By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

When the teams take the field Saturday for the 50th-Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Football game the city of Hays will be well
represented.

Hays High head coach Tony Crough is leading the West squad as
head coach this year, and he is joined on the West team by former Hays High
Indians Bryce Salmans and Evan Lind, as well as TMP-Marian graduate Kade Harris.

Crough said it is an honor to be selected by other coaches
to serve as head coach after previously serving as an assistant coach.

“It's not something you really dream of. It's not something
I really think of. It's just an honor when it happens,” Crough said. “We're
just very fortunate to be in position and really excited about it.”

He said its also special because the game is being played in
Hays at Lewis Field where he coaches the Indians on Friday nights during the
high school season and played for the Tigers in the 1990’s.

“There's not anywhere that I have more memories, more just
places that I've been a part of, than Lewis Field,” Crough said. “Back in high
school playing here against the Indians and then playing here in college and
then, you know, obviously, coaching here now and so for all to kind of come
full circle and be here coaching this game is a really cool deal.”

Crough is among five former Fort Hays State Tigers on the West
coaching staff, four of the five played together.

“Just knowing all these guys and getting to know him better,
and just a group of fun guys, and then it's really easy to get out here, and
it's just a bunch of guys that understand football,” he said.

Hays High’s Bryce Salmans said it’s been a fun experience.

“It's been really fun getting out here. I've made a lot of
new friends, and every single one of these guys is like my brother now. We're
just a team,” Salmans said. “We've been grinding every day to three practices a
day. And it's been really fun.”

Salmans said there is a lot of talent on the West team.

“Every single one of these kids is one of the best athletes
on their team, and they're chosen here for a reason. I just put my grind in, and I do my work. We're all just very good football players.”

TMP’s Kade Harris was the first selection for the Monarchs
since 2003 but suffered a knee injury in the semifinals of the state
basketball tournament and will not be able to play in the game. He still chose
to participate in the week’s activities as a manager.

“It was a great opportunity that they let me still come and
be a part of it and represent TMP at the Shrine Bowl in any
way shape or form," he said. "[I'm] just trying to get my knee back to something and get ready for Fort
Hays, but I'm just taking it day by day.”

Harris said it’s a good experience to take part in the week’s
events. 

“That's what we're here for. We get to go out and
participate in football, but it's mostly about the kids helping out,” Harris said.


Hays’ Evan Lind was a late addition to the West squad but
said he was getting ready for the upcoming season at Fort Hays State. He said he had a lot of fun getting involved in the game.

“When I got the call to come up, I was pretty excited. I
thought it'd be a lot of fun, and I thought it'd be a pretty cool thing to do”
Lind said. 

He said they were getting ready to win the game, but he has also enjoyed being a part of the week’s events.

“It's been really cool to kind of learn and see everything
that goes on that you don't really necessarily know about, and it's
pretty cool,” Lind said.

All three Hays players have signed with Fort Hays State and
will play for the Tigers in the fall.

Hays High's Cameron Kohlrus is also serving as a manager for the West squad.

Events surrounding the 50th annual Kansas Shrine
Bowl start on Friday with the golf tournament and Nex-Tech Wireless Community
Kickoff.

Saturday’s football game kicks off at 7 p.m. at Lewis Field
on the Fort Hays State University campus.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4d506a7c-d176-4edb-af6c-dedba3a0c9e1">RELATED STORY: Football and more: Students, staff arrive in Hays for 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689176174795.jpeg" alt="Shrine Bowl practice. Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Shrine Bowl practice. Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostWhen the teams take the field Saturday for the 50th-Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Football game the city of Hays will be well
represented.Hays High head coach Tony Crough is leading the West squad as
head coach this year, and he is joined on the West team by former Hays High
Indians Bryce Salmans and Evan Lind, as well as TMP-Marian graduate Kade Harris.Crough said it is an honor to be selected by other coaches
to serve as head coach after previously serving as an assistant coach.“It's not something you really dream of. It's not something
I really think of. It's just an honor when it happens,” Crough said. “We're
just very fortunate to be in position and really excited about it.”He said its also special because the game is being played in
Hays at Lewis Field where he coaches the Indians on Friday nights during the
high school season and played for the Tigers in the 1990’s.“There's not anywhere that I have more memories, more just
places that I've been a part of, than Lewis Field,” Crough said. “Back in high
school playing here against the Indians and then playing here in college and
then, you know, obviously, coaching here now and so for all to kind of come
full circle and be here coaching this game is a really cool deal.”Crough is among five former Fort Hays State Tigers on the West
coaching staff, four of the five played together.“Just knowing all these guys and getting to know him better,
and just a group of fun guys, and then it's really easy to get out here, and
it's just a bunch of guys that understand football,” he said.Hays High’s Bryce Salmans said it’s been a fun experience.“It's been really fun getting out here. I've made a lot of
new friends, and every single one of these guys is like my brother now. We're
just a team,” Salmans said. “We've been grinding every day to three practices a
day. And it's been really fun.”Salmans said there is a lot of talent on the West team.“Every single one of these kids is one of the best athletes
on their team, and they're chosen here for a reason. I just put my grind in, and I do my work. We're all just very good football players.” 
TMP’s Kade Harris was the first selection for the Monarchs
since 2003 but suffered a knee injury in the semifinals of the state
basketball tournament and will not be able to play in the game. He still chose
to participate in the week’s activities as a manager.“It was a great opportunity that they let me still come and
be a part of it and represent TMP at the Shrine Bowl in any
way shape or form," he said. "[I'm] just trying to get my knee back to something and get ready for Fort
Hays, but I'm just taking it day by day.”Harris said it’s a good experience to take part in the week’s
events. “That's what we're here for. We get to go out and
participate in football, but it's mostly about the kids helping out,” Harris said.
Hays’ Evan Lind was a late addition to the West squad but
said he was getting ready for the upcoming season at Fort Hays State. He said he had a lot of fun getting involved in the game.“When I got the call to come up, I was pretty excited. I
thought it'd be a lot of fun, and I thought it'd be a pretty cool thing to do”
Lind said. He said they were getting ready to win the game, but he has also enjoyed being a part of the week’s events.“It's been really cool to kind of learn and see everything
that goes on that you don't really necessarily know about, and it's
pretty cool,” Lind said.All three Hays players have signed with Fort Hays State and
will play for the Tigers in the fall.Hays High's Cameron Kohlrus is also serving as a manager for the West squad.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689271709340.jpeg" alt="Hays High's Cameron Kohlrus, Evan Lind, Bryce Salmans and coach Tony Crough. - Courtesy USD 489" />
 <figcaption>Hays High's Cameron Kohlrus, Evan Lind, Bryce Salmans and coach Tony Crough. - Courtesy USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>Events surrounding the 50th annual Kansas Shrine
Bowl start on Friday with the golf tournament and Nex-Tech Wireless Community
Kickoff.Saturday’s football game kicks off at 7 p.m. at Lewis Field
on the Fort Hays State University campus.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4d506a7c-d176-4edb-af6c-dedba3a0c9e1">RELATED STORY: Football and more: Students, staff arrive in Hays for 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl</a>

🏈 Hays High, TMP well represented at Shrine Bowl

This is day 10 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Based on July 1 conditions, Kansas' winter wheat production is forecast at 208 million bushels, down 15 percent from last year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Average yield is forecast at 32 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from 2022. Area to be harvested for grain is estimated at 6.5 million acres, down 2 percent from a year ago.

This week wheat coming in looks to be all over the board, according to Jim Bob Lewton, senior Vice President of Grain Operations with the Konza Coop in Pratt.&nbsp;

Harvest in and surrounding Pratt began June 20, about seven to ten days later than when they usually start. Yields have been averaging about 25 bushels per acre, but some fields have been better than others. Proteins have been high, reaching up into 12-13 percent. These recent rains have been causing test weights to dip, remaining in the 58-60 pounds per bushel region. Moisture has been varying with these recent rains, although the grain has remained dry enough for harvesting. Now all that is left is to wait for conditions to dry enough for farmers to get combines in the field.&nbsp;

Lewton predicts harvest will be complete next week. They anticipate that they will only receive 30-40 percent of their usual amount of wheat.&nbsp;

Chris Tanner from Norton reports his harvest began on July 4 and will last about another week, barring rain delays. He said harvest is far later than normal and he is fighting weed pressure.

“I’m amazed at the resiliency of wheat, given what it looked like through the winter,” he said, noting that the Westbred variety Grainfield has been doing well for him.

This year’s harvest is much better than last year for Tanner, who said this is going to be a “highly average year” for the acres he is able to harvest. Even so, about 30 percent of his wheat was zeroed out due to the drought.

Tanner reports that his test weights have been averaging 61 to 62 pounds per bushel, except for the wheat that was hailed on, which was only in the low 50s. Yields are ranging from 15 to 70 bushels per acre, with an overall farm average anticipated to be 25. Protein is about 13 percent.

﻿It was truly a family wheat harvest with four generations in the field. He was fortunate this year that his son, daughter, son-in-law and 6-month-old granddaughter were able to join him, his brother and his father for this year’s harvest.

Evan Lesser, who farms near Palco in Graham County, reports that harvest began on June 26 and he has about 2 days left.

Test weights are ranging from 60 to 64 pounds per bushel and protein measured 15 percent. May rains came a little too late to positively affect yield, but they did help with improving grain fill and test weights. Yields are ranging from 22 to 50 bushels per acre, depending on which fields caught the rain.

Lesser says yields were much better last year, with his 2022 farm average better than even his highest yields this year. Overall, this has been a disappointing year for his wheat, one of the worst since he started farming in 2010.&nbsp; He does, however, have high hopes for corn and grain sorghum.

He reported that Kansas Wheat Alliance’s KS Territory has been an excellent variety for him this year.

The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. 

To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. 

Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CqgUN6zt8VxCTkeqRgZL8UjPTg3fMK30q33IQCfmIab9S4vPVS2Vb1_ahR0wtaP929qeh-yN1X_X6bwnwCIHttnTq0JpMPq0uo8_UZEYcOT-&amp;c=4lYwSqyA_am9tGN719ak6IUD--iQbfmj27b26MWrxSiUq3k-k5FWjQ==&amp;ch=xF2Rez67Og5XtIxGEydhTOxBaL1vu7C74tN7eWkSwLzJ-gCL8sNSqA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6Cslpts-mkPoqgJb50EqE6lCWLhp9bWa7T7aLclWuLb9-Ewhv9zveVMK9H7O0ZLZysYYRd2-60_FkdUU7fn3Tg_LlCeawzLHE2773fUdClAGM&amp;c=4lYwSqyA_am9tGN719ak6IUD--iQbfmj27b26MWrxSiUq3k-k5FWjQ==&amp;ch=xF2Rez67Og5XtIxGEydhTOxBaL1vu7C74tN7eWkSwLzJ-gCL8sNSqA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CpV0N8SJAo1ZTmYbsThoiTFH04yPAZCU35KNXa8zGkLxx_ElQQfxsZZUYxeCqg5u-A61fwPqmt0TFvxsQBJmHK02R_h3gX3t4XQydj5PNpKV&amp;c=4lYwSqyA_am9tGN719ak6IUD--iQbfmj27b26MWrxSiUq3k-k5FWjQ==&amp;ch=xF2Rez67Og5XtIxGEydhTOxBaL1vu7C74tN7eWkSwLzJ-gCL8sNSqA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689254357028.png" alt="Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Wheat&nbsp;This is day 10 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Based on July 1 conditions, Kansas' winter wheat production is forecast at 208 million bushels, down 15 percent from last year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Average yield is forecast at 32 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from 2022. Area to be harvested for grain is estimated at 6.5 million acres, down 2 percent from a year ago.This week wheat coming in looks to be all over the board, according to Jim Bob Lewton, senior Vice President of Grain Operations with the Konza Coop in Pratt.&nbsp;Harvest in and surrounding Pratt began June 20, about seven to ten days later than when they usually start. Yields have been averaging about 25 bushels per acre, but some fields have been better than others. Proteins have been high, reaching up into 12-13 percent. These recent rains have been causing test weights to dip, remaining in the 58-60 pounds per bushel region. Moisture has been varying with these recent rains, although the grain has remained dry enough for harvesting. Now all that is left is to wait for conditions to dry enough for farmers to get combines in the field.&nbsp;Lewton predicts harvest will be complete next week. They anticipate that they will only receive 30-40 percent of their usual amount of wheat.&nbsp;Chris Tanner from Norton reports his harvest began on July 4 and will last about another week, barring rain delays. He said harvest is far later than normal and he is fighting weed pressure.“I’m amazed at the resiliency of wheat, given what it looked like through the winter,” he said, noting that the Westbred variety Grainfield has been doing well for him.This year’s harvest is much better than last year for Tanner, who said this is going to be a “highly average year” for the acres he is able to harvest. Even so, about 30 percent of his wheat was zeroed out due to the drought.Tanner reports that his test weights have been averaging 61 to 62 pounds per bushel, except for the wheat that was hailed on, which was only in the low 50s. Yields are ranging from 15 to 70 bushels per acre, with an overall farm average anticipated to be 25. Protein is about 13 percent.﻿It was truly a family wheat harvest with four generations in the field. He was fortunate this year that his son, daughter, son-in-law and 6-month-old granddaughter were able to join him, his brother and his father for this year’s harvest.Evan Lesser, who farms near Palco in Graham County, reports that harvest began on June 26 and he has about 2 days left.Test weights are ranging from 60 to 64 pounds per bushel and protein measured 15 percent. May rains came a little too late to positively affect yield, but they did help with improving grain fill and test weights. Yields are ranging from 22 to 50 bushels per acre, depending on which fields caught the rain.Lesser says yields were much better last year, with his 2022 farm average better than even his highest yields this year. Overall, this has been a disappointing year for his wheat, one of the worst since he started farming in 2010.&nbsp; He does, however, have high hopes for corn and grain sorghum.He reported that Kansas Wheat Alliance’s KS Territory has been an excellent variety for him this year.The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CqgUN6zt8VxCTkeqRgZL8UjPTg3fMK30q33IQCfmIab9S4vPVS2Vb1_ahR0wtaP929qeh-yN1X_X6bwnwCIHttnTq0JpMPq0uo8_UZEYcOT-&amp;c=4lYwSqyA_am9tGN719ak6IUD--iQbfmj27b26MWrxSiUq3k-k5FWjQ==&amp;ch=xF2Rez67Og5XtIxGEydhTOxBaL1vu7C74tN7eWkSwLzJ-gCL8sNSqA==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6Cslpts-mkPoqgJb50EqE6lCWLhp9bWa7T7aLclWuLb9-Ewhv9zveVMK9H7O0ZLZysYYRd2-60_FkdUU7fn3Tg_LlCeawzLHE2773fUdClAGM&amp;c=4lYwSqyA_am9tGN719ak6IUD--iQbfmj27b26MWrxSiUq3k-k5FWjQ==&amp;ch=xF2Rez67Og5XtIxGEydhTOxBaL1vu7C74tN7eWkSwLzJ-gCL8sNSqA==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uUHTjYUGm0agKg5bNkG36qziYiniLBG49kvxDmo0yJ90DSr5L8p6CpV0N8SJAo1ZTmYbsThoiTFH04yPAZCU35KNXa8zGkLxx_ElQQfxsZZUYxeCqg5u-A61fwPqmt0TFvxsQBJmHK02R_h3gX3t4XQydj5PNpKV&amp;c=4lYwSqyA_am9tGN719ak6IUD--iQbfmj27b26MWrxSiUq3k-k5FWjQ==&amp;ch=xF2Rez67Og5XtIxGEydhTOxBaL1vu7C74tN7eWkSwLzJ-gCL8sNSqA==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

KS Wheat: Norton area harvest late, weed-filled

The Hays Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the 10 candidates who are running for Hays USD 489 school board.&nbsp;

Those candidates are&nbsp;David Clingan,&nbsp;James Feyerherm,&nbsp;Jayme Goetz,&nbsp;Lori Hertel,&nbsp;Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth Ruder, Duff Watson,&nbsp;Dennis Wilkie and&nbsp;Derek Yarmer.

The Hays Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information and why they chose to run for school board.

Not enough candidates filed for the school board to require a primary. The general election will be Nov. 7. The voter registration deadline for the general election is Oct. 17.

Profession:&nbsp;mathematics instructor at Fort Hays State University

Are you an incumbent? If&nbsp;so,&nbsp;years served? No

Do you have children or grandchildren who attend Hays public school?&nbsp;

Yes, my oldest daughter is going to be a kindergartener at Roosevelt, and my youngest daughter is entering into USD 489's preschool this 2023-24 school year.

Please give a&nbsp;brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less.&nbsp; Being a lifelong Hays resident, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, a Master of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education all from Fort Hays State University. I taught for one year in Ellsworth before coming back home to teach at Hays High for seven years. This past year was my first year teaching at Fort Hays, and I have greatly enjoyed getting involved in all different levels of education. My husband works for Glassman Corporation here in town and I have two daughters in the school district, ages 3 and 5.

Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less.&nbsp; Growing up here in Hays, my husband and I were both products of USD 489. We were lucky to have been a part of a school system that put emphasis on relationships, rigor and relevance. The skills we obtained from each class were a vital part of our acceptance—and eventual success—at Fort Hays State University. While I did not set out to be a math teacher, after graduating from FHSU, I decided I wanted to provide the same kind of support and inspiration that I received while growing up, so I accepted a position at Ellsworth Junior/Senior High. After spending one year in Ellsworth, I returned home to teach at Hays High for seven years before accepting a position at Fort Hays as an instructor.&nbsp; Because of my extensive time spent in differentiated levels of education, I have seen firsthand how quality instruction can benefit our students and, consequently, our community.

As a potential board member, I look forward to working together to strengthen and unify our board. I strive to collectively come to agreements that benefit our students, staff members, community and district stakeholders. By improving relations with our district stakeholders, we can continue to ensure that USD 489 meets their mission of providing a&nbsp;quality&nbsp;learning experience for every student every day. Part of that means ensuring a positive work environment for those charged with educating our kids. With the recent bond passing, I am very excited that our staff and students will have improved facilities to foster a growth mindset, as well as keep them safe. I also believe in the importance of transparency and clear communication to members of the community who entrust their children and hard-earned tax dollars to this district. Each decision that comes through the board impacts someone in our community, and I feel it is our responsibility to research and ask questions to help us better understand our options in order to select the best one.

Hays is an amazing place to live. Our community fosters growth, encourages safety, and has a hometown feel that you can’t get anywhere else. As a potential school board member, I want to ensure that USD 489 continues to be the best place for our kids to learn and grow in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

Hays PostThe Hays Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the 10 candidates who are running for Hays USD 489 school board.&nbsp;Those candidates are&nbsp;David Clingan,&nbsp;James Feyerherm,&nbsp;Jayme Goetz,&nbsp;Lori Hertel,&nbsp;Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth Ruder, Duff Watson,&nbsp;Dennis Wilkie and&nbsp;Derek Yarmer.The Hays Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information and why they chose to run for school board.Not enough candidates filed for the school board to require a primary. The general election will be Nov. 7. The voter registration deadline for the general election is Oct. 17.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018869930.jpeg" alt="Jayme&nbsp;Goetz. C0urtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jayme&nbsp;Goetz. C0urtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Jayme Goetz</h2>Age:&nbsp;30Profession:&nbsp;mathematics instructor at Fort Hays State UniversityAre you an incumbent? If&nbsp;so,&nbsp;years served? NoDo you have children or grandchildren who attend Hays public school?&nbsp;Yes, my oldest daughter is going to be a kindergartener at Roosevelt, and my youngest daughter is entering into USD 489's preschool this 2023-24 school year.Please give a&nbsp;brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less.&nbsp; Being a lifelong Hays resident, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, a Master of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education all from Fort Hays State University. I taught for one year in Ellsworth before coming back home to teach at Hays High for seven years. This past year was my first year teaching at Fort Hays, and I have greatly enjoyed getting involved in all different levels of education. My husband works for Glassman Corporation here in town and I have two daughters in the school district, ages 3 and 5.Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less.&nbsp; Growing up here in Hays, my husband and I were both products of USD 489. We were lucky to have been a part of a school system that put emphasis on relationships, rigor and relevance. The skills we obtained from each class were a vital part of our acceptance—and eventual success—at Fort Hays State University. While I did not set out to be a math teacher, after graduating from FHSU, I decided I wanted to provide the same kind of support and inspiration that I received while growing up, so I accepted a position at Ellsworth Junior/Senior High. After spending one year in Ellsworth, I returned home to teach at Hays High for seven years before accepting a position at Fort Hays as an instructor.&nbsp; Because of my extensive time spent in differentiated levels of education, I have seen firsthand how quality instruction can benefit our students and, consequently, our community.As a potential board member, I look forward to working together to strengthen and unify our board. I strive to collectively come to agreements that benefit our students, staff members, community and district stakeholders. By improving relations with our district stakeholders, we can continue to ensure that USD 489 meets their mission of providing a&nbsp;quality&nbsp;learning experience for every student every day. Part of that means ensuring a positive work environment for those charged with educating our kids. With the recent bond passing, I am very excited that our staff and students will have improved facilities to foster a growth mindset, as well as keep them safe. I also believe in the importance of transparency and clear communication to members of the community who entrust their children and hard-earned tax dollars to this district. Each decision that comes through the board impacts someone in our community, and I feel it is our responsibility to research and ask questions to help us better understand our options in order to select the best one.Hays is an amazing place to live. Our community fosters growth, encourages safety, and has a hometown feel that you can’t get anywhere else. As a potential school board member, I want to ensure that USD 489 continues to be the best place for our kids to learn and grow in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

Hays USD 489 school board candidate: Jayme Goetz

HaysMed is proud to announce that Sarah Leiker, LPN, has been honored with the Lanita Smith LPN of the Year award. 

This recognition is bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to quality patient care, compassion, service to others, and a steadfast dedication to providing exceptional customer service.

The Lanita Smith LPN of the Year award pays tribute to the remarkable legacy of Lanita Smith, a former nurse at HaysMed. Lanita's profound impact on patients' lives and her unwavering dedication to her role as an LPN serve as inspiration for this esteemed honor. The award celebrates LPNs who emulate Lanita's exceptional qualities of kindness, compassion, concern, and friendliness, while also embodying a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration within the patient care community.

Leiker, an exceptional LPN, works diligently in the surgery clinic, where she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the highest level of care for her patients. Her unwavering commitment to delivering quality healthcare, paired with her empathetic approach and willingness to go the extra mile, has made her a truly outstanding member of the HaysMed team.

Terry Siek, chief nursing officer and vice president for patient care at HaysMed, expressed gratitude to Leiker for her exemplary service as a nurse and extended sincere congratulations on being awarded the 2023 Lanita Smith LPN of the Year.&nbsp; Siek also acknowledged and appreciated the presence of everyone who gathered to surprise Leiker on this occasion.

Leiker's dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence make her a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional nurse. HaysMed extends its warmest appreciation to Sarah Leiker and her unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care to her patients.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689023051267.jpeg" alt="Sarah Leiker (Photo courtesy HaysMed)" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Leiker (Photo courtesy HaysMed)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;HaysMedHaysMed is proud to announce that Sarah Leiker, LPN, has been honored with the Lanita Smith LPN of the Year award. This recognition is bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to quality patient care, compassion, service to others, and a steadfast dedication to providing exceptional customer service.The Lanita Smith LPN of the Year award pays tribute to the remarkable legacy of Lanita Smith, a former nurse at HaysMed. Lanita's profound impact on patients' lives and her unwavering dedication to her role as an LPN serve as inspiration for this esteemed honor. The award celebrates LPNs who emulate Lanita's exceptional qualities of kindness, compassion, concern, and friendliness, while also embodying a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration within the patient care community.Leiker, an exceptional LPN, works diligently in the surgery clinic, where she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the highest level of care for her patients. Her unwavering commitment to delivering quality healthcare, paired with her empathetic approach and willingness to go the extra mile, has made her a truly outstanding member of the HaysMed team.Terry Siek, chief nursing officer and vice president for patient care at HaysMed, expressed gratitude to Leiker for her exemplary service as a nurse and extended sincere congratulations on being awarded the 2023 Lanita Smith LPN of the Year.&nbsp; Siek also acknowledged and appreciated the presence of everyone who gathered to surprise Leiker on this occasion.Leiker's dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence make her a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional nurse. HaysMed extends its warmest appreciation to Sarah Leiker and her unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care to her patients.

Leiker recognized as HaysMed LPN of the Year

If your doctor gave you a prescription for exercise, would you follow it? 

Exercise is like medicine for many reasons. Obviously, physical activity strengthens muscles, and it also prevents blood vessels from getting damaged and clogged. In turn, this helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and even some types of dementia. 

In fact, regular exercise can be as good as medication at preventing diabetes and heart disease in at-risk people. And, it is even more effective than drugs for stroke recovery. 

You can realize both immediate and long-term benefits from physical activity. Some immediate benefits include:

· better mood · improved memory · reduced fatigue · reduced anxiety and depression

The first step in this change process: Be aware that you don’t have to make lots of changes in physical activity all at once. That can lead to feeling overwhelmed. 

Instead, start by improving just one or two of your lifestyle choices. You might begin to walk during part of your lunch hour, park a little farther away at the store, or try a standing desk. 

Nudge yourself with one small habit at a time, and you can reap the rewards of a healthier lifestyle over time.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>If your doctor gave you a prescription for exercise, would you follow it? Exercise is like medicine for many reasons. Obviously, physical activity strengthens muscles, and it also prevents blood vessels from getting damaged and clogged. In turn, this helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and even some types of dementia. In fact, regular exercise can be as good as medication at preventing diabetes and heart disease in at-risk people. And, it is even more effective than drugs for stroke recovery. You can realize both immediate and long-term benefits from physical activity. Some immediate benefits include:· better mood · improved memory · reduced fatigue · reduced anxiety and depression So, where do you begin? The first step in this change process: Be aware that you don’t have to make lots of changes in physical activity all at once. That can lead to feeling overwhelmed. Instead, start by improving just one or two of your lifestyle choices. You might begin to walk during part of your lunch hour, park a little farther away at the store, or try a standing desk. Nudge yourself with one small habit at a time, and you can reap the rewards of a healthier lifestyle over time.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Small changes equal big rewards

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689174938076.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

Congratulations to our most recent instant finalists in the Keystone Light UTV Giveaway.

&nbsp;Jarett Pfannenstiel from Hays and Mason Ruder from Hays

Pfannenstiel and Ruder&nbsp;signed up at Discount Smokes Friday.

Your next chance to sign up is from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the Trego County Fair and Friday at Kaiser Liquor.

Mike Holliday will be live near the beer garden tonight at the Trego County Fair. The fair is also offering a free barbecue feed.

Here’s a full schedule of Trego County Fair event.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tregocountyfair.com/schedule" target="_blank">http://www.tregocountyfair.com/schedule</a>

The Keystone Light UTV Giveaway is made possible by A&amp;A Coors and Advantage Glass Plus.

If you would like the  Keystone Light UTV to come to your business, call 785-259-8000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688389669905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to our most recent instant finalists in the Keystone Light UTV Giveaway. &nbsp;Jarett Pfannenstiel from Hays and Mason Ruder from HaysPfannenstiel and Ruder&nbsp;signed up at Discount Smokes Friday. Your next chance to sign up is from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the Trego County Fair and Friday at Kaiser Liquor.Mike Holliday will be live near the beer garden tonight at the Trego County Fair. The fair is also offering a free barbecue feed.Here’s a full schedule of Trego County Fair event.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tregocountyfair.com/schedule" target="_blank">http://www.tregocountyfair.com/schedule</a>The Keystone Light UTV Giveaway is made possible by A&amp;A Coors and Advantage Glass Plus.If you would like the Keystone Light UTV to come to your business, call 785-259-8000.

Discount Smokes UTV finalists named; next chance to win Trego County Fair today

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Smith Center&nbsp;public water supply system located in Smith&nbsp;County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:&nbsp;

The advisory took effect on&nbsp;July 12,&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.&nbsp;KDHE&nbsp;officials issued&nbsp;the advisory because&nbsp;of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system.  Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.&nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-282-3812&nbsp;or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MTIuNzk1NzI4MjEifQ.VQHT04QAV07yKOggnlW3pMd7xs67SCDQ7nG3DMAGE9w/s/1305913623/br/222557692351-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689197825593.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Smith Center&nbsp;public water supply system located in Smith&nbsp;County.&nbsp;&nbsp;Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.&nbsp;</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.&nbsp;</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.&nbsp;</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on&nbsp;July 12,&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.&nbsp;KDHE&nbsp;officials issued&nbsp;the advisory because&nbsp;of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system.  Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. &nbsp;&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.&nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-282-3812&nbsp;or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MTIuNzk1NzI4MjEifQ.VQHT04QAV07yKOggnlW3pMd7xs67SCDQ7nG3DMAGE9w/s/1305913623/br/222557692351-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.&nbsp;

KDHE issues boil water advisory for Smith Center

LOS ANGELES&nbsp;– A federal grand jury Wednesday returned an indictment against a man from Hays, Kansas and a man from West Los Angeles who allegedly ran a decade-long telemarketing scam primarily targeting elderly victims that fraudulently obtained more than $4.5 million via false promises to help victims sell or rent their timeshare properties.

Michael Alexai Dragunov, 44, whose aliases include “Michael Anthony Farole,” “Michael LeFleur,” “Victor Romano,” and “James Logan,” is charged in the 10-count indictment along with Christopher Michael Lang, 42, of Hays, Kansas, whose aliases include “Scott Graham,” “Don Lewis,” and “Jack Morgan.”

Both defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and nine counts of wire fraud in connection with telemarketing and email marketing targeting the elderly.

Dragunov was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in this matter on June 28 and was ordered jailed without bond. His arraignment is scheduled for July 18 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Lang was arrested in Kansas on June 28 and is expected to be arraigned in Los Angeles in the coming weeks.

According to the indictment, from August 2013 to June 2023, Dragunov and Lang purported to represent companies that provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. The companies included Premier Marketing LLC, CML Marketing Specialists Inc., Condo Rental Associates LLC, and Paramount Media LLC.

Dragunov and Lang allegedly contacted victims, many of whom were elderly, and, to conceal the fraudulent scheme and their true identities, the defendants also used Skype messaging service phone numbers and used aliases instead of their true names.

Victims allegedly were induced to enter into agreements with the defendants’ telemarketing companies – agreements that were formalized in documents that were faxed or sent electronically – by falsely representing that the telemarketing companies would assist the victims with selling or renting their timeshare properties for a “one time” advertising fee.

Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, no victim received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised, the indictment alleges.

To dupe victims into sending them more money, Dragunov and Lang allegedly told their victims a series of lies, including that the fees being requested would be refunded or reimbursed to the victims upon completion of the sale or rental of the victims’ timeshare, that the victims still owed taxes on the timeshare properties, and if the victims tried to dispute their payments to the telemarketing companies, the victims would automatically lose their disputes and lose all funds paid and any proceeds from a sale or rental of their timeshares.

To create the false impression that the telemarketing companies were legitimate, Dragunov and Lang pretended to be the companies’ customers and engaged in hundreds of phony small transactions with the companies’ payment processing accounts, according to the indictment.

Dragunov and Lang also allegedly concealed material facts from the victims, including the fact that their money was being used to personally enrich themselves.

If convicted of all charges, Dragunov and Lang would face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Henry County (Ohio) Sheriff’s Department; Hays (Kansas) Police Department; and United States Marshals Service provided substantial assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688408367149.png" alt="Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES&nbsp;– A federal grand jury Wednesday returned an indictment against a man from Hays, Kansas and a man from West Los Angeles who allegedly ran a decade-long telemarketing scam primarily targeting elderly victims that fraudulently obtained more than $4.5 million via false promises to help victims sell or rent their timeshare properties.Michael Alexai Dragunov, 44, whose aliases include “Michael Anthony Farole,” “Michael LeFleur,” “Victor Romano,” and “James Logan,” is charged in the 10-count indictment along with Christopher Michael Lang, 42, of Hays, Kansas, whose aliases include “Scott Graham,” “Don Lewis,” and “Jack Morgan.”Both defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and nine counts of wire fraud in connection with telemarketing and email marketing targeting the elderly.Dragunov was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in this matter on June 28 and was ordered jailed without bond. His arraignment is scheduled for July 18 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Lang was arrested in Kansas on June 28 and is expected to be arraigned in Los Angeles in the coming weeks.According to the indictment, from August 2013 to June 2023, Dragunov and Lang purported to represent companies that provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. The companies included Premier Marketing LLC, CML Marketing Specialists Inc., Condo Rental Associates LLC, and Paramount Media LLC.Dragunov and Lang allegedly contacted victims, many of whom were elderly, and, to conceal the fraudulent scheme and their true identities, the defendants also used Skype messaging service phone numbers and used aliases instead of their true names.Victims allegedly were induced to enter into agreements with the defendants’ telemarketing companies – agreements that were formalized in documents that were faxed or sent electronically – by falsely representing that the telemarketing companies would assist the victims with selling or renting their timeshare properties for a “one time” advertising fee.Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, no victim received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised, the indictment alleges.To dupe victims into sending them more money, Dragunov and Lang allegedly told their victims a series of lies, including that the fees being requested would be refunded or reimbursed to the victims upon completion of the sale or rental of the victims’ timeshare, that the victims still owed taxes on the timeshare properties, and if the victims tried to dispute their payments to the telemarketing companies, the victims would automatically lose their disputes and lose all funds paid and any proceeds from a sale or rental of their timeshares.To create the false impression that the telemarketing companies were legitimate, Dragunov and Lang pretended to be the companies’ customers and engaged in hundreds of phony small transactions with the companies’ payment processing accounts, according to the indictment.Dragunov and Lang also allegedly concealed material facts from the victims, including the fact that their money was being used to personally enrich themselves.If convicted of all charges, Dragunov and Lang would face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count.An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Henry County (Ohio) Sheriff’s Department; Hays (Kansas) Police Department; and United States Marshals Service provided substantial assistance.

Hays man charged with wire fraud in $4.5M timeshare scheme

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

A few days ago, Hays resident Mary Jacobs shared a quote on Facebook with her youngest son.

“Dreams only come true if you go for them and work hard for it!” she said, tagging Carson Jacobs along with a YouTube video featuring Miley Cyrus’ song, “The Climb.”

Carson realized a lifelong dream at 5:04 p.m. Tuesday.

Shortly after getting to practice for the Hays Larks summer collegiate baseball team, his phone lit up with an incoming call.

It was a moment for which he had been anxiously awaiting all day long.

A scout from the Chicago White Sox was on the other end of the line, saying they wanted this 6-foot, 9-inch right-handed pitcher who has thrown 99 miles-per-hour fastballs to join their organization.

A fan of the Philadelphia Phillies growing up, Carson has now changed allegiances. He will sign with the White Sox as a free agent on Saturday.

While his dream of playing Major League Baseball had become reality, it didn’t come without a lot of hard work and a few stressful days – especially Tuesday.

After being told by scouts and his college coach that he could go on the third day of this year’s draft, family members and friends gathered at the Jacobs country home just outside Hays.

Nine baseball caps sat on a shelf, representing teams that had contacted him in the last few days. In all, more than half of the 30 Major League teams had shown interest in Carson.

The nervous contingent watched as each round flashed up other names that included lots of pitchers.

Carson’s girlfriend, Megan Reilly, sat closely by his side with his mom and dad, Tom, and other family members nearby.

His older brother, Casey Jacobs, and his family had come from Colorado to help support Carson, as did his sister, Rachel LaBarge, and her family. Oldest sister Ashley Campbell was in Hays for the weekend but had to return home earlier this week. So she kept in touch with the days happenings Tuesday by phone.

At times it was deathly quiet, especially whenever Carson’s phone beeped with a text message or rang with a call.

The family jumped for joy and began celebrating after an Atlanta Braves scout called Carson and told him they were putting him on their board.

That phrase, they soon learned, didn’t necessarily mean he was getting drafted.

Round after round went by as all eyes kept glued to the television screen.

Then came a call from the Tampa Bay Rays, although reactions this time were a little more reserved.

The tension in the room mounted as more waiting ensued with no official call from the Rays or Braves.

All the while, Carson kept relatively calm – at least outwardly – as he kept in constant contact by texting with Tyler Oakes, his coach at North Dakota State University.

“Coach Oakes talked to me and didn’t allow me to get frustrated, and that really helped,” Carson said. “We talked about how God gave me the opportunity for this, and I was able to keep my composure. This is my job now. This is my career. It’s time to be a grown-up.”

Oakes said Carson was being looked at by several teams but “you just never know with the MLB draft and how it will shake out.”

“He’s a great kid, and I was hoping he would get an opportunity,” Oakes said. “I told him an opportunity was going to come, whether during the draft or post-draft, and I’m glad he’s getting a shot.”

That’s all Carson has ever wanted – the chance to prove himself.

“At one point, I said if a team gave me a plane ticket and a sandwich, I’d go,” he said.

Faces dropped as Tampa Bay at No. 603 and Atlanta at 609 chose different players. Only five selections remained in the draft, and none of those turned out to be Carson.

After the final player’s name appeared on the screen at 4:02 p.m., the Jacobs family started to break up, and Carson began getting ready for that night’s Larks game.

Little did he know that his life would change forever an hour later.

Carson said he tried not to think on the way into town about the disappointment of not being drafted.

“I thought I just need to get back to work and do my thing, start playing catch and get the feel of the baseball again,” he said.

Once Carson reached familiar territory in Larks Park, he hung out in the locker room with teammates for a bit, then headed to the field. Just inside the side gate near the dugout, he got the call from the White Sox.

In just a few minutes, he received an email informing him of his plane ticket and hotel room in Charlotte, N.C., where he will join the White Sox draft class mini camp. Then it’s on to Phoenix, Ariz., for the Summer League Classic.

It was ironic that Carson got the call at Larks Park, where he spent time as a youngster watching the hometown collegiate team growing up, played on the field with youth teams, then joined the Larks as a pitcher this summer.

He grew up saying he wanted to play for the Hays Larks and then become a Major League player. He now has realized both dreams. And Carson’s Larks playing days are over now as he heads to the next level.

Carson knows it will be a challenge to reach the Majors, but he looks forward to the climb from instructional and rookie ball to the upper levels of the league.

After calling his parents from Larks Park, it didn’t take his mom long to announce on Facebook that “my baby is now a White Sox!”

Her Facebook page this morning showed more than 500 responses and comments congratulating Carson and his family on his big news.

No doubt, one of the favorite comments for this mom is the one from her 6-foot-9 baby, reading “I love you, momma.”

It all began in T-Ball in Hays back in the late 2000s.

“Like any little kid who likes sports, I grew up wanting to play professional sports,” Carson said. “For me, it was always baseball.”

He excelled as an outfielder and first baseman while getting a little pitching duty all throughout youth baseball. Once he reached high school age, he grew from a 5-foot-11 freshman to 6-6 his senior year.

Following his junior year at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, Carson played for a competitive team out of Wichita, where he became noticed by scouts from Wichita’s Newman University.

Newman, an NCAA Division II school, began contacting Carson, and he decided to sign with the Jets during the fall semester of his senior season.

It turned out to be a good decision. A few months later, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, and the spring seasons for American athletes in the class of 2020 were canceled.

Many youngsters didn’t ever get a chance to play college ball because of those canceled senior seasons.

After a summer of playing for the Hays Eagles, Carson took off for Newman. Another turn of events proved fortuitous when the Jets had him listed as a right-handed pitcher despite the fact that he had signed as a position player.

“I was a freshman and didn’t want to ask questions,” he said. “I liked to pitch. I was OK with it.”

There was a change in coaches at Newman by the time Carson got there, and after what he called an “OK” freshman season, he had a breakout summer season for the Newton Rebels in 2021. He set the record for both the Rebels and the Sunflower League for most strikeouts (78) in a single season.

That’s when Carson began to really learn the importance of networking.

The Rebels coach saw great potential in Carson and told him to get to the next level, he should consider playing for Gateway Community College in Phoenix, Ariz., which was being coached by Rob Shabansky, the pitching coach for USA Baseball.

So Carson packed his bags for Arizona, where he ultimately earned a scholarship to North Dakota State.

All the while, Carson kept growing – and getting stronger. From that 6-6, 175-pound high school senior season, Carson now is listed at 6-9, 235 pounds.

Following his junior season at NDSU, he agreed to come home and play for the Hays Larks this summer.

Carson had one year of eligibility remaining at North Dakota State and wants to finish his degree in elementary education and maybe coach someday.

“That’s the first thing I asked him,” Carson said of his conversation with the White Sox scout, “if they would pay for my schooling, and he said, ‘Yes.’ ”

Coach Oakes said he would have loved to have Carson back on his team this coming year but is always happy when his players reach the next level.

“Carson has extreme upside and project ability,” Oakes said. “The sky is the limit for him. Getting in the White Sox organization and getting to work, he’ll have a chance to continue to tap into his potential. I couldn’t be happier for him and his family.”

This 21-year-old is wise beyond his years while acknowledging that he wouldn’t be where he is now – or where he plans to go – without his faith in God and huge support from his family.

Carson’s mom shakes her head while talking about the time Carson told them he wanted to transfer from Newman to Gateway.

“Tom and I were on vacation, and Carson calls and tells its he wants to play ball in Phoenix,” Mary said. “We were wondering, ‘What is he thinking, giving up an NCAA Division II scholarship to go to a community college with no scholarship and no housing?’ But we told him if that’s what he wanted to do, it was his responsibility to figure it out. By the time we got home, he had had a zoom meeting with the coach and found two roommates.”

As it turned out, the move to Arizona proved to be another gateway to Carson’s journey to the Major Leagues.

“I chose to leave Kansas to follow a dream of mine, and my parents – although they were a little iffy at first – allowed me to do what I love,” Carson said of his parents, who have missed very few of his games his entire career. “And for my sister to come support me today, knowing she’s about to have a baby, is incredible.”

He was referring to Rachel, who was due to give birth to her third child on July 16. Her dad picked her up at their Wichita home Monday, and her mom had planned to take her home today.

As has become custom for the Jacobs family, plans changed. Rachel gave birth to another baby boy at Hays Medical Center at 4:07 this morning, making a threesome for her and her husband, Justin.

It’s a week the Jacobs family will never forget. And it’s a sure bet that family, including the newest member of the Jacobs clan, will soon be wearing White Sox clothing in support of their favorite baseball player.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689185099227.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689185208013.jpeg" alt="Hays native Carson Jacobs, a former pitcher for North Dakota State University, now is a member of the Chicago White Sox. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays native Carson Jacobs, a former pitcher for North Dakota State University, now is a member of the Chicago White Sox. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostA few days ago, Hays resident Mary Jacobs shared a quote on Facebook with her youngest son.“Dreams only come true if you go for them and work hard for it!” she said, tagging Carson Jacobs along with a YouTube video featuring Miley Cyrus’ song, “The Climb.”Carson realized a lifelong dream at 5:04 p.m. Tuesday.Shortly after getting to practice for the Hays Larks summer collegiate baseball team, his phone lit up with an incoming call.It was a moment for which he had been anxiously awaiting all day long.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689186103199.jpeg" alt="Hays Larks player Carson Jacobs sports a cap of his new favorite Major League team — and his new employer. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays Larks player Carson Jacobs sports a cap of his new favorite Major League team — and his new employer. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A scout from the Chicago White Sox was on the other end of the line, saying they wanted this 6-foot, 9-inch right-handed pitcher who has thrown 99 miles-per-hour fastballs to join their organization.A fan of the Philadelphia Phillies growing up, Carson has now changed allegiances. He will sign with the White Sox as a free agent on Saturday.While his dream of playing Major League Baseball had become reality, it didn’t come without a lot of hard work and a few stressful days – especially Tuesday.After being told by scouts and his college coach that he could go on the third day of this year’s draft, family members and friends gathered at the Jacobs country home just outside Hays.Nine baseball caps sat on a shelf, representing teams that had contacted him in the last few days. In all, more than half of the 30 Major League teams had shown interest in Carson.The nervous contingent watched as each round flashed up other names that included lots of pitchers.Carson’s girlfriend, Megan Reilly, sat closely by his side with his mom and dad, Tom, and other family members nearby.His older brother, Casey Jacobs, and his family had come from Colorado to help support Carson, as did his sister, Rachel LaBarge, and her family. Oldest sister Ashley Campbell was in Hays for the weekend but had to return home earlier this week. So she kept in touch with the days happenings Tuesday by phone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689186167508.jpeg" alt="Family members gather on the basement couch to watch the Major League Baseball draft with Carson Jacobs. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>Family members gather on the basement couch to watch the Major League Baseball draft with Carson Jacobs. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure>At times it was deathly quiet, especially whenever Carson’s phone beeped with a text message or rang with a call.The family jumped for joy and began celebrating after an Atlanta Braves scout called Carson and told him they were putting him on their board.That phrase, they soon learned, didn’t necessarily mean he was getting drafted.Round after round went by as all eyes kept glued to the television screen.Then came a call from the Tampa Bay Rays, although reactions this time were a little more reserved.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689186226091.jpeg" alt="Caps representing Major League teams that recently contacted Carson Jacobs line a shelf in the family living room. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>Caps representing Major League teams that recently contacted Carson Jacobs line a shelf in the family living room. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure>The tension in the room mounted as more waiting ensued with no official call from the Rays or Braves.All the while, Carson kept relatively calm – at least outwardly – as he kept in constant contact by texting with Tyler Oakes, his coach at North Dakota State University.“Coach Oakes talked to me and didn’t allow me to get frustrated, and that really helped,” Carson said. “We talked about how God gave me the opportunity for this, and I was able to keep my composure. This is my job now. This is my career. It’s time to be a grown-up.”Oakes said Carson was being looked at by several teams but “you just never know with the MLB draft and how it will shake out.”“He’s a great kid, and I was hoping he would get an opportunity,” Oakes said. “I told him an opportunity was going to come, whether during the draft or post-draft, and I’m glad he’s getting a shot.”That’s all Carson has ever wanted – the chance to prove himself.“At one point, I said if a team gave me a plane ticket and a sandwich, I’d go,” he said.Faces dropped as Tampa Bay at No. 603 and Atlanta at 609 chose different players. Only five selections remained in the draft, and none of those turned out to be Carson.After the final player’s name appeared on the screen at 4:02 p.m., the Jacobs family started to break up, and Carson began getting ready for that night’s Larks game.Little did he know that his life would change forever an hour later.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689186288004.jpeg" alt="Youngsters gathering around Carson Jacobs after the game was a common sight at Larks Park this summer. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Youngsters gathering around Carson Jacobs after the game was a common sight at Larks Park this summer. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Carson said he tried not to think on the way into town about the disappointment of not being drafted.“I thought I just need to get back to work and do my thing, start playing catch and get the feel of the baseball again,” he said.Once Carson reached familiar territory in Larks Park, he hung out in the locker room with teammates for a bit, then headed to the field. Just inside the side gate near the dugout, he got the call from the White Sox.In just a few minutes, he received an email informing him of his plane ticket and hotel room in Charlotte, N.C., where he will join the White Sox draft class mini camp. Then it’s on to Phoenix, Ariz., for the Summer League Classic.It was ironic that Carson got the call at Larks Park, where he spent time as a youngster watching the hometown collegiate team growing up, played on the field with youth teams, then joined the Larks as a pitcher this summer.He grew up saying he wanted to play for the Hays Larks and then become a Major League player. He now has realized both dreams. And Carson’s Larks playing days are over now as he heads to the next level.Carson knows it will be a challenge to reach the Majors, but he looks forward to the climb from instructional and rookie ball to the upper levels of the league.After calling his parents from Larks Park, it didn’t take his mom long to announce on Facebook that “my baby is now a White Sox!”Her Facebook page this morning showed more than 500 responses and comments congratulating Carson and his family on his big news.No doubt, one of the favorite comments for this mom is the one from her 6-foot-9 baby, reading “I love you, momma.”<h2>Carson’s unique journey to MLB</h2>It all began in T-Ball in Hays back in the late 2000s.“Like any little kid who likes sports, I grew up wanting to play professional sports,” Carson said. “For me, it was always baseball.”He excelled as an outfielder and first baseman while getting a little pitching duty all throughout youth baseball. Once he reached high school age, he grew from a 5-foot-11 freshman to 6-6 his senior year.Following his junior year at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, Carson played for a competitive team out of Wichita, where he became noticed by scouts from Wichita’s Newman University.Newman, an NCAA Division II school, began contacting Carson, and he decided to sign with the Jets during the fall semester of his senior season.It turned out to be a good decision. A few months later, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, and the spring seasons for American athletes in the class of 2020 were canceled.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689186356467.jpeg" alt="Carson Jacobs has had plenty of family support over the years. Here he is pictured with his parents, Tom and Mary Jacobs; his girlfriend, Megan Reilly; and one of his sisters, Rachel LaBarge, far right, and her family. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Carson Jacobs has had plenty of family support over the years. Here he is pictured with his parents, Tom and Mary Jacobs; his girlfriend, Megan Reilly; and one of his sisters, Rachel LaBarge, far right, and her family. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Many youngsters didn’t ever get a chance to play college ball because of those canceled senior seasons.After a summer of playing for the Hays Eagles, Carson took off for Newman. Another turn of events proved fortuitous when the Jets had him listed as a right-handed pitcher despite the fact that he had signed as a position player.“I was a freshman and didn’t want to ask questions,” he said. “I liked to pitch. I was OK with it.”There was a change in coaches at Newman by the time Carson got there, and after what he called an “OK” freshman season, he had a breakout summer season for the Newton Rebels in 2021. He set the record for both the Rebels and the Sunflower League for most strikeouts (78) in a single season.That’s when Carson began to really learn the importance of networking.The Rebels coach saw great potential in Carson and told him to get to the next level, he should consider playing for Gateway Community College in Phoenix, Ariz., which was being coached by Rob Shabansky, the pitching coach for USA Baseball.So Carson packed his bags for Arizona, where he ultimately earned a scholarship to North Dakota State.All the while, Carson kept growing – and getting stronger. From that 6-6, 175-pound high school senior season, Carson now is listed at 6-9, 235 pounds.Following his junior season at NDSU, he agreed to come home and play for the Hays Larks this summer.Carson had one year of eligibility remaining at North Dakota State and wants to finish his degree in elementary education and maybe coach someday.“That’s the first thing I asked him,” Carson said of his conversation with the White Sox scout, “if they would pay for my schooling, and he said, ‘Yes.’ ”Coach Oakes said he would have loved to have Carson back on his team this coming year but is always happy when his players reach the next level.“Carson has extreme upside and project ability,” Oakes said. “The sky is the limit for him. Getting in the White Sox organization and getting to work, he’ll have a chance to continue to tap into his potential. I couldn’t be happier for him and his family.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689186403300.jpeg" alt="Although he played mostly center field and first base growing up, Carson Jacobs also got his start on the mound at a young age. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Although he played mostly center field and first base growing up, Carson Jacobs also got his start on the mound at a young age. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Ah, Carson’s family.</h2>This 21-year-old is wise beyond his years while acknowledging that he wouldn’t be where he is now – or where he plans to go – without his faith in God and huge support from his family.Carson’s mom shakes her head while talking about the time Carson told them he wanted to transfer from Newman to Gateway.“Tom and I were on vacation, and Carson calls and tells its he wants to play ball in Phoenix,” Mary said. “We were wondering, ‘What is he thinking, giving up an NCAA Division II scholarship to go to a community college with no scholarship and no housing?’ But we told him if that’s what he wanted to do, it was his responsibility to figure it out. By the time we got home, he had had a zoom meeting with the coach and found two roommates.”As it turned out, the move to Arizona proved to be another gateway to Carson’s journey to the Major Leagues.“I chose to leave Kansas to follow a dream of mine, and my parents – although they were a little iffy at first – allowed me to do what I love,” Carson said of his parents, who have missed very few of his games his entire career. “And for my sister to come support me today, knowing she’s about to have a baby, is incredible.”He was referring to Rachel, who was due to give birth to her third child on July 16. Her dad picked her up at their Wichita home Monday, and her mom had planned to take her home today.As has become custom for the Jacobs family, plans changed. Rachel gave birth to another baby boy at Hays Medical Center at 4:07 this morning, making a threesome for her and her husband, Justin.It’s a week the Jacobs family will never forget. And it’s a sure bet that family, including the newest member of the Jacobs clan, will soon be wearing White Sox clothing in support of their favorite baseball player.

NWester: Dreams do come true: Jacobs signs with Chicago White Sox

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">Hays Chamber</a> president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discusses recent efforts to address the shortage of childcare providers in Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">Hays Chamber</a> president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discusses recent efforts to address the shortage of childcare providers in Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber continues work to alleviate shortage of Ellis Co. childcare" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7e62h-1454a88-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber continues work to alleviate shortage of Ellis Co. childcare

An 18 year-old from Stockton was found guilty of three child
sex crimes Tuesday in Ellis County District Court.

Kevin J. Russell, 18, Stockton, pleaded no contest to three separate
charges of indecent liberties with a child resulting from three different
cases.

Russell was initially charged with seven counts for the
three different incidents that happened on three separate days in December 2022.

According to court documents, Russell was charged with two
counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of indecent
liberties with a child, two counts of aggravated battery, and criminal sodomy.

He was accused of fondling a child younger than the age of 14 and a
15-year-old child and having sex with a 15-year-old child between Dec. 11
and Dec. 23, 2022.

As a result of the plea agreement, four of the seven charges were dropped.

Ellis County District Court Judge Glenn Braun accepted the
no contest pleas and found Russell guilty on the three counts of indecent
liberties with a child, a level 5 person felony.

Russell faces between 34 and 31 months in prison for each charge,
with a maximum of 102 months in prison if the three sentences are run
consecutively.

According to the plea agreement, Russell can file a motion
for durational departure and request the judge sentence him to probation
in lieu of jail time. His attorney, Cheryl Stewart said Tuesday they will ask the
judge for probation at sentencing.

As a result of the convictions, Russell will be required to
register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

Sentencing has been scheduled for August.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689211222398.png" alt="Russell-photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Russell-photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostAn 18 year-old from Stockton was found guilty of three child
sex crimes Tuesday in Ellis County District Court.Kevin J. Russell, 18, Stockton, pleaded no contest to three separate
charges of indecent liberties with a child resulting from three different
cases.Russell was initially charged with seven counts for the
three different incidents that happened on three separate days in December 2022.According to court documents, Russell was charged with two
counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of indecent
liberties with a child, two counts of aggravated battery, and criminal sodomy.He was accused of fondling a child younger than the age of 14 and a
15-year-old child and having sex with a 15-year-old child between Dec. 11
and Dec. 23, 2022.As a result of the plea agreement, four of the seven charges were dropped.Ellis County District Court Judge Glenn Braun accepted the
no contest pleas and found Russell guilty on the three counts of indecent
liberties with a child, a level 5 person felony.Russell faces between 34 and 31 months in prison for each charge,
with a maximum of 102 months in prison if the three sentences are run
consecutively.According to the plea agreement, Russell can file a motion
for durational departure and request the judge sentence him to probation
in lieu of jail time. His attorney, Cheryl Stewart said Tuesday they will ask the
judge for probation at sentencing.As a result of the convictions, Russell will be required to
register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.Sentencing has been scheduled for August.

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