On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">Hays Chamber</a> vice president of marketing and communications Mariah Legleiter discusses the Hays Young Professionals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Young Professionals helps create connections" 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=57mby-145b86b-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>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">Hays Chamber</a> vice president of marketing and communications Mariah Legleiter discusses the Hays Young Professionals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Young Professionals helps create connections

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board approved several capital improvement purchases and heard a bond construction update at its meeting Monday.

The district approved two sets of computer purchases.

The district approved&nbsp;the purchase of 30 business lab and 15 tech lab desktop machines for the Hays Middle School at a cost of $39,600.

It also approved the purchase of 80 student computers for Hays High School at a cost of $53,331.

The district has a regular rotation for purchasing computers, but the enrollment at HHS is growing, Superintendent Ron Wilson said.

This will give the high school a few spares. The district is also expecting a large eighth-grade class who will become freshmen in 2024-25, Wilson said.

The board also approved a renovation of the Hays High dish room at a cost of $53,884.

Wilson gave a brief bond update to the board on Monday.

The schematic design has been completed for the O'Loughlin Elementary School project. The architects now move on to more detailed plans.

Schematic designs are being done for the renovations of the current Hays High School, which will become the new middle school as well as the new elementary school, which will be in the former middle school building.

Wilson said officials hope those two sets of drawings will be done by the start of the school year.

The bid opening for the new high school will be Aug. 3.&nbsp;

A groundbreaking has not been set for the high school, but Wilson said he anticipates it will be in late September.

Work is ongoing on renovations and an addition at Roosevelt Elementary School.&nbsp;

Temporary classrooms at Roosevelt are being added so work can continue during the school year. The upper grades will be in those classrooms.

Although it is not part of the bond, the district is making repairs to the HVAC system at Wilson Elementary School. Once the bond is completed, Rockwell Administration Center will be closed and Wilson will be used for administration offices.&nbsp;

Wilson will be closed as an elementary school and students moved to the new elementary or other elementary schools in the district.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664289554228.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board approved several capital improvement purchases and heard a bond construction update at its meeting Monday.The district approved two sets of computer purchases.The district approved&nbsp;the purchase of 30 business lab and 15 tech lab desktop machines for the Hays Middle School at a cost of $39,600.It also approved the purchase of 80 student computers for Hays High School at a cost of $53,331.The district has a regular rotation for purchasing computers, but the enrollment at HHS is growing, Superintendent Ron Wilson said.This will give the high school a few spares. The district is also expecting a large eighth-grade class who will become freshmen in 2024-25, Wilson said.The board also approved a renovation of the Hays High dish room at a cost of $53,884.<h2>Bond update</h2>Wilson gave a brief bond update to the board on Monday.The schematic design has been completed for the O'Loughlin Elementary School project. The architects now move on to more detailed plans.Schematic designs are being done for the renovations of the current Hays High School, which will become the new middle school as well as the new elementary school, which will be in the former middle school building.Wilson said officials hope those two sets of drawings will be done by the start of the school year.The bid opening for the new high school will be Aug. 3.&nbsp;A groundbreaking has not been set for the high school, but Wilson said he anticipates it will be in late September.Work is ongoing on renovations and an addition at Roosevelt Elementary School.&nbsp;Temporary classrooms at Roosevelt are being added so work can continue during the school year. The upper grades will be in those classrooms.Although it is not part of the bond, the district is making repairs to the HVAC system at Wilson Elementary School. Once the bond is completed, Rockwell Administration Center will be closed and Wilson will be used for administration offices.&nbsp;Wilson will be closed as an elementary school and students moved to the new elementary or other elementary schools in the district.

Hays USD 489 BOE approves capital purchases, hears bond update

The Hays Police Department responded to 85 incidents July 2-8, 2023 according to the HPD activity log.&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 85 incidents July 2-8, 2023 according to the HPD activity log.&nbsp;<figure>
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Hays Police Dept. activity log, July 2-8

This is day 12 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.

Wheat harvest continues to be a slog with producers fighting rains and weeds to get the crop across the scale. Harvest is now 71 percent complete, well behind 98 percent last year and 94 percent for the five-year average, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) crop progress report for the week ending July 16, 2023.&nbsp;

In the far southwestern corner of the state, Morgan Walls with Elkhart Co-op reports wheat harvest in Morton County has been a drag. Weather has been inhibitive; quality has been a challenge and weeds continue to be a struggle.&nbsp;

Wheat harvest here should be wrapped up by the fourth of July, but this year that’s when the first loads hit the scales. With rain delays that have continuously deteriorated test weights, wheat harvest should finally finish by the end of the week.&nbsp;

But it’s hard to gauge where harvest is at, as 70 to 75 percent of planted acres were zeroed out by crop insurance, and more acres were taken out by spotty hail in the last couple of weeks. Test weights are averaging lighter than preferred at about 58 pounds per bushel with protein ranging between 12 and 14 percent. Yields are all over the place, from five bushels an acre all the way up to a very small area that had timely moisture and is seeing averages around 70 bushels per acre.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following a busy weekend of cutting in Ness County harvest is all but done, according to Brad Cowan, general manager of CGS in Bazine. After having started cutting around June 23, producers are just tired after fighting the weeds, fighting the weather and fighting green wheat.&nbsp;

Yields ranged from 15 to 55 bushels per acre with test weights averaging 59.6 pounds per bushel and average protein coming in consistently just short of 13 percent. Fields that were close, but not released by crop insurance, benefitted from a perfect two-week period of filling weather, resulting in yields at 25 to 30 bushels per acre.&nbsp;

Weeds have been a continuous struggle, which means more work for the elevators. CGS will take in about the same number of bushels as last year, which is roughly half of the five-year average. That wheat will be loaded by train onto the short line and delivered to flour mills in eastern Kansas.&nbsp;

Weeds are also the main struggle in Meade County, where Dave Strecker with Alliance Ag and Grain LLC reported from Fowler in the eastern part of the county. Harvest here has been going on for a long time, having started around June 27 and still only about three-quarters finished.&nbsp;

Strecker said grain quality is pretty good with better than average proteins, but bushels are down dramatically due to approximately 65 percent abandonment of planted acres. There are several producers who won’t bring a single bushel of wheat to town.&nbsp;

The wheat that is coming in is yielding 20 to 35 bushels per acre, compared to the 60 to 70 bushels per acre for a normal year. Overall, he estimated the area will take in a maximum of 25 percent of bushels compared to the five-year average.&nbsp;

But, by this time next week, Strecker expects that all the wheat that will be harvested will be in the bin. And that’s much-needed as the corn is tasseling. He estimated only five weeks until the first load of dryland corn arrives, not a lot of time for the elevators to turn house and prepare for fall harvest.&nbsp;

With triple-digit temperatures expected in coming days, producers will likely make quick harvest progress if summer storms stay away. Stay tuned as the Kansas Wheat crew continues to share results from the field with the next report scheduled for July 18.&nbsp;

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 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689686431266.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas WheatThis is day 12 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.Wheat harvest continues to be a slog with producers fighting rains and weeds to get the crop across the scale. Harvest is now 71 percent complete, well behind 98 percent last year and 94 percent for the five-year average, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) crop progress report for the week ending July 16, 2023.&nbsp;In the far southwestern corner of the state, Morgan Walls with Elkhart Co-op reports wheat harvest in Morton County has been a drag. Weather has been inhibitive; quality has been a challenge and weeds continue to be a struggle.&nbsp;Wheat harvest here should be wrapped up by the fourth of July, but this year that’s when the first loads hit the scales. With rain delays that have continuously deteriorated test weights, wheat harvest should finally finish by the end of the week.&nbsp;But it’s hard to gauge where harvest is at, as 70 to 75 percent of planted acres were zeroed out by crop insurance, and more acres were taken out by spotty hail in the last couple of weeks. Test weights are averaging lighter than preferred at about 58 pounds per bushel with protein ranging between 12 and 14 percent. Yields are all over the place, from five bushels an acre all the way up to a very small area that had timely moisture and is seeing averages around 70 bushels per acre.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following a busy weekend of cutting in Ness County harvest is all but done, according to Brad Cowan, general manager of CGS in Bazine. After having started cutting around June 23, producers are just tired after fighting the weeds, fighting the weather and fighting green wheat.&nbsp;Yields ranged from 15 to 55 bushels per acre with test weights averaging 59.6 pounds per bushel and average protein coming in consistently just short of 13 percent. Fields that were close, but not released by crop insurance, benefitted from a perfect two-week period of filling weather, resulting in yields at 25 to 30 bushels per acre.&nbsp;Weeds have been a continuous struggle, which means more work for the elevators. CGS will take in about the same number of bushels as last year, which is roughly half of the five-year average. That wheat will be loaded by train onto the short line and delivered to flour mills in eastern Kansas.&nbsp;Weeds are also the main struggle in Meade County, where Dave Strecker with Alliance Ag and Grain LLC reported from Fowler in the eastern part of the county. Harvest here has been going on for a long time, having started around June 27 and still only about three-quarters finished.&nbsp;Strecker said grain quality is pretty good with better than average proteins, but bushels are down dramatically due to approximately 65 percent abandonment of planted acres. There are several producers who won’t bring a single bushel of wheat to town.&nbsp;The wheat that is coming in is yielding 20 to 35 bushels per acre, compared to the 60 to 70 bushels per acre for a normal year. Overall, he estimated the area will take in a maximum of 25 percent of bushels compared to the five-year average.&nbsp;But, by this time next week, Strecker expects that all the wheat that will be harvested will be in the bin. And that’s much-needed as the corn is tasseling. He estimated only five weeks until the first load of dryland corn arrives, not a lot of time for the elevators to turn house and prepare for fall harvest.&nbsp;With triple-digit temperatures expected in coming days, producers will likely make quick harvest progress if summer storms stay away. Stay tuned as the Kansas Wheat crew continues to share results from the field with the next report scheduled for July 18.&nbsp;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 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.

KS WHEAT: After fighting weather, Ness County area wheat harvest nearly complete

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Staff from Hays High School premiered the new Hays High School logo at the USD 489 board meeting on Monday.

The new logo includes an H and an arrowhead.

Heath Meder, HHS art teacher, developed the new logo with the help of a committee that was made up of teachers, administrators and coaches.

The logo and the accompanying font are original.

"This is 100 percent Hays and USD 489," Meder said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b03de214-a1e1-44df-8ea5-f597e5e62646">Earlier this year district officials met with community members to discuss the logo for the new high school. A committee assigned to debate the Native American logo decided to keep the Indian mascot, keep the same school colors, but no longer use a person's image as a logo.</a>

"After this evening, the whole community will have a brand and logo&nbsp; and be able to say, 'Yes, that is Hays High," Shawn Henderson, HHS principal, said.

A secondary logo will be the arrowhead by itself. The arrowhead is unique to the Hays High and includes a small H in the head of the arrow.

"It's crisp, clean and modern, but some of the talk is its classic. It all works together," Meder said.

The new logo and font will go into effect immediately. A new style sheet will be sent to community partners and media outlets.&nbsp;The logos will be provided free of charge. The style sheet will be made available on the district website.

"You have a lot of options. You have to start with that piece of paper, bring a level of organization, rally together and put it wherever our people are," Henderson said.

Henderson said the new logo will be transitioned in terms of uniforms or other existing materials in the interest of fiscal responsibility.

Any new uniforms or materials will display the new logo.

Henderson said district staff members are still working on a plan to preserve the historical images and logos that have been used at the high school.

The board also elected a new board president and vice president as part of its annual reorganization meeting. Ken Brooks was elected as the new board president, and Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp was elected as the new vice-president.

Both board members began serving in their new leadership roles as soon as they were elected. They will serve through the end of June 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689641115145.jpeg" alt="The new Hays High School logo will go into effect immediately and will be available for free to all district partners and media outlets. Courtesy image." />
 <figcaption>The new Hays High School logo will go into effect immediately and will be available for free to all district partners and media outlets. Courtesy image.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostStaff from Hays High School premiered the new Hays High School logo at the USD 489 board meeting on Monday.The new logo includes an H and an arrowhead.Heath Meder, HHS art teacher, developed the new logo with the help of a committee that was made up of teachers, administrators and coaches.The logo and the accompanying font are original.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689641359463.jpeg" alt="The Hays High arrowhead can be used as a secondary logo. The school colors will remain maroon and gold. The logo and font will be unique for Hays High School. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>The Hays High arrowhead can be used as a secondary logo. The school colors will remain maroon and gold. The logo and font will be unique for Hays High School. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>"This is 100 percent Hays and USD 489," Meder said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b03de214-a1e1-44df-8ea5-f597e5e62646">Earlier this year district officials met with community members to discuss the logo for the new high school. A committee assigned to debate the Native American logo decided to keep the Indian mascot, keep the same school colors, but no longer use a person's image as a logo.</a>"After this evening, the whole community will have a brand and logo&nbsp; and be able to say, 'Yes, that is Hays High," Shawn Henderson, HHS principal, said.A secondary logo will be the arrowhead by itself. The arrowhead is unique to the Hays High and includes a small H in the head of the arrow."It's crisp, clean and modern, but some of the talk is its classic. It all works together," Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689641495513.jpeg" alt="The new Hays High logo and font were designed by Heath Meder, HHS art teacher, with input from an HHS committee. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>The new Hays High logo and font were designed by Heath Meder, HHS art teacher, with input from an HHS committee. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The new logo and font will go into effect immediately. A new style sheet will be sent to community partners and media outlets.&nbsp;The logos will be provided free of charge. The style sheet will be made available on the district website."You have a lot of options. You have to start with that piece of paper, bring a level of organization, rally together and put it wherever our people are," Henderson said.Henderson said the new logo will be transitioned in terms of uniforms or other existing materials in the interest of fiscal responsibility.Any new uniforms or materials will display the new logo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689641606543.jpeg" alt="The style sheet for the new Hays High logo shows various ways the logo can be used. Courtesy image." />
 <figcaption>The style sheet for the new Hays High logo shows various ways the logo can be used. Courtesy image.</figcaption>
 </figure>Henderson said district staff members are still working on a plan to preserve the historical images and logos that have been used at the high school.<h2>New board leadership</h2>The board also elected a new board president and vice president as part of its annual reorganization meeting. Ken Brooks was elected as the new board president, and Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp was elected as the new vice-president.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689641760112.jpeg" alt="Ken Brooks, second from the right, was elected president of the Hasy USD 489 school board and Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp, far left, was elected as the board's vice-president at Monday's meeting. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ken Brooks, second from the right, was elected president of the Hasy USD 489 school board and Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp, far left, was elected as the board's vice-president at Monday's meeting. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Both board members began serving in their new leadership roles as soon as they were elected. They will serve through the end of June 2024.

USD 489 debuts new Hays High School logo

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;emergency medicine doctor

Children or grandchildren who attend Hays public schools: Yes. three children

Please give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less. I am originally from Albert, Kan., and attended Otis-Bison where I met my wife Emily. After high school, I went to Fort Hays State University, graduating with a degree in chemistry and then went on to the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City. Following residency at UMKC, Emily and I were fortunate to get the opportunity to move back to Hays in 2015. Emily and I have three children who will all be attending school within the district this year.

Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less. I initially became interested in running for the school board during the COVID pandemic. I saw how the decisions made by the board had significant and lasting effects on the education of my children and all the students in the district. In addition to interrupting the classroom learning, it also put a strain on working families. Since the pandemic has ended, there have continued to be a lot of changes within the district that are having significant effects on the citizens of Hays. For instance, with the passing of the school bond, everyone’s property taxes have increased. I want to be an advocate for the students' interests, as well as be fiscally responsible by making sure that the money entrusted to USD 489 through the school bond is spent responsibly.

Another reason I am running for the school board is to help guide the education of my children and the other students within the district. I believe extra-curricular activities are important in making students well-rounded, but the main responsibility of the school is to teach the core subjects. I want to maximize the classroom time with direct contact between students and teachers. My goal would be to work with the teachers and administration to help make sure the curriculum focuses on teaching math, science, reading and critical thinking skills so that each student graduates with the skills to become life-long learners and excel after high school.

At the end of the day, my goal is to join the school board in hopes of having a positive effect on the lives and education of the students of USD 489 and the community. I believe my experience in academia and the health care field gives me a different perspective to bring to the school board. I hope the voters of USD 489 will give me the chance to represent them and their children next year.

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/2023/7/1689025059606.jpeg" alt="Derek Yarmer" />
 <figcaption>Derek Yarmer</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Derek Yarmer</h2>Age: 39Profession:&nbsp;emergency medicine doctorIncumbent: NoChildren or grandchildren who attend Hays public schools: Yes. three childrenPlease give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less. I am originally from Albert, Kan., and attended Otis-Bison where I met my wife Emily. After high school, I went to Fort Hays State University, graduating with a degree in chemistry and then went on to the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City. Following residency at UMKC, Emily and I were fortunate to get the opportunity to move back to Hays in 2015. Emily and I have three children who will all be attending school within the district this year.Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less. I initially became interested in running for the school board during the COVID pandemic. I saw how the decisions made by the board had significant and lasting effects on the education of my children and all the students in the district. In addition to interrupting the classroom learning, it also put a strain on working families. Since the pandemic has ended, there have continued to be a lot of changes within the district that are having significant effects on the citizens of Hays. For instance, with the passing of the school bond, everyone’s property taxes have increased. I want to be an advocate for the students' interests, as well as be fiscally responsible by making sure that the money entrusted to USD 489 through the school bond is spent responsibly.Another reason I am running for the school board is to help guide the education of my children and the other students within the district. I believe extra-curricular activities are important in making students well-rounded, but the main responsibility of the school is to teach the core subjects. I want to maximize the classroom time with direct contact between students and teachers. My goal would be to work with the teachers and administration to help make sure the curriculum focuses on teaching math, science, reading and critical thinking skills so that each student graduates with the skills to become life-long learners and excel after high school.At the end of the day, my goal is to join the school board in hopes of having a positive effect on the lives and education of the students of USD 489 and the community. I believe my experience in academia and the health care field gives me a different perspective to bring to the school board. I hope the voters of USD 489 will give me the chance to represent them and their children next year.

Hays USD 489 school board candidate: Derek Yarmer

LA CROSSE – At a special meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, July 24, the La Crosse USD 395 Board of Education will vote on whether to include a school bond proposal on the November general election ballot.

The meeting will be held in the&nbsp;high school auditorium, 400 Washington St.

After months of careful consideration, the district facilities steering committee developed a facilities bond proposal aimed at addressing significant needs of the current buildings. 

The proposal, created in collaboration with Hutchinson-based companies Landmark Architects and Wiens &amp; Company Construction, focuses on “future-proofing” the district’s facilities to make them more efficient to maintain, more effective for learning, and safer for students and staff.

The proposed project includes construction of a new elementary school wing at the current junior/senior high school campus, a second gymnasium (PE classroom), administrative offices, and support spaces. Additionally, the plan incorporates FEMA standard classrooms to serve as storm shelters.

The site improvements will also feature a secure entrance to the building, dedicated drop-off drives, and parking areas for improved traffic flow and convenience. Additionally, a new playground area will be designed specifically for the elementary school, offering a safe and engaging space for young learners.

“Our aging elementary school is in very poor shape, which not only hinders our students’ ability to learn, but also creates logistics chaos and extra expense,” said Bill Keeley, USD 395 superintendent. “Rethinking and upgrading our facilities will let our students and teachers focus fully on learning, as well as create financial efficiencies in the long run.”

For more information on the bond project visit <a href="https://www.usd395facilities.com/">USD395facilities.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689608134408.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD&nbsp; 395LA CROSSE – At a special meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, July 24, the La Crosse USD 395 Board of Education will vote on whether to include a school bond proposal on the November general election ballot.The meeting will be held in the&nbsp;high school auditorium, 400 Washington St.After months of careful consideration, the district facilities steering committee developed a facilities bond proposal aimed at addressing significant needs of the current buildings. The proposal, created in collaboration with Hutchinson-based companies Landmark Architects and Wiens &amp; Company Construction, focuses on “future-proofing” the district’s facilities to make them more efficient to maintain, more effective for learning, and safer for students and staff.The proposed project includes construction of a new elementary school wing at the current junior/senior high school campus, a second gymnasium (PE classroom), administrative offices, and support spaces. Additionally, the plan incorporates FEMA standard classrooms to serve as storm shelters.The site improvements will also feature a secure entrance to the building, dedicated drop-off drives, and parking areas for improved traffic flow and convenience. Additionally, a new playground area will be designed specifically for the elementary school, offering a safe and engaging space for young learners.“Our aging elementary school is in very poor shape, which not only hinders our students’ ability to learn, but also creates logistics chaos and extra expense,” said Bill Keeley, USD 395 superintendent. “Rethinking and upgrading our facilities will let our students and teachers focus fully on learning, as well as create financial efficiencies in the long run.”2023 Proposed Bond Scope<ul>
 <li>Construction of new elementary wing at the current junior/senior high school building, to include a gymnasium (PE classroom) and administrative offices and support spaces</li><li>Construction of a connecting corridor between the existing junior/senior high school main building and the existing technology building, with the intent to create a secure campus under one roof</li><li>Renovations to the existing building and current office area at the junior/senior high to coordinate with the addition of the new elementary school wing</li><li>Addition of a new secure entryway</li>
 </ul>For more information on the bond project visit <a href="https://www.usd395facilities.com/">USD395facilities.com</a>.

USD 395 La Crosse school board to consider proposed school bond election at July meeting

All are welcome to the Thomas More Prep-Marian Catholic schools open house&nbsp;for interested, new, and returning students on Wed., July 19. It's come-and-go from 5:30-7:30 p.m. 

A main interest will be the new northwest wing of the junior high. 

The three new classrooms, hallway, and restroom will be open to the public for the first time since substantial completion.

Teachers and administrators will be on hand to show visitors the school and talk about curriculum and programs. 

If you've never considered TMP-Marian for your child's education, now would be a great time to visit and get additional information.

TMP-Marian is located at 1701 Hall Street in Hays and educates students in the 6th-12th grades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689198713866.jpeg" alt="Thomas More Prep-Marian (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Thomas More Prep-Marian (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MAll are welcome to the Thomas More Prep-Marian Catholic schools open house&nbsp;for interested, new, and returning students on Wed., July 19. It's come-and-go from 5:30-7:30 p.m. A main interest will be the new northwest wing of the junior high. The three new classrooms, hallway, and restroom will be open to the public for the first time since substantial completion.Teachers and administrators will be on hand to show visitors the school and talk about curriculum and programs. If you've never considered TMP-Marian for your child's education, now would be a great time to visit and get additional information.TMP-Marian is located at 1701 Hall Street in Hays and educates students in the 6th-12th grades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thomas More Prep-Marian open house is July 19

<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/2023/7/1689629542695.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

By John P. Tretbar Special to the Hays Post Crude oil prices posted slight losses Monday after some big swings last week.&nbsp; WTI on the Nymex was trading a few cents below $75 per barrel by midday Monday, after dropping below $73 and then topping out at nearly $77 last week. Brent crude was over $79 in midday trading in London. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $65.75 per barrel. That's up from $64 a week ago and up from $61 at the first of the month. Kansas regulators report 127 intent-to-drill notices filed in June. That's 622 so far this year, compared to 851 halfway through last year. Barton County reported six new intents, 27 through June. Ellis County added two for a year-to-date total of 24. Just one new intent on file in Russell County, where there are four so far this year. Stafford County checks in with three new intents, 19 through the first six months of 2023. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports Kansas operators completed 24 new wells last week, including three in Barton County and two in Ellis County. That's 932 new well completions so far this year, which is ahead of last year by almost 100 wells. Regulators approved 22 new drilling locations last week, with six west of Wichita including one in Stafford County. The rotary rig count from Baker Hughes is down three oil rigs and five rigs, with Texas dropping eight rigs. New Mexico was up two. Oklahoma dropped by one. With 39 active drilling rigs statewide, the Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down 4.5 percent from last week, down 11 percent from a month ago, and down nearly 28 percent from last year at this time. Drilling was underway Monday on a lease in Stafford County. Weekly inventory reports from EIA do not include crude oil stored in the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which have varied greatly over the last year. As gasoline prices spiked, President Joe Biden entered the marketplace to sell 180 million barrels from the SPR, the biggest drawdown in its history. That crude was sold for an average price of $95 a barrel. The administration is back in the marketplace to buy crude that will be more than $20 a barrel cheaper. The Department of Energy has already bought more than 3 million barrels for September delivery at just under $72 a barrel. Last week the government announced it is in the market for another 6 million barrels for delivery this fall. That's already ringing up what amounts to a savings of $180 million dollars to the U.S. treasury, simply by selling high and then buying low. The latest inventory report NOT including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve shows a marked increase in stockpiles, up 5.9 million barrels to just over 458 million as of July 7. Inventories are about 1 percent above the five-year average for this time of year, according to the weekly report from the Energy Information Administration. The government reported a slight drop in weekly crude production. The Energy Information Administration says U.S. producers pumped just over 12.3 million barrels per day, down 113,000 barrels per day from the week before, but leading the year-ago total by just under 300,000 barrels a day. U.S. crude-oil imports dropped by over a million barrels per day last week. But, the four-week average is just a fraction less than the same period a year ago. The Energy Information Administration reports average imports in the week through July 7 of 5.9 million barrels per day. The four-week average is 6.4 million, which is down about three-tenths of a percent from the same four weeks a year ago. U.S. refining capacity increased last year for the first time since the pandemic despite fewer operating refineries. A report from the Energy Information Administration shows refineries here were able to handle up to 18.1 million barrels a day last year, up 200,000 barrels from the year before. There are 129 operable refineries nationwide, which is down one from a year ago after the closure of a small facility in California. But EIA says overall capacity increased thanks largely to the re-opening of a partially-retired unit in New Jersey, along with some minor increases in Kansas and eight other states. EIA says the three refineries in Kansas now have a combined top-end capacity of 416,000 barrels per day. Russian crude exports are starting to drop, more than four months after its promised production cuts. Bloomberg reports total seaborne crude flows dropped a little more than 1 million barrels per day in the week through July 9. The four-week average is down 205,000 barrels per day. The numbers are driven by big drops in shipments through Russia's western ports.

By John P. Tretbar Special to the Hays Post Crude oil prices posted slight losses Monday after some big swings last week.&nbsp; WTI on the Nymex was trading a few cents below $75 per barrel by midday Monday, after dropping below $73 and then topping out at nearly $77 last week. Brent crude was over $79 in midday trading in London. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $65.75 per barrel. That's up from $64 a week ago and up from $61 at the first of the month. Kansas regulators report 127 intent-to-drill notices filed in June. That's 622 so far this year, compared to 851 halfway through last year. Barton County reported six new intents, 27 through June. Ellis County added two for a year-to-date total of 24. Just one new intent on file in Russell County, where there are four so far this year. Stafford County checks in with three new intents, 19 through the first six months of 2023. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports Kansas operators completed 24 new wells last week, including three in Barton County and two in Ellis County. That's 932 new well completions so far this year, which is ahead of last year by almost 100 wells. Regulators approved 22 new drilling locations last week, with six west of Wichita including one in Stafford County. The rotary rig count from Baker Hughes is down three oil rigs and five rigs, with Texas dropping eight rigs. New Mexico was up two. Oklahoma dropped by one. With 39 active drilling rigs statewide, the Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down 4.5 percent from last week, down 11 percent from a month ago, and down nearly 28 percent from last year at this time. Drilling was underway Monday on a lease in Stafford County. Weekly inventory reports from EIA do not include crude oil stored in the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which have varied greatly over the last year. As gasoline prices spiked, President Joe Biden entered the marketplace to sell 180 million barrels from the SPR, the biggest drawdown in its history. That crude was sold for an average price of $95 a barrel. The administration is back in the marketplace to buy crude that will be more than $20 a barrel cheaper. The Department of Energy has already bought more than 3 million barrels for September delivery at just under $72 a barrel. Last week the government announced it is in the market for another 6 million barrels for delivery this fall. That's already ringing up what amounts to a savings of $180 million dollars to the U.S. treasury, simply by selling high and then buying low. The latest inventory report NOT including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve shows a marked increase in stockpiles, up 5.9 million barrels to just over 458 million as of July 7. Inventories are about 1 percent above the five-year average for this time of year, according to the weekly report from the Energy Information Administration. The government reported a slight drop in weekly crude production. The Energy Information Administration says U.S. producers pumped just over 12.3 million barrels per day, down 113,000 barrels per day from the week before, but leading the year-ago total by just under 300,000 barrels a day. U.S. crude-oil imports dropped by over a million barrels per day last week. But, the four-week average is just a fraction less than the same period a year ago. The Energy Information Administration reports average imports in the week through July 7 of 5.9 million barrels per day. The four-week average is 6.4 million, which is down about three-tenths of a percent from the same four weeks a year ago. U.S. refining capacity increased last year for the first time since the pandemic despite fewer operating refineries. A report from the Energy Information Administration shows refineries here were able to handle up to 18.1 million barrels a day last year, up 200,000 barrels from the year before. There are 129 operable refineries nationwide, which is down one from a year ago after the closure of a small facility in California. But EIA says overall capacity increased thanks largely to the re-opening of a partially-retired unit in New Jersey, along with some minor increases in Kansas and eight other states. EIA says the three refineries in Kansas now have a combined top-end capacity of 416,000 barrels per day. Russian crude exports are starting to drop, more than four months after its promised production cuts. Bloomberg reports total seaborne crude flows dropped a little more than 1 million barrels per day in the week through July 9. The four-week average is down 205,000 barrels per day. The numbers are driven by big drops in shipments through Russia's western ports.

News from the Oil Patch: U.S. refining capacity rises despite 1 fewer refinery

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A piece of longtime vacant land in central Hays has been purchased by the city in anticipation of building a new police station.

City commissioners unanimously approved the acquisition at Thursday's commission meeting.

The property at 0 Main Street is on the southwest corner of 27th and Main Streets and is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Salina. 

It's been sold to Grow Hays, which in turn will sell it to the city.&nbsp;Purchase price is $425,000, which will come from the commission reserve fund.

Collin Bielser, deputy city commissioner, said the city works closely with the non-profit economic development group Grow Hays.

"Last year the city did put on the capital improvement plan the possibility of a new police facility and it was talked about during the budget presentation this year to move forward with possible design," Bielser said Friday morning.

"We felt is was a good opportunity for a joint venture where if the city can do a public use on it, we'd work with Grow Hays towards a private and public use component, or just entirely private."

Although Hays Mayor Shaun Musil said "nothing is set in stone," the location is attractive to the city as infill. The infrastructure - water, sewer, and streets - already exists.

"The [city] police and [county] sheriff departments get along really well," Bielser said, "and they've functioned in the same building for decades.

"Hays has obviously gotten bigger. Our police force has gotten bigger. It's just something we need to explore about taking that next step as a community."

The city may also consider allowing chickens to be kept on private property within the city limits.

During the public comment session, one young resident asked about the possibility of allowing chickens to be kept indoors as pets.

Commissioners directed her to return with more information about the public's desire to do so and said they would then further discuss the situation.&nbsp;

By ordinance, chickens and other undomesticated animals normally kept in pens and similar outdoor enclosures are prohibited in Hays.

Commission Alaina Cunningham was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays City Commission recap: July 14, 2023" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=t6nty-14574ee-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe>
</div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689381148881.jpeg" alt="0 Main Street, Hays, may become the site of a new police station. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>0 Main Street, Hays, may become the site of a new police station. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA piece of longtime vacant land in central Hays has been purchased by the city in anticipation of building a new police station.City commissioners unanimously approved the acquisition at Thursday's commission meeting.The property at 0 Main Street is on the southwest corner of 27th and Main Streets and is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Salina. It's been sold to Grow Hays, which in turn will sell it to the city.&nbsp;Purchase price is $425,000, which will come from the commission reserve fund.Collin Bielser, deputy city commissioner, said the city works closely with the non-profit economic development group Grow Hays."Last year the city did put on the capital improvement plan the possibility of a new police facility and it was talked about during the budget presentation this year to move forward with possible design," Bielser said Friday morning."We felt is was a good opportunity for a joint venture where if the city can do a public use on it, we'd work with Grow Hays towards a private and public use component, or just entirely private."Although Hays Mayor Shaun Musil said "nothing is set in stone," the location is attractive to the city as infill. The infrastructure - water, sewer, and streets - already exists."The [city] police and [county] sheriff departments get along really well," Bielser said, "and they've functioned in the same building for decades."Hays has obviously gotten bigger. Our police force has gotten bigger. It's just something we need to explore about taking that next step as a community."The city may also consider allowing chickens to be kept on private property within the city limits.During the public comment session, one young resident asked about the possibility of allowing chickens to be kept indoors as pets.Commissioners directed her to return with more information about the public's desire to do so and said they would then further discuss the situation.&nbsp;By ordinance, chickens and other undomesticated animals normally kept in pens and similar outdoor enclosures are prohibited in Hays.Commission Alaina Cunningham was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

🎙 City land purchase may be home to new Hays police station

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will host a public hearing on
the county clerk’s proposal to dissolve and reorganize five townships Tuesday
at the commission’s regularly scheduled meeting at the administrative center in
Hays.

During the public hearing, residents in Lookout, Wheatland,
Catherine, Ellis and Victoria townships can ask questions about the process.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f9d4812c-a10d-4f11-9856-f3673ebe6a7b">Last month, Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling proposed and the
county commission approved five resolutions that disorganize five townships and
attach them to four other townships. </a>

The move would cut the number of townships in Ellis County
from nine to four.

The commission will also consider moving forward with the bidding
process on the new public works facility and consider accepting a grant for the
fire department.

The commission also will discuss the 2024 budget of the Noxious
Weed Department. The commission also will meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday in a special
budget work session at the Emergency Services Building to discuss each department’s
2024 budget.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will host a public hearing on
the county clerk’s proposal to dissolve and reorganize five townships Tuesday
at the commission’s regularly scheduled meeting at the administrative center in
Hays.During the public hearing, residents in Lookout, Wheatland,
Catherine, Ellis and Victoria townships can ask questions about the process.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f9d4812c-a10d-4f11-9856-f3673ebe6a7b">Last month, Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling proposed and the
county commission approved five resolutions that disorganize five townships and
attach them to four other townships. </a>The move would cut the number of townships in Ellis County
from nine to four.The commission will also consider moving forward with the bidding
process on the new public works facility and consider accepting a grant for the
fire department.The commission also will discuss the 2024 budget of the Noxious
Weed Department. The commission also will meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday in a special
budget work session at the Emergency Services Building to discuss each department’s
2024 budget.

Ellis County Commission to host township public hearing

Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee has several pointers for food safety tips during a power outage.

When power is first lost, leave the door of the refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve cold temperatures as long as possible. “An unopened refrigerator will stay cold about four hours; a full freezer will hold temperature for about 48 hours,” Blakeslee said.

If the power stays out for a longer period of time and the refrigerator is not staying cold, Blakeslee has some additional ideas for protecting food. “Coolers filled with ice are very helpful in an emergency,” Blakeslee said. “Make sure ice surrounds the food for the best chilling effect.”

For food in the freezer, dry ice can be used if available – but thick gloves should always be worn when handling dry ice to prevent skin damage. Dry ice should then be kept in a ventilated area.

Food spoilage may be unavoidable if the power outage is lengthy. Key factors that may be an indication of foodborne illness:

· Color changes. · Unusual odors. · Texture changes.

The most susceptible foods are meat, dairy, eggs and cut fruits and vegetables. Extra care should be taken when examining these food items. “Don’t taste any questionable food that has thawed out,” Blakeslee said. “When in doubt, throw it out.” Blakeslee pointed to a guide available online from the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service that outlines when to save and when to throw out potentially unsafe foods.

“While throwing out food due to an appliance failure or power outage is wasteful, it is a lot cheaper to do than paying for medical treatment due to foodborne illness,” she said.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee has several pointers for food safety tips during a power outage.When power is first lost, leave the door of the refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve cold temperatures as long as possible. “An unopened refrigerator will stay cold about four hours; a full freezer will hold temperature for about 48 hours,” Blakeslee said.If the power stays out for a longer period of time and the refrigerator is not staying cold, Blakeslee has some additional ideas for protecting food. “Coolers filled with ice are very helpful in an emergency,” Blakeslee said. “Make sure ice surrounds the food for the best chilling effect.”For food in the freezer, dry ice can be used if available – but thick gloves should always be worn when handling dry ice to prevent skin damage. Dry ice should then be kept in a ventilated area.Food spoilage may be unavoidable if the power outage is lengthy. Key factors that may be an indication of foodborne illness:· Color changes. · Unusual odors. · Texture changes. The most susceptible foods are meat, dairy, eggs and cut fruits and vegetables. Extra care should be taken when examining these food items. “Don’t taste any questionable food that has thawed out,” Blakeslee said. “When in doubt, throw it out.” Blakeslee pointed to a guide available online from the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service that outlines when to save and when to throw out potentially unsafe foods.“While throwing out food due to an appliance failure or power outage is wasteful, it is a lot cheaper to do than paying for medical treatment due to foodborne illness,” she said.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Food safety tips during a power outage

Beginning Monday, the east side of General Custer Road in Hays will be closed to through traffic at the Centennial Boulevard intersection for pavement repairs. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day on Friday, July 21.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689603183510.jpeg" alt="Pavement work at Centennial Blvd. and General Custer Road gets underway Monday morning.&nbsp; Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pavement work at Centennial Blvd. and General Custer Road gets underway Monday morning.&nbsp; Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of Hays Beginning Monday, the east side of General Custer Road in Hays will be closed to through traffic at the Centennial Boulevard intersection for pavement repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day on Friday, July 21.

East side of General Custer Rd. closed this week at Centennial Blvd. intersection 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Vine Street has experienced fewer auto accidents after its traffic lights were replaced with roundabouts in 2021, according to a city of Hays official.

Construction for the new roundabout at 27th and Canterbury is expected to be finished either during or prior to the week of July 17.

Director of Public Works, Jesse Rohr, said the roundabout will provide drivers with a better traffic flow during its busiest times during the morning and after school.&nbsp;

Vine Street has not only seen a decrease in wait time for intersections but accidents with the implementation of five traffic circles on Vine, Rohr said.

“If you exclude data from the north roundabout at 41st and Vine Street (since that intersection didn’t exist prior), the number of accidents has decreased along the remaining project corridor,” Rohr said.

The intersection at 41st didn’t exist before the construction of roundabouts on Vine Street.

The roundabout project has had significant changes to the flow of traffic, pedestrian accessibility and ease of access to the frontage roads that run parallel to Vine Street, Rohr said.

“There have been accidents, but due to the slower speed and traffic flow pattern within a roundabout, the severity of those accidents has been significantly less than accidents occurring prior to the project,” Rohr said.&nbsp;

Excluding the roundabout at 41st and Vine, the annual average of accidents was 27 per year. That number decreased to 24 in 2022 after the traffic circles were constructed.&nbsp;

Rohr has no concerns for tourists passing through the roundabouts in Hays. He said he believes it should be intuitive to drivers who follow the pavement markings and signs at the road junction.

“While there may be a learning curve for anyone traveling to new areas, roundabouts are becoming very popular in many areas and most travelers will experience them at some point," he said.

Considering the roundabout on 27th and Canterbury is near Hays High, Rohr said he isn’t worried about the new drivers of Hays either.&nbsp;

“Roundabouts are now a part of driver training, and it seems the new drivers find them very easy to navigate," Rohr said. “I can vouch for this, as my own teenage daughter has no issues navigating the roundabouts and found the learning curve to be very easy when first experiencing them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689174726959.jpeg" alt="Roundabout on 37th and Vine streets in Hays. A city of Hays official said the number of accidents on this section of Vine Street has decreased since the roundabouts were installed.&nbsp; Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Roundabout on 37th and Vine streets in Hays. A city of Hays official said the number of accidents on this section of Vine Street has decreased since the roundabouts were installed.&nbsp; Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostVine Street has experienced fewer auto accidents after its traffic lights were replaced with roundabouts in 2021, according to a city of Hays official.Construction for the new roundabout at 27th and Canterbury is expected to be finished either during or prior to the week of July 17.Director of Public Works, Jesse Rohr, said the roundabout will provide drivers with a better traffic flow during its busiest times during the morning and after school.&nbsp;Vine Street has not only seen a decrease in wait time for intersections but accidents with the implementation of five traffic circles on Vine, Rohr said.“If you exclude data from the north roundabout at 41st and Vine Street (since that intersection didn’t exist prior), the number of accidents has decreased along the remaining project corridor,” Rohr said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689174946260.jpeg" alt="Traffic flowing through the roundabout on 37th and Vine St. A city official said accidents not only have decreased but have been less serious since the roundabouts were installed. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Traffic flowing through the roundabout on 37th and Vine St. A city official said accidents not only have decreased but have been less serious since the roundabouts were installed. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The intersection at 41st didn’t exist before the construction of roundabouts on Vine Street.The roundabout project has had significant changes to the flow of traffic, pedestrian accessibility and ease of access to the frontage roads that run parallel to Vine Street, Rohr said.“There have been accidents, but due to the slower speed and traffic flow pattern within a roundabout, the severity of those accidents has been significantly less than accidents occurring prior to the project,” Rohr said.&nbsp;Excluding the roundabout at 41st and Vine, the annual average of accidents was 27 per year. That number decreased to 24 in 2022 after the traffic circles were constructed.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689175390211.jpeg" alt="A new roundabout at 27th and Canterbury streets is set to be finished as early as next week. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>A new roundabout at 27th and Canterbury streets is set to be finished as early as next week. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689175521302.jpeg" alt="Work continues on a new Hays roundabout at 27th Canterbury in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Work continues on a new Hays roundabout at 27th Canterbury in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Rohr has no concerns for tourists passing through the roundabouts in Hays. He said he believes it should be intuitive to drivers who follow the pavement markings and signs at the road junction.“While there may be a learning curve for anyone traveling to new areas, roundabouts are becoming very popular in many areas and most travelers will experience them at some point," he said.Considering the roundabout on 27th and Canterbury is near Hays High, Rohr said he isn’t worried about the new drivers of Hays either.&nbsp;“Roundabouts are now a part of driver training, and it seems the new drivers find them very easy to navigate," Rohr said. “I can vouch for this, as my own teenage daughter has no issues navigating the roundabouts and found the learning curve to be very easy when first experiencing them.”

Auto accidents decrease after Vine roundabout construction in Hays

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

Do you have children or grandchildren who attend Hays public school? No&nbsp;

Please give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less.&nbsp; I graduated from NCK Tech in automotive repair and from Fort Hays State University with a degree in elementary education. I was a John Deere combine mechanic for seven years and then started teaching and taught for 18 years. I am starting my 10th year as the I.T. director at Holy Family Elementary here in Hays.&nbsp;

Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less.&nbsp; I am running for the school board position because I am interested and concerned about our children’s education. I believe that it is important to listen to everyone in the community, the faculty and staff, and the students to help guide decisions made concerning the schools. The students of our schools deserve an education that will help prepare them to become part of the solution for tomorrow's challenges.&nbsp;

Teachers already have guidelines on what the students need to be taught but need to be allowed to teach in a manner that the students can understand and grow with. So many teachers complain about how the teaching trends change over the years and then come back full circle and start over again. I believe they need to be supported in teaching the basics to our students and build from there.&nbsp;

I could go on and fill a page of the hot topics and keywords in education but that is not needed. I want to be on the school board to lead with common sense and help make USD 489 schools great schools for our students and staff.&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/2023/7/1689022658620.png" alt="Duff Watson" />
 <figcaption>Duff Watson</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Duff Watson&nbsp;</h2>Age: 60&nbsp;Profession: I.T. director&nbsp;Are you an incumbent? No. If so, years served?&nbsp;Do you have children or grandchildren who attend Hays public school? No&nbsp;Please give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less.&nbsp; I graduated from NCK Tech in automotive repair and from Fort Hays State University with a degree in elementary education. I was a John Deere combine mechanic for seven years and then started teaching and taught for 18 years. I am starting my 10th year as the I.T. director at Holy Family Elementary here in Hays.&nbsp;Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less.&nbsp; I am running for the school board position because I am interested and concerned about our children’s education. I believe that it is important to listen to everyone in the community, the faculty and staff, and the students to help guide decisions made concerning the schools. The students of our schools deserve an education that will help prepare them to become part of the solution for tomorrow's challenges.&nbsp;Teachers already have guidelines on what the students need to be taught but need to be allowed to teach in a manner that the students can understand and grow with. So many teachers complain about how the teaching trends change over the years and then come back full circle and start over again. I believe they need to be supported in teaching the basics to our students and build from there.&nbsp;I could go on and fill a page of the hot topics and keywords in education but that is not needed. I want to be on the school board to lead with common sense and help make USD 489 schools great schools for our students and staff.&nbsp;

Hays USD 489 school board candidate: Duff Watson

Following the recent resignation of board member Bob Muirhead, the board of directors of Grow Hays, Inc. has appointed Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason to its 2023 board of directors. President Mason will fulfill&nbsp; Muirhead's three-year term through the end of 2023.

"We are very thankful to Bob Muirhead for his dedicated service to the Grow Hays Board of Directors and the economic welfare of Ellis County," Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams said. "He has served multiple terms on the board, and he will be missed. At the same time, we are privileged to have a leader like Dr. Mason assume Bob's spot on the Grow Hays Board. Fort Hays State University is extremely important to Ellis County and western Kansas, and having Dr. Mason as a member of the Grow Hays Board of Directors will contribute to the future success of both organizations."

Mason expressed her gratitude for the appointment: "Grow Hays stands at the forefront of our community's unified and comprehensive efforts to improve the quality of life in our community. I am honored by this appointment, and I look forward to joining in the important economic development work of the board."

Whether you are starting a new business, expanding an existing business, adding to your workforce, need to find financing, or do not know where to start when you need to solve a problem, Grow Hays is here to assist. Give us a call and let's discuss how we can contribute to the future success of your business.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysFollowing the recent resignation of board member Bob Muirhead, the board of directors of Grow Hays, Inc. has appointed Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason to its 2023 board of directors. President Mason will fulfill&nbsp; Muirhead's three-year term through the end of 2023."We are very thankful to Bob Muirhead for his dedicated service to the Grow Hays Board of Directors and the economic welfare of Ellis County," Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams said. "He has served multiple terms on the board, and he will be missed. At the same time, we are privileged to have a leader like Dr. Mason assume Bob's spot on the Grow Hays Board. Fort Hays State University is extremely important to Ellis County and western Kansas, and having Dr. Mason as a member of the Grow Hays Board of Directors will contribute to the future success of both organizations."Mason expressed her gratitude for the appointment: "Grow Hays stands at the forefront of our community's unified and comprehensive efforts to improve the quality of life in our community. I am honored by this appointment, and I look forward to joining in the important economic development work of the board."Whether you are starting a new business, expanding an existing business, adding to your workforce, need to find financing, or do not know where to start when you need to solve a problem, Grow Hays is here to assist. Give us a call and let's discuss how we can contribute to the future success of your business.

Grow Hays appoints FHSU President Mason to board of directors

In the late 1960s, a curiosity ignited in Dale Chaffin when a young woman studying near a sunny window in the Fort Hays State University Memorial Union caught his eye. Little did he know that this woman, Sherry, would later become his beautiful bride of 50 years. 

The couple has made Hays their forever home, raised four children, and, most recently, created an endowed scholarship for aspiring future educators through a charitable IRA rollover to FHSU.

Before meeting at FHSU, Dale and Sherry faced various economic, social, and political challenges of their era. Sherry recognized the significance of obtaining a college education as a first-generation student. Her father had completed high school. However, her mother’s education concluded in eighth grade.

From rural St. Francis, Sherry came to FHSU alone and without a car. She steadily adjusted to her new surroundings and fell in love with Fort Hays State, its community, and, later, Dale. To delay what he considered an inevitable draft in the Vietnam War, Dale enrolled at FHSU to study business.

While neither would consider their initial meeting in the Memorial Union love at first sight, they agree that their first date to the Fox Pavilion for a class-assigned viewing of&nbsp;Tora! Tora! Tora!&nbsp;sparked their enduring romance. The couple married in 1972 and have remained in Hays since.

Falling in love was easy for the couple while building careers took effort, trial, and error. Sherry initially completed a one-year secretarial program at FHSU, intending to find a job immediately after. However, being surrounded by the Department of Education’s passionate faculty as a part-time student secretary inspired her to change paths. She proceeded to earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education in 1971 and then, in 1977, her master’s degree in counseling.

Dale also completed two degrees, first a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1974 and another in technology studies in 1977. Sherry retired after 29 years as an elementary educator with Hays USD 489, and Dale followed shortly after with 40 years in the commercial insurance industry. Their retirement benefits allow the couple to give back to the university and community that played a crucial role in their professional success.

Their scholarship benefits full-time, on-campus, undergraduate, or graduate students pursuing elementary education or reading specialist degrees at FHSU. As Dale and Sherry recognize that finances greatly impact students’ educations, they prefer to help students demonstrating financial need.

Those 73 years of age or older can reduce the tax burden from their required minimum distribution by contributing directly to Fort Hays State University. Rolling your IRA over to a charitable organization offsets tax liability that regularly falls upon descendants listed in estate plans. Not only does this prevent the loss of retirement funding through taxes, but provides an opportunity to support students at FHSU. Individuals can support FHSU through a variety of giving options. You can leave land to Fort Hays State or make a gift of grain. You can include FHSU in your will, trust, life insurance, annuity, or other estate planning. You can also transfer stock or an IRA to the university, as Dale and Sherry did. No matter how you choose to give, your support will leave a legacy at FHSU and impact the future of our university. 

Thank you to Dale and Sherry Chaffin for paying it forward to the next generation of Fort Hays State students.

Contact the FHSU Foundation office at 785-628-5620 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;to learn more or visit foundation.fhsu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689198071775.jpeg" alt="Dale and Sherry Chaffin (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Dale and Sherry Chaffin (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU University FoundationIn the late 1960s, a curiosity ignited in Dale Chaffin when a young woman studying near a sunny window in the Fort Hays State University Memorial Union caught his eye. Little did he know that this woman, Sherry, would later become his beautiful bride of 50 years. The couple has made Hays their forever home, raised four children, and, most recently, created an endowed scholarship for aspiring future educators through a charitable IRA rollover to FHSU.Before meeting at FHSU, Dale and Sherry faced various economic, social, and political challenges of their era. Sherry recognized the significance of obtaining a college education as a first-generation student. Her father had completed high school. However, her mother’s education concluded in eighth grade.From rural St. Francis, Sherry came to FHSU alone and without a car. She steadily adjusted to her new surroundings and fell in love with Fort Hays State, its community, and, later, Dale. To delay what he considered an inevitable draft in the Vietnam War, Dale enrolled at FHSU to study business.While neither would consider their initial meeting in the Memorial Union love at first sight, they agree that their first date to the Fox Pavilion for a class-assigned viewing of&nbsp;Tora! Tora! Tora!&nbsp;sparked their enduring romance. The couple married in 1972 and have remained in Hays since.Falling in love was easy for the couple while building careers took effort, trial, and error. Sherry initially completed a one-year secretarial program at FHSU, intending to find a job immediately after. However, being surrounded by the Department of Education’s passionate faculty as a part-time student secretary inspired her to change paths. She proceeded to earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education in 1971 and then, in 1977, her master’s degree in counseling.Dale also completed two degrees, first a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1974 and another in technology studies in 1977. Sherry retired after 29 years as an elementary educator with Hays USD 489, and Dale followed shortly after with 40 years in the commercial insurance industry. Their retirement benefits allow the couple to give back to the university and community that played a crucial role in their professional success.Their scholarship benefits full-time, on-campus, undergraduate, or graduate students pursuing elementary education or reading specialist degrees at FHSU. As Dale and Sherry recognize that finances greatly impact students’ educations, they prefer to help students demonstrating financial need.Those 73 years of age or older can reduce the tax burden from their required minimum distribution by contributing directly to Fort Hays State University. Rolling your IRA over to a charitable organization offsets tax liability that regularly falls upon descendants listed in estate plans. Not only does this prevent the loss of retirement funding through taxes, but provides an opportunity to support students at FHSU. Individuals can support FHSU through a variety of giving options. You can leave land to Fort Hays State or make a gift of grain. You can include FHSU in your will, trust, life insurance, annuity, or other estate planning. You can also transfer stock or an IRA to the university, as Dale and Sherry did. No matter how you choose to give, your support will leave a legacy at FHSU and impact the future of our university. Thank you to Dale and Sherry Chaffin for paying it forward to the next generation of Fort Hays State students.Contact the FHSU Foundation office at 785-628-5620 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;to learn more or visit foundation.fhsu.edu.

Hays couple gives back to FHSU in support of future educators

RUSSELL COUNTY —Two people were injured in separate accidents during Sunday evening's severe thunderstorm and high winds in Russell County.

Just after 5p.m. Sunday, a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by Mohamed&nbsp; Soliman I, 53, Charlotte, North Carolina, was&nbsp; westbound on Interstate 70 at 193 Street. The semi rolled and came to a rest on its driver's side.

EMS transported a passenger from the sleeper berth Victor&nbsp;Navarro, 57, Charlotte, North Carolina, to Russell Regional Medical Center and then to Hays Medical Center. The driver was not injured.&nbsp;

A few minutes later, a 2017 Ford F150 towing a 2021 Cougar Travel Trailer and driven by Damon L. Brown, 51,&nbsp; Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of 193rd Street.&nbsp; Strong winds from the thunderstorm rolled the pickup and camper over.

EMS transported a passenger April D. Brown, 46, Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, to Russell Regional Hospital.

RUSSELL COUNTY —Two people were injured in separate accidents during Sunday evening's severe thunderstorm and high winds in Russell County.Just after 5p.m. Sunday, a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by Mohamed&nbsp; Soliman I, 53, Charlotte, North Carolina, was&nbsp; westbound on Interstate 70 at 193 Street. The semi rolled and came to a rest on its driver's side.EMS transported a passenger from the sleeper berth Victor&nbsp;Navarro, 57, Charlotte, North Carolina, to Russell Regional Medical Center and then to Hays Medical Center. The driver was not injured.&nbsp;A few minutes later, a 2017 Ford F150 towing a 2021 Cougar Travel Trailer and driven by Damon L. Brown, 51,&nbsp; Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of 193rd Street.&nbsp; Strong winds from the thunderstorm rolled the pickup and camper over.EMS transported a passenger April D. Brown, 46, Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, to Russell Regional Hospital.

2 hospitalized after I-70 accidents during Sunday's severe storm

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689362415811.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>

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a>&nbsp;executive director Doug Williams discusses the role and potential uses of STAR Bonds.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays exec. dir. discusses STAR Bonds" 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=z2b5j-1457509-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>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a>&nbsp;executive director Doug Williams discusses the role and potential uses of STAR Bonds.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays exec. dir. discusses STAR Bonds

The preliminary and final versions of a plat north of Interstate 70 will be considered by the Hays Area Planning Commission during its meeting at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

The proposed plat includes four total lots ranging in size from 4.3 acres to 9.7 acres in the c northeast of the 157 Exit.

The properties have been owned by BBJ, LLC for many years and have remained natural grassland except for the Doonan Peterbilt dealership that was built in 2014.&nbsp;

The land was annexed into the city in April of 2023 and utility work for extending city water and sewer is nearly complete.&nbsp;

According to information sent to the planning commission, the plat takes into consideration the preliminary plans for the KDOT exit 157 bridge re-alignment that adjusts the southwest property line.&nbsp; 

City staff recommends approving the preliminary and final plats as submitted and recommends approval to the Hays City Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689256621659.png" alt="Doonan Addition (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Doonan Addition (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe preliminary and final versions of a plat north of Interstate 70 will be considered by the Hays Area Planning Commission during its meeting at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.The proposed plat includes four total lots ranging in size from 4.3 acres to 9.7 acres in the c northeast of the 157 Exit.The properties have been owned by BBJ, LLC for many years and have remained natural grassland except for the Doonan Peterbilt dealership that was built in 2014.&nbsp;The land was annexed into the city in April of 2023 and utility work for extending city water and sewer is nearly complete.&nbsp;According to information sent to the planning commission, the plat takes into consideration the preliminary plans for the KDOT exit 157 bridge re-alignment that adjusts the southwest property line.&nbsp; City staff recommends approving the preliminary and final plats as submitted and recommends approval to the Hays City Commission.

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