First
Care Clinic is excited to report that the construction on the corner of 13th
and Main, the site of their new Express Care Clinic and Pharmacy, remains
on schedule. 

The project is expected to be completed next month.&nbsp;

Dr.
Christine Fisher, the Medical Director at First Care Clinic, has been leading
the efforts to assemble a staff that will provide acute medical care.&nbsp;

“Our
goal in Express Care is to give patients high quality, same-day health care
that works best in their schedule. We have exceptional providers who are ready
to meet patient needs.” Fisher said.

Cammi
Williby and Tiffany DeWitt will anchor the Express Care team.&nbsp; 

These two
providers have extensive acute care experience and are passionate about
providing their patients a high level of care.&nbsp;

Both providers are already
seeing patients at the 105 W. 13th St. location Monday through Friday
from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“When
construction is completed on the corner, Express Care won’t miss a beat,"&nbsp;said Eric Flax, CEO of First Care Clinic. " They will be seeing patients at their permanent location.&nbsp; The pharmacy
will open shortly after with an anticipated date of late summer.”&nbsp;

“We have surveyed our patients, visited with members of our
community and toured other clinics in Kansas to come up with what we feel is a
very good model," he continued.&nbsp; "We know people are busy, and their time is
important.&nbsp; By providing a self-scheduling option, you can pick your
appointment time and skip the line.” 

They offer same-day and next-day availability at Express Care, he said.

To schedule an
appointment, visit their website at<a href="http://www.firstcareclinic.com">&nbsp;firstcareclinic.com</a> or call (785)
621-4990.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1682964960264.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First
Care Clinic is excited to report that the construction on the corner of 13th
and Main, the site of their new Express Care Clinic and Pharmacy, remains
on schedule. The project is expected to be completed next month.&nbsp;Dr.
Christine Fisher, the Medical Director at First Care Clinic, has been leading
the efforts to assemble a staff that will provide acute medical care.&nbsp;“Our
goal in Express Care is to give patients high quality, same-day health care
that works best in their schedule. We have exceptional providers who are ready
to meet patient needs.” Fisher said.Cammi
Williby and Tiffany DeWitt will anchor the Express Care team.&nbsp; These two
providers have extensive acute care experience and are passionate about
providing their patients a high level of care.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1682965801666.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Both providers are already
seeing patients at the 105 W. 13th St. location Monday through Friday
from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.“When
construction is completed on the corner, Express Care won’t miss a beat,"&nbsp;said Eric Flax, CEO of First Care Clinic. " They will be seeing patients at their permanent location.&nbsp; The pharmacy
will open shortly after with an anticipated date of late summer.”&nbsp;“We have surveyed our patients, visited with members of our
community and toured other clinics in Kansas to come up with what we feel is a
very good model," he continued.&nbsp; "We know people are busy, and their time is
important.&nbsp; By providing a self-scheduling option, you can pick your
appointment time and skip the line.” They offer same-day and next-day availability at Express Care, he said.To schedule an
appointment, visit their website at<a href="http://www.firstcareclinic.com">&nbsp;firstcareclinic.com</a> or call (785)
621-4990.

Midwest Energy to discuss new demand rates in WaKeeney

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays will soon be home to another traffic roundabout.

In addition to the four located in the north Vine Street corridor, a fifth roundabout will be built at 27th and Canterbury Drive on the east side of town.

Backed-up traffic at the intersection's four-way stop has long been an inconvenience, especially during peak driving hours before 8 a.m., when employee shifts change at Hays Medical Center, and in the afternoons when classes let out at Hays High School.

City Commissioner Shaun Musil suggested a mini-roundabout back in 2018 but the commission took no action then.

Now, with a new high school to be built on east 13th and the current high school to be remodeled as the middle school, studies show traffic on Canterbury Drive will increase.&nbsp;

There is also more housing development underway and projected for the area east of 22nd and Canterbury, adding to the number of regular drivers on Canterbury.&nbsp;

Musil asked that the roundabout idea be reviewed again.

Engineers for Hays USD&nbsp;489 have conducted a traffic impact study predicting a 10% increase in traffic at 27th and Canterbury and an increase in wait times/queue lengths of 25%.

The study concludes that a roundabout at 27th and Canterbury&nbsp;would improve traffic flow by reducing delays at the intersection.&nbsp;

Commissioners also heard more about a "lane diet" for the Canterbury corridor -&nbsp;reducing Canterbury from four lanes to three lanes along between 13th and 27th - and how it would enhance optimal operation of the traffic light at the 22nd Street intersection.&nbsp;

"The lane diet allows for the proper function of the light at 22nd by allowing simultaneous protected left turns&nbsp;from Canterbury to both eastbound and westbound 22nd Street, and it would not change&nbsp;the configuration at 13th Street other than better align the northbound lane across the&nbsp;intersection,"&nbsp; explained John Braun, city project manager.

Following a 45-minute discussion Thursday and at an previous work session , commissioners unanimously voted to approve the roundabout at 27th and Canterbury as well as the restriping of Canterbury from four lanes to three lanes.&nbsp;

"I'm very much in favor of the traffic roundabout at 27th and Canterbury," said Sandy Jacobs, commissioner. She also favored the lane diet.

Vice-Mayor Musil also favored the roundabout but is a little concerned a reduction to three lanes may back up traffic south of the 22nd Street intersection.

"It is just paint, though, and later if we find three's not working the way we thought, we can repaint it back to four lanes," Musil pointed out.

Lane reductions from a four-lane road to a three-lane road were installed along 13th Street in 2013 and Hall Street in 2016 and have proven benefits, according to Braun.

Cost of the lane re-striping is estimated at approximately $70,000 and would be done by a contractor.

The roundabout reconfiguration will start this summer after school is out and be done in-house. Total cost of the project is estimated at $90,000.

"With our discussion about Canterbury, I hope the community will grant us patience and give it a try," said Commissioner Alaina Cunningham.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682897368211.jpeg" alt="The city of Hays will begin installing a traffic roundabout at 27th and Canterbury this summer to accommodate increased traffic from the new high school project just east of 13th and Canterbury. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>The city of Hays will begin installing a traffic roundabout at 27th and Canterbury this summer to accommodate increased traffic from the new high school project just east of 13th and Canterbury. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays will soon be home to another traffic roundabout.In addition to the four located in the north Vine Street corridor, a fifth roundabout will be built at 27th and Canterbury Drive on the east side of town.Backed-up traffic at the intersection's four-way stop has long been an inconvenience, especially during peak driving hours before 8 a.m., when employee shifts change at Hays Medical Center, and in the afternoons when classes let out at Hays High School.City Commissioner Shaun Musil suggested a mini-roundabout back in 2018 but the commission took no action then.Now, with a new high school to be built on east 13th and the current high school to be remodeled as the middle school, studies show traffic on Canterbury Drive will increase.&nbsp;There is also more housing development underway and projected for the area east of 22nd and Canterbury, adding to the number of regular drivers on Canterbury.&nbsp;Musil asked that the roundabout idea be reviewed again.Engineers for Hays USD&nbsp;489 have conducted a traffic impact study predicting a 10% increase in traffic at 27th and Canterbury and an increase in wait times/queue lengths of 25%.The study concludes that a roundabout at 27th and Canterbury&nbsp;would improve traffic flow by reducing delays at the intersection.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682900874868.jpeg" alt="The Canterbury corridor from 27th to 13th will be restriped from four lanes to three lanes. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>The Canterbury corridor from 27th to 13th will be restriped from four lanes to three lanes. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also heard more about a "lane diet" for the Canterbury corridor -&nbsp;reducing Canterbury from four lanes to three lanes along between 13th and 27th - and how it would enhance optimal operation of the traffic light at the 22nd Street intersection.&nbsp;"The lane diet allows for the proper function of the light at 22nd by allowing simultaneous protected left turns&nbsp;from Canterbury to both eastbound and westbound 22nd Street, and it would not change&nbsp;the configuration at 13th Street other than better align the northbound lane across the&nbsp;intersection,"&nbsp; explained John Braun, city project manager.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/lnsqQ5N9-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="27th And Canterbury" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Following a 45-minute discussion Thursday and at an previous work session , commissioners unanimously voted to approve the roundabout at 27th and Canterbury as well as the restriping of Canterbury from four lanes to three lanes.&nbsp;"I'm very much in favor of the traffic roundabout at 27th and Canterbury," said Sandy Jacobs, commissioner. She also favored the lane diet.Vice-Mayor Musil also favored the roundabout but is a little concerned a reduction to three lanes may back up traffic south of the 22nd Street intersection."It is just paint, though, and later if we find three's not working the way we thought, we can repaint it back to four lanes," Musil pointed out.Lane reductions from a four-lane road to a three-lane road were installed along 13th Street in 2013 and Hall Street in 2016 and have proven benefits, according to Braun.Cost of the lane re-striping is estimated at approximately $70,000 and would be done by a contractor.The roundabout reconfiguration will start this summer after school is out and be done in-house. Total cost of the project is estimated at $90,000."With our discussion about Canterbury, I hope the community will grant us patience and give it a try," said Commissioner Alaina Cunningham.

🎥Hays to install another roundabout, reduce Canterbury traffic lanes  

Eagle Radio-Hays and Hull Broadcasting concluded Cash Grab by selecting a grand prize winner of $1,000 Monday morning.

During the month of April the five radio stations gave away $50 forty times. Each entry for those contests doubled as an entry for the grand prize.

Zearl Zeigler was the name drawn out of the 9,132 total entries.

Cash Grab was made possible by Viaero Wireless, Shone Fumigation and Pest Control in Smith Center, Brogdan GMC, Leitner Buildings and EnerSys.

Each of the stations also selected an organization to play for. The station with the most winners donated the most money. 101.9 The Bull tallied the most winners with 16 and they selected The Hays Striders to play for.

Eagle Radio-Hays and Hull Broadcasting concluded Cash Grab by selecting a grand prize winner of $1,000 Monday morning.During the month of April the five radio stations gave away $50 forty times. Each entry for those contests doubled as an entry for the grand prize.Zearl Zeigler was the name drawn out of the 9,132 total entries.Cash Grab was made possible by Viaero Wireless, Shone Fumigation and Pest Control in Smith Center, Brogdan GMC, Leitner Buildings and EnerSys.Each of the stations also selected an organization to play for. The station with the most winners donated the most money. 101.9 The Bull tallied the most winners with 16 and they selected The Hays Striders to play for.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1682954810922.png" alt="Sprin (8) (1).png" />
 <figcaption>Sprin (8) (1).png</figcaption>
 </figure>

💰 Cash Grab draws $1,000 Winner

Rolling Hills Zoo welcomed its two millionth visitor through the gates early Sunday afternoon, as Ryan VanZant, the zoo’s executive director, shared the exciting news with Richard Craft, an unsuspecting Fort Hays State student.

Joining him for a visit to the zoo were his girlfriend, Karah Strecker; mother, Rose Marie Craft; sister, Rachel Hale and 2-year-old niece, Grace Lynn Hale. Since Craft’s family lives in Newton, they decided to meet at Rolling Hills Zoo on Sunday “just to get out and enjoy a nice spring day,” he said.

Not a newcomer to Rolling Hills Zoo, this is actually Craft’s third visit to the zoo, as he told zoo officials “I just really enjoy looking at all of the animals. They are pretty cool.”

Craft also loves the zoo’s new Pride of the Prairie exhibit and seeing the lions. And then of course there is the ice cream served at the Overlook Restaurant, another one of his favorite things at the zoo.

As the zoo’s two millionth visitor, Craft received a gift basket valued at more than $575, including a Rolling Hills Zoo family membership, a $200 RHZ gift certificate, and a private golf cart tour of the zoo.

“Thank you! I am beyond lucky to be the two millionth guest,” Craft said, once he had a chance to soak in this unexpected, but very pleasant surprise.

Rolling Hills Zoo will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary in October 2024, at which time it will be on its way to the 2.5 millionth visitor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683035471347.jpeg" alt="Richard Craft, second from right, was Rolling Hills Zoo's two millionth visitor.&nbsp;Photo courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo" />
 <figcaption>Richard Craft, second from right, was Rolling Hills Zoo's two millionth visitor.&nbsp;Photo courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo</figcaption>
 </figure>Rolling Hills ZooRolling Hills Zoo welcomed its two millionth visitor through the gates early Sunday afternoon, as Ryan VanZant, the zoo’s executive director, shared the exciting news with Richard Craft, an unsuspecting Fort Hays State student.Joining him for a visit to the zoo were his girlfriend, Karah Strecker; mother, Rose Marie Craft; sister, Rachel Hale and 2-year-old niece, Grace Lynn Hale. Since Craft’s family lives in Newton, they decided to meet at Rolling Hills Zoo on Sunday “just to get out and enjoy a nice spring day,” he said.Not a newcomer to Rolling Hills Zoo, this is actually Craft’s third visit to the zoo, as he told zoo officials “I just really enjoy looking at all of the animals. They are pretty cool.”Craft also loves the zoo’s new Pride of the Prairie exhibit and seeing the lions. And then of course there is the ice cream served at the Overlook Restaurant, another one of his favorite things at the zoo.As the zoo’s two millionth visitor, Craft received a gift basket valued at more than $575, including a Rolling Hills Zoo family membership, a $200 RHZ gift certificate, and a private golf cart tour of the zoo.“Thank you! I am beyond lucky to be the two millionth guest,” Craft said, once he had a chance to soak in this unexpected, but very pleasant surprise.Rolling Hills Zoo will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary in October 2024, at which time it will be on its way to the 2.5 millionth visitor.

FHSU student 2 millionth visitor at Rolling Hills Zoo

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The community of Wilson, where portions of the movie, "Paper Moon," were filmed will celebrate the movie's 50th anniversary on Friday and Saturday.

"Paper Moon," which was released by Paramount in 1973 stars Ryan O'Neal and his daughter, Tatum O'Neal.

Tatum O'Neal won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film, becoming the youngest actress to do so.

"Paper Moon" depicts the Depression era in Kansas and Missouri. It was shot in black and white by director&nbsp;Peter Bogdanovich and tells the story of father, Moze, and his daughter, Addie, as Moze takes his daughter from Gorham, Kan., to St. Joseph, Mo., to live with her aunt.

Eight locations in Wilson were in the movie. All of those locations in Wilson, as well as Dorrance, will be marked during the festival with photos of the original images from the movie, said Melinda Merrill of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/midlandhotelwilson">Midland Railroad Hotel</a> in Wilson.

Maps will be available on the local sites. The tourism agency also will have literature available that tells the history of the buildings in the community.

"It's really cool the pictures that we have of where they did the filming," she said. "It's cool to see and compare that. It brings back memories."

Merrell said many residents remember the filming. Classes were let out so children could watch the filming. Wilson residents worked as extras, she said.

Scenes were also shot in Gorham, Hays, McCracken, northern Ellis County, White Cloud and St. Joseph, Mo.

Rooks County had an event to celebrate the movie in Stockton on April 30.&nbsp;McCracken is planning a "Paper Moon" event for June 16 and 17 in conjunction with several events in Hays during the same weekend.

Defiance Brewing Co. will have a commemorative beer, which has yet to be named. Two free showings of the movie will be offered on June 17 and 18.&nbsp;

There will be special exhibits at the Hays Arts Council Annex along with the Summer Art Walk on June 16 and at the McCracken Historical Society. A full schedule of events for Hays and McCracken will be released soon.

In Wilson this weekend, all festival events will be free thanks to the Wilson tourism organization with the exception of the food.

The movie will be shown on the back of the Railroad Hotel for free on Friday. Popcorn will be served. In case of inclement weather, the movie will be moved indoors.

On Saturday, actors will be dressed in period customers, and visitors are welcome to join in with their own period dress.

Events start at 10 a.m. Saturday. The Coney Island Bar will serve hot dog meals for $5. That will be a fundraiser for the Feed the Children program.

There'll be a free exotic petting zoo, antique dealer, Hat Man Jack's from Wichita, a fried chicken dinner at the Railroad Hotel and free performance by the&nbsp;Kansas All Star Big Band at 7 p.m. on the hotel patio.

The McCracken Museum will be bringing some of its memorabilia from the movie.

Several owners also will be bringing their Model As and Depression-era vehicles for display.&nbsp;The Model T truck that was used in the last part of the movie is on display at the auto museum in Hill City.

Mugs Bakery will be selling kolaches. Reservations for the fried chicken dinner at the hotel are preferred. The cost is $14.99.

On Saturday, someone will be on hand to video record the stories of people who were in the movie as extras or watched the filming.

Merrill said as of May 21, rooms were still available at the Midland Railroad Hotel for the weekend of the festival. Call&nbsp; 785-658-2284 for more information.

Merrill said she hopes the event will not only celebrate Wilson and its history but drum up interest in other filmmakers using Kansas as a location.

You can find more about the event on Facebook on either the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/730753872088854/">festival event page</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/czechoutwilson">Czech Out Wilson Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682544574936.png" alt="Image from "Paper Moon" that was shot in Wilson. Visitors will be able to visit locations where the movie was filmed during the "Paper Moon" Festival in Wilson Friday and Saturday. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Image from "Paper Moon" that was shot in Wilson. Visitors will be able to visit locations where the movie was filmed during the "Paper Moon" Festival in Wilson Friday and Saturday. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe community of Wilson, where portions of the movie, "Paper Moon," were filmed will celebrate the movie's 50th anniversary on Friday and Saturday."Paper Moon," which was released by Paramount in 1973 stars Ryan O'Neal and his daughter, Tatum O'Neal.Tatum O'Neal won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film, becoming the youngest actress to do so."Paper Moon" depicts the Depression era in Kansas and Missouri. It was shot in black and white by director&nbsp;Peter Bogdanovich and tells the story of father, Moze, and his daughter, Addie, as Moze takes his daughter from Gorham, Kan., to St. Joseph, Mo., to live with her aunt.Eight locations in Wilson were in the movie. All of those locations in Wilson, as well as Dorrance, will be marked during the festival with photos of the original images from the movie, said Melinda Merrill of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/midlandhotelwilson">Midland Railroad Hotel</a> in Wilson.Maps will be available on the local sites. The tourism agency also will have literature available that tells the history of the buildings in the community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682544797256.png" alt="The Midland Railroad Hotel was the site of the filming of "Paper Moon." The hotel is still open today and will be the site of several events for Wilson's "Paper Moon" Festival.&nbsp; Courtesy image.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Midland Railroad Hotel was the site of the filming of "Paper Moon." The hotel is still open today and will be the site of several events for Wilson's "Paper Moon" Festival.&nbsp; Courtesy image.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's really cool the pictures that we have of where they did the filming," she said. "It's cool to see and compare that. It brings back memories."Merrell said many residents remember the filming. Classes were let out so children could watch the filming. Wilson residents worked as extras, she said.Scenes were also shot in Gorham, Hays, McCracken, northern Ellis County, White Cloud and St. Joseph, Mo.Rooks County had an event to celebrate the movie in Stockton on April 30.&nbsp;McCracken is planning a "Paper Moon" event for June 16 and 17 in conjunction with several events in Hays during the same weekend.Defiance Brewing Co. will have a commemorative beer, which has yet to be named. Two free showings of the movie will be offered on June 17 and 18.&nbsp;There will be special exhibits at the Hays Arts Council Annex along with the Summer Art Walk on June 16 and at the McCracken Historical Society. A full schedule of events for Hays and McCracken will be released soon.In Wilson this weekend, all festival events will be free thanks to the Wilson tourism organization with the exception of the food.The movie will be shown on the back of the Railroad Hotel for free on Friday. Popcorn will be served. In case of inclement weather, the movie will be moved indoors.On Saturday, actors will be dressed in period customers, and visitors are welcome to join in with their own period dress.Events start at 10 a.m. Saturday. The Coney Island Bar will serve hot dog meals for $5. That will be a fundraiser for the Feed the Children program.There'll be a free exotic petting zoo, antique dealer, Hat Man Jack's from Wichita, a fried chicken dinner at the Railroad Hotel and free performance by the&nbsp;Kansas All Star Big Band at 7 p.m. on the hotel patio.The McCracken Museum will be bringing some of its memorabilia from the movie.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682544962323.png" alt="The Somer Hardware Building in Wilson was the site where the "Paper Moon's" Main characters tricked a retailer out of a $20 bill. Courtesy Image&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Somer Hardware Building in Wilson was the site where the "Paper Moon's" Main characters tricked a retailer out of a $20 bill. Courtesy Image&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Several owners also will be bringing their Model As and Depression-era vehicles for display.&nbsp;The Model T truck that was used in the last part of the movie is on display at the auto museum in Hill City.Mugs Bakery will be selling kolaches. Reservations for the fried chicken dinner at the hotel are preferred. The cost is $14.99.On Saturday, someone will be on hand to video record the stories of people who were in the movie as extras or watched the filming.Merrill said as of May 21, rooms were still available at the Midland Railroad Hotel for the weekend of the festival. Call&nbsp; 785-658-2284 for more information.Merrill said she hopes the event will not only celebrate Wilson and its history but drum up interest in other filmmakers using Kansas as a location.You can find more about the event on Facebook on either the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/730753872088854/">festival event page</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/czechoutwilson">Czech Out Wilson Facebook page</a>.

Wilson to celebrate 50th anniversary of 'Paper Moon' filming

Local residents will join tens of thousands of others across the country for the annual Day of Prayer Thursday in Hays.

The event has been moved inside this year and will be from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Hays VFW, 2106 Vine.

The event is open to the public at no cost. Tea, coffee and cookies will be offered after the event.

Speakers have been selected to pray on a variety of topics, including schools, medical staff and the military among others.&nbsp;

This year's theme is "Pray fervently in righteousness and avail much." James 5:16b

Two vocalists from Hays High School, Skyler Rodriguez and Remy Stull, will sing at the event with Devlyn Jochum accompanying on the piano. A group of Thomas More Prep-Marian students will pray for education.

After the volunteers offer prayer, prayer requests will be taken from the audience.

The national event began in 1952, but the present day was set by President Reagan in 1988.

Terri Braun and Cheryl Glassman are the coordinators this year for Hays.

"I think it helps recall our founders," Braun said, "and how they faced their challenges. They prayed to God for guidance."

Glassman said she thought the event promotes unity in the community. The event is nondenominational.

"We all go to our separate churches and our separate workplaces and do our own thing, but this allows all of us to commune together and talk about prayer," she said.

Braun said we have so much division in our nation that it is inspiring to think of so many people all praying at once. More than 60,000 locations conducted National Day of Prayer events in the U.S. last year.

"This is one time that we can all come together for the same reason to pray for our nation," she said. ... "One nation under God."

A video of the event will be on the Hays Post Friday morning.

Noon - Welcome - Patrick McGinnis 12:01 p.m. - Honor Guard and Pledge of Allegiance <a>12:03&nbsp;p.m. - Music by Hays High School students&nbsp;</a><a>(Devlyn Jochum, Remy Stull and Skyler Rodriguez)</a>

Prayers: 12:10&nbsp;p.m. - Government (Mayor Mason Ruder, Judge Thomas Drees) 12:14&nbsp;p.m. - Church (Deacon Steve Urban, St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church; Pastor Craig Hauschild, First United Methodist Church) 12:18&nbsp;p.m. - Military (Col. (Ret.) Gordon D. Kuntz, AN, NGUS; Tim Greenwood, USMC/R 1992-1998) 12:24&nbsp;p.m. - The Kingdom of God (Alberta Klaus, Becky Clark) 12:26&nbsp;p.m. - Businesses (Dorothy Gideon, Gene Stramel ) 12:30&nbsp;p.m. - Media (Leigh Ann McCottry, Linn Ann Huntington) 12:34&nbsp;p.m. - Education (TMP students) 12:38&nbsp;p.m. - Families (Dana Stanton, Jo Good) 12:42&nbsp;p.m. - Community prayer requests 12:46&nbsp;p.m. - "God Bless America"&nbsp; 12:48&nbsp;p.m. - Benediction (Chris Prater, pastor, First Baptist Church)

Cover photo provided courtesy of Pixabay.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLocal residents will join tens of thousands of others across the country for the annual Day of Prayer Thursday in Hays.The event has been moved inside this year and will be from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Hays VFW, 2106 Vine.The event is open to the public at no cost. Tea, coffee and cookies will be offered after the event.Speakers have been selected to pray on a variety of topics, including schools, medical staff and the military among others.&nbsp;This year's theme is "Pray fervently in righteousness and avail much." James 5:16bTwo vocalists from Hays High School, Skyler Rodriguez and Remy Stull, will sing at the event with Devlyn Jochum accompanying on the piano. A group of Thomas More Prep-Marian students will pray for education.After the volunteers offer prayer, prayer requests will be taken from the audience.The national event began in 1952, but the present day was set by President Reagan in 1988.Terri Braun and Cheryl Glassman are the coordinators this year for Hays."I think it helps recall our founders," Braun said, "and how they faced their challenges. They prayed to God for guidance."Glassman said she thought the event promotes unity in the community. The event is nondenominational."We all go to our separate churches and our separate workplaces and do our own thing, but this allows all of us to commune together and talk about prayer," she said.Braun said we have so much division in our nation that it is inspiring to think of so many people all praying at once. More than 60,000 locations conducted National Day of Prayer events in the U.S. last year."This is one time that we can all come together for the same reason to pray for our nation," she said. ... "One nation under God."A video of the event will be on the Hays Post Friday morning.The schedule of the event is below.Noon - Welcome - Patrick McGinnis 12:01 p.m. - Honor Guard and Pledge of Allegiance <a>12:03&nbsp;p.m. - Music by Hays High School students&nbsp;</a><a>(Devlyn Jochum, Remy Stull and Skyler Rodriguez)</a>Prayers: 12:10&nbsp;p.m. - Government (Mayor Mason Ruder, Judge Thomas Drees) 12:14&nbsp;p.m. - Church (Deacon Steve Urban, St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church; Pastor Craig Hauschild, First United Methodist Church) 12:18&nbsp;p.m. - Military (Col. (Ret.) Gordon D. Kuntz, AN, NGUS; Tim Greenwood, USMC/R 1992-1998) 12:24&nbsp;p.m. - The Kingdom of God (Alberta Klaus, Becky Clark) 12:26&nbsp;p.m. - Businesses (Dorothy Gideon, Gene Stramel ) 12:30&nbsp;p.m. - Media (Leigh Ann McCottry, Linn Ann Huntington) 12:34&nbsp;p.m. - Education (TMP students) 12:38&nbsp;p.m. - Families (Dana Stanton, Jo Good) 12:42&nbsp;p.m. - Community prayer requests 12:46&nbsp;p.m. - "God Bless America"&nbsp; 12:48&nbsp;p.m. - Benediction (Chris Prater, pastor, First Baptist Church)Cover photo provided courtesy of Pixabay.

Hays to celebrate National Day of Prayer Thursday

HaysMed has engaged Bright Minds Academy, LLC to manage their onsite childcare center. Bright Minds operates a childcare facility close to the hospital located at&nbsp;2106 Wheatland Ave. and will assume the management of the HaysMed Childcare Center when it opens in August.

“We are so fortunate to have secured a relationship with Bright Minds,” said Shae Veach, VP for Regional Operations and Marketing. “Under their management we will be able to provide a childcare facility with a learning environment curriculum.”

The childcare center can accommodate 77 children from ages 2 weeks to 6 years of age. HaysMed Associates will have priority for the slots. The facility is located on the east side of The Center for Health Improvement.

“Bright Minds Academy is extremely excited to partner with HaysMed to bring a new childcare option to their associates. We are grateful that we can be a part of the next step in stabilizing childcare in the community. We can’t wait to pour our love into a new center and educate more children!” noted Nick and Andrea Felder, owners of Bright Minds.

There are three play areas for the children and a designated drop-off and pick up area. During inclement weather the fitness center gym will be utilized for playtime.

The childcare center was made possible through nearly $1.5 million in generous commitments from the HaysMed Foundation, the Hadley Foundation, and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Additionally, Nex-Tech has established an endowed fund with the HaysMed Foundation to assist with future needs of the facility.

“Having childcare available onsite is a great benefit when recruiting and retaining healthcare providers.” Veach said. “Families are looking for reliable childcare as close to their work environment as possible.”

The new facility will help address one of the top five identified needs from the Ellis County Health Needs Assessment which indicated a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/19b769f2-c8c9-4c84-a9cf-276cbcced4b0">shortfall of over 600 spots in childcare</a> for our county.

“No matter how you look at this it is a win for not only HaysMed but also for Ellis County.” Veach concluded.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1682971264546.png" alt="Artist's rendition of HaysMed Childcare Center which will open in August. Courtesy HaysMed" />
 <figcaption>Artist's rendition of HaysMed Childcare Center which will open in August. Courtesy HaysMed</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMed HaysMed has engaged Bright Minds Academy, LLC to manage their onsite childcare center. Bright Minds operates a childcare facility close to the hospital located at&nbsp;2106 Wheatland Ave. and will assume the management of the HaysMed Childcare Center when it opens in August.“We are so fortunate to have secured a relationship with Bright Minds,” said Shae Veach, VP for Regional Operations and Marketing. “Under their management we will be able to provide a childcare facility with a learning environment curriculum.”The childcare center can accommodate 77 children from ages 2 weeks to 6 years of age. HaysMed Associates will have priority for the slots. The facility is located on the east side of The Center for Health Improvement.“Bright Minds Academy is extremely excited to partner with HaysMed to bring a new childcare option to their associates. We are grateful that we can be a part of the next step in stabilizing childcare in the community. We can’t wait to pour our love into a new center and educate more children!” noted Nick and Andrea Felder, owners of Bright Minds.There are three play areas for the children and a designated drop-off and pick up area. During inclement weather the fitness center gym will be utilized for playtime.The childcare center was made possible through nearly $1.5 million in generous commitments from the HaysMed Foundation, the Hadley Foundation, and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Additionally, Nex-Tech has established an endowed fund with the HaysMed Foundation to assist with future needs of the facility.“Having childcare available onsite is a great benefit when recruiting and retaining healthcare providers.” Veach said. “Families are looking for reliable childcare as close to their work environment as possible.”The new facility will help address one of the top five identified needs from the Ellis County Health Needs Assessment which indicated a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/19b769f2-c8c9-4c84-a9cf-276cbcced4b0">shortfall of over 600 spots in childcare</a> for our county.“No matter how you look at this it is a win for not only HaysMed but also for Ellis County.” Veach concluded.

HaysMed Childcare Center to be managed by Bright Minds Academy

Oakley, Sharon Springs and surrounding area residents, join us on Tuesday, May 2, for short presentations in Oakley and Sharon Springs to learn about demand rates, their impacts on bills and how you have more ways to save. 

Midwest Energy will provide donuts for Oakley and sub sandwiches for Sharon Springs. 

RSVP is not necessary for this event. We look forward to seeing you there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682613912749.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MWEOakley, Sharon Springs and surrounding area residents, join us on Tuesday, May 2, for short presentations in Oakley and Sharon Springs to learn about demand rates, their impacts on bills and how you have more ways to save. Midwest Energy will provide donuts for Oakley and sub sandwiches for Sharon Springs. RSVP is not necessary for this event. We look forward to seeing you there.

MWE to offer demand rates presentations in Oakley, Sharon Springs

RUSSELL —The City of Russell Fire Department was dispatched to 1430 South Fossil for a report of an electrical fire located somewhere in the Dole-Specter Conference Center at the Fossil Creek Inn &amp; Suites, according to a media release from the city of Russell Fire Department.

Crews on scene observed no visible flame or smoke from the outside. Once entry was gained into the conference center, smoke could be seen near the ceiling along with the smell of burning electrical.

Crews evacuated the hotel and began searching for the source. Crews were able to determine that the electrical fire was from a burnt motor on the outside, inside the heating/cooling unit, causing the smoke and burnt electrical smell to enter the conference center.

The unit was isolated, and the hotel resumed normal operation.

RUSSELL —The City of Russell Fire Department was dispatched to 1430 South Fossil for a report of an electrical fire located somewhere in the Dole-Specter Conference Center at the Fossil Creek Inn &amp; Suites, according to a media release from the city of Russell Fire Department.Crews on scene observed no visible flame or smoke from the outside. Once entry was gained into the conference center, smoke could be seen near the ceiling along with the smell of burning electrical.Crews evacuated the hotel and began searching for the source. Crews were able to determine that the electrical fire was from a burnt motor on the outside, inside the heating/cooling unit, causing the smoke and burnt electrical smell to enter the conference center.The unit was isolated, and the hotel resumed normal operation.

Hotel evacuated after electrical fire in Russell

<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/2023/5/1682961430835.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

We are hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. 

ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.

Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary. 

This position is based out of Hays, Kansas. If interested, please apply within at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642173081488.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We are hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays, Kansas. If interested, please apply within at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Game warden: Hunter attempted to falsify turkey tag

On the 1st of May, we will begin charging at our ramps again. 

Prices are still five dollars a day, or an annual pass can be bought at the project office or at the park booths once we open for the recreation season for forty dollars. 

Currently, with the lake being down about 20 inches, all of our slide-in docks are pushed in about as far as they will go. 

Staff at the lake will keep an eye on the slid-in docks to ensure they are usable. 

Hopefully, in the near future, we will get some much-needed rain and can get back to conservation pool for the summer months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

U.S. Army Corp of EngineersOn the 1st of May, we will begin charging at our ramps again. Prices are still five dollars a day, or an annual pass can be bought at the project office or at the park booths once we open for the recreation season for forty dollars. Currently, with the lake being down about 20 inches, all of our slide-in docks are pushed in about as far as they will go. Staff at the lake will keep an eye on the slid-in docks to ensure they are usable. Hopefully, in the near future, we will get some much-needed rain and can get back to conservation pool for the summer months.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWilsonLakeUSACE%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02r4q8azPXZK1MMSoN14FnVfDrgPCmpS2zf4ByoGSNgZD1KrcCvX2pwVXnesu6GMeQl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="633" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Wilson Lake boat ramps charges begin May 1

The Fort
Hays State University Department of Music and Theatre is wrapping up its year
with a series of concerts.

Kicking
off the events this week was the New Music Festival, which began Friday and will
conclude Saturday with an “evening of the music of Katherine Bergman,”
according to an FHSU announcement.

“Bergman&nbsp;is a
Minnesota-based composer who draws on environmentalism and literature to create
music described as hypnotic and visceral,” the announcement said. “She has
received commissions and performances from leading ensembles throughout the
United States and abroad.”&nbsp;

The New Music Festival
concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts
Center.

Her performance will feature the world premiere of&nbsp;“An
Absence of Silence”&nbsp;for violin, cello, piano and bass clarinet,
commissioned by the FHSU New Music Ensemble, comprised of FHSU instructors that “share
a passion for the music of living composers.”

At 2:30 p.m. Sunday, FHSU senior Kathryn Walters will
perform her senior vocal performance in Palmer Hall.

FHSU choirs will next take the stage for the annual Choirs
Concert at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday in the
Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

“We call it our Masterworks Concert
and start off with the Fort Hays Singers doing a folksy eight-movement piece
called Southern Grace,” said FHSU director of choral activities, Terry Crull. 

The Smoky Hill Choral will
follow with Schubert's famous Mass in G, he said.

“And then the Concert Choir is
going to finish with one of my favorite works, 'Frostiana,' the poetry of Robert
Frost, set by Randall Thompson, one of my favorite composers,” Crull said. 

He said the concert will run less
than 90 minutes and is a “nice concert, great way to end the year.”

The FHSU Bands Concert will
take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Thursday under the direction of Peter Lillpopp, director
of bands, in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

And wrapping up the week the calendar
is the Junior Music Recital of Jackson Scott and Julia Long in Palmer Hall at
7:30 p.m. Friday.

For the full FHSU Department
of Music and Theatre calendar, visit the <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/music-and-theatre/arts-calendar">FHSU website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578078090893.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays Post<div><iframe title="FHSU Music and Theater wraps year with a week of events" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2sudy-13f44f9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315"></iframe></div>The Fort
Hays State University Department of Music and Theatre is wrapping up its year
with a series of concerts.Kicking
off the events this week was the New Music Festival, which began Friday and will
conclude Saturday with an “evening of the music of Katherine Bergman,”
according to an FHSU announcement.“Bergman&nbsp;is a
Minnesota-based composer who draws on environmentalism and literature to create
music described as hypnotic and visceral,” the announcement said. “She has
received commissions and performances from leading ensembles throughout the
United States and abroad.”&nbsp;The New Music Festival
concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts
Center.Her performance will feature the world premiere of&nbsp;“An
Absence of Silence”&nbsp;for violin, cello, piano and bass clarinet,
commissioned by the FHSU New Music Ensemble, comprised of FHSU instructors that “share
a passion for the music of living composers.”At 2:30 p.m. Sunday, FHSU senior Kathryn Walters will
perform her senior vocal performance in Palmer Hall.FHSU choirs will next take the stage for the annual Choirs
Concert at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday in the
Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.“We call it our Masterworks Concert
and start off with the Fort Hays Singers doing a folksy eight-movement piece
called Southern Grace,” said FHSU director of choral activities, Terry Crull. The Smoky Hill Choral will
follow with Schubert's famous Mass in G, he said.“And then the Concert Choir is
going to finish with one of my favorite works, 'Frostiana,' the poetry of Robert
Frost, set by Randall Thompson, one of my favorite composers,” Crull said. He said the concert will run less
than 90 minutes and is a “nice concert, great way to end the year.”The FHSU Bands Concert will
take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Thursday under the direction of Peter Lillpopp, director
of bands, in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.And wrapping up the week the calendar
is the Junior Music Recital of Jackson Scott and Julia Long in Palmer Hall at
7:30 p.m. Friday.For the full FHSU Department
of Music and Theatre calendar, visit the <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/music-and-theatre/arts-calendar">FHSU website</a>.

🎙 New Music Festival underway as FHSU Music, Theatre wraps year with performance-filled week

By MONIQUE KOERNER KSRE Cottonwood Dist.&nbsp;

I’m writing this article on May Day! I was always excited for May Day when I was a kid because my mother and I had a tradition. 

I would make construction paper baskets and then we would go around Hays looking for flowers such as tulips and lilacs that were blooming. We would knock on doors and politely ask the homes occupant if we could snip a couple of flowers for our May Day baskets. Most of the time people were happy to help. Then we would place the flowers and some other sweet treats in my home-made construction paper baskets and take them to a few friends and my teachers. With May Day baskets, you ring the door bell and then leave to allow the basket to be an anonymous gift for the recipient. I was always so excited to go to school the next day and see if my teachers and friends enjoyed their May Day baskets. I enjoyed showing my children how to make the baskets and deliver them when they were young also.

I share this story because May is also Mental Health Awareness month. This story brings to light many things we can do for our mental health. If you feel like you’re stuck in a rut mentally and emotionally, a few simple changes may help you break free:

• Take media breaks. Limit how much you are watching, reading, or listening to news stories and social media. Instead, get outside and enjoy the sunshine, warmth and breeze.

• Take care of your body. Get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy, balanced diet and exercise regularly.

• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.

• Connect with others. Do something kind for someone.

Making May Day baskets can incorporate many of these items such as getting outside and enjoying nature or get some exercise, connecting with others, and doing enjoyable activities. Giving to others can help you change your mindset.

May Day baskets can also be a wonderful parent-child activity to do together. What better way to help a parent or child’s mental health then spending time together doing something fun and meaningful? If you do it yearly, it can become a tradition. Traditions within families help children feel a sense of belonging and worth.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER KSRE Cottonwood Dist.&nbsp;I’m writing this article on May Day! I was always excited for May Day when I was a kid because my mother and I had a tradition. I would make construction paper baskets and then we would go around Hays looking for flowers such as tulips and lilacs that were blooming. We would knock on doors and politely ask the homes occupant if we could snip a couple of flowers for our May Day baskets. Most of the time people were happy to help. Then we would place the flowers and some other sweet treats in my home-made construction paper baskets and take them to a few friends and my teachers. With May Day baskets, you ring the door bell and then leave to allow the basket to be an anonymous gift for the recipient. I was always so excited to go to school the next day and see if my teachers and friends enjoyed their May Day baskets. I enjoyed showing my children how to make the baskets and deliver them when they were young also.I share this story because May is also Mental Health Awareness month. This story brings to light many things we can do for our mental health. If you feel like you’re stuck in a rut mentally and emotionally, a few simple changes may help you break free:• Take media breaks. Limit how much you are watching, reading, or listening to news stories and social media. Instead, get outside and enjoy the sunshine, warmth and breeze.• Take care of your body. Get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy, balanced diet and exercise regularly.• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.• Connect with others. Do something kind for someone.Making May Day baskets can incorporate many of these items such as getting outside and enjoying nature or get some exercise, connecting with others, and doing enjoyable activities. Giving to others can help you change your mindset.May Day baskets can also be a wonderful parent-child activity to do together. What better way to help a parent or child’s mental health then spending time together doing something fun and meaningful? If you do it yearly, it can become a tradition. Traditions within families help children feel a sense of belonging and worth.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: It's May!

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will consider closing the 12th
Street bridge one mile west of Hays due to its deterioration at its meeting Tuesday.

Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay said the
closure will also allow the county to take advantage of a state program that pays
to close bridges that are in poor condition.

Mackay said the 12th Street bridge needs a
bridge deck replacement as well as the expansion joints and bearings.

He said the county has known since 2008 the bridge
needs to be replaced.

They discovered when the county had to replace the bridge
on Eighth Street in 2009. The engineers inspected both the Eighth
and 12th Street bridges and determined the deck on the 12th Street bridge also needed to be replaced.

Mackay&nbsp;said an inspection in 2015 also determined the same
thing.

“It came to the same conclusion that patching and overlaying
was not going to be an economical choice,” Mackay said. “[Because of] the amount it
would take to do that, the county would be better off putting a whole new deck
on the structure.”

Mackay said the detour around the 12th Street bridge
is just 0.3 miles while other detours are several miles. He added they have
done several traffic studies and determined the best use of county funds would
be to close the 12th Street bridge and potentially use the funds to
replace the bridge on 125th Avenue 12.5 miles north of Ellis over the
Saline River.

Through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program, the
county could receive $232,000 if selected by KDOT for replacement. Mackay estimated
it could cost almost $1 million to replace the bridge.

Mackay said if they receive state funding to place the deck
on the bridge on 125th Avenue and the additional funds from closing
the 12th Street bridge would greatly reduce the county’s cost.

He said the options for the county commission will be to
leave the bridge open and pay to replace the deck or close the bridge.

In other business, the commission will consider
reimbursements for the Dec. 15 fire, discuss a land annexation for the city of
Victoria and consider a food service contract for the jail.

The agenda is available <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05022023-533">HERE</a>.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will consider closing the 12th
Street bridge one mile west of Hays due to its deterioration at its meeting Tuesday.Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay said the
closure will also allow the county to take advantage of a state program that pays
to close bridges that are in poor condition.Mackay said the 12th Street bridge needs a
bridge deck replacement as well as the expansion joints and bearings.He said the county has known since 2008 the bridge
needs to be replaced.They discovered when the county had to replace the bridge
on Eighth Street in 2009. The engineers inspected both the Eighth
and 12th Street bridges and determined the deck on the 12th Street bridge also needed to be replaced.Mackay&nbsp;said an inspection in 2015 also determined the same
thing.“It came to the same conclusion that patching and overlaying
was not going to be an economical choice,” Mackay said. “[Because of] the amount it
would take to do that, the county would be better off putting a whole new deck
on the structure.”Mackay said the detour around the 12th Street bridge
is just 0.3 miles while other detours are several miles. He added they have
done several traffic studies and determined the best use of county funds would
be to close the 12th Street bridge and potentially use the funds to
replace the bridge on 125th Avenue 12.5 miles north of Ellis over the
Saline River.Through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program, the
county could receive $232,000 if selected by KDOT for replacement. Mackay estimated
it could cost almost $1 million to replace the bridge.Mackay said if they receive state funding to place the deck
on the bridge on 125th Avenue and the additional funds from closing
the 12th Street bridge would greatly reduce the county’s cost.He said the options for the county commission will be to
leave the bridge open and pay to replace the deck or close the bridge.In other business, the commission will consider
reimbursements for the Dec. 15 fire, discuss a land annexation for the city of
Victoria and consider a food service contract for the jail.The agenda is available <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05022023-533">HERE</a>.

Ellis Co. Commission set to consider bridge closure

The Fort Hays State University Alumni Office has announced nominees for its three honorary commencement awards. Recipients of each award will be announced at a press conference at 9 a.m., Tuesday, May 2, in the Memorial Union Sunset Atrium on campus, with refreshments to follow. The public is welcome to attend and join in celebrating these outstanding Tigers.

Twenty graduating seniors have been nominated for the 2023 Torch Award, acknowledging classroom excellence, leadership, participation in professional organizations, and student, civic, or research activities. Eight graduate students from the 2022-23 academic year received nominations for the Lighthouse Award, honoring outstanding students completing graduate studies.

The graduating class of 2023 nominated 27 faculty members for the Pilot Award, recognizing classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities.

The Torch and Pilot Awards, created in 1974, and the Lighthouse Award, established in 2018, are presented annually. Nominees listed completed all requested information by the deadline specified by the Alumni Office.&nbsp;

Nominees for the Torch and Lighthouse Awards are listed alphabetically by state and hometown. Pilot Award nominees are listed alphabetically by last name.

Kansas BELOIT Trinity Wagner, Business Administration – Marketing CHENEY Coy Lampe, Business Administration – Finance CONCORDIA Ciara Kearn, Communication Sciences and Disorders GARNETT Jenna Schmit*, Communication Sciences and Disorders HAYS Loganne Ditter, Psychology, Criminal Justice Ethan Lang*, Finance – Financial Planning Holly Linenberger, Fine Arts – Interior Design MINNEAPOLIS Karisma Vignery, Math Education OXFORD Elisa Donley*, Agriculture – Agronomy Business PRATT Sydney Koirth, Medical Diagnostic Imaging – Ultrasound SALINA Kaiden O’Dell, Geology STERLING Jessica Reid, Medical Diagnostic Imaging – Ultrasound TOPEKA Cole Berry, Organizational Leadership ULYSSES Slater Heglin, Business Education – Talent Development WICHITA Brett Loving, Business Administration – Accounting

Colorado BOULDER Reilly Madden, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Criminal Justice LONGMONT Emily Reitz*, Health and Human Performance – Sport and Exercise Therapy&nbsp;&nbsp; WESTMINSTER Brynn Wooten*, Geology, Biology&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Dakota MANDAN Niassa Harris-Wazoua, Organizational Leadership

Oklahoma OWASSO William Tinney, Organizational Leadership

Kansas BALDWIN CITY Abigail Hayes*, Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice DODGE CITY &nbsp;Omar Alvarez, Master of Business Administration HAYS Tanner Callis*, MA in English Robyn Hartman*, Master of Professional Studies in Instructional Design HUTCHINSON Anna Deal, Master of Science in Organizational Communication&nbsp;&nbsp; TOPEKA Diane Nuñez*, Master of Science in Geosciences – Geography&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colorado EADS Mindi Uhland, Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682904714268.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Alumni Office The Fort Hays State University Alumni Office has announced nominees for its three honorary commencement awards. Recipients of each award will be announced at a press conference at 9 a.m., Tuesday, May 2, in the Memorial Union Sunset Atrium on campus, with refreshments to follow. The public is welcome to attend and join in celebrating these outstanding Tigers.Twenty graduating seniors have been nominated for the 2023 Torch Award, acknowledging classroom excellence, leadership, participation in professional organizations, and student, civic, or research activities. Eight graduate students from the 2022-23 academic year received nominations for the Lighthouse Award, honoring outstanding students completing graduate studies.The graduating class of 2023 nominated 27 faculty members for the Pilot Award, recognizing classroom excellence, ongoing research, and service activities.The Torch and Pilot Awards, created in 1974, and the Lighthouse Award, established in 2018, are presented annually. Nominees listed completed all requested information by the deadline specified by the Alumni Office.&nbsp;Nominees for the Torch and Lighthouse Awards are listed alphabetically by state and hometown. Pilot Award nominees are listed alphabetically by last name.2023 Torch Award Nominees* Denotes finalists for each award.Kansas BELOIT Trinity Wagner, Business Administration – Marketing CHENEY Coy Lampe, Business Administration – Finance CONCORDIA Ciara Kearn, Communication Sciences and Disorders GARNETT Jenna Schmit*, Communication Sciences and Disorders HAYS Loganne Ditter, Psychology, Criminal Justice Ethan Lang*, Finance – Financial Planning Holly Linenberger, Fine Arts – Interior Design MINNEAPOLIS Karisma Vignery, Math Education OXFORD Elisa Donley*, Agriculture – Agronomy Business PRATT Sydney Koirth, Medical Diagnostic Imaging – Ultrasound SALINA Kaiden O’Dell, Geology STERLING Jessica Reid, Medical Diagnostic Imaging – Ultrasound TOPEKA Cole Berry, Organizational Leadership ULYSSES Slater Heglin, Business Education – Talent Development WICHITA Brett Loving, Business Administration – Accounting Colorado BOULDER Reilly Madden, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Criminal Justice LONGMONT Emily Reitz*, Health and Human Performance – Sport and Exercise Therapy&nbsp;&nbsp; WESTMINSTER Brynn Wooten*, Geology, Biology&nbsp;&nbsp; North Dakota MANDAN Niassa Harris-Wazoua, Organizational Leadership Oklahoma OWASSO William Tinney, Organizational Leadership 2023 Lighthouse Award NomineesKansas BALDWIN CITY Abigail Hayes*, Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice DODGE CITY &nbsp;Omar Alvarez, Master of Business Administration HAYS Tanner Callis*, MA in English Robyn Hartman*, Master of Professional Studies in Instructional Design HUTCHINSON Anna Deal, Master of Science in Organizational Communication&nbsp;&nbsp; TOPEKA Diane Nuñez*, Master of Science in Geosciences – Geography&nbsp;&nbsp; Colorado EADS Mindi Uhland, Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Oklahoma ALVA Whitney Randall*, Master of Science in Health and Human Performance – Sports Administration 2023 Pilot Award NomineesIvalah Allen, associate professor, Music and TheatreDr. Medhavi Ambardar, assistant professor, Biological SciencesDr. James Balthazor, associate professor, ChemistryDr. Sarah Broman Miller, assistant professor, Teacher EducationDr. Matthew Clay, assistant professor, Teacher EducationDr. Clyde Cranwell, associate professor, AgricultureEric Deneault*, associate professor, Applied TechnologyDr. Linda Feldstein, assistant professor, Teacher EducationBrad Goebel, instructor, Applied Business StudiesDr. Brent Goertzen, professor, Leadership StudiesDr. Christina Glenn, assistant professor, Economics, Finance, and AccountingNathan Howard, assistant professor, Applied TechnologyDr. Kaley Klaus*, assistant professor and international coordinator, Leadership StudiesDr. Robert Lloyd, associate professor and Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship director of strategic partnerships, ManagementDr. Tamara Lynn*, chair, Criminal JusticeBrooke Mann, instructor, PsychologyTara Marshall*, instructor Communication Sciences and DisordersMary Martin, professor, Applied Business StudiesHollie Marquess, lecturer, HistoryDr. Edwin Olmstead, assistant professor, ChemistryDr. Lorelei Patrick, assistant professor, Biological SciencesDr. Ziwei Qi*, assistant professor, Criminal JusticeDr. Wendy Rohleder-Sook, assistant professor, Political ScienceJeremy Ryan, instructor, AgricultureDr. Samuel Schreyer, professor, Economics, Finance, and AccountingJennifer Wagner, director and professor, Allied Health