By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will hear a report from its architect, DLR, and the building and grounds department about renovating the current Hays High School into a middle school.

Hays High staff are already preparing for the move into the new high school building, which is set to be completed in August.

Work will begin soon on the current high school to renovate it into a middle school. Middle school students and staff are set to move into their new building in January 2026.

The current middle school will be converted into a new elementary school.

The board will also hear a request for a $59,449 change order on the new high school project.

The board will consider the renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One for print management, copy machines, support and maintenance for $63,049 per year.

They will also hear a report on the district hiring process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608234493687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will hear a report from its architect, DLR, and the building and grounds department about renovating the current Hays High School into a middle school.Hays High staff are already preparing for the move into the new high school building, which is set to be completed in August.Work will begin soon on the current high school to renovate it into a middle school. Middle school students and staff are set to move into their new building in January 2026.The current middle school will be converted into a new elementary school.<h2>Change order</h2>The board will also hear a request for a $59,449 change order on the new high school project.The board will consider the renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One for print management, copy machines, support and maintenance for $63,049 per year.They will also hear a report on the district hiring process.

Hays USD 489 to hear plans to remodel high school into middle school

National Merit Scholarship Corporation

EVANSTON, Illinois — The 2,500 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding Finalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. 

The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors. 

	 These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the Finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test; contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.&nbsp;

NMSC finances most of these single-payment National Merit $2500 Scholarships. Corporations and company foundations that sponsor awards through NMSC help underwrite these scholarships with grants they provide in lieu of paying administrative fees. Donations made to NMSC’s President’s Fund also provide funding for some National Merit $2500 Scholarships awards. 

Scholars may use their awards at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university. 2025 National Merit Scholarship Competition 

This year’s National Merit Scholarship Program began in October 2023 when high school juniors took the PSAT/NMSQT, which served as an initial screen of program entrants.

 Last fall, the highest-scoring participants in each state, representing less than one percent of the nation’s high school seniors, were named Semifinalists on a state-representational basis. More than 16,000 Semifinalists had an opportunity to continue in the competition. 	 From the Semifinalist group, over 15,000 students met the very high academic standards and other requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. By the conclusion of the 2025 program, more than 6,930 Finalists will have earned the “Merit Scholar” title and received a total of nearly $26 million in college scholarships. 

NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was founded in 1955 specifically to conduct the National Merit Scholarship Program. The majority of scholarships offered each year are underwritten by approximately 280 independent corporate and college sponsors that share NMSC’s goals of honoring scholastically talented youth and encouraging academic excellence at all levels of education&nbsp;

Kansas winners of the&nbsp;2025 National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners include:

Caleb King of Hays High School.&nbsp;&nbsp; Probable career field: Music Education.

This award is supported by National Merit Scholarship Corporation's own funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746715447676.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>National Merit Scholarship CorporationEVANSTON, Illinois — The 2,500 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding Finalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors. 	 These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the Finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test; contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.&nbsp;NMSC finances most of these single-payment National Merit $2500 Scholarships. Corporations and company foundations that sponsor awards through NMSC help underwrite these scholarships with grants they provide in lieu of paying administrative fees. Donations made to NMSC’s President’s Fund also provide funding for some National Merit $2500 Scholarships awards. Scholars may use their awards at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university. 2025 National Merit Scholarship Competition This year’s National Merit Scholarship Program began in October 2023 when high school juniors took the PSAT/NMSQT, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. Last fall, the highest-scoring participants in each state, representing less than one percent of the nation’s high school seniors, were named Semifinalists on a state-representational basis. More than 16,000 Semifinalists had an opportunity to continue in the competition. 	 From the Semifinalist group, over 15,000 students met the very high academic standards and other requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. By the conclusion of the 2025 program, more than 6,930 Finalists will have earned the “Merit Scholar” title and received a total of nearly $26 million in college scholarships. NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was founded in 1955 specifically to conduct the National Merit Scholarship Program. The majority of scholarships offered each year are underwritten by approximately 280 independent corporate and college sponsors that share NMSC’s goals of honoring scholastically talented youth and encouraging academic excellence at all levels of education&nbsp;Kansas winners of the&nbsp;2025 National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners include:Caleb King of Hays High School.&nbsp;&nbsp; Probable career field: Music Education.This award is supported by National Merit Scholarship Corporation's own funds.

Hays High student among National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winners

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the agency's annual report on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=rd5bx-18a4639-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the agency's annual report on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Williams gives update on Grow Hays annual report

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

I first heard about “cultivated or cultured meat” a couple years ago, even though it has been in the research stage for many years. 

My first thought was that mankind had finally lost its mind completely. In fact, I wrote a column about it back then, and ended that column with the notion that lab-grown meat would never catch-on. Since then, lab-grown meat has in fact more than caught-on, and is being marketed successfully.

Cultured or cultivated meat is made from small amounts of muscle cells taken from living animals, much like a blood sample. Lab technicians add the samples to a bath of nutrients in bioreactors, where they grow actual muscle tissue which the technicians shape into what they call edible “scaffoldings.” Using these “scaffoldings” they can transform those lab-grown cells into steaks, chops, hamburger patties, or chicken nuggets. 

The industry claims their lab-grown meat cooks and tastes just like actual meat, but with no animal slaughter required.

 Now I have to admit, burying myself elbow-deep in innards to field dress a deer is not the highlight of my hunt, and I never particularly looked forward to sending a steer to the processing plant. But with the first bite of grilled venison tenderloin or juicy T-bone steak, any and all twinges of apprehension dissolve like my deodorant on a Kansas August afternoon.

I barely understand people wanting to be vegetarian and not eat meat, but I simply cannot wrap my head around someone wanting to enjoy the taste of a grilled rib-eye or chicken breast, but only if it has been grown in a lab.

 I worked with a guy years ago who was a vegetarian and brought sandwiches in his lunch made from “wham,” a vegetarian ham made from wheat. If you want the taste of ham or other meat, why not eat the real thing?

When I wrote that first article, here were my humorous takes on what shopping for lab-grown meat might look like. 

Maybe I’d walk into the lobby of a storefront that looked for all-the-world like an out-of-business dry cleaners and announce to the clerk “Hi, I’m here to pick up the three pounds of Kansas City strip I ordered 17 years ago.” The clerk would press a button, the racks that used to hold the dry-cleaned clothing would revolve until out popped my steaks, hanging from the rack&nbsp;like a couple old welding gloves.

Or maybe I’d have to don a hospital gown and hairnet and stroll through what looked like the maternity ward at a hospital, where there were row-after-row of large covered Petri dishes contained growing steaks and chops, all labeled with “birth dates” going back 15 years. I’d direct the “lab doctor’s” attention to a couple robust looking pork chops and a giant sirloin and head home with my “slaughter-free” meat.

God has programmed genetic information into seeds telling them what they will become; how else do you explain that a soybean seed grows another soybean plant and not an oak tree, etc. But how are muscle tissue samples from a steer coerced into becoming different cuts of beef in a lab? Seems like the rib eye I order could just as easily grow into Rocky Mountain oysters.

Look, I get that some folks don’t want to eat meat, but for those of us that do, God never meant for our meat to be grown in a lab. 

I find it interesting that large swaths of our society today either deny God completely or want nothing to do with Him in their lives, yet are more than happy for someone to play God for them in a lab. 

Also interesting is how some people vehemently oppose harvesting animals for food, yet have no problem ending the life of an unborn human child.

Steve can be contacted by email at&nbsp;stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsI first heard about “cultivated or cultured meat” a couple years ago, even though it has been in the research stage for many years. My first thought was that mankind had finally lost its mind completely. In fact, I wrote a column about it back then, and ended that column with the notion that lab-grown meat would never catch-on. Since then, lab-grown meat has in fact more than caught-on, and is being marketed successfully.Cultured or cultivated meat is made from small amounts of muscle cells taken from living animals, much like a blood sample. Lab technicians add the samples to a bath of nutrients in bioreactors, where they grow actual muscle tissue which the technicians shape into what they call edible “scaffoldings.” Using these “scaffoldings” they can transform those lab-grown cells into steaks, chops, hamburger patties, or chicken nuggets. The industry claims their lab-grown meat cooks and tastes just like actual meat, but with no animal slaughter required. Now I have to admit, burying myself elbow-deep in innards to field dress a deer is not the highlight of my hunt, and I never particularly looked forward to sending a steer to the processing plant. But with the first bite of grilled venison tenderloin or juicy T-bone steak, any and all twinges of apprehension dissolve like my deodorant on a Kansas August afternoon.I barely understand people wanting to be vegetarian and not eat meat, but I simply cannot wrap my head around someone wanting to enjoy the taste of a grilled rib-eye or chicken breast, but only if it has been grown in a lab. I worked with a guy years ago who was a vegetarian and brought sandwiches in his lunch made from “wham,” a vegetarian ham made from wheat. If you want the taste of ham or other meat, why not eat the real thing?When I wrote that first article, here were my humorous takes on what shopping for lab-grown meat might look like. Maybe I’d walk into the lobby of a storefront that looked for all-the-world like an out-of-business dry cleaners and announce to the clerk “Hi, I’m here to pick up the three pounds of Kansas City strip I ordered 17 years ago.” The clerk would press a button, the racks that used to hold the dry-cleaned clothing would revolve until out popped my steaks, hanging from the rack&nbsp;like a couple old welding gloves.Or maybe I’d have to don a hospital gown and hairnet and stroll through what looked like the maternity ward at a hospital, where there were row-after-row of large covered Petri dishes contained growing steaks and chops, all labeled with “birth dates” going back 15 years. I’d direct the “lab doctor’s” attention to a couple robust looking pork chops and a giant sirloin and head home with my “slaughter-free” meat.God has programmed genetic information into seeds telling them what they will become; how else do you explain that a soybean seed grows another soybean plant and not an oak tree, etc. But how are muscle tissue samples from a steer coerced into becoming different cuts of beef in a lab? Seems like the rib eye I order could just as easily grow into Rocky Mountain oysters.Look, I get that some folks don’t want to eat meat, but for those of us that do, God never meant for our meat to be grown in a lab. I find it interesting that large swaths of our society today either deny God completely or want nothing to do with Him in their lives, yet are more than happy for someone to play God for them in a lab. Also interesting is how some people vehemently oppose harvesting animals for food, yet have no problem ending the life of an unborn human child.Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at&nbsp;stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Makin’ bacon

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

Just like in years past, Randy Beck had been thinking about what to get for his wife, Shayla, for Mother’s Day.

He gathered their four young sons together to ask for ideas of what they wanted to give their mother this year, along with their personal handmade cards.

Shayla always looks forward to her sons’ personal cards. But ask her what she would like for Mother’s Day this year, and she will tell you she has only one wish: for her husband to be around for more Mother’s Days and Father’s Days and every other holiday for years to come.

The Beck family’s life changed dramatically back in January when Randy learned he had Stage IV metastatic melanoma, a fast-spreading cancer.

Four months following surgery and multiple treatments, the Becks celebrate every holiday – every day – with gusto.

“People sometimes ask me if we wish we had a girl,” Shayla said. “We are just grateful we had four healthy kids, four healthy boys. Now with all this with Randy, we are just grateful to be together as a family, period.”

Randy said if anyone out of his family had to undergo a bout with cancer, he is glad it’s him.

“I was definitely glad it was me and not Shayla or one of the boys,” he said. “I believe that God gives his hardest battles to his strongest and his toughest people. I’ve grown up playing sports, and I’ve been a competitor my whole life. I will be the one that beats this.”

The Becks have local ties. Shayla grew up in Hays, and Randy is from Claflin. They met while Randy was playing football at Fort Hays State University, got married and started raising their family in Hays.

They moved to Oklahoma about four years ago when Randy received a promotion with his company, Pepsi Beverages Co.

So news of Randy’s diagnosis spread quickly, and support of family and friends came pouring in from near and far.

Grandparents and other relatives have gone to stay with the boys when Randy and Shayla travel to Houston for treatments.

The outpouring of generosity, even from people they don’t know, has overwhelmed the Becks with gratitude.

Someone started a T-shirt fundraiser to help with travel expenses, and neighbors organized a meal train for the family. A lawn company has offered to mow the Becks’ yard the entire summer.

The latest fundraiser is a raffle spurred by a donation of two beef quarters from PJ and Kim Nowak, owners of Double Tree Feeders out of Gotham, and Rob and Michelle Corley from Victoria.

The raffle is still ongoing until May 19, with the drawing on May 20. Tickets can be purchased by texting Shayla at 785-656-2618 or her mom, Janice Maska Jacobs, at 785-365-9595.

“You just don’t realize how much people care until something like this happens,” Randy said. “We have gotten to know some people in Tulsa (since they moved there), but so many others we have never met have really stepped up to help. Prayers, cards, texts … It’s amazing. All this changes how you look at everything.”

Life seemed to be humming along quite perfectly for the Becks after moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in October 2020.

Randy enjoyed his new job, Shayla was working in the area as a real estate agent, and their boys were getting settled in their new surroundings.

Then last August, Randy discovered a lump in front of his right ear.

It was first diagnosed as a swollen lymph node, but antibiotics didn’t faze it. By the end of October, a CT scan was ordered after Randy started losing weight.

After the lump was diagnosed as cancerous, it was removed, and Randy started recovering from the 9-inch incision down his neck.&nbsp;

Following the surgery, the Becks decided to get a second opinion for a treatment plan at MD Anderson in Houston, the world’s largest cancer center. There, doctors recommended a schedule for radiation and immunotherapy.

He will continue to make the 8-hour trip to Houston for monthly immunotherapy treatments throughout the next year, then return for scans every three months for the next two years. The time between scans will decrease in the next few years, but Randy will have to undergo at least a yearly scan for the rest of his life.

There is always a chance the cancer will spread; this particular type of melanoma is aggressive, with a high percentage of recurrence.

But the Becks will deal with whatever comes their way as a family, along with all the other people in their corner.

Randy has been able to return to work as a territory sales manager for Pepsi, even around the immunotherapy treatments.

He had coached his oldest son’s football team for several years but is not yet certain if he will be able to do so this year.

If not, he will still be on the sidelines as one of Eli’s biggest cheerleaders.

A hands-on dad, Randy is grateful to be able to continue spending time outdoors with Eli, 10; Zayne, 8; Kyzer, 6; and Sutton, 5.

“Immunotherapy and chemotherapy are different,” Randy explained. “I’ve had hair loss and some sores and blisters from radiation, but hardly any side effects from immunotherapy.”

However, the unknown has become his family’s “new normal.”

“It definitely affects your whole life – and everyone around it,” Shayla said.&nbsp;

Randy and Shayla said they decided from early on to fight this as a family, which included involving their sons.

When possible, the boys have been involved with the fundraisers, and the Becks plan to take them all to MD Anderson at one of Randy’s summer appointments to learn more about the whole process.&nbsp;

“We have always told them the truth,” Shayla said.

“Absolutely,” Randy said. “But I told them ‘I’m scared, too.’ They have a lot of questions. We all have a lot of questions. We’ll get them answered together.”

“I believe God has kept me here for Shayla and the boys for a reason,” Randy insisted, “and I’m going to continue to be here for them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746817646128.jpeg" alt="Former Hays resident Randy Beck, center, is in a strong fight against cancer with some of his biggest supporters – his four young sons, ages 5 to 10. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Former Hays resident Randy Beck, center, is in a strong fight against cancer with some of his biggest supporters – his four young sons, ages 5 to 10. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746817974242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostJust like in years past, Randy Beck had been thinking about what to get for his wife, Shayla, for Mother’s Day.He gathered their four young sons together to ask for ideas of what they wanted to give their mother this year, along with their personal handmade cards.Shayla always looks forward to her sons’ personal cards. But ask her what she would like for Mother’s Day this year, and she will tell you she has only one wish: for her husband to be around for more Mother’s Days and Father’s Days and every other holiday for years to come.The Beck family’s life changed dramatically back in January when Randy learned he had Stage IV metastatic melanoma, a fast-spreading cancer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746817723110.jpeg" alt="The Beck family from left: Sutton, Kyzer, Shayla, Randy, Eli and Zayne. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Beck family from left: Sutton, Kyzer, Shayla, Randy, Eli and Zayne. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Four months following surgery and multiple treatments, the Becks celebrate every holiday – every day – with gusto.One of those will be today.“People sometimes ask me if we wish we had a girl,” Shayla said. “We are just grateful we had four healthy kids, four healthy boys. Now with all this with Randy, we are just grateful to be together as a family, period.”Randy said if anyone out of his family had to undergo a bout with cancer, he is glad it’s him.“I was definitely glad it was me and not Shayla or one of the boys,” he said. “I believe that God gives his hardest battles to his strongest and his toughest people. I’ve grown up playing sports, and I’ve been a competitor my whole life. I will be the one that beats this.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746817771977.jpeg" alt="Randy Beck, right, was greeted home from one of his hospital stays with homemade cards by his four young sons. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Randy Beck, right, was greeted home from one of his hospital stays with homemade cards by his four young sons. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Support from near and far</h2>The Becks have local ties. Shayla grew up in Hays, and Randy is from Claflin. They met while Randy was playing football at Fort Hays State University, got married and started raising their family in Hays.They moved to Oklahoma about four years ago when Randy received a promotion with his company, Pepsi Beverages Co.So news of Randy’s diagnosis spread quickly, and support of family and friends came pouring in from near and far.Grandparents and other relatives have gone to stay with the boys when Randy and Shayla travel to Houston for treatments.The outpouring of generosity, even from people they don’t know, has overwhelmed the Becks with gratitude.Someone started a T-shirt fundraiser to help with travel expenses, and neighbors organized a meal train for the family. A lawn company has offered to mow the Becks’ yard the entire summer.The latest fundraiser is a raffle spurred by a donation of two beef quarters from PJ and Kim Nowak, owners of Double Tree Feeders out of Gotham, and Rob and Michelle Corley from Victoria.The raffle is still ongoing until May 19, with the drawing on May 20. Tickets can be purchased by texting Shayla at 785-656-2618 or her mom, Janice Maska Jacobs, at 785-365-9595.“You just don’t realize how much people care until something like this happens,” Randy said. “We have gotten to know some people in Tulsa (since they moved there), but so many others we have never met have really stepped up to help. Prayers, cards, texts … It’s amazing. All this changes how you look at everything.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746817822327.jpeg" alt="Whether coaching Eli in football, or giving some of the finer points of T-Ball to Sutton while Kyzer waits to field the ball, or teaching Zayne how to ride a bicycle, Randy Beck is bound and determined to stick around to watch his sons grow up. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Whether coaching Eli in football, or giving some of the finer points of T-Ball to Sutton while Kyzer waits to field the ball, or teaching Zayne how to ride a bicycle, Randy Beck is bound and determined to stick around to watch his sons grow up. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Dealing with alarming news</h2>Life seemed to be humming along quite perfectly for the Becks after moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in October 2020.Randy enjoyed his new job, Shayla was working in the area as a real estate agent, and their boys were getting settled in their new surroundings.Then last August, Randy discovered a lump in front of his right ear.It was first diagnosed as a swollen lymph node, but antibiotics didn’t faze it. By the end of October, a CT scan was ordered after Randy started losing weight.After the lump was diagnosed as cancerous, it was removed, and Randy started recovering from the 9-inch incision down his neck.&nbsp;Following the surgery, the Becks decided to get a second opinion for a treatment plan at MD Anderson in Houston, the world’s largest cancer center. There, doctors recommended a schedule for radiation and immunotherapy.He will continue to make the 8-hour trip to Houston for monthly immunotherapy treatments throughout the next year, then return for scans every three months for the next two years. The time between scans will decrease in the next few years, but Randy will have to undergo at least a yearly scan for the rest of his life.There is always a chance the cancer will spread; this particular type of melanoma is aggressive, with a high percentage of recurrence.But the Becks will deal with whatever comes their way as a family, along with all the other people in their corner.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746817865327.jpeg" alt="Tickets for an ongoing benefit raffle sponsored by area residents can still be purchased. See story for details. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tickets for an ongoing benefit raffle sponsored by area residents can still be purchased. See story for details. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘We’re in this together’</h2>Randy has been able to return to work as a territory sales manager for Pepsi, even around the immunotherapy treatments.He had coached his oldest son’s football team for several years but is not yet certain if he will be able to do so this year.If not, he will still be on the sidelines as one of Eli’s biggest cheerleaders.A hands-on dad, Randy is grateful to be able to continue spending time outdoors with Eli, 10; Zayne, 8; Kyzer, 6; and Sutton, 5.“Immunotherapy and chemotherapy are different,” Randy explained. “I’ve had hair loss and some sores and blisters from radiation, but hardly any side effects from immunotherapy.”However, the unknown has become his family’s “new normal.”“It definitely affects your whole life – and everyone around it,” Shayla said.&nbsp;Randy and Shayla said they decided from early on to fight this as a family, which included involving their sons.When possible, the boys have been involved with the fundraisers, and the Becks plan to take them all to MD Anderson at one of Randy’s summer appointments to learn more about the whole process.&nbsp;“We have always told them the truth,” Shayla said.Does that frighten them?“Absolutely,” Randy said. “But I told them ‘I’m scared, too.’ They have a lot of questions. We all have a lot of questions. We’ll get them answered together.”“I believe God has kept me here for Shayla and the boys for a reason,” Randy insisted, “and I’m going to continue to be here for them.”

NWester: Beck family grateful to celebrate holidays, every day amid cancer scare

NORTON — The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place April 16, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;70‑27 KA‑7551‑01 – I‑70, from the Russell/Ellsworth county line east to the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line, pavement patching, 23.3 miles, Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., Victor, Iowa, $360,959.50.

Geary ‑&nbsp;70‑31 KA‑6483‑01 – I‑70, bridge #016 over I‑70 at J. Hill Road located 2.37 miles east of the U.S. 40B west junction, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $3,447,245.49.

Lincoln ‑&nbsp;70‑53 KA‑7552‑01 – I‑70, from the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line east to the Lincoln/Saline county line, pavement patching, 7.2 miles, Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., Victor, Iowa, $279,790.50.

McPherson ‑&nbsp;61‑59 KA‑7612‑01 – K‑61, bridge #099 carrying northbound K‑61 over K‑153 spur/old U.S. 81 located at the K‑61/K‑153 spur junction, bridge repair, Wildcat Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $316,070.50.

McPherson ‑&nbsp;135‑59 KA‑6063‑02 – I‑135, from the Harvey/McPherson county line north to 6.3 miles north of the Harvey/McPherson county line, guard fence, 6.3 miles, Jon Fulsom Construction LLC, Wellington, Kansas, $449,895.86.

Mitchell ‑&nbsp;14‑62 KA‑6972‑01 – K‑14, bridge #029 Solomon River located 2.19 miles south of U.S. 24 in Beloit, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $2,384,983.95.

Saline ‑&nbsp;4‑85 KA‑3230‑02 – K‑4, from bridge #144 over Smoky Hill River east to 0.3 mile east of the K‑4/South Kipp Road intersection (2.23 miles east of the K‑4/K‑104 junction), grading, bridge and surfacing, 7.1 miles, Sporer Land Development Inc., Oakley, Kansas, $23,887,983.03.

Washington ‑&nbsp;101 C‑5296‑01 – Washington County, bridge over Little Blue River Tributary on West Washington Street located in Hanover, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $584,273.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;135‑106 KA‑7202‑01 – Bridge approaches from Limestone Road north to 8.41 miles north of U.S. 56 on I‑135, includes bridges #040 and #041 located 5.4 miles north of the I‑135/U.S. 56 junction in McPherson County and bridges #148 and #149 located at the I‑135/U.S. 81/K‑4 south junction in Saline County, milling and overlay, 8.0 miles, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $4,462,160.11.

Russell ‑&nbsp;70‑84 KA‑7144‑02 – I‑70 crossroad pipe, located 0.57 mile east of 178th Street, special, Esfeld Construction Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $197,500.00.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7284‑01 – Routes U.S. 83, K‑25 and U.S. 40 in Logan and Thomas counties, signing, KOMO Construction LLC / DBA A&amp;H Co., Elko New Market, Minnesota, $344,277.00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689603343931.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTNORTON — The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place April 16, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.Area bids include:District Two — North CentralEllsworth ‑&nbsp;70‑27 KA‑7551‑01 – I‑70, from the Russell/Ellsworth county line east to the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line, pavement patching, 23.3 miles, Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., Victor, Iowa, $360,959.50.Geary ‑&nbsp;70‑31 KA‑6483‑01 – I‑70, bridge #016 over I‑70 at J. Hill Road located 2.37 miles east of the U.S. 40B west junction, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $3,447,245.49.Lincoln ‑&nbsp;70‑53 KA‑7552‑01 – I‑70, from the Ellsworth/Lincoln county line east to the Lincoln/Saline county line, pavement patching, 7.2 miles, Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., Victor, Iowa, $279,790.50.McPherson ‑&nbsp;61‑59 KA‑7612‑01 – K‑61, bridge #099 carrying northbound K‑61 over K‑153 spur/old U.S. 81 located at the K‑61/K‑153 spur junction, bridge repair, Wildcat Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $316,070.50.McPherson ‑&nbsp;135‑59 KA‑6063‑02 – I‑135, from the Harvey/McPherson county line north to 6.3 miles north of the Harvey/McPherson county line, guard fence, 6.3 miles, Jon Fulsom Construction LLC, Wellington, Kansas, $449,895.86.Mitchell ‑&nbsp;14‑62 KA‑6972‑01 – K‑14, bridge #029 Solomon River located 2.19 miles south of U.S. 24 in Beloit, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $2,384,983.95.Saline ‑&nbsp;4‑85 KA‑3230‑02 – K‑4, from bridge #144 over Smoky Hill River east to 0.3 mile east of the K‑4/South Kipp Road intersection (2.23 miles east of the K‑4/K‑104 junction), grading, bridge and surfacing, 7.1 miles, Sporer Land Development Inc., Oakley, Kansas, $23,887,983.03.Washington ‑&nbsp;101 C‑5296‑01 – Washington County, bridge over Little Blue River Tributary on West Washington Street located in Hanover, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $584,273.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;135‑106 KA‑7202‑01 – Bridge approaches from Limestone Road north to 8.41 miles north of U.S. 56 on I‑135, includes bridges #040 and #041 located 5.4 miles north of the I‑135/U.S. 56 junction in McPherson County and bridges #148 and #149 located at the I‑135/U.S. 81/K‑4 south junction in Saline County, milling and overlay, 8.0 miles, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $4,462,160.11.District Three — NorthwestRussell ‑&nbsp;70‑84 KA‑7144‑02 – I‑70 crossroad pipe, located 0.57 mile east of 178th Street, special, Esfeld Construction Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $197,500.00.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7284‑01 – Routes U.S. 83, K‑25 and U.S. 40 in Logan and Thomas counties, signing, KOMO Construction LLC / DBA A&amp;H Co., Elko New Market, Minnesota, $344,277.00.

KDOT announces approved April bids

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746206866882.png" alt="Hays Catholic Young Adults" />
 <figcaption>Hays Catholic Young Adults</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted

Hays Catholic Young Adults sponsoring ecumenical event for community May 21

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

In the 2025 state legislative session, the legislature overrode 14 of Governor Kelly’s 18 vetoes, the most overrides during her time as governor. What should be a rare, constitutionally serious step has become routine — an unmistakable sign that one branch of Kansas’s government now wields outsized power.

With a legislative supermajority firmly in place, the system of checks and balances meant to protect Kansans from government overreach is in jeopardy.

Kansas’s Constitution, like the federal one, is built on the idea of separation of powers. The legislature writes laws, the governor can sign or veto them, and the courts interpret them. Each branch was designed to serve as a check on the others, ensuring no single part of government could dominate the rest.

But when one party secures a supermajority in the legislature — enough seats to override gubernatorial vetoes and unilaterally propose constitutional amendments — this balance is fundamentally disrupted.

A supermajority removes the need for negotiation and compromise.

With two-thirds control, lawmakers can push through legislation without concern for the executive branch or the political minority. In recent years, the Kansas legislature has used this power to bypass Governor Kelly on high-stakes issues ranging from education policy to reproductive healthcare.

Even when the governor exercised her constitutional role to veto, lawmakers reversed her decisions in rapid succession. Often doing so with limited debate and minimal public input.

This isn't just a clash of partisan agendas. It’s an erosion of checks and balances. Supermajorities often lead to extreme policy swings, discourage compromise, and undermine democratic responsiveness.

The normal push-and-pull that leads to moderate, widely supported policies has been replaced with a one-sided rush to enact partisan priorities. In other words, supermajorities further partisan polarization by removing the incentives to listen, negotiate, and build consensus across ideological lines.

Unchecked legislative power also puts judicial independence at risk. Lawmakers in Kansas have proposed changes to how judges are selected and sought to restrict the courts’ ability to block or review legislation. With a supermajority, those proposals don’t face the usual constitutional friction — they can move quickly, and potentially permanently, reshaping how justice is administered in the state.

Political science tells us this is not unique to Kansas. States with long-standing supermajorities — of either party — often see declining voter trust, increased polarization, and stagnant civic engagement. When people believe outcomes are predetermined by one party’s dominance, they disengage from the political system, which only deepens the imbalance.

Kansas voters should take this seriously. Checks and balances aren’t about left versus right — they’re about making sure no one has too much power for too long.

Checks and balances exist to protect everyone from government overreach regardless of party affiliation. That’s how we keep our government grounded, accountable, and focused on solving real problems, not scoring political points.

Defending that balance doesn’t require radical reform. It just means standing up for fair-minded policies — like fair redistricting — protecting judicial independence, supporting candidates who value consensus over confrontation, and showing up at the ballot box in every single election.

Most Kansans don’t want government by extremes. They want pragmatism. They want thoughtful debate. They want leaders who listen.

The Kansas Constitution wasn’t written to let any one party push through its full agenda unchecked. It was written with the understanding that no group, however popular, should govern without limits and to make sure every voice has a seat at the table.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740007073583.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;s an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;s an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasIn the 2025 state legislative session, the legislature overrode 14 of Governor Kelly’s 18 vetoes, the most overrides during her time as governor. What should be a rare, constitutionally serious step has become routine — an unmistakable sign that one branch of Kansas’s government now wields outsized power.With a legislative supermajority firmly in place, the system of checks and balances meant to protect Kansans from government overreach is in jeopardy.Kansas’s Constitution, like the federal one, is built on the idea of separation of powers. The legislature writes laws, the governor can sign or veto them, and the courts interpret them. Each branch was designed to serve as a check on the others, ensuring no single part of government could dominate the rest.But when one party secures a supermajority in the legislature — enough seats to override gubernatorial vetoes and unilaterally propose constitutional amendments — this balance is fundamentally disrupted.A supermajority removes the need for negotiation and compromise.With two-thirds control, lawmakers can push through legislation without concern for the executive branch or the political minority. In recent years, the Kansas legislature has used this power to bypass Governor Kelly on high-stakes issues ranging from education policy to reproductive healthcare.Even when the governor exercised her constitutional role to veto, lawmakers reversed her decisions in rapid succession. Often doing so with limited debate and minimal public input.This isn't just a clash of partisan agendas. It’s an erosion of checks and balances. Supermajorities often lead to extreme policy swings, discourage compromise, and undermine democratic responsiveness.The normal push-and-pull that leads to moderate, widely supported policies has been replaced with a one-sided rush to enact partisan priorities. In other words, supermajorities further partisan polarization by removing the incentives to listen, negotiate, and build consensus across ideological lines.Unchecked legislative power also puts judicial independence at risk. Lawmakers in Kansas have proposed changes to how judges are selected and sought to restrict the courts’ ability to block or review legislation. With a supermajority, those proposals don’t face the usual constitutional friction — they can move quickly, and potentially permanently, reshaping how justice is administered in the state.Political science tells us this is not unique to Kansas. States with long-standing supermajorities — of either party — often see declining voter trust, increased polarization, and stagnant civic engagement. When people believe outcomes are predetermined by one party’s dominance, they disengage from the political system, which only deepens the imbalance.Kansas voters should take this seriously. Checks and balances aren’t about left versus right — they’re about making sure no one has too much power for too long.Checks and balances exist to protect everyone from government overreach regardless of party affiliation. That’s how we keep our government grounded, accountable, and focused on solving real problems, not scoring political points.Defending that balance doesn’t require radical reform. It just means standing up for fair-minded policies — like fair redistricting — protecting judicial independence, supporting candidates who value consensus over confrontation, and showing up at the ballot box in every single election.Most Kansans don’t want government by extremes. They want pragmatism. They want thoughtful debate. They want leaders who listen.The Kansas Constitution wasn’t written to let any one party push through its full agenda unchecked. It was written with the understanding that no group, however popular, should govern without limits and to make sure every voice has a seat at the table.Those are principles worth protecting.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

Insight Kansas: The danger of a supermajority in Kansas

<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/2025/5/1746798656655.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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746798894395.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>

HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NOTES WEEK OF May 12 – May 16, 2025

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE!

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS…. SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!

--May 12 • Memorial of St. Nereus and St. Achilleus, Martyrs; St. Pancras, Martyr. • Free Dress Day – for meeting our school Race for Ed goal. • Wacky Hair Day for Kindergarten. • New Preschool Open House for PK3 and PK4 incoming students. • Field Day – activities in the morning and grilled hot dog lunch outside with classmates. Students &amp; staff will need to come through the A.C. to grab their lunch to take outside. • Rent-a-5th Grader 2:00 p.m. • Students should all head down to the L.T. at _____ to witness the principals getting “PIED” in the face before dismissal.&nbsp;

--May 13 • Our Lady of Fatima. • 5th Graders had their recognition mass this morning at IHM. They have an awards ceremony in the IHM basement following mass and will be dismissed from HFE following. • Last Day of School for 5th Grade. • 2B will have Lunch with the Principal Day for a feed the pig prize. • 1A will have Readers’ Theatre of “Wizard of Oz” at 2:30pm.

--May 14 • Feast of St. Matthias, Apostle. • Kindergarten Field Trip around Hays. • The State of our Catholic Schools Video/Form and HFE/TMP parent form is due today. • Teacher Massages will be set up in the Lounge from 11:00 – 3:00 from Home &amp; School and the Staff Snack/Appreciation Committee. • Sr. Rose Marie will visit 4th grade this afternoon. • 1A Readers’ Theatre of “Wizard of Oz” at 2:30 p.m.&nbsp;

--May 15 • Memorial of St. Isidore. • We recognized our milestone anniversaries at mass this morning for teachers. • End of Qtr. 4 / Semester 2. • LAST DAY OF SCHOOL – Half Day; students will dismiss at 11:00 a.m. • • • • There will be no lunch, no bus services or After School Care today due to the half day. • The office will close at 11:45 a.m. for End of Year Luncheon – luncheon begins at 12:00 in the L.T.&nbsp;

--May 16 • NO SCHOOL – SUMMER BREAK

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737555085782.png" alt="Holy Family Elementary School, Hays. File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Holy Family Elementary School, Hays. File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NOTES WEEK OF May 12 – May 16, 2025THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE!CATHOLIC SCHOOLS…. SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!MONDAY--May 12 • Memorial of St. Nereus and St. Achilleus, Martyrs; St. Pancras, Martyr. • Free Dress Day – for meeting our school Race for Ed goal. • Wacky Hair Day for Kindergarten. • New Preschool Open House for PK3 and PK4 incoming students. • Field Day – activities in the morning and grilled hot dog lunch outside with classmates. Students &amp; staff will need to come through the A.C. to grab their lunch to take outside. • Rent-a-5th Grader 2:00 p.m. • Students should all head down to the L.T. at _____ to witness the principals getting “PIED” in the face before dismissal.&nbsp;TUESDAY--May 13 • Our Lady of Fatima. • 5th Graders had their recognition mass this morning at IHM. They have an awards ceremony in the IHM basement following mass and will be dismissed from HFE following. • Last Day of School for 5th Grade. • 2B will have Lunch with the Principal Day for a feed the pig prize. • 1A will have Readers’ Theatre of “Wizard of Oz” at 2:30pm.WEDNESDAY--May 14 • Feast of St. Matthias, Apostle. • Kindergarten Field Trip around Hays. • The State of our Catholic Schools Video/Form and HFE/TMP parent form is due today. • Teacher Massages will be set up in the Lounge from 11:00 – 3:00 from Home &amp; School and the Staff Snack/Appreciation Committee. • Sr. Rose Marie will visit 4th grade this afternoon. • 1A Readers’ Theatre of “Wizard of Oz” at 2:30 p.m.&nbsp;THURSDAY--May 15 • Memorial of St. Isidore. • We recognized our milestone anniversaries at mass this morning for teachers. • End of Qtr. 4 / Semester 2. • LAST DAY OF SCHOOL – Half Day; students will dismiss at 11:00 a.m. • • • • There will be no lunch, no bus services or After School Care today due to the half day. • The office will close at 11:45 a.m. for End of Year Luncheon – luncheon begins at 12:00 in the L.T.&nbsp;FRIDAY--May 16 • NO SCHOOL – SUMMER BREAK

Holy Family Elementary School Notes, May 12-16, 2025

Enhanced risk of severe weather for Hays, central Kansas Sunday

DODGE CITY — The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a tornado watch in effect until now until 10 p.m. The area covers much of western Kansas, including Ellis County.

Significant severe weather risk this afternoon and early evening&nbsp;for areas along and east of Highway 283. Between 3-8 p.m., discrete&nbsp;supercells are possible with an environment to support hail tennis&nbsp;ball sized or greater, wind gusts over 60 mph, and tornadoes with&nbsp;strong tornado potential especially after 4pm.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747601336610.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>DODGE CITY — The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a tornado watch in effect until now until 10 p.m. The area covers much of western Kansas, including Ellis County.Significant severe weather risk this afternoon and early evening&nbsp;for areas along and east of Highway 283. Between 3-8 p.m., discrete&nbsp;supercells are possible with an environment to support hail tennis&nbsp;ball sized or greater, wind gusts over 60 mph, and tornadoes with&nbsp;strong tornado potential especially after 4pm.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Tornado Watch in effect for Ellis County region until 10 p.m. Sunday

Hays High vs Manhattan Friday, May 9th – 12:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video v Life Prep: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2418338">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a> Video v TMP: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2418340">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

Hays High finishes the Diamond Classic with a pair of games Saturday afternoon. The Indians will face Life Prep and TMP. First pitch against Life Prep is scheduled for 3:45. First pitch versus TMP is scheduled for 5:45.&nbsp;

There will be two separate video broadcasts.

Only the Hays High games will be streamed. All games are being played at Hays High School.

Saturday 9:30 Manhattan v TMP 11:30 Manhattan v Brush (CO) 1:45 Life Prep v Brush (CO) 3:45 Hays v Life Prep 5:45 Hays v TMP

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Manhattan Friday, May 9th – 12:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video v Life Prep: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2418338">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a> Video v TMP: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2418340">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>Hays High finishes the Diamond Classic with a pair of games Saturday afternoon. The Indians will face Life Prep and TMP. First pitch against Life Prep is scheduled for 3:45. First pitch versus TMP is scheduled for 5:45.&nbsp;There will be two separate video broadcasts.Only the Hays High games will be streamed. All games are being played at Hays High School.Tournament Schedule Saturday 9:30 Manhattan v TMP 11:30 Manhattan v Brush (CO) 1:45 Life Prep v Brush (CO) 3:45 Hays v Life Prep 5:45 Hays v TMP

⚾📹 Hays High finishes Diamond Classic with Life Prep and TMP

By Congressman Tracey Mann R-KS, First District

This past November, Kansas rejected the nonsense of the Biden-Harris Administration and demanded that Washington, D.C. restore common sense, secure our border, make America safe again, get our fiscal house in order, grow our economy, and get our country back on track. In a little more than 100 days, President Trump has done just that.

The only way to describe the start of President Trump’s historic second term is promises made, promises kept.

Our border is the most secure it has been in our nation’s history and the data speaks for itself. This past March, apprehensions along the southern border dropped 95% from the average daily encounters under President Biden. In California, chaos unfolded along the border when President Biden rescinded Title 42.

 This week, the Los Angeles Times reports that crossings along that segment of the border had nearly come to a halt under President Trump. Along our northern border, Customs and Border Patrol agents apprehended a total 54 migrants in March, down 95% from March 2024. Promises made, promises kept.

House Republicans and President Trump did what many Democrats were afraid to do—enforce the law and enact bills like the&nbsp;Laken Riley Act&nbsp;that make it clear there is no place for violent criminals who are illegally in the United States of America.

While President Trump and his administration have worked tirelessly to remove bad actors from our country, it has been a different story on the left. The same Democrats outraged by President Trump’s removal of terrorists, gang members, and criminals were silent when the Biden Administration abandoned&nbsp;actual&nbsp;American citizens in Afghanistan after his botched withdrawal. The contrasts in priorities for Democrats and Republicans could not be clearer.

President Trump promised to revive the American dream and usher in the golden age of America. Over the last 100 days, he and his administration announced more than $5 trillion in new American investments, including right here in Kansas. Fiserv recently announced a $175 million investment that will create good-paying job opportunities for individuals in the eastern part of our state.

The Consumer Price Index continues to show inflation is cooling and prices are falling. Because of the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and President Trump, wholesale egg prices have fallen, and we anticipate retail prices will soon follow suit. Americans are feeling far less pain at the pump compared to the Biden years because we have a President who has finally decided to embrace an all of the above energy approach. House Republicans have also repealed Biden-era rules that tried to implement&nbsp;electric vehicle mandates because we know they only drive-up costs for rural Americans like those in the Big First District. Promises made, promises kept.

President Trump made a promise to restore common sense and get our country back on track. He is not afraid to state the obvious—there are&nbsp;two&nbsp;genders, and biological men should not play in women’s sports. One of the first bills President Trump signed during his second term was the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.

President Trump has uprooted wasteful, fraudulent, and abusive spending, going line by line through our federal budget to make sure taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely. While Democrats are advocating for American families to have the largest tax hike in history, President Trump has spent the last 100 days working tirelessly with Congressional Republicans to extend his 2017 tax cuts. Promises made, promises kept.

It feels great to have real leadership back at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue that fights for America’s families and a brighter future for our country.&nbsp;One hundred days of winning and I look forward to many, many more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By Congressman Tracey Mann R-KS, First DistrictThis past November, Kansas rejected the nonsense of the Biden-Harris Administration and demanded that Washington, D.C. restore common sense, secure our border, make America safe again, get our fiscal house in order, grow our economy, and get our country back on track. In a little more than 100 days, President Trump has done just that.The only way to describe the start of President Trump’s historic second term is promises made, promises kept.Our border is the most secure it has been in our nation’s history and the data speaks for itself. This past March, apprehensions along the southern border dropped 95% from the average daily encounters under President Biden. In California, chaos unfolded along the border when President Biden rescinded Title 42. This week, the Los Angeles Times reports that crossings along that segment of the border had nearly come to a halt under President Trump. Along our northern border, Customs and Border Patrol agents apprehended a total 54 migrants in March, down 95% from March 2024. Promises made, promises kept.House Republicans and President Trump did what many Democrats were afraid to do—enforce the law and enact bills like the&nbsp;Laken Riley Act&nbsp;that make it clear there is no place for violent criminals who are illegally in the United States of America. While President Trump and his administration have worked tirelessly to remove bad actors from our country, it has been a different story on the left. The same Democrats outraged by President Trump’s removal of terrorists, gang members, and criminals were silent when the Biden Administration abandoned&nbsp;actual&nbsp;American citizens in Afghanistan after his botched withdrawal. The contrasts in priorities for Democrats and Republicans could not be clearer.President Trump promised to revive the American dream and usher in the golden age of America. Over the last 100 days, he and his administration announced more than $5 trillion in new American investments, including right here in Kansas. Fiserv recently announced a $175 million investment that will create good-paying job opportunities for individuals in the eastern part of our state.The Consumer Price Index continues to show inflation is cooling and prices are falling. Because of the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and President Trump, wholesale egg prices have fallen, and we anticipate retail prices will soon follow suit. Americans are feeling far less pain at the pump compared to the Biden years because we have a President who has finally decided to embrace an all of the above energy approach. House Republicans have also repealed Biden-era rules that tried to implement&nbsp;electric vehicle mandates because we know they only drive-up costs for rural Americans like those in the Big First District. Promises made, promises kept.President Trump made a promise to restore common sense and get our country back on track. He is not afraid to state the obvious—there are&nbsp;two&nbsp;genders, and biological men should not play in women’s sports. One of the first bills President Trump signed during his second term was the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.President Trump has uprooted wasteful, fraudulent, and abusive spending, going line by line through our federal budget to make sure taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely. While Democrats are advocating for American families to have the largest tax hike in history, President Trump has spent the last 100 days working tirelessly with Congressional Republicans to extend his 2017 tax cuts. Promises made, promises kept.It feels great to have real leadership back at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue that fights for America’s families and a brighter future for our country.&nbsp;One hundred days of winning and I look forward to many, many more.

OPINION: Congressman Mann: Promises made, promises kept

FHSU University Communications

The 20th annual John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) was held on April 24. Despite an early threat of rain, the clearing weather provided a pleasant backdrop for this year’s expanded event.

Created in 2005 to allow university faculty, staff, and students to share their scholarly and creative work, SACAD has grown into an inclusive week-long event culminating with presentations of scholarly and creative works at an on-campus open house. This year, presentations were held in multiple campus locations to better display the impressive array of projects and posters.

Hosted within the Center for Applied Technology building, students and faculty demonstrated some of their latest innovations with 21 unique and innovative displays, including various works of wood, metal, and plastics, as well as a battery-powered vehicle designed by Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) students.

In the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design, students displayed more than 120 art and design works. There were sculptures in a wide array of materials, paintings, and drawings, to name just a few of the types of creative works from this year’s artists. &nbsp;

The traditional poster presentations, held in the Memorial Union, also saw growth this year, with 100 submissions for the in-person poster session. Posters were available for viewing all day in the FHSU Memorial Union, which also housed the Meet-the-Author event and a new Community Engaged Showcase.&nbsp;The Community Engaged Showcase included presentations from LDRS 310, a course that requires students to develop community partner projects.&nbsp;

Also included this year were several musical performances. There were a record-breaking 262 submissions for SACAD. As observers made their way through the various performances and displays throughout campus, they were invited to vote on two&nbsp;People’s Choice Awards, one for scholarly works and one for creative works. 

• Isabelle Gonzalez of Hoisington:&nbsp;Cupid and Psyche&nbsp;(Drawing-Painting)—People’s Choice Award winner for the art and creative works display.

• Ilsle Trejo, a junior Social Work major from Sublette, &amp; Miguel Gabino Lopez, a senior Social Work major from Elkhart:&nbsp;DEI From The Perspective of Racially and Sexually Minority Social Work Students— People’s Choice Award winners for the academic poster display.&nbsp;Annette Clarke Jones and Octavio Ramirez&nbsp;were faculty mentors.

“The 20th anniversary of the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) showcased events from prior years, as well as the premiere of two new additions,” said Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice and Scholarship Environment Committee (SEC) Event Coordinator. “Once again, we’ve heard positive feedback on utilizing cross-campus locations with increased interest in virtual accessibility of the academic posters and creative works.”

The annual SACAD event continues to evolve, Terry said, adding that she believes this year provided innovative opportunities to showcase the work of FHSU faculty, staff, and students.

The FHSU Scholarly and Creative Activities Day is named in honor of the late Dr. John F. Heinrichs (1957-2014). A popular Geosciences professor, an internationally renowned Arctic researcher, and an esteemed colleague, Dr. Heinrichs had a tremendous impact on Fort Hays State University. He was a key supporter of faculty and student research, and his efforts were largely responsible for launching Research and Creative Activities Week, now known as John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day, in his honor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746697356664.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University SACAD 2025. Photo by Rory Moore/Tiger Media Network" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University SACAD 2025. Photo by Rory Moore/Tiger Media Network</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University Communications The 20th annual John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) was held on April 24. Despite an early threat of rain, the clearing weather provided a pleasant backdrop for this year’s expanded event.Created in 2005 to allow university faculty, staff, and students to share their scholarly and creative work, SACAD has grown into an inclusive week-long event culminating with presentations of scholarly and creative works at an on-campus open house. This year, presentations were held in multiple campus locations to better display the impressive array of projects and posters.Hosted within the Center for Applied Technology building, students and faculty demonstrated some of their latest innovations with 21 unique and innovative displays, including various works of wood, metal, and plastics, as well as a battery-powered vehicle designed by Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) students.In the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design, students displayed more than 120 art and design works. There were sculptures in a wide array of materials, paintings, and drawings, to name just a few of the types of creative works from this year’s artists. &nbsp;The traditional poster presentations, held in the Memorial Union, also saw growth this year, with 100 submissions for the in-person poster session. Posters were available for viewing all day in the FHSU Memorial Union, which also housed the Meet-the-Author event and a new Community Engaged Showcase.&nbsp;The Community Engaged Showcase included presentations from LDRS 310, a course that requires students to develop community partner projects.&nbsp;Also included this year were several musical performances. There were a record-breaking 262 submissions for SACAD. As observers made their way through the various performances and displays throughout campus, they were invited to vote on two&nbsp;People’s Choice Awards, one for scholarly works and one for creative works. The two winners were:• Isabelle Gonzalez of Hoisington:&nbsp;Cupid and Psyche&nbsp;(Drawing-Painting)—People’s Choice Award winner for the art and creative works display.• Ilsle Trejo, a junior Social Work major from Sublette, &amp; Miguel Gabino Lopez, a senior Social Work major from Elkhart:&nbsp;DEI From The Perspective of Racially and Sexually Minority Social Work Students— People’s Choice Award winners for the academic poster display.&nbsp;Annette Clarke Jones and Octavio Ramirez&nbsp;were faculty mentors.“The 20th anniversary of the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) showcased events from prior years, as well as the premiere of two new additions,” said Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice and Scholarship Environment Committee (SEC) Event Coordinator. “Once again, we’ve heard positive feedback on utilizing cross-campus locations with increased interest in virtual accessibility of the academic posters and creative works.”The annual SACAD event continues to evolve, Terry said, adding that she believes this year provided innovative opportunities to showcase the work of FHSU faculty, staff, and students.<h2>About John Heinrichs</h2>The FHSU Scholarly and Creative Activities Day is named in honor of the late Dr. John F. Heinrichs (1957-2014). A popular Geosciences professor, an internationally renowned Arctic researcher, and an esteemed colleague, Dr. Heinrichs had a tremendous impact on Fort Hays State University. He was a key supporter of faculty and student research, and his efforts were largely responsible for launching Research and Creative Activities Week, now known as John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day, in his honor.

FHSU’s John Heinrichs Scholarly, Creative Activity Days marks 20th anniversary

The Fort Hays State University Alumni Office proudly announced its 2025 commencement award recipients.

 Family, friends, and the FHSU community gathered to celebrate the tremendous achievements of this year’s Torch, Lighthouse, and Pilot Award recipients, recognizing the outstanding efforts and achievements of FHSU students and faculty throughout the 2024-25 academic year.

Ella Burrows, a senior political science major, received the Torch Award, and Allyson Baloga earned this year’s Lighthouse Award as an exceptional graduate student earning an education specialist degree in school psychology.

Eric Deneault was honored with the Pilot Award for his work as a faculty member in the Department of Applied Technology.

Ella Burrows is a Fort Hays State University senior majoring in Political Science with a pre-law concentration from Satanta. As a fourth-generation Tiger, Ella takes great pride in her family’s long-standing connection to FHSU, with 17 degrees earned and counting. Interestingly, her mother, Karen (Meier) Burrows, was honored with the Torch Award in 1998.

Throughout Ella’s time at Fort Hays State, she has held significant leadership roles, including two consecutive terms as Student Government Association president. Serving in this position has allowed Ella to advocate for the university at local, state, and national levels, including representing FHSU at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Day in Washington, D.C.

Ella is proud of her involvement in coordinating the Kansas Student Government Conference and creating the FHSU Period Project, supplying free period products to the university campus.

“Perhaps more important than earning exemplary grades, Ella enjoys learning new things and seeks out opportunities to expand her knowledge in diverse areas,” said Wendy Rohleder-Sook, chair of the Department of Communication Studies, Law, and Political Science.

Aside from participating in the Student Government Association, Ella has been an active Delta Zeta sorority member, serving in multiple leadership positions. She has also participated in on-campus organizations such as Pi Sigma Alpha (a political science honor society), Order of Omega, and Phi Kappa Phi. Ella has received the Newman Civic Fellowship and the Florence Hood Milner Award during her studies at FHSU. As Ella prepares to attend Washburn University to earn a law degree, she is committed to maintaining her leadership skills in the future.

Allyson Baloga is a graduate student at Fort Hays State, earning her education specialist degree in school psychology. As a military spouse, Allyson has worked hard to follow her dream of becoming a school psychologist. Allyson’s thoughtful approach to academic endeavors, advocacy efforts, and service to others has shone through her work at FHSU and in her military community. Her contributions to the field of school psychology include coauthoring an article featured in “Communiqué,” the journal of the National Association of School Psychologists, and presenting at a national conference. Allyson has provided legislative testimony advocating for improved access to school psychology services, especially for military families, a cause close to her heart.

“Allyson demonstrates unmatched reliability, initiative, and organizational skills,” said Whitney Whitaker, Department of Psychology chair. “She handles her responsibilities with the poise and expertise of an experienced professor.”

Allyson serves as a student leader for NASP (National Association of School Psychologists), and a senate member of the FHSU Online Student Government Association, where she connects with fellow online FHSU students. Allyson is a graduate teaching assistant, regularly supporting faculty with grading, course monitoring, course refinement, and student support. Faculty members frequently comment on Allyson’s reliability, her ability to inspire and engage students, and her skill to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Allyson exemplifies the spirit of the Lighthouse Award and remains dedicated to making a difference in the field of school psychology as her career progresses.

Eric Deneault believes teaching is more than books and lectures – it’s about making a lasting impact on a student’s life. Eric realized education was his calling as a freshman in high school when he stepped into his first drafting class and experienced learning in a way he hadn’t before. Everything clicked when he realized education could be engaging, rigorous, and rewarding. Each day in his applied technology classes, Eric strives to cultivate lifelong learners who will thrive in their careers, contribute meaningfully to society, and carry forward the spirit of mentorship and growth.

“He connects with students not just intellectually, but personally. He motivates, challenges, and supports them every step of the way,” said Kim Stewart, Department of Applied Technology chair. “He doesn’t just teach students; he believes in them, and in turn, they believe in themselves.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746714602576.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: FHSU celebrates commencement award recipients" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bwape-18a2df1-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>FHSU Alumni OfficeThe Fort Hays State University Alumni Office proudly announced its 2025 commencement award recipients. Family, friends, and the FHSU community gathered to celebrate the tremendous achievements of this year’s Torch, Lighthouse, and Pilot Award recipients, recognizing the outstanding efforts and achievements of FHSU students and faculty throughout the 2024-25 academic year.Ella Burrows, a senior political science major, received the Torch Award, and Allyson Baloga earned this year’s Lighthouse Award as an exceptional graduate student earning an education specialist degree in school psychology.Eric Deneault was honored with the Pilot Award for his work as a faculty member in the Department of Applied Technology.Torch AwardElla Burrows is a Fort Hays State University senior majoring in Political Science with a pre-law concentration from Satanta. As a fourth-generation Tiger, Ella takes great pride in her family’s long-standing connection to FHSU, with 17 degrees earned and counting. Interestingly, her mother, Karen (Meier) Burrows, was honored with the Torch Award in 1998.Throughout Ella’s time at Fort Hays State, she has held significant leadership roles, including two consecutive terms as Student Government Association president. Serving in this position has allowed Ella to advocate for the university at local, state, and national levels, including representing FHSU at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Day in Washington, D.C.Ella is proud of her involvement in coordinating the Kansas Student Government Conference and creating the FHSU Period Project, supplying free period products to the university campus.“Perhaps more important than earning exemplary grades, Ella enjoys learning new things and seeks out opportunities to expand her knowledge in diverse areas,” said Wendy Rohleder-Sook, chair of the Department of Communication Studies, Law, and Political Science.Aside from participating in the Student Government Association, Ella has been an active Delta Zeta sorority member, serving in multiple leadership positions. She has also participated in on-campus organizations such as Pi Sigma Alpha (a political science honor society), Order of Omega, and Phi Kappa Phi. Ella has received the Newman Civic Fellowship and the Florence Hood Milner Award during her studies at FHSU. As Ella prepares to attend Washburn University to earn a law degree, she is committed to maintaining her leadership skills in the future.Lighthouse AwardAllyson Baloga is a graduate student at Fort Hays State, earning her education specialist degree in school psychology. As a military spouse, Allyson has worked hard to follow her dream of becoming a school psychologist. Allyson’s thoughtful approach to academic endeavors, advocacy efforts, and service to others has shone through her work at FHSU and in her military community. Her contributions to the field of school psychology include coauthoring an article featured in “Communiqué,” the journal of the National Association of School Psychologists, and presenting at a national conference. Allyson has provided legislative testimony advocating for improved access to school psychology services, especially for military families, a cause close to her heart.“Allyson demonstrates unmatched reliability, initiative, and organizational skills,” said Whitney Whitaker, Department of Psychology chair. “She handles her responsibilities with the poise and expertise of an experienced professor.”Allyson serves as a student leader for NASP (National Association of School Psychologists), and a senate member of the FHSU Online Student Government Association, where she connects with fellow online FHSU students. Allyson is a graduate teaching assistant, regularly supporting faculty with grading, course monitoring, course refinement, and student support. Faculty members frequently comment on Allyson’s reliability, her ability to inspire and engage students, and her skill to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Allyson exemplifies the spirit of the Lighthouse Award and remains dedicated to making a difference in the field of school psychology as her career progresses.Pilot AwardEric Deneault believes teaching is more than books and lectures – it’s about making a lasting impact on a student’s life. Eric realized education was his calling as a freshman in high school when he stepped into his first drafting class and experienced learning in a way he hadn’t before. Everything clicked when he realized education could be engaging, rigorous, and rewarding. Each day in his applied technology classes, Eric strives to cultivate lifelong learners who will thrive in their careers, contribute meaningfully to society, and carry forward the spirit of mentorship and growth.“He connects with students not just intellectually, but personally. He motivates, challenges, and supports them every step of the way,” said Kim Stewart, Department of Applied Technology chair. “He doesn’t just teach students; he believes in them, and in turn, they believe in themselves.”Students often comment on Eric’s deep knowledge of engineering drawings, architectural and mechanical design, computer-aided drafting, and the building construction industry. However, his supportive and motivating teaching style keeps students engaged in learning. Despite having to work hard, Eric’s one-on-one approach helps students thoroughly enjoy his classes.Beyond the classroom, Eric has had several scholarly pieces published locally, nationally, and internationally, and regularly presents his research at conferences. His service work in the community is notable, with participation in the “Grow Hays” initiative and his work with Kansas, regional, and national educators. &nbsp;“To my students, past and present, you are the reason I chose this occupation.” Eric said, “Watching you grow into successful professionals and outstanding human beings is the most rewarding aspect of my career.”Fort Hays State faculty and staff nominate Torch Award and Lighthouse Award candidates based on classroom excellence, leadership, participation in campus, community, or national organizations, and student, civic, or research activities. Awardees are selected by a committee of FHSU faculty and staff from a pool of nominated students.The Torch Award recognizes an outstanding senior, which includes May 2025 graduating seniors or students who graduated in December 2024. The Lighthouse Award recognizes an outstanding graduate student who is graduating.Pilot Award candidates are nominated by graduating seniors based on classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities. They are selected by a committee of graduating seniors, faculty, and Alumni Office representatives.To learn more about the commencement awards or to view a list of past recipients, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqm9k6zWE56tPlKy7Joc2eZHdMRX-2Fq-2FiWughanjoTAiUjCDb0RCHOfs4y-2FsNU7P-2Bnzg-3D-3DxQO9_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO7REthdrB0OtRJ-2FZYbYuK5my4pbD68JcnancGPeDM3OUJ2-2FtLHwJ5w6CPaHSiqLyKO4GqsZdJIKGhh9c98xenr-2F1rlsxMAWrvHztV4r1rORvBsPd09qTm254plqWDphBjTbWl5Iok4bTeUdSdlc2ghi3b6CCkgUawudhL3v2UZuRliu9O-2Bh4TrwU7iL4ZTqv8iRVJ98pzu00fS-2F1FP1FtL6VY-2B1ZOVFa4dm8H6Mvsh-2FN8014hgvk6O-2BqTVHqVzCKA">fhsualumni.com/commencement-awards</a>&nbsp;or contact the FHSU Alumni Office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4430.

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