Honoring the late co-founder of the Deines Cultural Center’s monthly jam session, a special “Pickin’ at the Deines” event is being held this month on March 17th. The 3rd Annual Ronn Raymer Memorial Jam will begin at 3 pm on Sunday, March 17th at the Center at 820 N. Main in Russell with the traditional pot luck supper served at 5 pm followed by more music. Participants are encouraged to bring their acoustic instrument(s), their voice, a listening ear, and a food dish to share.

Beginning with the Frances Giebler Fiddle Fest in 2003, Raymer and Bob Roe of Russell, JF Stover of Hill City, and Nancy Selbe, former director of the DCC began the sessions as a meeting and sharing of regional musicians. Sessions have been attended by professional and amateur musicians from Colorado, Kansas City, Hill City, Great Bend, Osborne, Plainville, Jetmore, Garden City, Sterling, Hays, Memphis and more.

Raymer was a consistent participant, leader and promoter of the jam sessions providing vocals and playing guitar, auto-harp, washboard and ukulele. His presence will be included at the memorial session with videos shared by his family and family members will be attending.

SubmittedHonoring the late co-founder of the Deines Cultural Center’s monthly jam session, a special “Pickin’ at the Deines” event is being held this month on March 17th. The 3rd Annual Ronn Raymer Memorial Jam will begin at 3 pm on Sunday, March 17th at the Center at 820 N. Main in Russell with the traditional pot luck supper served at 5 pm followed by more music. Participants are encouraged to bring their acoustic instrument(s), their voice, a listening ear, and a food dish to share.Beginning with the Frances Giebler Fiddle Fest in 2003, Raymer and Bob Roe of Russell, JF Stover of Hill City, and Nancy Selbe, former director of the DCC began the sessions as a meeting and sharing of regional musicians. Sessions have been attended by professional and amateur musicians from Colorado, Kansas City, Hill City, Great Bend, Osborne, Plainville, Jetmore, Garden City, Sterling, Hays, Memphis and more.Raymer was a consistent participant, leader and promoter of the jam sessions providing vocals and playing guitar, auto-harp, washboard and ukulele. His presence will be included at the memorial session with videos shared by his family and family members will be attending.

'Pickin' at the Deines set for March 17

Like clockwork, every year starting in February and ending in April, sandhill cranes migrate to the North Platte River in mid-Nebraska. Once I learn a quarter million long-legged, pointy beaked, dancing birds have landed for their annual feeding marathon that fuels their final journey to the tundra, we join them for a day. We watch them float on thermals, eat fallen corn, or practice courtship rituals in Nebraska farm fields. Even if I couldn’t see them, listening to their throaty rattles that sound similar to squeezing an empty dish detergent bottle would make the journey worthwhile.

This year’s influx started early so by the first week in March, biologists announced the appearance of at least 274,000 cranes. Upon reaching our destination on March 3rd, we drove our usual routes searching for sandhill flocks. Disappointment on steroids!

Despite the slow start, Monday morning offered a better chapter to our ongoing saga. We left Kearney at dawn under pink, lavender, and blue crane-filled skies. Hordes of long-necked birds trailing skinny legs flew lazily across a cloud-filled canvas. Even though the thermometer registered 33 degrees, we lowered windows to capture every note of that prehistoric Spring song.

Each visit, we expand our search area, seeking fresh fields and flocks. This year, we found a new road edging the Platte, with only one other car to share the view. We enjoyed spying grassy, track-filled islands in the river where cranes roost overnight in order to hear predators sneaking up. This advance warning system allows them to escape hungry critters desiring a tasty ribeye from the sky.

Speaking of predators, we noted a scruffy bald eagle lurking atop a power pole, hoping to snag a weakened crane. Based on this raptor’s rough condition, it struggled to find satisfying meals. As much as I love eagles, I rooted for the cranes to escape this hunter.

In addition to predators, other migratory flocks journey north with cranes. A local alerted us to look for arctic terns. For a moment, we thought we’d spied these unique creatures cruising from one sandy island to another in the river. These speedy dudes made photos nearly impossible. After I snapped a shot, our hopes were dashed upon realizing this was a flock of gulls in bright morning light. So much for adding a lifer to our birding list.

Along one sandy avenue, developers crafted a wood blind with peep holes for viewing cranes that flock around a pond paralleling the Platte. We stopped long enough to watch a crane bathe. In decades of sandhill viewing, this was a first. That crazy bird enjoyed every dip and dunk, rising gleefully to shake dry in a crazy mist. Once satisfied it cleared any remaining droplets, it started over again. I wondered if it recently arrived and had travel dust to scrub away. Nearby cranes ignored it until its gyrations intruded into their space.

Over decades, I’ve photographed thousands of cranes. Despite many saved pics, I can’t wait to zoom in again, wondering how often I get the same birds year after year. No matter, I’ll be ready next spring when cranes arrowing across Western Kansas invite me to join them once again along the Platte.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709948315362.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINLike clockwork, every year starting in February and ending in April, sandhill cranes migrate to the North Platte River in mid-Nebraska. Once I learn a quarter million long-legged, pointy beaked, dancing birds have landed for their annual feeding marathon that fuels their final journey to the tundra, we join them for a day. We watch them float on thermals, eat fallen corn, or practice courtship rituals in Nebraska farm fields. Even if I couldn’t see them, listening to their throaty rattles that sound similar to squeezing an empty dish detergent bottle would make the journey worthwhile.This year’s influx started early so by the first week in March, biologists announced the appearance of at least 274,000 cranes. Upon reaching our destination on March 3rd, we drove our usual routes searching for sandhill flocks. Disappointment on steroids!Despite the slow start, Monday morning offered a better chapter to our ongoing saga. We left Kearney at dawn under pink, lavender, and blue crane-filled skies. Hordes of long-necked birds trailing skinny legs flew lazily across a cloud-filled canvas. Even though the thermometer registered 33 degrees, we lowered windows to capture every note of that prehistoric Spring song.Each visit, we expand our search area, seeking fresh fields and flocks. This year, we found a new road edging the Platte, with only one other car to share the view. We enjoyed spying grassy, track-filled islands in the river where cranes roost overnight in order to hear predators sneaking up. This advance warning system allows them to escape hungry critters desiring a tasty ribeye from the sky.Speaking of predators, we noted a scruffy bald eagle lurking atop a power pole, hoping to snag a weakened crane. Based on this raptor’s rough condition, it struggled to find satisfying meals. As much as I love eagles, I rooted for the cranes to escape this hunter.In addition to predators, other migratory flocks journey north with cranes. A local alerted us to look for arctic terns. For a moment, we thought we’d spied these unique creatures cruising from one sandy island to another in the river. These speedy dudes made photos nearly impossible. After I snapped a shot, our hopes were dashed upon realizing this was a flock of gulls in bright morning light. So much for adding a lifer to our birding list.Along one sandy avenue, developers crafted a wood blind with peep holes for viewing cranes that flock around a pond paralleling the Platte. We stopped long enough to watch a crane bathe. In decades of sandhill viewing, this was a first. That crazy bird enjoyed every dip and dunk, rising gleefully to shake dry in a crazy mist. Once satisfied it cleared any remaining droplets, it started over again. I wondered if it recently arrived and had travel dust to scrub away. Nearby cranes ignored it until its gyrations intruded into their space.Over decades, I’ve photographed thousands of cranes. Despite many saved pics, I can’t wait to zoom in again, wondering how often I get the same birds year after year. No matter, I’ll be ready next spring when cranes arrowing across Western Kansas invite me to join them once again along the Platte.

MADORIN: Cranes again

Sunflower Electric Power Corp. (Sunflower) has promoted five staff members to manager positions. Sunflower, a wholesale energy provider with seven electric distribution member-owners, has more than 400 employees working at its offices and generation facilities across central and western Kansas.

Ray Bergmeier was promoted to senior manager of transmission policy and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) compliance. He will be responsible for managing transmission policy activities as they relate to Southwest Power Pool (SPP), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC), and other regulatory policies. He will also assist with transmission agreements and research issues related to transmission policy, and he will ensure compliance with mandatory NERC requirements and other applicable compliance regulations.

A native of Kingman, Kan., and Washburn School of Law, Bergmeier has been with Sunflower since 2014. He served as staff attorney supporting Sunflower on transmission policy, as well as general legal and policy matters. He has also been instrumental in the development of a transmission cost allocation initiative and strategic engagement at SPP and FERC.

Lynn Schroeder was promoted to senior manager of transmission engineering design, planning, and protection. She will be responsible for directing activities in the transmission engineering substation design, protection, and planning departments, including establishing strategies and objectives in support of Sunflower’s transmission group. She will ensure Sunflower transmission substations are designed and maintained within the limitations of all applicable regulations and industry standards and that transmission and planning meet NERC reliability standards.

A native of Salina, Kan. and graduate of Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, Schroeder has been with Sunflower since 2019. A licensed Professional Engineer, she has a strong background in substation design, system protection, leadership, and NERC compliance. She was instrumental in training less experienced engineers in system protection.

With Sunflower since 2010, Derek Vonada was promoted to manager of transmission substation design. He will be responsible for managing the daily activities of the transmission substation design engineering group, ensuring compliance with all applicable standards and laws.

Vonada is a native of Sylvan Grove, Kan., and a graduate of Kansas State University, earning his Professional Engineer license in 2015. He has a strong substation design, system protection and project management background and has been involved with numerous substation and transmission line projects at Sunflower.

Ryan Yokley was promoted to manager of strategy planning engineering. He will be responsible for providing advanced transmission engineering and strategic activities support as it relates to the SPP Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) functions that impact Sunflower. He will provide advanced transmission and distribution support as it relates to Sunflower local planning activities and will monitor the activities of national entities, such as NERC, FERC, and national transmission organizations, as they relate to industry shifts impacting Sunflower. He will also mentor and guide power flow studies for junior engineers.

A native of Chanute, Kan., and graduate of Kansas State University, Yokley has been with Sunflower since 2010. He focused on the SPP Integrated Transmission Planning Process, providing support with long-term transmission studies, and guided transmission planning activities related to SPP. He has a strong electrical engineering background with a focus on power systems and has maintained both Professional Engineer and Certified Energy Manager Licenses since 2014.

Anne Erbert was promoted to manager of member solutions. She will be responsible for leading and managing the member solutions team, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services, resolving member concerns, and implementing solutions to enhance member satisfaction within Sunflower’s member systems and region.

A native of Hays, Kan., and graduate of Fort Hays State University, Erbert has been with Sunflower since 2018. Previously a key accounts director, she served as a liaison for Sunflower’s members to communicate business needs to internal staff and provided regular updates for key account projects. In addition, Erbert assisted Sunflower’s members with supporting data to aid in new business attraction, business expansion, and business retention efforts.

“Congratulations to these five individuals on their success and promotions at Sunflower,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s president and CEO. “They, along with their colleagues, work hard every day to ensure that we meet our mission of providing our seven member-owner distribution utilities with wholesale energy services they need to serve central and western Kansas.”

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is a regional wholesale power supplier that operates a system of solar, wind, natural gas, and coal-based generating plants and a transmission system of approximately 2,400 miles for the needs of its seven members, who serve customers living in central and western Kansas. The focus of Sunflower’s 400+ workforce is to deliver its members with reliable energy at the lowest possible cost. For more Sunflower information visit sunflower.net, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City, Kansas. Southern Pioneer Electric Company is also a Member of Sunflower.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687555691086.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSunflower Electric Power Corp. (Sunflower) has promoted five staff members to manager positions. Sunflower, a wholesale energy provider with seven electric distribution member-owners, has more than 400 employees working at its offices and generation facilities across central and western Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710442263203.jpeg" alt="Ray Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Ray Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Ray Bergmeier was promoted to senior manager of transmission policy and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) compliance. He will be responsible for managing transmission policy activities as they relate to Southwest Power Pool (SPP), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC), and other regulatory policies. He will also assist with transmission agreements and research issues related to transmission policy, and he will ensure compliance with mandatory NERC requirements and other applicable compliance regulations.A native of Kingman, Kan., and Washburn School of Law, Bergmeier has been with Sunflower since 2014. He served as staff attorney supporting Sunflower on transmission policy, as well as general legal and policy matters. He has also been instrumental in the development of a transmission cost allocation initiative and strategic engagement at SPP and FERC.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710442279627.jpeg" alt="Lynn Schroeder" />
 <figcaption>Lynn Schroeder</figcaption>
 </figure>Lynn Schroeder was promoted to senior manager of transmission engineering design, planning, and protection. She will be responsible for directing activities in the transmission engineering substation design, protection, and planning departments, including establishing strategies and objectives in support of Sunflower’s transmission group. She will ensure Sunflower transmission substations are designed and maintained within the limitations of all applicable regulations and industry standards and that transmission and planning meet NERC reliability standards.A native of Salina, Kan. and graduate of Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, Schroeder has been with Sunflower since 2019. A licensed Professional Engineer, she has a strong background in substation design, system protection, leadership, and NERC compliance. She was instrumental in training less experienced engineers in system protection.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710442301726.jpeg" alt="Derek Vonada" />
 <figcaption>Derek Vonada</figcaption>
 </figure>With Sunflower since 2010, Derek Vonada was promoted to manager of transmission substation design. He will be responsible for managing the daily activities of the transmission substation design engineering group, ensuring compliance with all applicable standards and laws.Vonada is a native of Sylvan Grove, Kan., and a graduate of Kansas State University, earning his Professional Engineer license in 2015. He has a strong substation design, system protection and project management background and has been involved with numerous substation and transmission line projects at Sunflower.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710442320232.jpeg" alt="Ryan Yokley" />
 <figcaption>Ryan Yokley</figcaption>
 </figure>Ryan Yokley was promoted to manager of strategy planning engineering. He will be responsible for providing advanced transmission engineering and strategic activities support as it relates to the SPP Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) functions that impact Sunflower. He will provide advanced transmission and distribution support as it relates to Sunflower local planning activities and will monitor the activities of national entities, such as NERC, FERC, and national transmission organizations, as they relate to industry shifts impacting Sunflower. He will also mentor and guide power flow studies for junior engineers.A native of Chanute, Kan., and graduate of Kansas State University, Yokley has been with Sunflower since 2010. He focused on the SPP Integrated Transmission Planning Process, providing support with long-term transmission studies, and guided transmission planning activities related to SPP. He has a strong electrical engineering background with a focus on power systems and has maintained both Professional Engineer and Certified Energy Manager Licenses since 2014.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710442339294.jpeg" alt="Anne Erbert" />
 <figcaption>Anne Erbert</figcaption>
 </figure>Anne Erbert was promoted to manager of member solutions. She will be responsible for leading and managing the member solutions team, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services, resolving member concerns, and implementing solutions to enhance member satisfaction within Sunflower’s member systems and region.A native of Hays, Kan., and graduate of Fort Hays State University, Erbert has been with Sunflower since 2018. Previously a key accounts director, she served as a liaison for Sunflower’s members to communicate business needs to internal staff and provided regular updates for key account projects. In addition, Erbert assisted Sunflower’s members with supporting data to aid in new business attraction, business expansion, and business retention efforts.“Congratulations to these five individuals on their success and promotions at Sunflower,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s president and CEO. “They, along with their colleagues, work hard every day to ensure that we meet our mission of providing our seven member-owner distribution utilities with wholesale energy services they need to serve central and western Kansas.”About SunflowerSunflower Electric Power Corporation is a regional wholesale power supplier that operates a system of solar, wind, natural gas, and coal-based generating plants and a transmission system of approximately 2,400 miles for the needs of its seven members, who serve customers living in central and western Kansas. The focus of Sunflower’s 400+ workforce is to deliver its members with reliable energy at the lowest possible cost. For more Sunflower information visit sunflower.net, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City, Kansas. Southern Pioneer Electric Company is also a Member of Sunflower.

Sunflower Electric Power Corp. names 5 staff as new managers

<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/2024/3/1710352236945.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

Hays City Commission to vote on whether to allow driving of golf carts on Hays streets  

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Feb. 21, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Johnson -&nbsp;10-46 KA-6926-01 - K-10, bridge #185 over Cedar Creek located 8.54&nbsp;miles east of the Douglas County line in De Soto, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $644,999.16.&nbsp;

Johnson -&nbsp;35-46 KA-7190-01 - I-35, from 95th Street to the I-635/I-35 junction, 4-inch&nbsp;overlay, 7.0 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $12,169,170.25.&nbsp;

Leavenworth -&nbsp;32-52 KA-6583-01 - K-32, bridge #080 over Stranger Creek&nbsp;located 8.8 miles east of the I-70 (KTA)/ K-32 junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $436,059.36.&nbsp;

Pottawatomie -&nbsp;13-75 KA-4594-01 - K-13, located 0.123 mile south of&nbsp;bridge #020 over Cedar Creek, special, 0.1 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $594,181.85.&nbsp;

Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-2603-03 - K-99, from the I-70/K-99 junction north&nbsp;2 miles to Hereford Road, grading and surfacing, 2.0 miles, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $11,020,025.43.

Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-5728-01 - K-99, bridge #072 over Dragoon Creek&nbsp;Drainage located 3.7 miles north of K-31, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $3,075,482.97.

Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6767-01 - I-70, bridge #189 located 0.10 mile east of&nbsp;the Old K-32/I-70 west junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $133,100.00.

Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6928-01 - I-435, bridge #217 located 0.28 mile northeast&nbsp;of the I-70/I-435 junction in Kansas City, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $440,243.76.&nbsp;

Ellsworth -&nbsp;70-27 KA-5765-01 - I-70, bridge #016 over Elk Horn Creek located 0.26&nbsp;mile northeast of K-156; and bridge #017 over East Elkhorn Creek located 0.25 mile northeast of K-15, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $6,168,427.54.&nbsp;

Mitchell -&nbsp;14-62 KA-6949-01 - K-14, bridge #040 over Salt Creek located 2.52 miles&nbsp;north of the Lincoln County line, bridge repair, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $627,960.50.&nbsp;

Saline -&nbsp;4-85 KA-5721-01 - K-4, bridge #113 over Gypsum Creek Drainage&nbsp;located 1.17 miles southeast of 7th Street in Gypsum, bridge replacement, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $90,682.00.

Ellis -&nbsp;70-26 KA-6954-01 - I-70, bridge #038 located 3.62 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction; and bridge #039 located 3.61 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;

Sherman -&nbsp;27-91 KA-6123-01 - K-27, bridge #042 over the Kyle Railroad located&nbsp;0.84 mile north of I-70, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $1,257,728.50.

Anderson -&nbsp;59-2 KA-7172-01 - U.S. 59, from 0.4 mile south of roundabout north&nbsp;to 4th Street in the city of Garnett; and from Red Bud Avenue in the city of Garnett&nbsp;north to the north city limits of Garnett, milling and overlay, 2.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $560,187.16.&nbsp;

Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-7078-01 - U.S. 169B, from the U.S. 59/U.S. 169B junction east to the U.S. 169/U.S. 169B junction, milling and overlay, 1.4 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $379,523.55.&nbsp;

Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-6462-01 - U.S. 169, four locations beginning 0.76 mile&nbsp;northeast of southwest Missouri Road northeast to 0.2 mile north of 1900 Road, guard fence, 10.4 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $653,424.60.&nbsp;

Chautauqua -&nbsp;166-10 KA-6464-01 - U.S. 166, four locations beginning 0.12&nbsp;mile east of I Street east to 0.63 mile east of Road 30, guard fence, 1.1 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $1,741,750.68.&nbsp;

Greenwood -&nbsp;54-37 KA-5760-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #002 over Burnt Creek located&nbsp;3.52 miles east of the Butler County line, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $2,369,167.50.&nbsp;

Miami -&nbsp;169-61 KA-6925-01 - U.S. 169, bridge #047 over the Marais Des Cygnes River located 0.40 mile south of the K-279 northbound junction in Osawatomie, bridge&nbsp;repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $1,468,550.73.

Reno -&nbsp;50-78 KA-6757-01 - U.S. 50, bridge #023 over BNSF Railroad located 10.33&nbsp;miles east of the K-61/U.S. 50 east junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $898,150.94.&nbsp;

Sedgwick -&nbsp;87 N-0753-01 – Haysville, east side of South Seneca Street from north&nbsp;end of the M.S. Mitchell Floodway bridge to West 63rd Street South, east to South&nbsp;Mable Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.8 mile, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $673,188.65.

Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-6732-01 - U.S. 83, bridge #017 located at the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;

Finney -&nbsp;28 KA-7209-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb east&nbsp;to U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 18.6 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $1,167,124.34.

Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-7210-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb&nbsp;east to the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 10.4 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $310,770.04.

Meade -&nbsp;54-60 KA-6956-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #033 over Spring Creek located 6.66&nbsp;miles northeast of the U.S. 54/U.S. 160 west junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $847,656.44.

The following project was approved from the Dec. 13, 2023, letting.

Miami ‑&nbsp;61 C‑5123‑01 ‑ RS 1604, from 327th Street to Paola south city limits, grading and surfacing, 1.9 miles, Killough Construction, Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $1,409194.57.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701368603184.png" alt="KDOT" />
 <figcaption>KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Feb. 21, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastJohnson -&nbsp;10-46 KA-6926-01 - K-10, bridge #185 over Cedar Creek located 8.54&nbsp;miles east of the Douglas County line in De Soto, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $644,999.16.&nbsp;Johnson -&nbsp;35-46 KA-7190-01 - I-35, from 95th Street to the I-635/I-35 junction, 4-inch&nbsp;overlay, 7.0 miles, Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC, Kansas City, Missouri, $12,169,170.25.&nbsp;Leavenworth -&nbsp;32-52 KA-6583-01 - K-32, bridge #080 over Stranger Creek&nbsp;located 8.8 miles east of the I-70 (KTA)/ K-32 junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $436,059.36.&nbsp;Pottawatomie -&nbsp;13-75 KA-4594-01 - K-13, located 0.123 mile south of&nbsp;bridge #020 over Cedar Creek, special, 0.1 mile, Smoky Hill LLC, Salina, Kansas, $594,181.85.&nbsp;Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-2603-03 - K-99, from the I-70/K-99 junction north&nbsp;2 miles to Hereford Road, grading and surfacing, 2.0 miles, Ebert Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $11,020,025.43.Wabaunsee -&nbsp;99-99 KA-5728-01 - K-99, bridge #072 over Dragoon Creek&nbsp;Drainage located 3.7 miles north of K-31, bridge replacement, King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $3,075,482.97.Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6767-01 - I-70, bridge #189 located 0.10 mile east of&nbsp;the Old K-32/I-70 west junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $133,100.00.Wyandotte -&nbsp;70-105 KA-6928-01 - I-435, bridge #217 located 0.28 mile northeast&nbsp;of the I-70/I-435 junction in Kansas City, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $440,243.76.&nbsp;District Two — North Central&nbsp;Ellsworth -&nbsp;70-27 KA-5765-01 - I-70, bridge #016 over Elk Horn Creek located 0.26&nbsp;mile northeast of K-156; and bridge #017 over East Elkhorn Creek located 0.25 mile northeast of K-15, bridge replacement, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $6,168,427.54.&nbsp;Mitchell -&nbsp;14-62 KA-6949-01 - K-14, bridge #040 over Salt Creek located 2.52 miles&nbsp;north of the Lincoln County line, bridge repair, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $627,960.50.&nbsp;Saline -&nbsp;4-85 KA-5721-01 - K-4, bridge #113 over Gypsum Creek Drainage&nbsp;located 1.17 miles southeast of 7th Street in Gypsum, bridge replacement, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $90,682.00.District Three — Northwest&nbsp;Ellis -&nbsp;70-26 KA-6954-01 - I-70, bridge #038 located 3.62 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction; and bridge #039 located 3.61 miles east of the I-70/K-255 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;Sherman -&nbsp;27-91 KA-6123-01 - K-27, bridge #042 over the Kyle Railroad located&nbsp;0.84 mile north of I-70, bridge repair, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $1,257,728.50.District Four — Southeast&nbsp;Anderson -&nbsp;59-2 KA-7172-01 - U.S. 59, from 0.4 mile south of roundabout north&nbsp;to 4th Street in the city of Garnett; and from Red Bud Avenue in the city of Garnett&nbsp;north to the north city limits of Garnett, milling and overlay, 2.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $560,187.16.&nbsp;Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-7078-01 - U.S. 169B, from the U.S. 59/U.S. 169B junction east to the U.S. 169/U.S. 169B junction, milling and overlay, 1.4 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $379,523.55.&nbsp;Anderson -&nbsp;16-92 KA-6462-01 - U.S. 169, four locations beginning 0.76 mile&nbsp;northeast of southwest Missouri Road northeast to 0.2 mile north of 1900 Road, guard fence, 10.4 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $653,424.60.&nbsp;Chautauqua -&nbsp;166-10 KA-6464-01 - U.S. 166, four locations beginning 0.12&nbsp;mile east of I Street east to 0.63 mile east of Road 30, guard fence, 1.1 miles, J &amp; J Contractors Inc., Iola, Kansas, $1,741,750.68.&nbsp;Greenwood -&nbsp;54-37 KA-5760-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #002 over Burnt Creek located&nbsp;3.52 miles east of the Butler County line, bridge replacement, B &amp; B Bridge Company LLC, St. Paul, Kansas, $2,369,167.50.&nbsp;Miami -&nbsp;169-61 KA-6925-01 - U.S. 169, bridge #047 over the Marais Des Cygnes River located 0.40 mile south of the K-279 northbound junction in Osawatomie, bridge&nbsp;repair, PCI Roads LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $1,468,550.73.District Five — South Central&nbsp;Reno -&nbsp;50-78 KA-6757-01 - U.S. 50, bridge #023 over BNSF Railroad located 10.33&nbsp;miles east of the K-61/U.S. 50 east junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $898,150.94.&nbsp;Sedgwick -&nbsp;87 N-0753-01 – Haysville, east side of South Seneca Street from north&nbsp;end of the M.S. Mitchell Floodway bridge to West 63rd Street South, east to South&nbsp;Mable Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.8 mile, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $673,188.65.District Six — Southwest&nbsp;Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-6732-01 - U.S. 83, bridge #017 located at the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction, bridge repair. (State Funds)&nbsp;Finney -&nbsp;28 KA-7209-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb east&nbsp;to U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 18.6 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $1,167,124.34.Finney -&nbsp;83-28 KA-7210-01 - U.S. 50, from concrete pavement west of Holcomb&nbsp;east to the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction; U.S. 83, from the U.S. 83/U.S. 50 east junction south to the U.S. 83/U.S. 83B south junction; U.S. 83B, from Mary Street to north end of concrete pavement north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 83 junction; include all ramps, pavement marking, 10.4 miles, Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., Chicago, Illinois, $310,770.04.Meade -&nbsp;54-60 KA-6956-01 - U.S. 54, bridge #033 over Spring Creek located 6.66&nbsp;miles northeast of the U.S. 54/U.S. 160 west junction, bridge repair, PBX Corporation &amp; Subsidiary, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, $847,656.44.The following project was approved from the Dec. 13, 2023, letting.Miami ‑&nbsp;61 C‑5123‑01 ‑ RS 1604, from 327th Street to Paola south city limits, grading and surfacing, 1.9 miles, Killough Construction, Inc., Ottawa, Kansas, $1,409194.57.

KDOT announces approved February bids

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Families gathered at the Sternberg Museum on Tuesday for the annual World Water Day Fun Fest.&nbsp;

The event seeks to educate the public about water conservation.

Last year, 350 people attended the event, said Jeff Crispin, city of Hays water resources director.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2fa92fef-bd7e-4379-8e11-15170bc1a1ea">RELATED STORY: DICKMAN: Hays water conservation rebate programs continue in 2024</a>

"Lots of parents and grandparents bring their kids out here," Crispin said. "They can learn about the water cycle, learn about wastewater, learn about soil. It's just a good way to educate the kids and keep them talking about water and water conservation as they go home and share with others in their family."

Crispin said the city tries to start young and reach every age level about water conservation.

"Every person that we reach, whether they are knowledgable about our water programs or not, is important," he said, "because that means we all have the same goal of saving water."

Although Hays is getting closer to making the R9 Ranch water available to the city, Crispin said water conservation will still be essential to the community.

"Our water conservation programs will stay put," he said. "We have invested too much in water conservation. Even when we get a new water source, it is important for us to conserve this earth and this precious resource."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269522453.jpeg" alt="A volunteer explains the relationship between water and soil at the&nbsp;World Water Day Fun Fest Tuesday at the&nbsp;Sternberg Museum. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A volunteer explains the relationship between water and soil at the&nbsp;World Water Day Fun Fest Tuesday at the&nbsp;Sternberg Museum. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFamilies gathered at the Sternberg Museum on Tuesday for the annual World Water Day Fun Fest.&nbsp;The event seeks to educate the public about water conservation.Last year, 350 people attended the event, said Jeff Crispin, city of Hays water resources director.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2fa92fef-bd7e-4379-8e11-15170bc1a1ea">RELATED STORY: DICKMAN: Hays water conservation rebate programs continue in 2024</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269540603.jpeg" alt="Jeff Crispin, city of Hays water resources director, talks to a girl Tuesday about conserving water at home.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Crispin, city of Hays water resources director, talks to a girl Tuesday about conserving water at home.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Lots of parents and grandparents bring their kids out here," Crispin said. "They can learn about the water cycle, learn about wastewater, learn about soil. It's just a good way to educate the kids and keep them talking about water and water conservation as they go home and share with others in their family."Crispin said the city tries to start young and reach every age level about water conservation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269555318.jpeg" alt="A girl learns about the water table at&nbsp;Water Day Fun Fest Tuesday.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A girl learns about the water table at&nbsp;Water Day Fun Fest Tuesday.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Every person that we reach, whether they are knowledgable about our water programs or not, is important," he said, "because that means we all have the same goal of saving water."Although Hays is getting closer to making the R9 Ranch water available to the city, Crispin said water conservation will still be essential to the community."Our water conservation programs will stay put," he said. "We have invested too much in water conservation. Even when we get a new water source, it is important for us to conserve this earth and this precious resource."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269571919.jpeg" alt="Girls put beads on a bracelet that represents water's journey through the water cycle.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Girls put beads on a bracelet that represents water's journey through the water cycle.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269588919.jpeg" alt="A girl sorts items into things that need water and do not.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A girl sorts items into things that need water and do not.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269616521.jpeg" alt="A boy learns about how pollution affects fish. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A boy learns about how pollution affects fish. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269672387.jpeg" alt="A boy learns about microorganisms in the wastewater. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A boy learns about microorganisms in the wastewater. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269632852.jpeg" alt="Jars show examples of wastewater.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jars show examples of wastewater.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269658007.jpeg" alt="As many as 350 people were expected at the&nbsp;Water Day Fun Fest Tuesday at the Sternberg Museum.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>As many as 350 people were expected at the&nbsp;Water Day Fun Fest Tuesday at the Sternberg Museum.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269691257.jpeg" alt="A boy gives high fives to a water mascot.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A boy gives high fives to a water mascot.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269707070.jpeg" alt="A girl tries out a seat in a city of Hays street sweeper.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A girl tries out a seat in a city of Hays street sweeper.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710269724970.jpeg" alt="Boys practice fixing a water line.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Boys practice fixing a water line.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷  World Water Day event continues Hays' focus on conservation

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

It may be true that a leopard can’t change its spots.

But there is a Tiger in this jungle who has at least changed the direction of his stripes. And he couldn’t be happier to do so.

Hays native Bob Swift is a huge supporter of Fort Hays State University basketball and has attended nearly every game – home and away – over the past four years.

Whether traveling the roads all across Kansas or to several surrounding states, he said he enjoys the road trips with his wife, Sondra.

Swift has become such a fan of the Tigers, he plans to make the nine-and-a-half-hour road trip to Mankato, Minn., to watch the FHSU men’s team play in this weekend’s NCAA Division II Central Region Championships.

Swift was a standout athlete in football, wrestling, and baseball growing up. He represented the Cadets of St. Joseph Military Academy in Hays during his high school days.

St. Joseph’s started the school wrestling program his junior year, and his love of the sport was so deep that he was instrumental in helping start the Hays Youth Wrestling Club in Hays.

The Swifts’ son, Shawn, wrestled as a youngster and all through high school, and their daughter, Stacy, served as the wrestling team manager at Hays High School.

But Swift learned that your allegiances can change when your grandsons have chosen basketball as their winter sport.

The Swifts started following their four grandchildren’s activities in Hutchinson from grade school on, and they were thrilled when their oldest grandson, Kaleb, chose to further his education and play basketball at FHSU.

Just like that, the Tiger basketball program got two more dedicated fans.

Sondra hasn’t been able to attend all the games over the years, but Bob has missed only a few of the 111 games that Kaleb has started since his freshman year.

“When you have grandkids involved, it’s easy to support them,” Bob said. “What a blessing grandkids are.”

The feelings are mutual for Kaleb and his younger brother, Lucas, also a member of the Tiger basketball team.

“My grandpa and my dad (Joe Hammeke) have come to nearly every single game for four years,” Kaleb said. “I didn’t realize how much it means to me until I got older. It’s always great to see them after the games.”

Not only has the Swifts’ house become a home-away-from-home for Kaleb and Lucas but for other Tiger players as well.

They have hosted Thanksgiving dinners for several of the Tigers and often taken the Hammeke brothers and some of their teammates out for dinner on Thursdays. The Swifts have gotten especially close to Tiger senior Bjarni Jonsson, a native of Iceland.

“Bjarni and I were roommates in the dorm my freshman year, and we’ve grown to be close friends, and my grandparents made him part of the family,” Kaleb said. “It’s been special for Bjarni to have someone here in Hays to be close to, but my grandparents do an incredible job of welcoming everyone. I feel so blessed. Not everyone is lucky enough to have grandparents like me.”

“It’s been great to be able to get to know these young people,” Bob said. “Those kids are all so polite. The coaches have done a great job – both recruiting kids of great character and having that kind of influence on them once they get here.”

Bob Swift was in the stands at both of the Tiger men’s games at the MIAA Championships in Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo., last weekend. And many other loyal fans attended both the men’s and women’s games.

Schuyler&nbsp;Coates, a director of development for the FHSU Foundation and Alumni Office, said there were too many long-time fans to name them all. However, one group surely won the prize for being the farthest from home – Jonsson’s family from Iceland.

“I understand the alumni in the Kansas City area making some of the games, but I’m amazed of how many people from Hays travel for those games,” Coates said. “I think it’s so incredible how our community takes care of the college kids once they come here. You can talk to a lot of fans, and they can reel off the players’ stat lines better than the players themselves. We are so fortunate.”

Relatives of some of the Tiger women’s team made the trip from Iowa for the MIAA tournament, including Megan Earney’s parents, who haven’t missed many games&nbsp;in their daughter’s three years on the team. It’s a six-hour drive from the Earneys’ home in Des Moines to Hays, so some of the Tigers’ away games are even closer to their home.

The drive to Kansas City was a relatively close one for Doug and Colette Earney, so they decided to make a week of basketball and attended games from Wednesday through Sunday.

“We have gotten to know a lot of the players on different MIAA teams, so it’s fun to watch them, too,” said Colette Earney, who echoed Coates’ appreciation for the community support.

“It’s wonderful from the business members to community members to moms and dads who bring their kids to games, we have been so pleased with the support the teams get,” she said. “The way the entire community embraces these players is heartwarming to parents.”

The number of Tiger fans sporting FHSU black and gold at Municipal Auditorium often rival the crowds cheering for teams located much closer to Kansas City than Hays.

From the pep rallies organized by the FHSU Foundation/Alumni at Johnny’s Tavern a few blocks from the auditorium to cheering them on in the stands, support for the Tigers is second to none.

Fort Hays State joined the MIAA in 2006 when the majority of the conference consisted of Missouri schools. The Tigers have shown that this western Kansas university belongs in the MIAA, revered as one of the top Division II conferences in the nation.

Year in and year out, FHSU’s attendance numbers at Gross Memorial Coliseum have ranked in the top echelon among Division II schools. That support carries over for away games as well.

“For being a school on the outskirts area of the MIAA, it’s amazing the turnout and support we get from our fans, both at home and on the road,” said Mark Johnson, in his 23rd year as head coach of the Tiger men’s team. “That’s what makes it fun for the players and us coaches. You want to be someplace where people care, and obviously at Fort Hays State, people care.”

Tiger women’s coach Talia Kahrs agrees. Kahrs is in her first year as head coach for the Tiger women, but she has been involved with the team for 15 years, both as a player and an assistant coach.

“The support we get from fans and the whole community is huge,” Kahrs said. “In our recruiting, it’s a big deal that we can say we are No. 1 or 2 in the nation for attendance. But I think the biggest thing is not only are they showing up at games, they really care about the girls. It’s a small-town feel. Even when you go to Walmart, people know the players.”

This marks the first time since 2016 that both men’s and women’s teams made the NCAA playoffs the same year.

While the men will play in Minnesota this weekend, the women will head south to Bethany, Okla., the site of the women’s Central Region tournament. The complete tournament brackets can be found on the FHSU athletics website.

So, FHSU fans have to make a decision which direction to travel for regionals, or they can listen to the Tigers by radio or by audio streaming.

Sondra Swift was not sure earlier this week if she would make the trip to Minnesota.

If not, she will still be following the action, glued to her radio and listening to the Voice of the Tigers, Gerard Wellbrock.

“Gerard does such a great job (broadcasting) the games,” she said, adding the utmost compliment to a radio broadcaster. “You feel like you are there.”

Most Tiger fans would probably agree that listening to Wellbrock and his color commentator for Tiger games, Dustin Armbruster, is the next-best thing to watching the games in person.

Wellbrock will be in Minnesota with the men’s team, and Armbruster will be in Oklahoma broadcasting the women’s games.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/98df0be4-9563-4bb3-9a64-2dfa4665cf50">Eagle Radio broadcast schedule</a>

Whether you are a grandparent or a parent, an avid fan or a sometimes fan, it’s a grand time to be a Tiger.

If you can’t make the regional games in person, tune in to your radio or click on the audio link on the Hays Post website.

You will definitely feel like you are there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710276888256.jpeg" alt="It’s a common sight to see Fort Hays State University fans filling a section of the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City during the annual MIAA basketball tournament in March. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>It’s a common sight to see Fort Hays State University fans filling a section of the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City during the annual MIAA basketball tournament in March. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostIt may be true that a leopard can’t change its spots.But there is a Tiger in this jungle who has at least changed the direction of his stripes. And he couldn’t be happier to do so.Hays native Bob Swift is a huge supporter of Fort Hays State University basketball and has attended nearly every game – home and away – over the past four years.Whether traveling the roads all across Kansas or to several surrounding states, he said he enjoys the road trips with his wife, Sondra.Swift has become such a fan of the Tigers, he plans to make the nine-and-a-half-hour road trip to Mankato, Minn., to watch the FHSU men’s team play in this weekend’s NCAA Division II Central Region Championships.Swift was a standout athlete in football, wrestling, and baseball growing up. He represented the Cadets of St. Joseph Military Academy in Hays during his high school days.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710276970855.jpeg" alt="Bob and Sondra Swift, second and third from right, are grandparents of two Tiger players, and they often take their grandsons and their teammates out for dinner. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bob and Sondra Swift, second and third from right, are grandparents of two Tiger players, and they often take their grandsons and their teammates out for dinner. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph’s started the school wrestling program his junior year, and his love of the sport was so deep that he was instrumental in helping start the Hays Youth Wrestling Club in Hays.The Swifts’ son, Shawn, wrestled as a youngster and all through high school, and their daughter, Stacy, served as the wrestling team manager at Hays High School.But Swift learned that your allegiances can change when your grandsons have chosen basketball as their winter sport.The Swifts started following their four grandchildren’s activities in Hutchinson from grade school on, and they were thrilled when their oldest grandson, Kaleb, chose to further his education and play basketball at FHSU.Just like that, the Tiger basketball program got two more dedicated fans.Sondra hasn’t been able to attend all the games over the years, but Bob has missed only a few of the 111 games that Kaleb has started since his freshman year.“When you have grandkids involved, it’s easy to support them,” Bob said. “What a blessing grandkids are.”The feelings are mutual for Kaleb and his younger brother, Lucas, also a member of the Tiger basketball team.“My grandpa and my dad (Joe Hammeke) have come to nearly every single game for four years,” Kaleb said. “I didn’t realize how much it means to me until I got older. It’s always great to see them after the games.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710277019843.jpeg" alt="Sondra Swift (all 5-feet, 1-inch of her) stood on a chair to look Tiger player Bjarni Jonsson in the eye, but still can’t match his 6-7 frame. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sondra Swift (all 5-feet, 1-inch of her) stood on a chair to look Tiger player Bjarni Jonsson in the eye, but still can’t match his 6-7 frame. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Not only has the Swifts’ house become a home-away-from-home for Kaleb and Lucas but for other Tiger players as well.They have hosted Thanksgiving dinners for several of the Tigers and often taken the Hammeke brothers and some of their teammates out for dinner on Thursdays. The Swifts have gotten especially close to Tiger senior Bjarni Jonsson, a native of Iceland.“Bjarni and I were roommates in the dorm my freshman year, and we’ve grown to be close friends, and my grandparents made him part of the family,” Kaleb said. “It’s been special for Bjarni to have someone here in Hays to be close to, but my grandparents do an incredible job of welcoming everyone. I feel so blessed. Not everyone is lucky enough to have grandparents like me.”The Swifts say they are the lucky ones.“It’s been great to be able to get to know these young people,” Bob said. “Those kids are all so polite. The coaches have done a great job – both recruiting kids of great character and having that kind of influence on them once they get here.”<h2>Teams appreciate fan support</h2>Bob Swift was in the stands at both of the Tiger men’s games at the MIAA Championships in Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo., last weekend. And many other loyal fans attended both the men’s and women’s games.Schuyler&nbsp;Coates, a director of development for the FHSU Foundation and Alumni Office, said there were too many long-time fans to name them all. However, one group surely won the prize for being the farthest from home – Jonsson’s family from Iceland.“I understand the alumni in the Kansas City area making some of the games, but I’m amazed of how many people from Hays travel for those games,” Coates said. “I think it’s so incredible how our community takes care of the college kids once they come here. You can talk to a lot of fans, and they can reel off the players’ stat lines better than the players themselves. We are so fortunate.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710277076960.jpeg" alt="Near and dear to the Swifts’ hearts – their grandchildren and the hometown Tigers. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to the Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Near and dear to the Swifts’ hearts – their grandchildren and the hometown Tigers. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to the Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Relatives of some of the Tiger women’s team made the trip from Iowa for the MIAA tournament, including Megan Earney’s parents, who haven’t missed many games&nbsp;in their daughter’s three years on the team. It’s a six-hour drive from the Earneys’ home in Des Moines to Hays, so some of the Tigers’ away games are even closer to their home.The drive to Kansas City was a relatively close one for Doug and Colette Earney, so they decided to make a week of basketball and attended games from Wednesday through Sunday.“We have gotten to know a lot of the players on different MIAA teams, so it’s fun to watch them, too,” said Colette Earney, who echoed Coates’ appreciation for the community support.“It’s wonderful from the business members to community members to moms and dads who bring their kids to games, we have been so pleased with the support the teams get,” she said. “The way the entire community embraces these players is heartwarming to parents.”The number of Tiger fans sporting FHSU black and gold at Municipal Auditorium often rival the crowds cheering for teams located much closer to Kansas City than Hays.From the pep rallies organized by the FHSU Foundation/Alumni at Johnny’s Tavern a few blocks from the auditorium to cheering them on in the stands, support for the Tigers is second to none.Fort Hays State joined the MIAA in 2006 when the majority of the conference consisted of Missouri schools. The Tigers have shown that this western Kansas university belongs in the MIAA, revered as one of the top Division II conferences in the nation.Year in and year out, FHSU’s attendance numbers at Gross Memorial Coliseum have ranked in the top echelon among Division II schools. That support carries over for away games as well.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710277128971.jpeg" alt="The FHSU cheerleaders and pep band led Tiger fans in cheers during pep rallies at Johnny’s Tavern in downtown Kansas City each day during the MIAA tournament. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The FHSU cheerleaders and pep band led Tiger fans in cheers during pep rallies at Johnny’s Tavern in downtown Kansas City each day during the MIAA tournament. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“For being a school on the outskirts area of the MIAA, it’s amazing the turnout and support we get from our fans, both at home and on the road,” said Mark Johnson, in his 23rd year as head coach of the Tiger men’s team. “That’s what makes it fun for the players and us coaches. You want to be someplace where people care, and obviously at Fort Hays State, people care.”Tiger women’s coach Talia Kahrs agrees. Kahrs is in her first year as head coach for the Tiger women, but she has been involved with the team for 15 years, both as a player and an assistant coach.“The support we get from fans and the whole community is huge,” Kahrs said. “In our recruiting, it’s a big deal that we can say we are No. 1 or 2 in the nation for attendance. But I think the biggest thing is not only are they showing up at games, they really care about the girls. It’s a small-town feel. Even when you go to Walmart, people know the players.”<h2>Both Tiger teams still alive</h2>This marks the first time since 2016 that both men’s and women’s teams made the NCAA playoffs the same year.While the men will play in Minnesota this weekend, the women will head south to Bethany, Okla., the site of the women’s Central Region tournament. The complete tournament brackets can be found on the FHSU athletics website.So, FHSU fans have to make a decision which direction to travel for regionals, or they can listen to the Tigers by radio or by audio streaming.Sondra Swift was not sure earlier this week if she would make the trip to Minnesota.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710277195957.jpeg" alt="Eagle Communications sportscasters Dustin Armbruster and Gerard Wellbrock prepared for the upcoming games as Tiger cheerleaders led the teams onto the court. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to the Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Communications sportscasters Dustin Armbruster and Gerard Wellbrock prepared for the upcoming games as Tiger cheerleaders led the teams onto the court. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to the Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>If not, she will still be following the action, glued to her radio and listening to the Voice of the Tigers, Gerard Wellbrock.“Gerard does such a great job (broadcasting) the games,” she said, adding the utmost compliment to a radio broadcaster. “You feel like you are there.”Most Tiger fans would probably agree that listening to Wellbrock and his color commentator for Tiger games, Dustin Armbruster, is the next-best thing to watching the games in person.<h2>Fans of both Tiger teams are in luck.</h2>Wellbrock will be in Minnesota with the men’s team, and Armbruster will be in Oklahoma broadcasting the women’s games.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/98df0be4-9563-4bb3-9a64-2dfa4665cf50">Eagle Radio broadcast schedule</a>Whether you are a grandparent or a parent, an avid fan or a sometimes fan, it’s a grand time to be a Tiger.If you can’t make the regional games in person, tune in to your radio or click on the audio link on the Hays Post website.You will definitely feel like you are there.

It’s a grand time of year for Tiger fans

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan, Kansas has named 219 high school seniors from 49 Northwest Kansas schools as winners in its 49th&nbsp;annual scholarship competition.

In selecting award winners, the Scholarship Committee considered proficiency in verbal and writing skills.&nbsp; Other important factors are academic records, test scores, and community service in which the student may have participated.

Seven students have won Hansen Leader of Tomorrow scholarships.&nbsp; These awards are for $10,000 and may be renewable for three additional years.&nbsp; Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a progress update describing progress towards educational goals.&nbsp; This year’s winners are:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a>Henry Fitzthum, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Addison Otte, Hays H.S.</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hannah Simmelink, Rock Hills H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bryce Beisner, Beloit H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nehemiah Gomendoza, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Anthony Marshall, Sacred Heart H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Annabelle Malsam, Trego Comm. H.S.

Thirty-five Hansen Scholar winners were selected.&nbsp; The stipend of $6500 was granted for one year and may be renewable for three additional years.&nbsp; Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a progress update describing progress towards educational goals.&nbsp; This year’s winners are:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Matthew Hendricks, Cheylin H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ella Bottner, Concordia H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Austin Carroll, Ellis H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Leonardo Hernandez, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brynn Kinderknecht, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hailey Klein, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hannah Klein, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Everett McClure, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Keira Wagstaff, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Layton Leiker, Ellsworth H.S.

Thaddeus Donley, Donley Ranch Schoolhouse&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isabelle Lindsley, Ellsworth H.S.

Ethan Gruebacher, Quinter H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Marley File, Beloit H.S.

John MacCrory, Beloit H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Schmitt, Beloit H.S.

Morgan Weston, Beloit H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wade David, Norton Comm. H.S.

Aiden Conrad, Osborne, H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shaan Bawa, Minneapolis H.S.

Camryn Reynolds, Republic Co. H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kaydence Grebowiec, Plainville H.S.

Emery Darby, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brock Dolton, Salina Central H.S.

Steven Talbott III, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alex Davidson, Salina South H.S.

Isabel Fulkerson, Salina South H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Krish Patel, Salina South H.S. / KAMS

Josiah Monday, SE of Saline H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gabrielle Ptacek, SE of Saline H.S.

Elyssa Rucker, Hoxie H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anna Starbuck, Colby H.S.

Avery Ziegler, Trego Comm. H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lydia Fox, Wallace Co. H.S.

Evan Pearce, Wallace Co. H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Foundation offered seventy scholarships for Hansen Student winners.&nbsp; These awards are for $4000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record.&nbsp; This year’s winners are:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hailey Begnoche, Clifton-Clyde H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Weston Girard, Clifton-Clyde H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alea Harvey, Clifton-Clyde H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Carlie Calgren, Concordia H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Emma Herman, Concordia H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Samantha Albin, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sophia Ballenger, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Christian Burkholder, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jessica Feyerherm, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Elijah McCullough, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Justus Nelson, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brygette Ross, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Aubree Thomas, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Evan Tschanz, Hays H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nathan Ward, Hays H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jacob Heimerman, TMP-Marian H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ashley Hipp, TMP-Marian H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Henry Meitner, TMP-Marian H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Peyton Schwartz, TMP-Marian H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Allison Weber, TMP-Marian H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Peyton Coonrod, Ellsworth H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MaKenna Haas, Ellsworth H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tatum Holthus, Quinter H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jacob Schultz, Sylvan-Lucas H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jerek Rexroat, Beloit H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Aubrey Gengler, St. John’s H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jenna Gengler, St. John’s H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarrett Hagen, Norton Comm. H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ashlyn Leiker, Norton Comm. H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ryann Manning, Norton Comm. H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Katzel Carlin, Osborne H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Samuel Kendig, Osborne H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qwinton Morris, Osborne H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gracie Riner, Osborne H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Malaina Giacoletto, Bennington H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Meleia Ingram, Bennington H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jaci Biggs, Minneapolis H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ryan Parks, Minneapolis H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Maggie Shupe, Minneapolis H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Audrey Belles, Phillipsburg H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Emma Hubert, Republic Co. H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sophia Rieke, Republic H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sara Whitney, Plainville H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rachel Dryden, Stockton H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hannah Gideon, Russell H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mary Arthur Stevens, Cornerstone Classical

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cooper Ivey, Sacred Heart H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Matteucci, Sacred Heart H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hunter Newell, Sacred Heart H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Emma Roberts, Sacred Heart H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corbin Banninger, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trent Deines, Salina Central H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Keelie Hill, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kegan Madison, Salina Central H.S.

Kevey Patrick, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Samuel Payne, Salina Central H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Azbey Peckham, Salina Central H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jaxson Rutz, Salina Central H.S.

Carson Crow, Salina South H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Drew Emerson, Salina South H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Allyson Exline, Salina South H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Destiny Hamilton, Salina South H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hannah Blevins, SE of Saline H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alex Christensen, SE of Saline H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isabelle Christensen, SE of Saline H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Benjamin Grauerholz, SE of Saline H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Austin Hanson, SE of Saline H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Emma Weiner, Golden Plains H.S.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kean Dinkel, Wallace Co. H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Zoey Gardner, Wallace Co. H.S.

For students interested in seeking competence through career and technical education in one of the pre-approved schools in Northwest Kansas, the Foundation offered the following scholarships. These awards are $4000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record. Winners of Career and Technical Education scholarships are:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jackson Boyson, Cheylin H.S.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kaylee Moberly, St. Francis H.S.

Local