Grow Hays, Inc. is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center, set to take place&nbsp;at 10 a.m. July 11.&nbsp; The ceremony will be at the project site, 2510 Canterbury Drive.

The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is a visionary +14,000 square foot facility designed to serve as a multigenerational hub for the Hays community. This state-of-the-art center will house a child care center and the Hays Senior Center, providing essential services and fostering a sense of community for residents of all ages.

"We are incredibly excited to break ground on this transformative project," said Doug Williams, Executive Director of Grow Hays, Inc. "The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center will be a cornerstone for Hays, offering valuable resources and a welcoming space for both our youngest and senior citizens."

The ceremony will feature remarks from key community leaders and project stakeholders, celebrating the collaborative effort that has brought this project to fruition. The new community center will not only enhance the quality of life in Hays but also exemplify the spirit of unity and progress that defines our city.

“We at the Schmidt Foundation are deeply honored to be a part of this incredible project,” said Gary Shorman President of the Schmidt Foundation. “The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center embodies our commitment to fostering a connected and thriving community here in Hays. This building is more than just a structure; it's a place where connections will be made, from the youngest children in the childcare center to our seniors at the Hays Senior Center. The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center will be a place for all. Our vision has always been to support initiatives that bring people together and enhance the quality of life for everyone in our community. The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is a testament to that vision, and we look forward to seeing the countless ways it will serve as a hub for connection, support, and growth for generations to come.”

We invite all members of the Hays community and the surrounding areas to join us for this momentous occasion. Attendees are encouraged to park in the Hays Medical Center Center for Health Improvement parking lot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719516199478.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGrow Hays, Inc. is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center, set to take place&nbsp;at 10 a.m. July 11.&nbsp; The ceremony will be at the project site, 2510 Canterbury Drive.The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is a visionary +14,000 square foot facility designed to serve as a multigenerational hub for the Hays community. This state-of-the-art center will house a child care center and the Hays Senior Center, providing essential services and fostering a sense of community for residents of all ages."We are incredibly excited to break ground on this transformative project," said Doug Williams, Executive Director of Grow Hays, Inc. "The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center will be a cornerstone for Hays, offering valuable resources and a welcoming space for both our youngest and senior citizens."The ceremony will feature remarks from key community leaders and project stakeholders, celebrating the collaborative effort that has brought this project to fruition. The new community center will not only enhance the quality of life in Hays but also exemplify the spirit of unity and progress that defines our city.“We at the Schmidt Foundation are deeply honored to be a part of this incredible project,” said Gary Shorman President of the Schmidt Foundation. “The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center embodies our commitment to fostering a connected and thriving community here in Hays. This building is more than just a structure; it's a place where connections will be made, from the youngest children in the childcare center to our seniors at the Hays Senior Center. The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center will be a place for all. Our vision has always been to support initiatives that bring people together and enhance the quality of life for everyone in our community. The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is a testament to that vision, and we look forward to seeing the countless ways it will serve as a hub for connection, support, and growth for generations to come.”We invite all members of the Hays community and the surrounding areas to join us for this momentous occasion. Attendees are encouraged to park in the Hays Medical Center Center for Health Improvement parking lot.

Grow Hays announces groundbreaking for community center

SCOTT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Saturday in Scott County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp;Christian&nbsp;Niemann, 33, Scott City, was southbound on U.S. 83 at County Road 270.

The semi rear-ended a 2018 Peterbilt semi driven by Carl P.&nbsp; Schutte, 22, Scott City.&nbsp; Both driver had done an avoidance maneuver to not collide with a vehicle in their lane of travel and left the roadway to the right onto the emergency shoulder before the crash.&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Niemann to the Scott County Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;Schutte was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SCOTT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Saturday in Scott County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp;Christian&nbsp;Niemann, 33, Scott City, was southbound on U.S. 83 at County Road 270.The semi rear-ended a 2018 Peterbilt semi driven by Carl P.&nbsp; Schutte, 22, Scott City.&nbsp; Both driver had done an avoidance maneuver to not collide with a vehicle in their lane of travel and left the roadway to the right onto the emergency shoulder before the crash.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Niemann to the Scott County Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;Schutte was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after semi rear-ended a semi

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, today, announced, that the Kansas Department of Insurance has made its annual distribution to local Firefighter Relief Associations (FRAs). Pursuant to the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act, $195,236.72 has been distributed among four local FRAs throughout Ellis County.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line to keep us safe, and the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act acknowledges that by providing additional protections for firefighters and their loved ones,” said Commissioner Schmidt. “The Act not only gives first responders needed safety nets, but it also allows local communities to provide their citizens with improved firefighting equipment and resources.” 

The funds from the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act are generated by a two percent tax paid by insurance companies on fire and lightning insurance premiums written in Kansas. Associations primarily use their distributed funds for insurance premiums and safety enhancements. The relief funds may pay for the health, accident, disability, and life insurance premiums of local firefighters. Safety enhancements such as new firetrucks, fire station building improvements, and firefighting gear can be purchased via relief funds loaned to local governing entities. 

This year’s statewide distributions totaled over $18.9 million, distributed to 553 FRAs. 

The statewide distribution of the 2024 Kansas Firefighters Relief Act funds can be viewed at insurance.ks.gov/otherservices/firefighters/fra-relief-distributions.php. 

Kansans can learn more about the Firefighter Relief Act by visiting insurance.kansas.gov/firefighters

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719519003375.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTopeka, Kan. – Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, today, announced, that the Kansas Department of Insurance has made its annual distribution to local Firefighter Relief Associations (FRAs). Pursuant to the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act, $195,236.72 has been distributed among four local FRAs throughout Ellis County.“Firefighters put their lives on the line to keep us safe, and the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act acknowledges that by providing additional protections for firefighters and their loved ones,” said Commissioner Schmidt. “The Act not only gives first responders needed safety nets, but it also allows local communities to provide their citizens with improved firefighting equipment and resources.” The funds from the Kansas Firefighters Relief Act are generated by a two percent tax paid by insurance companies on fire and lightning insurance premiums written in Kansas. Associations primarily use their distributed funds for insurance premiums and safety enhancements. The relief funds may pay for the health, accident, disability, and life insurance premiums of local firefighters. Safety enhancements such as new firetrucks, fire station building improvements, and firefighting gear can be purchased via relief funds loaned to local governing entities. This year’s statewide distributions totaled over $18.9 million, distributed to 553 FRAs. The statewide distribution of the 2024 Kansas Firefighters Relief Act funds can be viewed at insurance.ks.gov/otherservices/firefighters/fra-relief-distributions.php. Kansans can learn more about the Firefighter Relief Act by visiting insurance.kansas.gov/firefighters

Ellis County firefighters receive over $195,000 from   Kansas Department of Insurance

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Chinch bugs in Kansas are a perennial pest of just about any type of grass. They have caused problems in turf farms, golf courses, and lawns. In crops, they mainly affect sorghum but are occasionally problematic in corn and wheat, says Jeff Whitworth, K-State Extension Entomologist.

With all of the chinch bug activity in central and west central Kansas, this is a good time to discuss the differences between chinch bugs (Blissus leucopterus) and false chinch bugs (Nysius sp.). In order to make proper management decisions, knowing how to correctly identify these insects is critical, says Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomologist”.

Adult chinch bugs are 3-4mm (0.16”) long bugs with black bodies and white wings that are kept folded over their backs. Two dark, triangular markings are present near the center of the wings creating a distinctive “X” mark.

Adult false chinch bugs are very similar in appearance, but smaller. Instead of having black bodies, false chinch bugs are brownish-gray with clear wings that lack a distinct “X” mark, says Anthony.

Immature chinch bugs are bright red after hatching, darkening to black as they go through a series of 5 molts. A distinct white band will be visible across the nymphs’ bodies until the wing buds become large enough to obscure it.

Immature false chinch bugs are grayish-brown, never bright red, and lack the white band across their bodies.

Chinch bugs and false chinch bugs are true bugs in the order Hemiptera which means they both have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to puncture plant tissue to feed on plant juices. However, the symptoms of feeding appear differently for these two bugs. When chinch bugs feed, digestive enzymes are injected into the plant tissue causing it to break down and discolor. Reddish spots often are present at chinch bug feeding sites. Heavy chinch bug feeding can also cause stunting, wilting and necrotic lesions on plants. False chinch bug feeding, on the other hand, usually has little effect on plants, but extreme numbers of the bugs on a plant can cause wilting and death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719259730296.jpeg" alt="Adult chinch bug" />
 <figcaption>Adult chinch bug</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictChinch bugs in Kansas are a perennial pest of just about any type of grass. They have caused problems in turf farms, golf courses, and lawns. In crops, they mainly affect sorghum but are occasionally problematic in corn and wheat, says Jeff Whitworth, K-State Extension Entomologist.With all of the chinch bug activity in central and west central Kansas, this is a good time to discuss the differences between chinch bugs (Blissus leucopterus) and false chinch bugs (Nysius sp.). In order to make proper management decisions, knowing how to correctly identify these insects is critical, says Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomologist”.Adult chinch bugs are 3-4mm (0.16”) long bugs with black bodies and white wings that are kept folded over their backs. Two dark, triangular markings are present near the center of the wings creating a distinctive “X” mark.Adult false chinch bugs are very similar in appearance, but smaller. Instead of having black bodies, false chinch bugs are brownish-gray with clear wings that lack a distinct “X” mark, says Anthony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719259763914.jpeg" alt="Adult false chinch bug. Note the lack of a dark “X”" />
 <figcaption>Adult false chinch bug. Note the lack of a dark “X”</figcaption>
 </figure>Immature chinch bugs are bright red after hatching, darkening to black as they go through a series of 5 molts. A distinct white band will be visible across the nymphs’ bodies until the wing buds become large enough to obscure it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719259796830.jpeg" alt="Immature chinch bugs" />
 <figcaption>Immature chinch bugs</figcaption>
 </figure>Immature false chinch bugs are grayish-brown, never bright red, and lack the white band across their bodies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719259887539.jpeg" alt="Immature false chinch bugs" />
 <figcaption>Immature false chinch bugs</figcaption>
 </figure>Chinch bugs and false chinch bugs are true bugs in the order Hemiptera which means they both have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to puncture plant tissue to feed on plant juices. However, the symptoms of feeding appear differently for these two bugs. When chinch bugs feed, digestive enzymes are injected into the plant tissue causing it to break down and discolor. Reddish spots often are present at chinch bug feeding sites. Heavy chinch bug feeding can also cause stunting, wilting and necrotic lesions on plants. False chinch bug feeding, on the other hand, usually has little effect on plants, but extreme numbers of the bugs on a plant can cause wilting and death.

CAMPBELL: Identifying Chinch Bugs and False Chinch Bugs

<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/2024/6/1719619873155.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

Washburn University has announced its spring 2024 Dean's List honorees. To qualify for the Dean's List, a student must be enrolled in 12 hours of graded credits and earn a semester grade point average of 3.4 to 3.99.

Founded in 1865, Washburn University is a public institution with more than 6,000 students involved in more than 200 academic programs. Washburn's programs lead to certification, associate, bachelor, master's degree or doctor of nursing practice and juris doctor degrees. The programs are offered through Washburn's six primary academic units - College of Arts and Sciences, School of Applied Studies, School of Business, School of Nursing, School of Law and Washburn Institute of Technology (Washburn Tech).

All programs are offered on either the 160-acre residential campus in the heart of Topeka, Kan., at Washburn Tech's campus on Topeka's west side or in the east Topeka facility. Washburn University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and many of the individual programs have additional accreditations.

Washburn University has announced its spring 2024 Dean's List honorees. To qualify for the Dean's List, a student must be enrolled in 12 hours of graded credits and earn a semester grade point average of 3.4 to 3.99.Jordan Dale of Hays (67601)Avery Winter of Hays (67601)Founded in 1865, Washburn University is a public institution with more than 6,000 students involved in more than 200 academic programs. Washburn's programs lead to certification, associate, bachelor, master's degree or doctor of nursing practice and juris doctor degrees. The programs are offered through Washburn's six primary academic units - College of Arts and Sciences, School of Applied Studies, School of Business, School of Nursing, School of Law and Washburn Institute of Technology (Washburn Tech).All programs are offered on either the 160-acre residential campus in the heart of Topeka, Kan., at Washburn Tech's campus on Topeka's west side or in the east Topeka facility. Washburn University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and many of the individual programs have additional accreditations.

Washburn University release 2024 Dean's List

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02476pG1zvXUF3tZFCmdBfsbNyAbJX2ZCpcW6QVSeqSQYYYFjoEUdhNH77tCR42Mxrl&amp;id=100083234953528" target="_blank">Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association</a>&nbsp;director Deidra Stanley.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hGjCNsEVCWs?si=hAlyHJIUTd0Ur0xS" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02476pG1zvXUF3tZFCmdBfsbNyAbJX2ZCpcW6QVSeqSQYYYFjoEUdhNH77tCR42Mxrl&amp;id=100083234953528" target="_blank">Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association</a>&nbsp;director Deidra Stanley.

🎤Forward Ever: Search dog association director Deidra Stanley

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green&nbsp;algae.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying&nbsp;algae&nbsp;on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away.

These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact.

Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat and headache.

If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae&nbsp;rinse the area with clean, fresh water.

Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.FHhBnBcSPYqvyz7qCawS37ShF1xKOYTAqSaFR3T51vM/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

A hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;when the agency receives reports of potential&nbsp;algae&nbsp;blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried&nbsp;algae&nbsp;along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ2NjMDIuc2FmZWxpbmtzLnByb3RlY3Rpb24ub3V0bG9vay5jb20vP2RhdGE9MDUlN0MwMiU3Q01pdGNoZWxsLk9zdGVybHVuZCU0MGtzLmdvdiU3QzFjZDNhOTM2NTM2YjRlNTllOWUxMDhkYzU0ZTc5ZjVmJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzODQ3ODYwMDk4NjkwNjg5NyU3Q1Vua25vd24lN0NUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpXSWpvaU1DNHdMakF3TURBaUxDSlFJam9pVjJsdU16SWlMQ0pCVGlJNklrMWhhV3dpTENKWFZDSTZNbjAlM0QlN0MwJTdDJTdDJTdDJnJlc2VydmVkPTAmc2RhdGE9dSUyQmJMRUpVZGhZb2RlTjVEdkVwakVBMUhva3cyMEowazFGVjNsd0d6MVNFJTNEJnVybD1odHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdiUyRjc3NyUyRkhhcm1mdWwtQWxnYWwtQmxvb21zJTNGdXRtX21lZGl1bSUzRGVtYWlsJTI2dXRtX3NvdXJjZSUzRGdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5JnV0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA2MjguOTY5MjEwODEifQ.O-iii8EecI9RCmUQhjTnWcsWU8a48BBlP23Z7wAksSg/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.BaXTO6dRhb2dyo1a1gvSOAGz9mT9i-HnJQTvtXERzHk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.sdMj1mXAb7hEIHpl1c7_3nZsc3kUE4A6wmwHnx4s3Vk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">informative video</a>.

Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green&nbsp;algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying&nbsp;algae&nbsp;on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away.These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact.Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat and headache.If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae&nbsp;rinse the area with clean, fresh water.Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.FHhBnBcSPYqvyz7qCawS37ShF1xKOYTAqSaFR3T51vM/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.<h2>Active Advisories</h2>Warning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>King Lake, Lyon County</li><li>Marion Lake (Reservoir), Marion County</li><li>Rooks Co. SFL, Rooks County</li><li>Webster Lake, Rooks County</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Eagle Lake (Bel Aire), Sedgwick County (Added June 28)</li><li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County</li><li>Lovewell Lake, Jewell County</li><li>Woodland Park Pond (Mount Hope), Sedgwick County</li>
 </ul>A hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried&nbsp;algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried&nbsp;algae&nbsp;or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;when the agency receives reports of potential&nbsp;algae&nbsp;blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried&nbsp;algae&nbsp;along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.O-iii8EecI9RCmUQhjTnWcsWU8a48BBlP23Z7wAksSg/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.BaXTO6dRhb2dyo1a1gvSOAGz9mT9i-HnJQTvtXERzHk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ2NjMDIuc2FmZWxpbmtzLnByb3RlY3Rpb24ub3V0bG9vay5jb20vP2RhdGE9MDUlN0MwMiU3Q01pdGNoZWxsLk9zdGVybHVuZCU0MGtzLmdvdiU3QzFjZDNhOTM2NTM2YjRlNTllOWUxMDhkYzU0ZTc5ZjVmJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzODQ3ODYwMDk4NjkyMTEyNyU3Q1Vua25vd24lN0NUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpXSWpvaU1DNHdMakF3TURBaUxDSlFJam9pVjJsdU16SWlMQ0pCVGlJNklrMWhhV3dpTENKWFZDSTZNbjAlM0QlN0MwJTdDJTdDJTdDJnJlc2VydmVkPTAmc2RhdGE9JTJGJTJCcUg3M3Z6bUE1aXElMkJ2cXdZbm1nRms3RWNkOGUyZWpWcGg0TnlJUWc5ZyUzRCZ1cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ2aW1lby5jb20lMkY5MjM4MDgyOTklM0Z1dG1fbWVkaXVtJTNEZW1haWwlMjZ1dG1fc291cmNlJTNEZ292ZGVsaXZlcnkmdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDYyOC45NjkyMTA4MSJ9.sdMj1mXAb7hEIHpl1c7_3nZsc3kUE4A6wmwHnx4s3Vk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">informative video</a>.

Public health advisories for NW Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

As of June 20, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks implemented the following special fish harvest regulations. 

At Sherman County-Smoky Gardens Lake, an 18-inch minimum length limit and two fish/day creel limit on largemouth bass and 15-inch minimum length limit and five fish/day creel on channel catfish are now in effect.

At Graham County-Trexler Lake, a five fish/day creel limit on channel catfish, an 18-inch minimum length limit, and a two fish/day creel limit on walleye are now in effect.

For more information, contact Dave Spalsbury, district fisheries biologist at 785-726-3212.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719599829444.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Wildlife and ParksAs of June 20, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks implemented the following special fish harvest regulations. At Sherman County-Smoky Gardens Lake, an 18-inch minimum length limit and two fish/day creel limit on largemouth bass and 15-inch minimum length limit and five fish/day creel on channel catfish are now in effect.At Graham County-Trexler Lake, a five fish/day creel limit on channel catfish, an 18-inch minimum length limit, and a two fish/day creel limit on walleye are now in effect.For more information, contact Dave Spalsbury, district fisheries biologist at 785-726-3212.

Fish harvest regulation changes at northwest Kansas lakes

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

All 8,500 water meters in Hays will be replaced during the next year&nbsp;with radio frequency advanced infrastructure metering.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The $4.5 million project will not require increased rates for city water customers.

"We have a bond rolling off," said Toby Dougherty, city manager.

The city will take advantage of an expiring 2009 utility system bond payment this year. A new 20-year bond is anticipated.

City commissioners voted Thursday to approve the bid from Core &amp; Main, McPherson, for the Sensus-brand equipment and hire a project manager with Tyler Technologies to integrate the software with the city's system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Sensus AMI system can read water usage from a water meter every 15 minutes and alert customers to any anomalies that could indicate an unknown leak. Right now, meters are read every 30 days. Customers can also access their real-time information.&nbsp;

The new system will help conserve water by identifying leaks more quickly and free up at least five city employees for other work.&nbsp;

"We are the leaders in water conservation in Kansas and beyond. We need to continue to evolve. This is an important tool to add to our water conservation program," said Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The commission also voted to renew its 2024/2025 property/liability insurance coverage package with&nbsp;Midwest Public Risk for $454,221. The premium is a 22.6% increase.&nbsp;

The city's new fire station is covered in the policy, said Finance Director Kim Rupp.

Grow Hays' request of the city to formalize an intent to issue industrial revenue bonds for The Grove community center was approved.&nbsp;

The industrial revenue bonds, to be issued once the project is complete,&nbsp; will allow the developer to obtain a sales tax exemption for all construction-related purchases.

A groundbreaking for the new community center, part of a planned residential housing development, will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 11, at the site north of Hays Medical Center.

Hays Lions Club members requested to change the name of the Hays Lions Club Park,&nbsp;33rd and Skyline Drive, from the&nbsp;Daniel G. Rupp Memorial Park sponsored by the Hays Lions Club to the Hays Lions Club Park in remembrance of Daniel G. Rupp. Rupp was the longest-serving Hays mayor. Commissioners will discuss the request at an upcoming work session.

Commissioner Alaina Cunningham was absent from the meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719328646306.jpeg" alt="Hays water meters will be replaced with new radio frequency&nbsp;advanced infrastructure metering during the next year. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays water meters will be replaced with new radio frequency&nbsp;advanced infrastructure metering during the next year. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAll 8,500 water meters in Hays will be replaced during the next year&nbsp;with radio frequency advanced infrastructure metering.&nbsp; &nbsp;The $4.5 million project will not require increased rates for city water customers."We have a bond rolling off," said Toby Dougherty, city manager.The city will take advantage of an expiring 2009 utility system bond payment this year. A new 20-year bond is anticipated.City commissioners voted Thursday to approve the bid from Core &amp; Main, McPherson, for the Sensus-brand equipment and hire a project manager with Tyler Technologies to integrate the software with the city's system.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719591637277.jpeg" alt="Jeff Crispin, director of water resources for the city of Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Crispin, director of water resources for the city of Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sensus AMI system can read water usage from a water meter every 15 minutes and alert customers to any anomalies that could indicate an unknown leak. Right now, meters are read every 30 days. Customers can also access their real-time information.&nbsp;The new system will help conserve water by identifying leaks more quickly and free up at least five city employees for other work.&nbsp;"We are the leaders in water conservation in Kansas and beyond. We need to continue to evolve. This is an important tool to add to our water conservation program," said Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.&nbsp;&nbsp;The commission also voted to renew its 2024/2025 property/liability insurance coverage package with&nbsp;Midwest Public Risk for $454,221. The premium is a 22.6% increase.&nbsp;The city's new fire station is covered in the policy, said Finance Director Kim Rupp.Grow Hays' request of the city to formalize an intent to issue industrial revenue bonds for The Grove community center was approved.&nbsp;The industrial revenue bonds, to be issued once the project is complete,&nbsp; will allow the developer to obtain a sales tax exemption for all construction-related purchases.No property tax abatement is requested.A groundbreaking for the new community center, part of a planned residential housing development, will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 11, at the site north of Hays Medical Center.Hays Lions Club members requested to change the name of the Hays Lions Club Park,&nbsp;33rd and Skyline Drive, from the&nbsp;Daniel G. Rupp Memorial Park sponsored by the Hays Lions Club to the Hays Lions Club Park in remembrance of Daniel G. Rupp. Rupp was the longest-serving Hays mayor. Commissioners will discuss the request at an upcoming work session.Commissioner Alaina Cunningham was absent from the meeting.

Hays City Commission approves $4.5M water meter replacement project

As we get ready to re-enact the Battles of Lexington and Concord in our own backyards, here is the 2024 Resolution (see image) regarding the discharge of fireworks within the City of Ellis.

Fireworks can be shot between 9 a.m. and midnight on July 4 and 5.

 We understand the frustration that fireworks can cause for those who work early in the morning.

Remember, it’s only a few days, and your neighbors aren’t breaking any laws by celebrating as long as they are within the established regulations. 

Please report any violations to dispatch at (785) 625-1011. You’ll need to explain that you are in Ellis since Hays and other areas within the county have different regulations.

Please also note that it is illegal per state and local laws to discharge fireworks in the following manner(s): • on any public street, alley, in any park, or public place within the city. • into the direction or path of any animal, person(s) or vehicle. • from any moving or stationary vehicle* within 100 feet of a nursing home or fireworks vendor • within 50 feet of any gasoline pump or gas station • bottle rockets and similar self-propelled fireworks devices consisting of a tube and attached guiding stick or rod are prohibited.

Keep a hose, bucket or fire extinguisher close by when using fireworks. Remember to douse fireworks thoroughly, leave them out of polycarts overnight, and keep them away from grassy areas and structures in case they are still smoldering.

Our local firefighters will thank you for doing so!

Family pets often go missing during the Independence Day holiday. Please consider keeping animals indoors during the holiday.

Call 911 if a person is injured or fireworks start a fire!

Please be respectful of neighbors by cleaning up debris and adhering to the allowed times of discharge.

Finally: Don’t be a Benedict Arnold; designate a driver. There’s no excuse for a DUI. Have a safe and fun Independence Day!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718636854866.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis Police DepartmentAs we get ready to re-enact the Battles of Lexington and Concord in our own backyards, here is the 2024 Resolution (see image) regarding the discharge of fireworks within the City of Ellis.Fireworks can be shot between 9 a.m. and midnight on July 4 and 5. We understand the frustration that fireworks can cause for those who work early in the morning.Remember, it’s only a few days, and your neighbors aren’t breaking any laws by celebrating as long as they are within the established regulations. Please report any violations to dispatch at (785) 625-1011. You’ll need to explain that you are in Ellis since Hays and other areas within the county have different regulations.Please also note that it is illegal per state and local laws to discharge fireworks in the following manner(s): • on any public street, alley, in any park, or public place within the city. • into the direction or path of any animal, person(s) or vehicle. • from any moving or stationary vehicle* within 100 feet of a nursing home or fireworks vendor • within 50 feet of any gasoline pump or gas station • bottle rockets and similar self-propelled fireworks devices consisting of a tube and attached guiding stick or rod are prohibited.Keep a hose, bucket or fire extinguisher close by when using fireworks. Remember to douse fireworks thoroughly, leave them out of polycarts overnight, and keep them away from grassy areas and structures in case they are still smoldering.Our local firefighters will thank you for doing so!Family pets often go missing during the Independence Day holiday. Please consider keeping animals indoors during the holiday.Call 911 if a person is injured or fireworks start a fire!Please be respectful of neighbors by cleaning up debris and adhering to the allowed times of discharge.Finally: Don’t be a Benedict Arnold; designate a driver. There’s no excuse for a DUI. Have a safe and fun Independence Day!-Chief Smith <figure>
 <img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tf2/2/16/1f1fa_1f1f8.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719522166908.jpeg" alt="449118745_814491290787095_5796888252373282302_n.jpg" />
 <figcaption>449118745_814491290787095_5796888252373282302_n.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

City of Ellis rules for July 4 fireworks

All consumer fireworks that are legal in Kansas&nbsp;are approved for sale and use in the city of Hays.

Fireworks sales are permitted from Tuesday-Thursday July 2, 3 and 4.&nbsp;

Fireworks can be used in the city from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the same days.&nbsp;

State law prohibits fireworks from being ignited or discharged:

• From a moving or stationary vehicle. • On a public street or right-of-way. • Within 100-feet of a hospital or nursing home or fireworks location. • Within 50-feet of a fuel pump or gas station. •&nbsp;&nbsp;Bottle rockets or other skyrockets mounted on a stick or a wire are prohibited by state law.

City code prohibits fireworks use in cemeteries.

Persons younger than 12 years old should not use fireworks.&nbsp;Use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter or combine fireworks.&nbsp;Fireworks and alcohol don’t mix. Have a designated shooter.

Keep a hose, water bucket or fire extinguisher handy when using fireworks.&nbsp;Call 911 promptly if a person is injured or a fire is started by fireworks.

Practice courtesy and respect. Clean-up your fireworks debris. Avoid disturbing your neighbors when you use fireworks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719497078611.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysAll consumer fireworks that are legal in Kansas&nbsp;are approved for sale and use in the city of Hays.Fireworks sales are permitted from Tuesday-Thursday July 2, 3 and 4.&nbsp;Fireworks can be used in the city from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the same days.&nbsp;State law prohibits fireworks from being ignited or discharged:• From a moving or stationary vehicle. • On a public street or right-of-way. • Within 100-feet of a hospital or nursing home or fireworks location. • Within 50-feet of a fuel pump or gas station. •&nbsp;&nbsp;Bottle rockets or other skyrockets mounted on a stick or a wire are prohibited by state law. City code prohibits fireworks use in cemeteries.Fireworks are for outdoor use only.Persons younger than 12 years old should not use fireworks.&nbsp;Use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter or combine fireworks.&nbsp;Fireworks and alcohol don’t mix. Have a designated shooter.Keep a hose, water bucket or fire extinguisher handy when using fireworks.&nbsp;Call 911 promptly if a person is injured or a fire is started by fireworks.Practice courtesy and respect. Clean-up your fireworks debris. Avoid disturbing your neighbors when you use fireworks.

🎙Hays fireworks rules, dates this July 4 holiday

There may be dangerous lead water pipes in the city of Hays.&nbsp;A contractor has been hired to determine how many and where they are.

In late November, the Environmental Protection Agency announced utilities or cities would have to pull and replace lead pipes within 10 years as part of a&nbsp;national initiative spearheaded by the Biden administration.&nbsp;

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains there is no safe level of lead exposure for children.

In&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">Kansas, the EPA estimates</a>&nbsp;54,107 lead pipes remain, while the&nbsp;Natural Resources Defense Council believes there are more than 160,000, the third-highest number per capita among all the states.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays is working with Burns &amp; McDonnell Engineers and <a href="https://blueconduit.com/">BlueConduit</a>, which does predictive modeling to identify areas where the city might need to investigate for lead pipe.

BlueConduit is a national company that has been approved by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to locate pipes in communities across the state. 

The deadline to identify the pipes is October, said Jeff Crispin, director of water resources for Hays. The city has more than 8,000 service lines.

"What we're working on now is data,"&nbsp;Crispin said, "including partial data in our GIS system of&nbsp;dates when homes were built in which parts of town.&nbsp;

"Then they'll recommend sites where we'll go out and do some inspection."&nbsp;

Crispin expects about 150 sites will be inspected initially.

"We'll soon go out and visually identify meter locations for any lead or copper service lines," he said. "We'll go back and look at previous installations, what year something was installed.

"After 1986, lead was removed basically ... You cannot install anything lead. That's a pretty good indicator anything built after 1986 — a newer part of town — would not have any possibility of lead in the system."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eb8542e2-3db5-43d1-91a6-5ca28c1671fe">For much of the 20th century, utilities were permitted to install lead service lines, the pipes that carry water from water mains under the street into homes. The EPA banned them in 1986, but utilities have never been required to remove existing pipes, according to a story published&nbsp; on the Hays Post from the Kansas Reflector.</a>

Based on work done in other municipalities, Crispin has been told that about 400-450 sites will need to be examined in Hays.&nbsp;

He said there are not many records of contractors running into lead lines when installing water infrastructure, "so that's good."

In February, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5c7beb87-0fe6-4b1b-95aa-88e0a904cf2b">Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach led a coalition of state attorneys general in opposition to the </a>EPA's requirement that&nbsp;more than 9 million lead pipes across the country be replaced.

A joint news release contends the rule "is unworkable, underfunded, and unnecessary and should be withdrawn."

In May, the <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/06/federal-law-delivers-28-6-million-to-kansas-for-replacing-lead-pipes-for-drinking-water/">EPA allocated $26.8 million to Kansas to replace lead water pipes</a> through a program funded by the federal infrastructure law.

The funds will be made available to municipalities for line replacements as needed for the next 10 years.&nbsp;

"There's still a lot of uncertainty out there about what may or may not happen," Crispin said.

"Every indication I'm getting is that the due date of October this year is still going to hold true. I understand there's a lot of states out there fighting the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-04/Final_DWINSA%20Public%20Factsheet%204.4.23.pdf">EPA</a> on this, but I don't see it going away."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719504666434.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThere may be dangerous lead water pipes in the city of Hays.&nbsp;A contractor has been hired to determine how many and where they are.In late November, the Environmental Protection Agency announced utilities or cities would have to pull and replace lead pipes within 10 years as part of a&nbsp;national initiative spearheaded by the Biden administration.&nbsp;The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains there is no safe level of lead exposure for children.In&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">Kansas, the EPA estimates</a>&nbsp;54,107 lead pipes remain, while the&nbsp;Natural Resources Defense Council believes there are more than 160,000, the third-highest number per capita among all the states.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hays is working with Burns &amp; McDonnell Engineers and <a href="https://blueconduit.com/">BlueConduit</a>, which does predictive modeling to identify areas where the city might need to investigate for lead pipe. BlueConduit is a national company that has been approved by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to locate pipes in communities across the state. KDHE is paying for the Hays project.The deadline to identify the pipes is October, said Jeff Crispin, director of water resources for Hays. The city has more than 8,000 service lines."What we're working on now is data,"&nbsp;Crispin said, "including partial data in our GIS system of&nbsp;dates when homes were built in which parts of town.&nbsp;"Then they'll recommend sites where we'll go out and do some inspection."&nbsp;Crispin expects about 150 sites will be inspected initially."We'll soon go out and visually identify meter locations for any lead or copper service lines," he said. "We'll go back and look at previous installations, what year something was installed."After 1986, lead was removed basically ... You cannot install anything lead. That's a pretty good indicator anything built after 1986 — a newer part of town — would not have any possibility of lead in the system."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eb8542e2-3db5-43d1-91a6-5ca28c1671fe">For much of the 20th century, utilities were permitted to install lead service lines, the pipes that carry water from water mains under the street into homes. The EPA banned them in 1986, but utilities have never been required to remove existing pipes, according to a story published&nbsp; on the Hays Post from the Kansas Reflector.</a>Based on work done in other municipalities, Crispin has been told that about 400-450 sites will need to be examined in Hays.&nbsp;He said there are not many records of contractors running into lead lines when installing water infrastructure, "so that's good."In February, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5c7beb87-0fe6-4b1b-95aa-88e0a904cf2b">Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach led a coalition of state attorneys general in opposition to the </a>EPA's requirement that&nbsp;more than 9 million lead pipes across the country be replaced.A joint news release contends the rule "is unworkable, underfunded, and unnecessary and should be withdrawn."In May, the <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/06/federal-law-delivers-28-6-million-to-kansas-for-replacing-lead-pipes-for-drinking-water/">EPA allocated $26.8 million to Kansas to replace lead water pipes</a> through a program funded by the federal infrastructure law.The funds will be made available to municipalities for line replacements as needed for the next 10 years.&nbsp;"There's still a lot of uncertainty out there about what may or may not happen," Crispin said."Every indication I'm getting is that the due date of October this year is still going to hold true. I understand there's a lot of states out there fighting the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-04/Final_DWINSA%20Public%20Factsheet%204.4.23.pdf">EPA</a> on this, but I don't see it going away."&nbsp;

Hays' search for lead water pipes continues despite Kansas Attorney General opposition

Join me in congratulating the tremendous accomplishment for this graduated high school senior Chase Schumacher, as he received not only his high school diploma, but his college diploma at the same time. He worked hard on improving himself in order to be eligible to graduate with his associates degree from Wichita State University of Applied Science &amp; Technology, Wichita, KS.

This young man persevered and stayed strong through some tough and unfortunate challenges during his years of high school. Enduring the tough losses of loved ones and going through a difficult journey of self-alignment, he decided he didn’t want life’s lemons like everyone else, he wants the whole damn tree.

Chase took it upon himself to search the state and find the most affordable classes that he could take in order to be qualified for an associate’s degree in Financial Administration. Nitpicking every individual class through-out all the community colleges in the state of Kansas to find the most cost-effective avenue to become the first senior in the history of Victoria High School, USD #432 to graduate high school and college at the same time.

All the trials and tribulations could’ve easily tipped the scales of life, leaving Chase to go down a dark path, yet he persevered and set an example for his peers. Encountering an unknown territory and creating a trail for the students who want more from life to follow.

Shortly before graduation Chase solely created and copyrighted “The Guided Growth Program." This program intends to help struggling and misunderstood students to find a better path and to live a better life. After seeking help and obtaining knowledge from a Masters of Social Work graduate of The University of Kansas, Chase created this program to aid all students involved and to help the struggling education system. The system is student autonomous and includes a situation-based balance system if ever in the need of guidance.

Watch out for this young man, as he continues to make a greater difference and making everything he touches better, for himself and those around him.

SubmittedJoin me in congratulating the tremendous accomplishment for this graduated high school senior Chase Schumacher, as he received not only his high school diploma, but his college diploma at the same time. He worked hard on improving himself in order to be eligible to graduate with his associates degree from Wichita State University of Applied Science &amp; Technology, Wichita, KS.This young man persevered and stayed strong through some tough and unfortunate challenges during his years of high school. Enduring the tough losses of loved ones and going through a difficult journey of self-alignment, he decided he didn’t want life’s lemons like everyone else, he wants the whole damn tree.Chase took it upon himself to search the state and find the most affordable classes that he could take in order to be qualified for an associate’s degree in Financial Administration. Nitpicking every individual class through-out all the community colleges in the state of Kansas to find the most cost-effective avenue to become the first senior in the history of Victoria High School, USD #432 to graduate high school and college at the same time.All the trials and tribulations could’ve easily tipped the scales of life, leaving Chase to go down a dark path, yet he persevered and set an example for his peers. Encountering an unknown territory and creating a trail for the students who want more from life to follow.Shortly before graduation Chase solely created and copyrighted “The Guided Growth Program." This program intends to help struggling and misunderstood students to find a better path and to live a better life. After seeking help and obtaining knowledge from a Masters of Social Work graduate of The University of Kansas, Chase created this program to aid all students involved and to help the struggling education system. The system is student autonomous and includes a situation-based balance system if ever in the need of guidance.Watch out for this young man, as he continues to make a greater difference and making everything he touches better, for himself and those around him.

Victoria student graduates high school, college in same semester

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is proud to announce a grant award from the Heartland Community Foundation in the amount of $2,929.94. The grant will go toward the purchase of manikins and training supplies for the benefit and safety of individuals served by DSNWK in the Hays area.

DSNWK employees participate in various training sessions throughout the year to meet the needs of the individuals receiving services. These trainings include First Aid (FA), Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) provided by DSNWK certified trainers through the American Heart Association (AHA), and MANDT Training (a behavioral crisis interaction training) which teaches prevention and de-escalation concepts to help them safely manage behavior so that everyone can be safe in their environment.

“DSNWK serves many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who may also have complicated health challenges,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President and CEO. “Having the requested supplies and equipment will enhance the quality of the DSNWK training program in Hays and allow our employees to respond to emergency situations as they arise.”

DSNWK is a 501c3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.

SubmittedDevelopmental Services of Northwest Kansas is proud to announce a grant award from the Heartland Community Foundation in the amount of $2,929.94. The grant will go toward the purchase of manikins and training supplies for the benefit and safety of individuals served by DSNWK in the Hays area.DSNWK employees participate in various training sessions throughout the year to meet the needs of the individuals receiving services. These trainings include First Aid (FA), Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) provided by DSNWK certified trainers through the American Heart Association (AHA), and MANDT Training (a behavioral crisis interaction training) which teaches prevention and de-escalation concepts to help them safely manage behavior so that everyone can be safe in their environment.“DSNWK serves many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who may also have complicated health challenges,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President and CEO. “Having the requested supplies and equipment will enhance the quality of the DSNWK training program in Hays and allow our employees to respond to emergency situations as they arise.”DSNWK is a 501c3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.

Heartland Foundation supports DSNWK training

Vap Construction, Inc. based in Atwood, Kansas is thrilled to announce a recent addition to its growing company, Teresa Tarman, who joined the team earlier this year in February.

Teresa Tarman, Human Resource and Compliance Specialist, brings a wide range of experience to her role. Before joining the construction industry, she spent over fifteen years in healthcare. “Transitioning from the medical field to construction has presented some challenges, but nothing insurmountable. Fortunately, I’m part of an amazing team that has supported me every step of the way. I’m grateful for the warm welcome and patience extended to me,” shares Teresa. She currently resides in Atwood with her partner, Levi, and likes to spend her free time gardening, watching sports, and being outdoors.

“We’re excited to welcome Teresa to our team,” says Linda Young-Vap, Corporate Vice President. “Her experience and unique background bring a new element that can only add to our continued success. We look forward to a future of growth and development.”

Vap Construction, Inc. was founded by Jeff and Linda Vap in 2004 as a general contractor offering new construction for homes and commercial properties, as well as remodeling. The company expanded into post-frame and steel-frame buildings shortly thereafter and is now well-known across its 4-state territory. The experienced, licensed, and insured crews have a solid reputation for putting up the highest quality buildings available on the market. Learn more about Vap Construction, Inc. by visiting their website at www.vapconstruction.com. You can also find them on social media.

SubmittedVap Construction, Inc. based in Atwood, Kansas is thrilled to announce a recent addition to its growing company, Teresa Tarman, who joined the team earlier this year in February.Teresa Tarman, Human Resource and Compliance Specialist, brings a wide range of experience to her role. Before joining the construction industry, she spent over fifteen years in healthcare. “Transitioning from the medical field to construction has presented some challenges, but nothing insurmountable. Fortunately, I’m part of an amazing team that has supported me every step of the way. I’m grateful for the warm welcome and patience extended to me,” shares Teresa. She currently resides in Atwood with her partner, Levi, and likes to spend her free time gardening, watching sports, and being outdoors.“We’re excited to welcome Teresa to our team,” says Linda Young-Vap, Corporate Vice President. “Her experience and unique background bring a new element that can only add to our continued success. We look forward to a future of growth and development.”Vap Construction, Inc. was founded by Jeff and Linda Vap in 2004 as a general contractor offering new construction for homes and commercial properties, as well as remodeling. The company expanded into post-frame and steel-frame buildings shortly thereafter and is now well-known across its 4-state territory. The experienced, licensed, and insured crews have a solid reputation for putting up the highest quality buildings available on the market. Learn more about Vap Construction, Inc. by visiting their website at www.vapconstruction.com. You can also find them on social media.

Vap Construction welcomes new team member

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719517175037.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>

Chinese Food Express, 1312 Main, Hays, announced on Facebook on Wednesday it will be closing.&nbsp;

Its last day of operation will be Aug. 10. Gift certificates must be used prior to the closing date, according to the Facebook post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719522788479.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chinese Food Express, 1312 Main, Hays, announced on Facebook on Wednesday it will be closing.&nbsp;Its last day of operation will be Aug. 10. Gift certificates must be used prior to the closing date, according to the Facebook post.

Chinese Food Express in Hays announces closure

Join fellow Wildcats for a golf tournament to celebrate K-State and enjoy some camaraderie on the links.&nbsp;Not a golfer? You’re invited to come to dinner, the scholarship auction and program. All proceeds fund scholarships for area K-Staters and the K-State Ahearn Scholarship Fund.

Prospective students you’re invited to join Hays area K-Staters for dinner and an introduction to K-State. Class of 2024 high school graduates, members of the class of 2025, and transfer students will receive a free T-shirt and dinner. A scholarship drawing will be at the dinner for all those attending K-State in the fall of 2024.\

7:45 a.m. check-in 8:30 a.m. shotgun start, two teams per hole

Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course, 1450 Golf Course Road, Hays

Beverages on the course provided by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autoworldusedcars.com/">Auto World, Hays</a>

Registration for golf due by Friday, June 28. To register, include your name, address, phone, email address as well as the names and addresses of all golfers.

Please make checks payable to Heartland Catbackers and mail to: Heartland Catbackers, Christy Kleweno, 3714 Summer Lane, Hays, KS 67601

For more information, contact: Christy Kleweno at&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-650-3314">785-650-3314</a>

4:30 p.m. doors open 5:30 p.m. dinner with program to follow AT Hays VFW, 2106 Vine St., Hays

A scholarship drawing will take place for high school seniors and transfer students planning to attend K-State in the fall of 2024.

Dinner reservations are due by Friday, June 28. No dinners are guaranteed after the deadline. For more information, contact: Lori Vitztum&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-650-5278">785-650-5278</a>or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lljoe@vitztumcarpetone.com">lljoe@vitztumcarpetone.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp; Trudy Alstatt&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-623-3079">785-623-3079</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tlalstatt@gmail.com">tlalstatt@gmail.com</a>

SubmittedJoin fellow Wildcats for a golf tournament to celebrate K-State and enjoy some camaraderie on the links.&nbsp;Not a golfer? You’re invited to come to dinner, the scholarship auction and program. All proceeds fund scholarships for area K-Staters and the K-State Ahearn Scholarship Fund.Prospective students you’re invited to join Hays area K-Staters for dinner and an introduction to K-State. Class of 2024 high school graduates, members of the class of 2025, and transfer students will receive a free T-shirt and dinner. A scholarship drawing will be at the dinner for all those attending K-State in the fall of 2024.\Pre-registration is required.GOLF INFORMATION7:45 a.m. check-in 8:30 a.m. shotgun start, two teams per holeFort Hays Municipal Golf Course, 1450 Golf Course Road, Hays<ul>
 <li>$115 per golfer, includes green fees, cart, event gift, lunch, hole prizes and flighted prizes.</li><li>$460 per 4-person team</li><li>$20 per ticket raffle prizes</li>
 </ul>Beverages on the course provided by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autoworldusedcars.com/">Auto World, Hays</a>Registration for golf due by Friday, June 28. To register, include your name, address, phone, email address as well as the names and addresses of all golfers.Please make checks payable to Heartland Catbackers and mail to: Heartland Catbackers, Christy Kleweno, 3714 Summer Lane, Hays, KS 67601For more information, contact: Christy Kleweno at&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-650-3314">785-650-3314</a>BANQUET &amp; AUCTION INFORMATION4:30 p.m. doors open 5:30 p.m. dinner with program to follow AT Hays VFW, 2106 Vine St., Hays<ul>
 <li>$20 per adult</li><li>Free for K-12</li>
 </ul>A scholarship drawing will take place for high school seniors and transfer students planning to attend K-State in the fall of 2024.Dinner reservations are due by Friday, June 28. No dinners are guaranteed after the deadline. For more information, contact: Lori Vitztum&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-650-5278">785-650-5278</a>or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lljoe@vitztumcarpetone.com">lljoe@vitztumcarpetone.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp; Trudy Alstatt&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-623-3079">785-623-3079</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tlalstatt@gmail.com">tlalstatt@gmail.com</a>

Heartland Catbackers golf tournament, banquet, scholarship auction set

TMP-Marian is pleased to announce the new faculty joining the school for the 2024-25 school year.

Fr. Fred Gatschet will return to Thomas More Prep-Marian where he had taught Religion for 12 years. Many former students have commented on the positive impact Fr. Fred had on their lives and Catholic faith.

Father will teach sophomore religion (Old and New Testament) while also being the pastor for St. Joseph Church in Hays.

"Moving back to Hays came as kind of a surprise to me, but I am looking forward to teaching again at TMP-Marian and renewing a lot of friendships that I had made during my previous tenure of 19 years in Ellis County,” Fr. Fred said.

Fr. Brian McCaffrey will join the Monarchs as co-school chaplain along with Fr. Andy Hammeke and Fr. Earl Befort. Fr. Brian has been teaching and practicing youth ministry at Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School in Salina for the past three years.

Fr. Brian graduated from KU with a degree in secondary education in 2015. He studied at Conception Seminary and Saint Meinrad Seminary, and was ordained in 2021. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Hays community,” Fr. Brian said. “I look forward to working with and serving the students and staff at TMP-M.”

Fr. Brian will be active at the school for building relationships with the students, providing access to the sacraments, and guest-instructing in various classrooms. “Fr. Brian will be a great asset in counseling and mentoring students and staff alike,” principal Chad Meitner said.

Matt ‘97 Brown is the new Career and Technical Education teacher and Creative Learning Building Director at TMP-Marian. He grew up in Hays and graduated from TMP-Marian in 1997.

After obtaining his BS in Secondary Education from Ft. Hays State University (FHSU) in 2002, he began his teaching career at Ransom High School. He also taught at Otis-Bison Jr/Sr High School for 9 years during which he earned his MS in Tech Education in 2010, also from FHSU.

Most recently, Mr. Brown taught 11 years at Ruppenthal Middle and Russell High School as the Career and Tech Education teacher. He will lead TMP-Marian’s new Creative Learning Building, which will include classes and instruction in fabrications, computer aided drafting (CAD), welding, STEM, wood shop, and cross curricular outreach to help other teachers use the new facilities.

“I am excited to teach back at my alma mater and build the Career and Tech Ed (CTE) department,” Brown said. Brown is married to Natalie (Major) ‘99 Brown and has three children AJ ‘24, Avery ‘29, and Nicholas ‘32.

Erika Litson will be the new Biology and general science teacher. Ms. Litson grew up in Centennial, CO. She earned her BS in Chemistry and Humanities from Azusa Pacific University (CA). Awarded the prestigious Noyce Post-Baccalaureate Stipend, Ms. Litson is currently earning her MS in Secondary Science Education from FHSU. She is expected to complete the degree this December.

Ms. Litson is familiar with the TMP-Marian science department and students because she did her student teaching there during the 2024 spring semester. When asked to describe the main element of her teaching style, Ms. Litson cited increasing student critical thinking skills through group projects and problem solving exercises.

She is also a strong advocate for student mental health awareness and advocacy, making it a priority to build strong relationships with her students. “I am very excited to officially join TMP-M and help students grow into the people God intends them to be!” Ms. Litson said. She will also be the co-StuCo advisor with Mrs. Melissa Pinkney for the coming school year.

Blaine Maier brings a wealth of experience and passion to the high school math department. Mr. Maier graduated from FHSU in 1983 with a BS in Mathematics. He earned his MS in Physical Science in 1989. Mr. Maier has taught math at Phillipsburg and Hoxie before his most recent teaching position at Ruppenthal Middle and Russell High School. He has taught at Russell since 1998.

He and his wife Lori have been married for almost 40 years. Lori was a hospice nurse for most of her career but is now working as a school nurse for Russell. The Maiers have 2 grown children and 2 grandchildren.

Also, Mr. Maier has a unique hobby - he raises and shows rabbits. Mr. Maier is a licensed judge with the American Rabbit Breeders Association.

“I'm looking forward to working with the TMP-Marian family and helping students reach their academic goals,” Mr. Maier said. “I have always been involved with and supportive of student activities but emphasize that academic achievement is paramount.”

Max Befort will be the new JH/HS band director and HS choir teacher. Mr. Befort will also be the Pop Singers supervisor. He graduated from FHSU with his BA in Music Composition in 2019.

After teaching two years at Trego County USD 208, Mr. Befort most recently taught vocal and instrumental music for the past three years at Victoria USD 432.

He enjoys bowling, golf, PC building, classic car restoration, and to perform and sing with local vocal and instrumental groups.

Megan Gottschalk joins the junior high team at TMP-Marian as the 6th grade mathematics and science teacher. Familiar to the Monarch family, Mrs. Gottschalk previously taught PE at Holy Family Elementary and is the current high school volleyball coach. She earned her BA in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming in 2004.

In addition to teaching PE, Mrs. Gottschalk has taught 3rd and 4th grades as a classroom teacher, with an emphasis on math, science, and social studies. She was a 4-year letterwinner for the University of Wyoming volleyball team, earning Mountain West Conference All-Academic Team honors in 2003. Megan is married to TJ ‘00 Gottschalk and has four children, Teagan ‘25, Adilyn ‘28, Jonah ‘31, and Remington ‘33.

Konnor ‘18 Splichal will be the 7-12th grades JH and HS art teacher. After graduating from TMP-Marian in 2018, Mr. Splichal earned his BA in Fine Arts from FHSU in 2022. His specialties include ceramics where his work has been honored every year by various organizations, including the Hays Arts Council and the Moss-Thornes Gallery.

Mr. Splichal has also conducted numerous workshops, including a Wheel Throwing Workshop at TMP-Marian in 2023. He has worked closely with outgoing art instructor, Nancy Flax, to fine tune his instructional skills while getting to know the TMP-Marian art program and students.

Brandon Smith will be the junior high vocal teacher. He is part-time while he also earns his Master’s Degree from FHSU. During the 2021-22 school year, Mr. Smith was a long-term 5th grade substitute teacher for Garden City USD 457.

Mr. Smith has sung in and participated in choir for around 14 years and composes music.

Rebecca Windholz is the new high school Special Education teacher. She is taking the place of another Mrs. Windholz, Rhonda, who moved to Tennessee over the summer.

Thomas More Prep-MarianTMP-Marian is pleased to announce the new faculty joining the school for the 2024-25 school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438750880.jpeg" alt="Fr. Fred Gatschet" />
 <figcaption>Fr. Fred Gatschet</figcaption>
 </figure>Fr. Fred Gatschet will return to Thomas More Prep-Marian where he had taught Religion for 12 years. Many former students have commented on the positive impact Fr. Fred had on their lives and Catholic faith.Father will teach sophomore religion (Old and New Testament) while also being the pastor for St. Joseph Church in Hays."Moving back to Hays came as kind of a surprise to me, but I am looking forward to teaching again at TMP-Marian and renewing a lot of friendships that I had made during my previous tenure of 19 years in Ellis County,” Fr. Fred said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438744583.jpeg" alt="Fr. Brian McCaffrey" />
 <figcaption>Fr. Brian McCaffrey</figcaption>
 </figure>Fr. Brian McCaffrey will join the Monarchs as co-school chaplain along with Fr. Andy Hammeke and Fr. Earl Befort. Fr. Brian has been teaching and practicing youth ministry at Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School in Salina for the past three years.Fr. Brian graduated from KU with a degree in secondary education in 2015. He studied at Conception Seminary and Saint Meinrad Seminary, and was ordained in 2021. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Hays community,” Fr. Brian said. “I look forward to working with and serving the students and staff at TMP-M.”Fr. Brian will be active at the school for building relationships with the students, providing access to the sacraments, and guest-instructing in various classrooms. “Fr. Brian will be a great asset in counseling and mentoring students and staff alike,” principal Chad Meitner said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438737665.jpeg" alt="Matt Brown" />
 <figcaption>Matt Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>Matt ‘97 Brown is the new Career and Technical Education teacher and Creative Learning Building Director at TMP-Marian. He grew up in Hays and graduated from TMP-Marian in 1997.After obtaining his BS in Secondary Education from Ft. Hays State University (FHSU) in 2002, he began his teaching career at Ransom High School. He also taught at Otis-Bison Jr/Sr High School for 9 years during which he earned his MS in Tech Education in 2010, also from FHSU.Most recently, Mr. Brown taught 11 years at Ruppenthal Middle and Russell High School as the Career and Tech Education teacher. He will lead TMP-Marian’s new Creative Learning Building, which will include classes and instruction in fabrications, computer aided drafting (CAD), welding, STEM, wood shop, and cross curricular outreach to help other teachers use the new facilities.“I am excited to teach back at my alma mater and build the Career and Tech Ed (CTE) department,” Brown said. Brown is married to Natalie (Major) ‘99 Brown and has three children AJ ‘24, Avery ‘29, and Nicholas ‘32.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438731061.jpeg" alt="Erika Litson" />
 <figcaption>Erika Litson</figcaption>
 </figure>Erika Litson will be the new Biology and general science teacher. Ms. Litson grew up in Centennial, CO. She earned her BS in Chemistry and Humanities from Azusa Pacific University (CA). Awarded the prestigious Noyce Post-Baccalaureate Stipend, Ms. Litson is currently earning her MS in Secondary Science Education from FHSU. She is expected to complete the degree this December.Ms. Litson is familiar with the TMP-Marian science department and students because she did her student teaching there during the 2024 spring semester. When asked to describe the main element of her teaching style, Ms. Litson cited increasing student critical thinking skills through group projects and problem solving exercises.She is also a strong advocate for student mental health awareness and advocacy, making it a priority to build strong relationships with her students. “I am very excited to officially join TMP-M and help students grow into the people God intends them to be!” Ms. Litson said. She will also be the co-StuCo advisor with Mrs. Melissa Pinkney for the coming school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438722975.jpeg" alt="Blaine Maier" />
 <figcaption>Blaine Maier</figcaption>
 </figure>Blaine Maier brings a wealth of experience and passion to the high school math department. Mr. Maier graduated from FHSU in 1983 with a BS in Mathematics. He earned his MS in Physical Science in 1989. Mr. Maier has taught math at Phillipsburg and Hoxie before his most recent teaching position at Ruppenthal Middle and Russell High School. He has taught at Russell since 1998.He and his wife Lori have been married for almost 40 years. Lori was a hospice nurse for most of her career but is now working as a school nurse for Russell. The Maiers have 2 grown children and 2 grandchildren.Also, Mr. Maier has a unique hobby - he raises and shows rabbits. Mr. Maier is a licensed judge with the American Rabbit Breeders Association.“I'm looking forward to working with the TMP-Marian family and helping students reach their academic goals,” Mr. Maier said. “I have always been involved with and supportive of student activities but emphasize that academic achievement is paramount.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438715169.jpeg" alt="Max Befort" />
 <figcaption>Max Befort</figcaption>
 </figure>Max Befort will be the new JH/HS band director and HS choir teacher. Mr. Befort will also be the Pop Singers supervisor. He graduated from FHSU with his BA in Music Composition in 2019.After teaching two years at Trego County USD 208, Mr. Befort most recently taught vocal and instrumental music for the past three years at Victoria USD 432.He enjoys bowling, golf, PC building, classic car restoration, and to perform and sing with local vocal and instrumental groups.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438707478.jpeg" alt="Megan Gottschalk" />
 <figcaption>Megan Gottschalk</figcaption>
 </figure>Megan Gottschalk joins the junior high team at TMP-Marian as the 6th grade mathematics and science teacher. Familiar to the Monarch family, Mrs. Gottschalk previously taught PE at Holy Family Elementary and is the current high school volleyball coach. She earned her BA in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming in 2004.In addition to teaching PE, Mrs. Gottschalk has taught 3rd and 4th grades as a classroom teacher, with an emphasis on math, science, and social studies. She was a 4-year letterwinner for the University of Wyoming volleyball team, earning Mountain West Conference All-Academic Team honors in 2003. Megan is married to TJ ‘00 Gottschalk and has four children, Teagan ‘25, Adilyn ‘28, Jonah ‘31, and Remington ‘33.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438700625.jpeg" alt="Konnor Splichal" />
 <figcaption>Konnor Splichal</figcaption>
 </figure>Konnor ‘18 Splichal will be the 7-12th grades JH and HS art teacher. After graduating from TMP-Marian in 2018, Mr. Splichal earned his BA in Fine Arts from FHSU in 2022. His specialties include ceramics where his work has been honored every year by various organizations, including the Hays Arts Council and the Moss-Thornes Gallery.Mr. Splichal has also conducted numerous workshops, including a Wheel Throwing Workshop at TMP-Marian in 2023. He has worked closely with outgoing art instructor, Nancy Flax, to fine tune his instructional skills while getting to know the TMP-Marian art program and students.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438663221.jpeg" alt="Brandon Smith" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>Brandon Smith will be the junior high vocal teacher. He is part-time while he also earns his Master’s Degree from FHSU. During the 2021-22 school year, Mr. Smith was a long-term 5th grade substitute teacher for Garden City USD 457.Mr. Smith has sung in and participated in choir for around 14 years and composes music.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719438679600.jpeg" alt="Rebecca Windholz" />
 <figcaption>Rebecca Windholz</figcaption>
 </figure>Rebecca Windholz is the new high school Special Education teacher. She is taking the place of another Mrs. Windholz, Rhonda, who moved to Tennessee over the summer.Rebecca Windholz is originally from Hoxie, and currently lives in WaKeeney. Mrs. Windholz taught for five years at schools in Trego USD 208. Most recently she was a fiscal auditor for the Kansas State Department of Education.Mrs. Windholz will put her Masters Degree as a reading/instructional specialist to good use helping students in a variety of high school courses. “Developing positive relationships with each student is crucial for the learning process,” Mrs. Windholz said. “I believe every student wants to feel valued and heard. Setting high expectations for them…with a solid relationship will ensure that they are learning at their maximum potential.”Other teaching assignment announcements - James Harris will return to the classroom and teach 7-8th PE. And finally, Rick Binder and Joe Pfannenstiel will teach agriculture classes and sponsor the TMP-Marian Chapter of the FFA.Teaching Position Open - TMP-Marian is seeking a high school social studies teacher to teach U.S. Government, World History, and Current World Issues. Please email Chad Meitner to apply for this opening - meitnerc@tmpmarian.org.Located in Hays, Kan., Thomas More Prep-Marian is a Catholic school serving grades 6-12. Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world. The school was founded by the Capuchin Franciscans as Hays Catholic College in 1908 and ultimately became Thomas More Prep-Marian in 1981. The school continues to serve young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

Local