 5-9, 175, DB, Tampa, Fla. / North Carolina Wesleyan

🏈 FHSU signs 53 on National Signing Day

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 21 and 27.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County fell to the moderate-incidence category, the KDHE reported. Trego, Gove, Thomas and Rawlins county were listed in the high-incidence category. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 8,367 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675286240043.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 21 and 27.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County fell to the moderate-incidence category, the KDHE reported. Trego, Gove, Thomas and Rawlins county were listed in the high-incidence category. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,367 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675286299411.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 11 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County sheriff, Scott Braun discusses cold weather safety tips.

<div><iframe title="Ellis County Sheriff shares cold weather safety information" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=icypi-137ca0c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County sheriff, Scott Braun discusses cold weather safety tips.

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis County Sheriff shares cold weather safety information

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A Ransom man faces charges in connection with an alleged
sexual assault of a child under the age of 14 that occurred more than seven
years ago.

Robert Wayne Evel, 53, has been charged with aggravated criminal
sodomy with a child under the age of 14 years old, attempted rape of a child
under the age of 14 years old and aggravated indecent liberties with a child under
the age of 14 years old. The incident allegedly occurred between June 1,
2015, and Aug. 31, 2015.

According to court documents, the victim was 10 years old at
the time.

Evel was officially charged this month in Ellis County
District Court and pleaded not guilty to all three charges.

A jury trial has been scheduled for May 1.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA Ransom man faces charges in connection with an alleged
sexual assault of a child under the age of 14 that occurred more than seven
years ago.Robert Wayne Evel, 53, has been charged with aggravated criminal
sodomy with a child under the age of 14 years old, attempted rape of a child
under the age of 14 years old and aggravated indecent liberties with a child under
the age of 14 years old. The incident allegedly occurred between June 1,
2015, and Aug. 31, 2015.According to court documents, the victim was 10 years old at
the time.Evel was officially charged this month in Ellis County
District Court and pleaded not guilty to all three charges.A jury trial has been scheduled for May 1.

Ransom man charged with sexual assault of child

On Tuesday, The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, held its annual chamber awards banquet at the Memorial Union on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Eight awards were given to businesses, organizations and individuals who provided significant contributions to Ellis County.&nbsp;

The sellout crowd of 402 guests enjoyed the evening’s entertainment, which included pro tips from fellow members, a recap of everything the business community accomplished in&nbsp;2022 and&nbsp;honoring the award winners. &nbsp;A special thank you to Mike Morley of Midwest Energy for serving as the ceremony’s emcee.

The following award winners were announced:

• Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award Kelly Lewis, Assistant Vice President and New Accounts Representative at Bank of Hays

• eyeSMILE Vision + Dental Helping Hands Award Kyle Carlin, Director of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative at USD 489

• Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the YearAward Carol Harfmann, Owner and Certified Public Accountant at Harfmann Accounting

• Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award Wes Rathbun, Owner of 8th Street Liquor, Golden Q, and The Fort Tavern &amp; Patio Bar

• Nex-Tech Citizen of the Year Award Sarah Meitner, Executive Director at Heartland Community Foundation

• Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award Nex-Tech Wireless

• City of Hays Small Business Achievement Award Simpson Farm Enterprises

• Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award Marion Dreher, Kiwanis Club of Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675263998676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseOn Tuesday, The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, held its annual chamber awards banquet at the Memorial Union on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Eight awards were given to businesses, organizations and individuals who provided significant contributions to Ellis County.&nbsp;The sellout crowd of 402 guests enjoyed the evening’s entertainment, which included pro tips from fellow members, a recap of everything the business community accomplished in&nbsp;2022 and&nbsp;honoring the award winners. &nbsp;A special thank you to Mike Morley of Midwest Energy for serving as the ceremony’s emcee.The following award winners were announced:• Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award Kelly Lewis, Assistant Vice President and New Accounts Representative at Bank of Hays• eyeSMILE Vision + Dental Helping Hands Award Kyle Carlin, Director of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative at USD 489• Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the YearAward Carol Harfmann, Owner and Certified Public Accountant at Harfmann Accounting• Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award Wes Rathbun, Owner of 8th Street Liquor, Golden Q, and The Fort Tavern &amp; Patio Bar• Nex-Tech Citizen of the Year Award Sarah Meitner, Executive Director at Heartland Community Foundation• Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award Nex-Tech Wireless• City of Hays Small Business Achievement Award Simpson Farm Enterprises• Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award Marion Dreher, Kiwanis Club of Hays

2023 Hays Chamber award winners announced at banquet

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Just 262 miles
 to go, you can hold it. So says one of the many signs promoting the 
up-and-coming super chain of Buc-ee's convenience stores popular in the 
southern United States. But not if Russell Economic Development and CVB 
and Russell Development Inc. can do anything about it. Eco Devo Director
 Mike Parsons said there is a push to bring the chain to the I-70 
corridor in Kansas.

"Late last year, they actually had a CBS Sunday Morning segment that highlighted Buc-ee's," he said. "They announced they're looking to expand and maybe move further north."

The
 chain is well-established throughout Texas, and has since expanded with
 single stops in Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee, two in Georgia
 and Florida, and three in Alabama. The Richmond, Ky., location opened 
in April 2022, and features 120 gas pumps on the 53,000 square-foot 
property. The store in New Braunfels, Texas is a world-record 66,335 
square-feet.

Inside a Buc-ee's can be even more surreal with 
wall-to-wall patrons searching for basic travel goods, all varieties of 
hot and bagged snacks, Buc-ee Beaver memorabilia, or the bathrooms known
 for their privacy and cleanliness. Buc-ee's also boasts an average 
starting wage around $14 an hour.

"The best way it's been 
described to me that kind of hits home with everybody is it's like the 
Cabellas of convenience stores," Parsons said.

Parsons said there 
have been some concerns about a chain of Buc-ee's size moving to the 
region, but noted the chain does not allow semi-trucks. Another 24/7 gas
 station on the I-70 Russell exit will soon be expanding as a truck 
stop.

"We figure we this is the best of both worlds," he said. 
"We've got the truck stop and the family stop. Right now the big goal is
 to keep Russell, Kansas, or Russell County fresh in their mind when 
they start looking this way."

No formal plans with Buc-ee's are in
 the works. Right now, the groups are trying to show there is an 
interest in the chain locally. They are asking the public to submit a 
form to Buc-ee's, expressing something as simple as, "We want a Buc-ee's
 in Russell, Kansas." Buc-ee's will reply with a confirmation email that
 requires clicking on a link in the email. Then send an email to 
rcecodevo@gmail.com letting them know of the submission. <a href="https://www.krsl.com/sites/default/files/2023-01/Buc-ees%20Recruitment%20Flyer.pdf">CLICK HERE</a> for the recruitment flyer and instructions.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675260825745.jpeg" alt="The Richmond, Ky., Buc-ee's location, the only one in that state, features 120 gas pumps." />
 <figcaption>The Richmond, Ky., Buc-ee's location, the only one in that state, features 120 gas pumps.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostJust 262 miles
 to go, you can hold it. So says one of the many signs promoting the 
up-and-coming super chain of Buc-ee's convenience stores popular in the 
southern United States. But not if Russell Economic Development and CVB 
and Russell Development Inc. can do anything about it. Eco Devo Director
 Mike Parsons said there is a push to bring the chain to the I-70 
corridor in Kansas."Late last year, they actually had a CBS Sunday Morning segment that highlighted Buc-ee's," he said. "They announced they're looking to expand and maybe move further north."The
 chain is well-established throughout Texas, and has since expanded with
 single stops in Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee, two in Georgia
 and Florida, and three in Alabama. The Richmond, Ky., location opened 
in April 2022, and features 120 gas pumps on the 53,000 square-foot 
property. The store in New Braunfels, Texas is a world-record 66,335 
square-feet.Inside a Buc-ee's can be even more surreal with 
wall-to-wall patrons searching for basic travel goods, all varieties of 
hot and bagged snacks, Buc-ee Beaver memorabilia, or the bathrooms known
 for their privacy and cleanliness. Buc-ee's also boasts an average 
starting wage around $14 an hour."The best way it's been 
described to me that kind of hits home with everybody is it's like the 
Cabellas of convenience stores," Parsons said.Parsons said there 
have been some concerns about a chain of Buc-ee's size moving to the 
region, but noted the chain does not allow semi-trucks. Another 24/7 gas
 station on the I-70 Russell exit will soon be expanding as a truck 
stop."We figure we this is the best of both worlds," he said. 
"We've got the truck stop and the family stop. Right now the big goal is
 to keep Russell, Kansas, or Russell County fresh in their mind when 
they start looking this way."No formal plans with Buc-ee's are in
 the works. Right now, the groups are trying to show there is an 
interest in the chain locally. They are asking the public to submit a 
form to Buc-ee's, expressing something as simple as, "We want a Buc-ee's
 in Russell, Kansas." Buc-ee's will reply with a confirmation email that
 requires clicking on a link in the email. Then send an email to 
rcecodevo@gmail.com letting them know of the submission. <a href="https://www.krsl.com/sites/default/files/2023-01/Buc-ees%20Recruitment%20Flyer.pdf">CLICK HERE</a> for the recruitment flyer and instructions.&nbsp;

Russell groups trying to land new Buc-ee's convenience store

Get more than double the local impact with a charitable
gift this month.

The annual Heartland Community Foundation match month has
returned this February.

As the group continues to build its coffers, the annual
assistance from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation allows it to positively impact
community groups and projects throughout the year.

During the month, the Hansen Foundation has challenged
the Heartland Foundation to raise $50,000 in each of the three counties it serves – Ellis, Trego and Rooks.

“So, in 28 days, we have to raise that,” said Heartland
Community Foundation Executive Director Sarah Meitner.&nbsp;

While
the annual match month has been an opportunity to generate more funds for
Heartland, the Hansen Foundation has upped the ante this year.

“In
the past, they've doubled the match, so they've done $1 for $1,” Meitner said.
“This year, they're doing $2 for every dollar.”

If
each of the three Heartland counties raises the $50,000 challenge amount, she
said Hansen would match that with $300,000.

“That
money goes into our legacy funds,” Meitner said. “Each county has one, the
Ellis County Legacy Fund, the Rooks County Legacy Fund, the Trego County Legacy
Fund, and those are our primary granting funds.”

Those
funds are unrestricted, meaning donations from those accounts can go to any
cause.

“Schools,
churches, any nonprofit, service providers, cities, municipalities, you name
it,” Meitner said. “We want to grow that fund because the more we grow
it, the more we can grant. So yeah, this is amazing to get that extra
incentive to really spur giving.”

And
while giving money to deserving groups is a hallmark of the organization,
Meitner said as the fund grows, the ability to give in the future also
increases.

“It's an endowed fund,” she said. “That means that we don't
actually grant out the principle of the fund — we're letting that grow. We grant
out the investment income.”

And
while the foundation doesn't always grant the total amount available every year, she said
it must give at least 5 percent under federal guidelines.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647093312739.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostGet more than double the local impact with a charitable
gift this month.The annual Heartland Community Foundation match month has
returned this February.As the group continues to build its coffers, the annual
assistance from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation allows it to positively impact
community groups and projects throughout the year.During the month, the Hansen Foundation has challenged
the Heartland Foundation to raise $50,000 in each of the three counties it serves – Ellis, Trego and Rooks.“So, in 28 days, we have to raise that,” said Heartland
Community Foundation Executive Director Sarah Meitner.&nbsp;While
the annual match month has been an opportunity to generate more funds for
Heartland, the Hansen Foundation has upped the ante this year.<div><iframe title="Match month gives gifts to area foundation more impact" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=r3d45-137b1ac-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“In
the past, they've doubled the match, so they've done $1 for $1,” Meitner said.
“This year, they're doing $2 for every dollar.”If
each of the three Heartland counties raises the $50,000 challenge amount, she
said Hansen would match that with $300,000.“That
money goes into our legacy funds,” Meitner said. “Each county has one, the
Ellis County Legacy Fund, the Rooks County Legacy Fund, the Trego County Legacy
Fund, and those are our primary granting funds.”Those
funds are unrestricted, meaning donations from those accounts can go to any
cause.“Schools,
churches, any nonprofit, service providers, cities, municipalities, you name
it,” Meitner said. “We want to grow that fund because the more we grow
it, the more we can grant. So yeah, this is amazing to get that extra
incentive to really spur giving.”And
while giving money to deserving groups is a hallmark of the organization,
Meitner said as the fund grows, the ability to give in the future also
increases.“It's an endowed fund,” she said. “That means that we don't
actually grant out the principle of the fund — we're letting that grow. We grant
out the investment income.”And
while the foundation doesn't always grant the total amount available every year, she said
it must give at least 5 percent under federal guidelines.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648234209135.jpeg" alt="Sarah Meitner (File photo)" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Meitner (File photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Not enough money ...</h2>“I
get about 120 applications a year,” Meitner said. “We can't grant to all of
those. There's just simply not enough money. We haven't gotten there yet. We're
trying. We're growing it.”Last
year’s grants totaled over $422,000, she said, for both organizations and projects.“I think
the schools were actually our largest granting recipient, and it was at about
$112,000," Meitner said. "After that, it was service providers, health care and service
providers. And then roughly $78,000 went toward public safety and disaster
relief.”Another
$36,000 was distributed to arts, and culture projects and $32,000 went to parks.“Your
donation to the Heartland Community Foundation can really touch so many lives
because of the wide breadth of impact,” Meitner said. “It goes toward fire
safety. It can go toward law enforcement. It can go toward children and arts
and culture, parks — a little bit of everything.”And
over the lifetime of the Heartland Foundation, she said around $3.2 million had
been distributed.“Certainly, the ripple effect of that has been tremendous,”
Meitner said.And
while the foundation continues to grow, she said the organization can also help
connect potential donors with opportunities to give.“In
the future, I hope that we'll be able to have even more to grant out, but when
people are looking for a way to make an impact come to me, I can help point you
in the right direction,” Meitner said. “We can match you up with whatever it is
that fires you up.”This
year, she said they have also added a bonus incentive to give.“If
you donate between Feb. 1 and Feb. 15, you will be entered to win $500 in
chamber bucks that we will draw on the morning of the 16th,” Meitner said. “And
if you donate over $500, you'll be entered twice.”The
drawings will be offered in each of the foundation’s three counties.“If
you want to gift all three counties, you could be entered three times,” Meitner
said. “We'll draw that and just try to spread the word and remind people that
it's match month and see how much we can raise.”But
even without the incentive, she said the region is home to those that desire to
give.“I believe that we're really fortunate in this region to
have very generous people. And so, our nonprofits in town are really able to
make the most of the money that they have to make the biggest impact and do
good work. They're the boots on the ground.""But
that generosity, I also believe, it's not finite. I say the pie just gets
larger because people dig a little bit deeper. And especially when there's an
incentive, like a match incentive, but also just when there's a really good story
to tell, and somebody who truly needs it, our region, our communities, they
turn out, and they want to help.”Donations
can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, by phone at (785) 621-4090 or in person at their
office in the Chestnut Building at 1200 Main.

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