By JOE VINDUSKA Barton Community College

GREAT BEND — The Shafer Gallery held an opening reception for the BaRTaRT Faculty Student and Staff Exhibition on April 8 and awards were given to Barton students participating in the student art competition.

This year’s guest judge was Ron Michael, director of the Sandzen Memorial Gallery in Lindsborg. He gave critiques of the award-winning artwork and words of encouragement to the student artists. The exhibit runs through May 13 and also features ceramic art by Michael as well works by Barton faculty and members of the Shafer Gallery staff.

“The hard work of creating and the discipline involved in the production of any work of art finds its culmination in the Gallery,” said Gallery Director Dave Barnes. “A work of art has to be seen to be experienced, to have life and to impact and inspire the world. Without the exhibit, the artist’s work is like a song that is written but never performed. The BaRTaRT exhibit is our way of giving the artists of the Barton community the opportunity to sing loud in a supportive professional art world context. “

The winners of this year’s BaRTaRT competition are as follows:

Best Overall: Tracy Miller, “Circles.”

Painting: Third Place, Karen Gore, “Summer Pickings.” Second Place, Isabelle Gonzalez, “Don’t Move the Spotlight.” First Place, Tracy Miller, “Still Life 2.”

Graphic Mediums: Second Place, Ashley Herrman, “Mind Melt.” First Place, Ruthie Webster, “The Maiden (Mucha Tribute).”

Ceramics: Second Place, Jaci Guthrie, “Navidad.” First Place, Dolores Baker, “Textured Flower Pot.”

To see all entries visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjzKmnh" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjzKmnh</a>.&nbsp;

The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free. 

For more information, contact Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651242965683.jpeg" alt="'Growth' by Ashley Herrman (Photo courtesy Ashley Herrman)" />
 <figcaption>'Growth' by Ashley Herrman (Photo courtesy Ashley Herrman)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE VINDUSKA Barton Community CollegeGREAT BEND — The Shafer Gallery held an opening reception for the BaRTaRT Faculty Student and Staff Exhibition on April 8 and awards were given to Barton students participating in the student art competition.This year’s guest judge was Ron Michael, director of the Sandzen Memorial Gallery in Lindsborg. He gave critiques of the award-winning artwork and words of encouragement to the student artists. The exhibit runs through May 13 and also features ceramic art by Michael as well works by Barton faculty and members of the Shafer Gallery staff.“The hard work of creating and the discipline involved in the production of any work of art finds its culmination in the Gallery,” said Gallery Director Dave Barnes. “A work of art has to be seen to be experienced, to have life and to impact and inspire the world. Without the exhibit, the artist’s work is like a song that is written but never performed. The BaRTaRT exhibit is our way of giving the artists of the Barton community the opportunity to sing loud in a supportive professional art world context. “The winners of this year’s BaRTaRT competition are as follows:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651242006854.jpeg" alt="'Circles' by Tracy Miller won Best Overall in the BaRTaRT competition. (Photo courtesy Tracy Miller)" />
 <figcaption>'Circles' by Tracy Miller won Best Overall in the BaRTaRT competition. (Photo courtesy Tracy Miller)</figcaption>
 </figure>Best Overall: Tracy Miller, “Circles.”Painting: Third Place, Karen Gore, “Summer Pickings.” Second Place, Isabelle Gonzalez, “Don’t Move the Spotlight.” First Place, Tracy Miller, “Still Life 2.”Graphic Mediums: Second Place, Ashley Herrman, “Mind Melt.” First Place, Ruthie Webster, “The Maiden (Mucha Tribute).”Ceramics: Second Place, Jaci Guthrie, “Navidad.” First Place, Dolores Baker, “Textured Flower Pot.”To see all entries visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjzKmnh" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjzKmnh</a>.&nbsp;The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free. For more information, contact Barnes at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:barnesd@bartonccc.edu">barnesd@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9342.

BaRTaRT exhibition open through May 13 in Great Bend

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Federal sentencing for Tyler Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, is set for July 21.

This is the end of a story that has spanned seven years, saw ranchers stretched to their financial limits, banks defrauded of millions of dollars and the demise of a rural bank.

Despite the trail of economic turmoil left behind in this case, the local community is seeking a comeback.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/85498496-95af-4704-8e67-6ed8943abcf9">Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, was convicted in U.S. District Court on April 22 on 31 counts of bank fraud, one count of making a false statement in connection with a Small Business Administration guaranteed loan, and one count of making a false statement in a loan or credit card application. </a>

Gillum, 51, of Plainville owned
and operated Plainville Livestock Commission Inc. from 2006 until 2019. 

Between January 2015 and August 2017, Gillum wrote checks and made wire transfers between various accounts under his control at various banks in a scheme commonly known as check kiting, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

This is when checks are continually written back and forth to fraudulently inflate account balances tricking banks into honoring checks written with insufficient funds. Gillum’s scheme resulted in losses of more than $10 million to the banking system, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.

Bank officials stepped in February 2019. Almena Bank froze the Gillum's accounts, including a custodial account, which was supposed to hold money due to ranchers who sold cattle at Gillum's livestock auctions.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/12/ranchers-express-frustration-as-plainville-livestock-funds-remain-in-courts-hands/">Checks from the Plainville Livestock Commission for two sales — one at the end of January and the other on Feb. 5, 2019 — bounced.</a>

Money that was supposed to be set aside to pay cattle sellers was transferred from a custodial account to the Plainville Livestock Auction’s operating account. The Almena Bank froze both accounts, which resulted in bounced checks.

Ranchers who were due more than $900,000 in auction proceeds had to wait more than 10 months to receive payment for their cattle.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/11/auction-set-for-bankrupt-plainville-livestock-commission-14m-owed/">Plainville Livestock Commission declared bankruptcy on March 1, 2019.</a>

On March 28, 2019, Almena Bank of 
Almena stipulated to a consent order with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to correct what court
 records called “unsafe and unsound banking practices and violations of 
laws and regulations.”

In October 2020, Almena Bank failed. "The $69 million-asset bank was closed by its state regulator, then sold by the FDIC&nbsp; to Equity Bank in Andover," according to a story in the American Banker on March 26, 2021.

The American Banker quoted an FDIC report on the closure, which said, “The board’s performance and management were considered to be critically deficient.”

The FDIC report did not specify the Gillum case as a factor in the bank's closure; however, it said  [Bank Chairman Shad] Chandler led "an aggressive growth strategy that involved using higher-cost wholesale funds to back a push into large Small Business Administration and Department of Agriculture loans."

According to the American Banker story, Almena Bank's failure cost the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund $18 million.

In May 2019, a grand jury returned a federal indictment against Tyler Gillum and his wife, Camden. Charges against Camden were later dropped.

The assets of the Plainville Livestock Commission were auctioned in June 2019. Court records indicated $14.5 million was owed at the time of the sale. The sale came up far short of the money owed.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/07/02/plainville-livestock-commission-property-sells-at-auction/">The Plainville Livestock Commission property in Plainville sold to Flatland Holding LLC for $850,000. According to a report from the court trustee, the total gross from the auction of the personal property and equipment from the bankruptcy auction was $405,682.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5de67bc1897d147ad4bb1dfd">A federal court in November 2019 ordered cattlemen to receive full payments from the Plainville Livestock Commission sales in January and February.</a>

At the time of those payments, Derek Stockman, a rancher, said he had to restructure his loans as he
 waited for payment in the case and lost about $2,000 in interest as his
 payment from the Feb. 5 auction was being held by the courts.

"It
 added a lot of financial stress ... and tension with the bankers and 
stuff like that," he said at that time. "I didn’t expect that we would get it all."

The Plainville Livestock Commission bankruptcy and the related delay of payments to ranchers, not only affected those ranchers who were due money, but had a trickle-down effect on the entire community. 

<a href="https://www.hayspost.com/2019/04/15/cattlemen-affected-by-plainville-bankruptcy-likely-in-for-long-wait-2/">Roger McEowen, a Washburn law professor, spoke to cattlemen following the Gillum bankruptcy</a>
 and noted there is a multiplier of three to four times in the community
 associated with this agriculture revenue. With almost $1 million owed 
to producers, that equaled $3 million to $4 million that had been taken 
out of circulation in the local economy.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/04/22/plainville-economy-trying-to-recover-after-two-bankruptcies-in-a-month/">Roger Hrabe, director of the Rooks County Economic Development, acknowledged 2019 was a rough year for the community. In addition to the Plainville Livestock Commission closing, Chuck Comeau and his Dessin Fournir furniture company also declared bankruptcy within a month of the Plainville Livestock Commission closure.</a>

However, Hrabe said Plainville is rebounding.

Several of the companies owned by Chuck Comeau's Dessin Fournir have been purchased and reopened. 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/774d9973-dab0-4fc2-b862-ac2ed2934d28">RELATED STORY: Former employees relaunch Dessin Fournir furniture lines</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5df24fccaa6b27189b034932">RELATED STORY: Hansens reopen doors of Plainville lighting company</a>

<a href="https://www.hrstockyards.com/">The livestock auction is now being operated by Heartland Regional Stockyards owned by Lloyd and Judy Schneider. </a>

Hrabe said the new owners of the stockyards, as well as the former Dessin Fournir companies, have all expanded since they were purchased by their new owners.

A co-working space, boutique and mortgage company have all opened in downtown Plainville in the last year. A new child care center and preschool are coming to the community, and a feasibility study is in the works for a new senior care facility.

"We have downtown Plainville Inc. that is made up of some very energetic people, and they are doing some good things," Hrabe said. "They have some building renovations too that ultimately lead to something good down there."

Unemployment rates in Rooks County remain very low — in the 2.5 percent range. There are more local job listings than Hrabe has seen in years.

Hays Post attempted to contact Gillum's defense attorney for a comment on the conviction. Hays Post also asked if Gillum intends to appeal the conviction, but a call was not returned.

Hays Post reached out to the attorneys for Equity Bank, which bought Almena Bank. No one returned a phone call. Hays Post also reached out to representatives of Landmark Bank and TBK Bank, who were also listed in the case. No one returned phone calls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575404210576.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFederal sentencing for Tyler Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, is set for July 21.This is the end of a story that has spanned seven years, saw ranchers stretched to their financial limits, banks defrauded of millions of dollars and the demise of a rural bank.Despite the trail of economic turmoil left behind in this case, the local community is seeking a comeback. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/85498496-95af-4704-8e67-6ed8943abcf9">Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, was convicted in U.S. District Court on April 22 on 31 counts of bank fraud, one count of making a false statement in connection with a Small Business Administration guaranteed loan, and one count of making a false statement in a loan or credit card application. </a>Gillum, 51, of Plainville owned
and operated Plainville Livestock Commission Inc. from 2006 until 2019. Between January 2015 and August 2017, Gillum wrote checks and made wire transfers between various accounts under his control at various banks in a scheme commonly known as check kiting, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. This is when checks are continually written back and forth to fraudulently inflate account balances tricking banks into honoring checks written with insufficient funds. Gillum’s scheme resulted in losses of more than $10 million to the banking system, according to the U.S. Attorney's office. Bank officials stepped in February 2019. Almena Bank froze the Gillum's accounts, including a custodial account, which was supposed to hold money due to ranchers who sold cattle at Gillum's livestock auctions.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/12/ranchers-express-frustration-as-plainville-livestock-funds-remain-in-courts-hands/">Checks from the Plainville Livestock Commission for two sales — one at the end of January and the other on Feb. 5, 2019 — bounced.</a>Money that was supposed to be set aside to pay cattle sellers was transferred from a custodial account to the Plainville Livestock Auction’s operating account. The Almena Bank froze both accounts, which resulted in bounced checks.Ranchers who were due more than $900,000 in auction proceeds had to wait more than 10 months to receive payment for their cattle.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/11/auction-set-for-bankrupt-plainville-livestock-commission-14m-owed/">Plainville Livestock Commission declared bankruptcy on March 1, 2019.</a>On March 28, 2019, Almena Bank of 
Almena stipulated to a consent order with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to correct what court
 records called “unsafe and unsound banking practices and violations of 
laws and regulations.”In October 2020, Almena Bank failed. "The $69 million-asset bank was closed by its state regulator, then sold by the FDIC&nbsp; to Equity Bank in Andover," according to a story in the American Banker on March 26, 2021.The American Banker quoted an FDIC report on the closure, which said, “The board’s performance and management were considered to be critically deficient.”The FDIC report did not specify the Gillum case as a factor in the bank's closure; however, it said [Bank Chairman Shad] Chandler led "an aggressive growth strategy that involved using higher-cost wholesale funds to back a push into large Small Business Administration and Department of Agriculture loans."According to the American Banker story, Almena Bank's failure cost the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund $18 million.In May 2019, a grand jury returned a federal indictment against Tyler Gillum and his wife, Camden. Charges against Camden were later dropped.The assets of the Plainville Livestock Commission were auctioned in June 2019. Court records indicated $14.5 million was owed at the time of the sale. The sale came up far short of the money owed. <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/07/02/plainville-livestock-commission-property-sells-at-auction/">The Plainville Livestock Commission property in Plainville sold to Flatland Holding LLC for $850,000. According to a report from the court trustee, the total gross from the auction of the personal property and equipment from the bankruptcy auction was $405,682.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5de67bc1897d147ad4bb1dfd">A federal court in November 2019 ordered cattlemen to receive full payments from the Plainville Livestock Commission sales in January and February.</a> At the time of those payments, Derek Stockman, a rancher, said he had to restructure his loans as he
 waited for payment in the case and lost about $2,000 in interest as his
 payment from the Feb. 5 auction was being held by the courts."It
 added a lot of financial stress ... and tension with the bankers and 
stuff like that," he said at that time. "I didn’t expect that we would get it all."The Plainville Livestock Commission bankruptcy and the related delay of payments to ranchers, not only affected those ranchers who were due money, but had a trickle-down effect on the entire community. <a href="https://www.hayspost.com/2019/04/15/cattlemen-affected-by-plainville-bankruptcy-likely-in-for-long-wait-2/">Roger McEowen, a Washburn law professor, spoke to cattlemen following the Gillum bankruptcy</a>
 and noted there is a multiplier of three to four times in the community
 associated with this agriculture revenue. With almost $1 million owed 
to producers, that equaled $3 million to $4 million that had been taken 
out of circulation in the local economy.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/04/22/plainville-economy-trying-to-recover-after-two-bankruptcies-in-a-month/">Roger Hrabe, director of the Rooks County Economic Development, acknowledged 2019 was a rough year for the community. In addition to the Plainville Livestock Commission closing, Chuck Comeau and his Dessin Fournir furniture company also declared bankruptcy within a month of the Plainville Livestock Commission closure.</a> However, Hrabe said Plainville is rebounding. Several of the companies owned by Chuck Comeau's Dessin Fournir have been purchased and reopened. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/774d9973-dab0-4fc2-b862-ac2ed2934d28">RELATED STORY: Former employees relaunch Dessin Fournir furniture lines</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5df24fccaa6b27189b034932">RELATED STORY: Hansens reopen doors of Plainville lighting company</a> <a href="https://www.hrstockyards.com/">The livestock auction is now being operated by Heartland Regional Stockyards owned by Lloyd and Judy Schneider. </a>Hrabe said the new owners of the stockyards, as well as the former Dessin Fournir companies, have all expanded since they were purchased by their new owners. A co-working space, boutique and mortgage company have all opened in downtown Plainville in the last year. A new child care center and preschool are coming to the community, and a feasibility study is in the works for a new senior care facility. "We have downtown Plainville Inc. that is made up of some very energetic people, and they are doing some good things," Hrabe said. "They have some building renovations too that ultimately lead to something good down there." Unemployment rates in Rooks County remain very low — in the 2.5 percent range. There are more local job listings than Hrabe has seen in years. Hays Post attempted to contact Gillum's defense attorney for a comment on the conviction. Hays Post also asked if Gillum intends to appeal the conviction, but a call was not returned.Hays Post reached out to the attorneys for Equity Bank, which bought Almena Bank. No one returned a phone call. Hays Post also reached out to representatives of Landmark Bank and TBK Bank, who were also listed in the case. No one returned phone calls.

Gillum leaves legacy of economic downfall; Plainville on rebound

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9ae41647-1501-4e1d-b711-f93fdb4b820d">UPDATE, May 5:&nbsp;Accusation against longtime Hays priest unsubstantiated</a>

Scully strongly denies accusation dating back 40 years

Father Mike Scully, a longtime fixture of the Hays Catholic
Church, has been accused of sexual abuse of a minor.

Provincial Minister Br. Mark Schenk announced the allegation
in a newsletter last week.

“I need to make you aware that the Province of Mid-America recently
received an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor against Father Michael Scully
and Father Jordan Hammel (deceased),” the statement published in the March 20 St. Fidelis Church bulletin said. “In accord with provincial policies, we have
notified law enforcement of the allegation and have relieved Father Michael of
the public exercise of priestly ministry pending the outcome of an investigation
into the matter.”

Scully, who denies the allegations, is a member of the Capuchin Franciscan order, under
the Mid-America Province of St. Conrad, which serves Colorado,
Kansas and Texas.

Upon being informed of the allegation from the Capuchin
Franciscan order, the Archdiocese of Kansas City relieved Scully of his duties
pending the outcome of the investigation.

In a statement from the archdiocese published March 25, the
church noted the allegation stems from Scully’s work outside of the
archdiocese.

Scully will remain on leave until the conclusion of the investigation and is fully cooperating, Schenk said.

He denied the allegation, dating back to the 1970s, in the same
newsletter.

“I must also tell you that the acts of which I am accused did
not occur, and I strongly deny the allegation I was accused of which allegedly happened
over 40 years ago,” Scully said. “An allegation of this nature obviously is hurtful
to me, especially since I have loved the ministry of being a priest and pastor.

“Also, most of my priestly life of 57 years has been spent working
with, counseling and overseeing young people. I have authored books for young people
and have produced radio shows on pop music and movies, and never once in this period
has an accusation of this nature been brought forward against me.

“My prayer is with the accusing party and for peace and healing for all affected by this investigation,” he continued.

The SNAP network, a group that works to inform communities
about institutional abuse, said in the Salina Diocese he worked at St.
Joseph’s parish and headed Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, both in Hays. He most recently was serving in the Lawrence area.

That organization is calling on church officials Kansas City
Kansas Archbishop Joseph Naumann,&nbsp;Salina Bishop Gerald L. Vincke, Denver-based
Archbishop Samuel Aquila, Thomas More Prep-Marian High School principal
Chad Meitner, alumni director Wanda Billinger and Schenk, to “use their
considerable resources to aggressively seek out anyone who may have seen,
suspected or suffered crimes or cover-ups by Fr. Scully or his supervisors or
colleagues.”

The church has also called on anyone with information to
come forward.

“The Province of Saint Conrad takes all allegations of
misconduct by its friars very seriously and works diligently to ascertain the truth
and to respond to survivors’ needs with compassion and respect,” Schenk said. “We
encourage anyone with knowledge about this case or about any misconduct by any member
of the province to contact civil authorities first, and then make a report to
our Safe Environment Coordinator.”

Scully’s longtime weekly radio program, "Message at the Top," aired on
KJLS, an Eagle Radio-owned station in Hays. Eagle is the parent company of Hays Post.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9ae41647-1501-4e1d-b711-f93fdb4b820d">UPDATE, May 5:&nbsp;Accusation against longtime Hays priest unsubstantiated</a><h2>Scully strongly denies accusation dating back 40 years</h2>By JAMES BELL Hays PostFather Mike Scully, a longtime fixture of the Hays Catholic
Church, has been accused of sexual abuse of a minor.Provincial Minister Br. Mark Schenk announced the allegation
in a newsletter last week.“I need to make you aware that the Province of Mid-America recently
received an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor against Father Michael Scully
and Father Jordan Hammel (deceased),” the statement published in the March 20 St. Fidelis Church bulletin said. “In accord with provincial policies, we have
notified law enforcement of the allegation and have relieved Father Michael of
the public exercise of priestly ministry pending the outcome of an investigation
into the matter.”Scully, who denies the allegations, is a member of the Capuchin Franciscan order, under
the Mid-America Province of St. Conrad, which serves Colorado,
Kansas and Texas.Upon being informed of the allegation from the Capuchin
Franciscan order, the Archdiocese of Kansas City relieved Scully of his duties
pending the outcome of the investigation.In a statement from the archdiocese published March 25, the
church noted the allegation stems from Scully’s work outside of the
archdiocese.Scully will remain on leave until the conclusion of the investigation and is fully cooperating, Schenk said.He denied the allegation, dating back to the 1970s, in the same
newsletter.“I must also tell you that the acts of which I am accused did
not occur, and I strongly deny the allegation I was accused of which allegedly happened
over 40 years ago,” Scully said. “An allegation of this nature obviously is hurtful
to me, especially since I have loved the ministry of being a priest and pastor.“Also, most of my priestly life of 57 years has been spent working
with, counseling and overseeing young people. I have authored books for young people
and have produced radio shows on pop music and movies, and never once in this period
has an accusation of this nature been brought forward against me.“My prayer is with the accusing party and for peace and healing for all affected by this investigation,” he continued.The SNAP network, a group that works to inform communities
about institutional abuse, said in the Salina Diocese he worked at St.
Joseph’s parish and headed Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, both in Hays. He most recently was serving in the Lawrence area.That organization is calling on church officials Kansas City
Kansas Archbishop Joseph Naumann,&nbsp;Salina Bishop Gerald L. Vincke, Denver-based
Archbishop Samuel Aquila, Thomas More Prep-Marian High School principal
Chad Meitner, alumni director Wanda Billinger and Schenk, to “use their
considerable resources to aggressively seek out anyone who may have seen,
suspected or suffered crimes or cover-ups by Fr. Scully or his supervisors or
colleagues.”The church has also called on anyone with information to
come forward.“The Province of Saint Conrad takes all allegations of
misconduct by its friars very seriously and works diligently to ascertain the truth
and to respond to survivors’ needs with compassion and respect,” Schenk said. “We
encourage anyone with knowledge about this case or about any misconduct by any member
of the province to contact civil authorities first, and then make a report to
our Safe Environment Coordinator.”Scully’s longtime weekly radio program, "Message at the Top," aired on
KJLS, an Eagle Radio-owned station in Hays. Eagle is the parent company of Hays Post.

Catholic priest with Hays ties on leave after sexual abuse allegations 

When I was child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I
became a man, I did away with childish things. 1 Corinthians 13:11

I am saying no on the school bond because I hold a huge responsibility to my community and
to its future, I love this community and our children as they are our future. I also feel it is my
civic right to express my opinion. If I am going to complain, I very well better take action.

I’m all for bigger and better, I love technology. Just like everybody else I’d love to see the new
and improved schools ... BUT WE CAN’T AFFORD IT, NOT NOW!!!


Look around, open your eyes. Do you see gas prices at an all time high, $4.19 a gallon and
climbing? Grocery stores experiencing low inventory, much higher prices and rumors of food
shortages like we’ve never seen before? Utilities? I spoke with a person from Midwest Energy
and was told in the very near future our utilities will jump in price dramatically. My water bill
went up $20 a month. My assessment on my homes, yes I said homes, went up 10 to 15% so
what is going to happen to my property taxes? They will go up in price even before the school
bond gets it’s increase if passed. Can I afford all this? Yes I CAN. I will need to budget and cut
back in areas that are non-essentials.


But let’s talk about my in-laws who can’t afford all these price hikes, or all the other elderly in
our community who can’t afford it. Have we thought about them? How about the low-income
families that can barely make it pay check to pay check? How about those who are trying to
buy their first home? They can afford the house payment but can’t afford the property taxes
and insurance that go with it. As we all know Insurances keep going up, and we need to have
insurance. I’ve heard landlords are increasing rent as they want to cover their added expenses
of property taxes. Hays won’t be affordable to live in, or should I say even more unaffordable.&nbsp;

Young people, elderly and low income don’t stand a chance in our community if we are going
to tax them into oblivion. It’s a horrible time to pass this school bond. Our kids will survive
without bigger and better. Hays will survive without bigger and better, but we need to keep a
watchful eye on our elderly, low income and our young adults and pray they can survive during
this horrible inflation.


As I said in an earlier letter I posted on Facebook, I was raised by very wise parents who
said. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it, make do with what you have, fix what’s broken and
save for what you want. Seriously that might be a great subject to teach in our schools, in our
homes.... To be wise stewards with our money.


When I was a child I wanted the sun, moon and stars but now that I am an adult, I want to be
responsible.


When I was child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I
became a man, I did away with childish things. 1 Corinthians 13:11
I am saying no on the school bond because I hold a huge responsibility to my community and
to its future, I love this community and our children as they are our future. I also feel it is my
civic right to express my opinion. If I am going to complain, I very well better take action.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>I’m all for bigger and better, I love technology. Just like everybody else I’d love to see the new
and improved schools ... BUT WE CAN’T AFFORD IT, NOT NOW!!!
Look around, open your eyes. Do you see gas prices at an all time high, $4.19 a gallon and
climbing? Grocery stores experiencing low inventory, much higher prices and rumors of food
shortages like we’ve never seen before? Utilities? I spoke with a person from Midwest Energy
and was told in the very near future our utilities will jump in price dramatically. My water bill
went up $20 a month. My assessment on my homes, yes I said homes, went up 10 to 15% so
what is going to happen to my property taxes? They will go up in price even before the school
bond gets it’s increase if passed. Can I afford all this? Yes I CAN. I will need to budget and cut
back in areas that are non-essentials.
But let’s talk about my in-laws who can’t afford all these price hikes, or all the other elderly in
our community who can’t afford it. Have we thought about them? How about the low-income
families that can barely make it pay check to pay check? How about those who are trying to
buy their first home? They can afford the house payment but can’t afford the property taxes
and insurance that go with it. As we all know Insurances keep going up, and we need to have
insurance. I’ve heard landlords are increasing rent as they want to cover their added expenses
of property taxes. Hays won’t be affordable to live in, or should I say even more unaffordable.&nbsp;Young people, elderly and low income don’t stand a chance in our community if we are going
to tax them into oblivion. It’s a horrible time to pass this school bond. Our kids will survive
without bigger and better. Hays will survive without bigger and better, but we need to keep a
watchful eye on our elderly, low income and our young adults and pray they can survive during
this horrible inflation.
As I said in an earlier letter I posted on Facebook, I was raised by very wise parents who
said. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it, make do with what you have, fix what’s broken and
save for what you want. Seriously that might be a great subject to teach in our schools, in our
homes.... To be wise stewards with our money.
When I was a child I wanted the sun, moon and stars but now that I am an adult, I want to be
responsible.
MaryBeth Fisher, Hays

LETTER: We can't afford USD 489 bond, not now

RUSSELL - Russell residents who have downed tree limbs from Friday’s storm can call the City Building at 785-483-6311 with their name and address to get on the pickup list. Please call in to be added to the list by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022. Pickup will begin early morning on Monday, May 9th, 2022. Once you call and get on the list, please remember to place your tree limbs curbside. Residents are asked to put the limbs parallel to the curbside, which speeds up the pickup process. Crews will not go onto private property or collect tree limbs from alleys. Please do not block sidewalk and keep at lease 3-foot clear space around fire hydrants and utility pedestals. Please remember that city crews will only pick up tree limbs for those on the pickup list, so please help spread the word by letting your neighbors know. Thank you to everyone who helped others clean up after the storm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611586896424.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL - Russell residents who have downed tree limbs from Friday’s storm can call the City Building at 785-483-6311 with their name and address to get on the pickup list. Please call in to be added to the list by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022. Pickup will begin early morning on Monday, May 9th, 2022. Once you call and get on the list, please remember to place your tree limbs curbside. Residents are asked to put the limbs parallel to the curbside, which speeds up the pickup process. Crews will not go onto private property or collect tree limbs from alleys. Please do not block sidewalk and keep at lease 3-foot clear space around fire hydrants and utility pedestals. Please remember that city crews will only pick up tree limbs for those on the pickup list, so please help spread the word by letting your neighbors know. Thank you to everyone who helped others clean up after the storm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Storm-downed tree limbs to be picked up in Russell on Monday

On this episode of the Post Podcast president and CEO of the Hays Chamber Sarah Wasinger, along with president and CEO of the First Care Clinic Bryan Brady shares information about the upcoming Chamber Golf Tournament.

<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber Golf Tourney set for Friday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=a5xbd-1218a49-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast president and CEO of the Hays Chamber Sarah Wasinger, along with president and CEO of the First Care Clinic Bryan Brady shares information about the upcoming Chamber Golf Tournament.<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber Golf Tourney set for Friday

Hays received 1.05 of rain Monday, easing what had thus far been a very dry spring, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays' yearly average as of the end of May is 7.81 inches of precipitation. However, even with the rain Monday, Hays has only received 4.10 inches of precipitation to date this year.

Hays' average is 3.24 inches of rain for the month of May.

As of April 26, Ellis County was listed in severe drought.

More rain is in the forecast starting tonight, according to the National Weather Service. There is a 20 percent chance of rain after 4 a.m. 

Wednesday there's a chance of rain before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between noon and 4 p.m. Showers are likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 p.m. Patchy fog is also forecast before 4 p.m. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New rainfall amounts are predicted to be between a quarter and half of an inch.

Wednesday night the chance of precipitation is 80 percent. New rainfall amounts are projected to be between a quarter and half of an inch. 

Highs are forecast to be seasonably cool with a high of 58 today, 54 Wednesday and 62 Thursday.

The rain is forecast to continue Thursday and Thursday night with skies clearing on Friday with a high of 76.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays received 1.05 of rain Monday, easing what had thus far been a very dry spring, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Hays' yearly average as of the end of May is 7.81 inches of precipitation. However, even with the rain Monday, Hays has only received 4.10 inches of precipitation to date this year.Hays' average is 3.24 inches of rain for the month of May.As of April 26, Ellis County was listed in severe drought.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651590774309.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>More rain is in the forecast starting tonight, according to the National Weather Service. There is a 20 percent chance of rain after 4 a.m. Wednesday there's a chance of rain before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between noon and 4 p.m. Showers are likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 p.m. Patchy fog is also forecast before 4 p.m. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New rainfall amounts are predicted to be between a quarter and half of an inch.Wednesday night the chance of precipitation is 80 percent. New rainfall amounts are projected to be between a quarter and half of an inch. Highs are forecast to be seasonably cool with a high of 58 today, 54 Wednesday and 62 Thursday. The rain is forecast to continue Thursday and Thursday night with skies clearing on Friday with a high of 76.

Hays receives more than an inch of rain; more showers in forecast

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

USD 388 Ellis will host the first of three candidates for the school superintendent position today.

Anita Scheve, principal at Wilson Elementary School in Hays, will interview today.

She is in her sixth year in that position. Previously, she served as the Hays USD 489 director of alternative programs for six years.

Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online survey used during the search process, according to the Ellis schools website.

Candidates will also be interviewed in Ellis Wednesday and Thursday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2bf608c0-eae8-44f8-bd32-38085321efac">Current USD 388 Superintendent Corey Burton is moving to a new position as Superintendent at Ulysses USD 214.</a>

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post USD 388 Ellis will host the first of three candidates for the school superintendent position today.Anita Scheve, principal at Wilson Elementary School in Hays, will interview today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651591095957.jpeg" alt="Anita Scheve" />
 <figcaption>Anita Scheve</figcaption>
 </figure>She is in her sixth year in that position. Previously, she served as the Hays USD 489 director of alternative programs for six years.Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online survey used during the search process, according to the Ellis schools website.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651588473556.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Candidates will also be interviewed in Ellis Wednesday and Thursday. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2bf608c0-eae8-44f8-bd32-38085321efac">Current USD 388 Superintendent Corey Burton is moving to a new position as Superintendent at Ulysses USD 214.</a>

Scheve to interview for Ellis USD 388 superintendent position

The Ellis County Fire Department is lifting the burn ban in all the
unincorporated areas of Ellis County effective immediately. 

Due to the recent moisture, as well as
the forecasted precipitation, temporary relief is in site to allow for controlled burns.


Ellis CountyThe Ellis County Fire Department is lifting the burn ban in all the
unincorporated areas of Ellis County effective immediately. Due to the recent moisture, as well as
the forecasted precipitation, temporary relief is in site to allow for controlled burns.

Ellis County lifts burn ban after recent rainfall

Prairie&nbsp;Garden&nbsp;Club will hold its Annual Plant Giveaway and Plant Sale from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday at Municipal Park shelter house, 104 Main St.

Perennial plants will be available free to the public.

Houseplants, large perennials and&nbsp;garden&nbsp;hand tools will be for sale.

Cover photo provided by Pixabay

Prairie&nbsp;Garden&nbsp;Club will hold its Annual Plant Giveaway and Plant Sale from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday at Municipal Park shelter house, 104 Main St. Perennial plants will be available free to the public. Houseplants, large perennials and&nbsp;garden&nbsp;hand tools will be for sale.Cover photo provided by Pixabay

Prairie Garden Club to host plant giveaway Thursday

Will be performing chemical peels, dermaplaning, facials, diamond microdermabrasion, laser treatments etc. All specialty training will be provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651009847705.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Potter Plastic Surgery and Med Spa</h2>Will be performing chemical peels, dermaplaning, facials, diamond microdermabrasion, laser treatments etc. All specialty training will be provided.

High school students invited to register for theater workshops

By the time this news column is published, I will have returned from a vacation that included some fun in the sun with an occasional Zoom meeting to keep me connected to what was going on at work.&nbsp;During my time away from the office, I finished up an on-line course titled, “Reframing Aging.” The instructors were passionate about helping us see how important it is to recognize the contributions of older residents in our community. I enjoyed sharing stories in the break out rooms about the many times I have enlisted the help of older adults to teach sewing or fiber arts workshops to young people.&nbsp;In our fast-paced world, it is important that basic life skills are passed on and don’t become a lost art. I’m looking forward to sharing more of what I learned from the Reframing Aging class in future columns.

The last three days of our road trip were spent in Ames Iowa, to share a session with Extension Educators there about how to teach fermentation workshops. One of the participants had heard my on-line presentation at a national meeting last fall, so it was a pleasant surprise to be invited to teach an in-person class at their professional development meeting. Now that I have a few hands-on fermentation workshops under my belt, I have some interesting stories to share.

The process of how to ferment vegetables is a popular topic and a wide variety of fermentation kits on the market make it safe and easy to accomplish. Fermentation is the oldest form of food preservation, with stories of it’s&nbsp;start, well over 7000 years ago. The fact sheet I wrote two years ago, titled, “Taking a New Look at Fermented Foods” is available to download from the K-State Research and Extension bookstore. It highlights the process as well as the&nbsp;health benefits including a small amount of fermented food in your diet can provide.

As I return to the office and turn the&nbsp;calendar to May I invite you to take a look at the upcoming programs in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;Visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Cottonwood@ksu.edu">Cottonwood@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;to check out&nbsp;our May newsletter which includes these&nbsp;fun learning opportunities.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>By the time this news column is published, I will have returned from a vacation that included some fun in the sun with an occasional Zoom meeting to keep me connected to what was going on at work.&nbsp;During my time away from the office, I finished up an on-line course titled, “Reframing Aging.” The instructors were passionate about helping us see how important it is to recognize the contributions of older residents in our community. I enjoyed sharing stories in the break out rooms about the many times I have enlisted the help of older adults to teach sewing or fiber arts workshops to young people.&nbsp;In our fast-paced world, it is important that basic life skills are passed on and don’t become a lost art. I’m looking forward to sharing more of what I learned from the Reframing Aging class in future columns.The last three days of our road trip were spent in Ames Iowa, to share a session with Extension Educators there about how to teach fermentation workshops. One of the participants had heard my on-line presentation at a national meeting last fall, so it was a pleasant surprise to be invited to teach an in-person class at their professional development meeting. Now that I have a few hands-on fermentation workshops under my belt, I have some interesting stories to share.The process of how to ferment vegetables is a popular topic and a wide variety of fermentation kits on the market make it safe and easy to accomplish. Fermentation is the oldest form of food preservation, with stories of it’s&nbsp;start, well over 7000 years ago. The fact sheet I wrote two years ago, titled, “Taking a New Look at Fermented Foods” is available to download from the K-State Research and Extension bookstore. It highlights the process as well as the&nbsp;health benefits including a small amount of fermented food in your diet can provide.As I return to the office and turn the&nbsp;calendar to May I invite you to take a look at the upcoming programs in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;Visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Cottonwood@ksu.edu">Cottonwood@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;to check out&nbsp;our May newsletter which includes these&nbsp;fun learning opportunities.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Extension programs provide fun learning

<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/2022/5/1651524147557.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

One aspect of the bond debate which often gets overlooked is the hardship caused by inflation. The trouble we’re seeing right now isn’t just the natural result of a cyclical economy. Rather, it was caused by printing trillions of dollars combined with destructive policies regarding energy and foreign policies. And far from being a temporary hiccup, there’s no evidence that the current administration plans to reverse these mistakes.

As consumers, we are already feeling the pain and know that additional taxes will only further erode our finances; that alone is a good reason to oppose a bond at this time. The ones hardest hit will be those on fixed incomes, many of them senior citizens who could be forced out of the only community they have ever called home.

What’s more, no one has mentioned how inflation will affect local government: the city, county and school system will see their insurance premiums, power bills and equipment costs all go up. Even Joe Biden acknowledged last month that the interruption of grain exports and higher fertilizer prices due to the war in Ukraine makes worldwide food shortages a possibility. This undoubtedly will strain the school district's lunch budget in ways that haven’t been considered.&nbsp;

Obviously, these increased costs will translate into higher taxes or cuts to services — probably both. Property taxes are guaranteed to increase just to keep up with inflated costs and the sharp increase in valuations will sting us even more.

The uncertainty of our economic condition, coupled with bad policy at the federal level will be costly for us all. Now, throw in the bond on top of that. How many people can afford for their property taxes to double? How many people could be pushed out of their homes? Does taxing people out of their property or making their rent unaffordable really help to "Grow Hays" and project an image that will bring people in?

One aspect of the bond debate which often gets overlooked is the hardship caused by inflation. The trouble we’re seeing right now isn’t just the natural result of a cyclical economy. Rather, it was caused by printing trillions of dollars combined with destructive policies regarding energy and foreign policies. And far from being a temporary hiccup, there’s no evidence that the current administration plans to reverse these mistakes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As consumers, we are already feeling the pain and know that additional taxes will only further erode our finances; that alone is a good reason to oppose a bond at this time. The ones hardest hit will be those on fixed incomes, many of them senior citizens who could be forced out of the only community they have ever called home.What’s more, no one has mentioned how inflation will affect local government: the city, county and school system will see their insurance premiums, power bills and equipment costs all go up. Even Joe Biden acknowledged last month that the interruption of grain exports and higher fertilizer prices due to the war in Ukraine makes worldwide food shortages a possibility. This undoubtedly will strain the school district's lunch budget in ways that haven’t been considered.&nbsp;Obviously, these increased costs will translate into higher taxes or cuts to services — probably both. Property taxes are guaranteed to increase just to keep up with inflated costs and the sharp increase in valuations will sting us even more.The uncertainty of our economic condition, coupled with bad policy at the federal level will be costly for us all. Now, throw in the bond on top of that. How many people can afford for their property taxes to double? How many people could be pushed out of their homes? Does taxing people out of their property or making their rent unaffordable really help to "Grow Hays" and project an image that will bring people in?Eugenia Spady, Hays&nbsp;

LETTER: Inflation makes bond unaffordable

HAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State head baseball coach Jerod Goodale&nbsp;has announced his resignation due to personal reasons after four years at the helm. Goodale, the 15th coach in program history, joined the Tiger coaching staff in May 2018. He coached the Tigers to 29 wins over the last four seasons, bringing his 11-year career total to 209 victories including seven years as head coach at Colorado School of Mines. Goodale coached four All-MIAA performers in his time at FHSU alongside 70 Academic Honor Roll recognitions, 26 D2ADA Academic Achievement Awards and one CoSIDA Academic All-District selection in Grant Schmidt. In his 18 years as a collegiate baseball coach, Goodale has helped produce 12 All-Americans, 81 all-conference performers, 150 academic all-conference performers, four Academic All-Americans, two national gold glove award winners, 31 players selected in the Major League Baseball Draft and four players that have reached the Major League Baseball level. A nationwide search for the 16th head baseball coach in program history will begin immediately.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651534157222.jpeg" alt="FHSU baseball coach Jerod Goodale announced his resignation Monday after four seasons as the Tigers head coach (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Allie Schweizer)" />
 <figcaption>FHSU baseball coach Jerod Goodale announced his resignation Monday after four seasons as the Tigers head coach (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Allie Schweizer)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State head baseball coach Jerod Goodale&nbsp;has announced his resignation due to personal reasons after four years at the helm. Goodale, the 15th coach in program history, joined the Tiger coaching staff in May 2018. He coached the Tigers to 29 wins over the last four seasons, bringing his 11-year career total to 209 victories including seven years as head coach at Colorado School of Mines. Goodale coached four All-MIAA performers in his time at FHSU alongside 70 Academic Honor Roll recognitions, 26 D2ADA Academic Achievement Awards and one CoSIDA Academic All-District selection in Grant Schmidt. In his 18 years as a collegiate baseball coach, Goodale has helped produce 12 All-Americans, 81 all-conference performers, 150 academic all-conference performers, four Academic All-Americans, two national gold glove award winners, 31 players selected in the Major League Baseball Draft and four players that have reached the Major League Baseball level. A nationwide search for the 16th head baseball coach in program history will begin immediately.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

⚾ Goodale announces resignation as FHSU head coach

Fort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,650 graduates during its spring commencement ceremonies on Friday and Saturday, May 13 and 14.&nbsp;

Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in ceremonies both mornings at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

Following is a schedule for the 2022 commencement (all times Central):

• 8 a.m. Friday – College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

• 11 a.m. Friday – College of Health and Behavioral Sciences

• 8 a.m. Saturday – Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship and Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics.

• 11 a.m. Saturday – College of Education.

• 2 p.m. Saturday – Virtual ceremonies for graduates.

• 4 p.m. Saturday – Virtual ceremonies for undergraduates.

All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be located on the Tiger Media Network and the FHSU Facebook&nbsp;Page. An individual is not required to sign up for a Facebook account to view the ceremonies.

Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Programs and Videos” tab.

Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:15 a.m. Graduates will check in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduates will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only,” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled&nbsp;“Guest Door entrance”&nbsp;(located at both gates).

Students are asked to wear their regalia&nbsp;into&nbsp;GMC. Graduates may make arrangements to pick up their regalia before Monday, May&nbsp;9,&nbsp;at the Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:victore_co@fhsu.edu">victore_co@fhsu.edu</a>to arrange a pickup time. Regalia will also be available before Friday’s&nbsp;and Saturday’s&nbsp;ceremonies at the Robbins Center (directly north of the GMC parking lot) from 7 to 11 a.m.

Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of Gross Coliseum. Guests will be seated in the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating for persons with mobility impairment and patrons in wheelchairs are available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the disability seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area, and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and&nbsp;northeast&nbsp;corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.

An interpreter for those who are hearing impaired will be located near the left side of the stage and shown within the commencement live stream video feed.

Traffic in the GMC area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to the coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In the event of inclement weather, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.

Here are a few suggestions from University Police to help ease the congestion:

• Guests arriving for the second ceremony are encouraged to arrive no more than 15 to 30 minutes before 10 a.m. Arriving too early will result in guests being forced to park further away or face departing traffic from the first ceremony. Delaying arrival will also allow time for departing guests from the first ceremony to clear the area in preparation for the second ceremony.

• Graduates driving themselves are encouraged to arrive early and park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to GMC. This will better ensure they avoid traffic congestion, get a parking spot, and arrive on time for their ceremony. Shuttles will be available both days before and after both ceremonies with the drop-off station at Gate 3.

• Faculty and staff attending are also encouraged to park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to the ceremonies.

• All guests are encouraged to carpool when possible. Fewer cars will ease traffic congestion and increase the amount of parking at GMC.&nbsp;

• VIP parking is available on the west side of GMC, with handicapped parking on the east side.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651527153925.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University will recognize approximately 1,650 graduates during its spring commencement ceremonies on Friday and Saturday, May 13 and 14.&nbsp;Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in ceremonies both mornings at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;Following is a schedule for the 2022 commencement (all times Central):• 8 a.m. Friday – College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.• 11 a.m. Friday – College of Health and Behavioral Sciences• 8 a.m. Saturday – Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship and Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics.• 11 a.m. Saturday – College of Education.• 2 p.m. Saturday – Virtual ceremonies for graduates.• 4 p.m. Saturday – Virtual ceremonies for undergraduates.All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be located on the Tiger Media Network and the FHSU Facebook&nbsp;Page. An individual is not required to sign up for a Facebook account to view the ceremonies.Recordings of the virtual ceremonies will be archived on the FHSU YouTube channel, with the link provided on the commencement website on the “Programs and Videos” tab.Doors to GMC and the adjoining Cunningham Hall will open at 7:15 a.m. Graduates will check in at Gate 2 or Gate 3. The graduates will enter the area that says, “Graduate Entrance Only,” and guests will be asked to enter the door labeled&nbsp;“Guest Door entrance”&nbsp;(located at both gates).Students are asked to wear their regalia&nbsp;into&nbsp;GMC. Graduates may make arrangements to pick up their regalia before Monday, May&nbsp;9,&nbsp;at the Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:victore_co@fhsu.edu">victore_co@fhsu.edu</a>to arrange a pickup time. Regalia will also be available before Friday’s&nbsp;and Saturday’s&nbsp;ceremonies at the Robbins Center (directly north of the GMC parking lot) from 7 to 11 a.m.Graduates and faculty will be seated on the main floor of Gross Coliseum. Guests will be seated in the balcony. The elevator is accessible by Gate 3. Seating for persons with mobility impairment and patrons in wheelchairs are available on the main floor; a commencement staff member will escort the individual(s) and one guest to the disability seating area on the GMC floor. There are no reservations for this area, and seating is limited. Drivers will find Gates 2 and 3, at the northwest and&nbsp;northeast&nbsp;corners, most convenient for dropping off passengers with disabilities.An interpreter for those who are hearing impaired will be located near the left side of the stage and shown within the commencement live stream video feed.Traffic in the GMC area is anticipated to be high during the transition periods between each commencement ceremony. Parking lots adjacent to the coliseum typically fill up quickly, but parking is available on the main campus. In the event of inclement weather, unpaved lots near GMC will be closed, making it necessary to park on the main campus.Here are a few suggestions from University Police to help ease the congestion:• Guests arriving for the second ceremony are encouraged to arrive no more than 15 to 30 minutes before 10 a.m. Arriving too early will result in guests being forced to park further away or face departing traffic from the first ceremony. Delaying arrival will also allow time for departing guests from the first ceremony to clear the area in preparation for the second ceremony.• Graduates driving themselves are encouraged to arrive early and park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to GMC. This will better ensure they avoid traffic congestion, get a parking spot, and arrive on time for their ceremony. Shuttles will be available both days before and after both ceremonies with the drop-off station at Gate 3.• Faculty and staff attending are also encouraged to park on the main part of campus and walk or take the shuttles to the ceremonies.• All guests are encouraged to carpool when possible. Fewer cars will ease traffic congestion and increase the amount of parking at GMC.&nbsp;• VIP parking is available on the west side of GMC, with handicapped parking on the east side.

FHSU spring commencement quickly approaching

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

In late March, the city of Hays and its Convention and Visitors Bureau welcomed the annual Kansas Mission of Mercy, the free dental clinic sponsored by Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation.&nbsp;

It was the first time the two-day event was hosted in Hays.

"To cover expenses for the event, $159,000 in funds was raised," Asst. City Manager Collin Bielser told the city commission during their meeting last week.&nbsp;

"Approximately 526 patients were seen, resulting in 471 fillings and over 1,500 extractions occurred," Bielser said, "for a donated service value of $673,000."

More than 500 lay people volunteered at KMOM, including nursing students from Fort Hays State University and NCK Technical College, as well as NCK Tech plumbing and electrical students.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2948bc62-23cd-4705-8ef2-b0b54a6cf041">RELATED: READ HAYS POST COVERAGE OF KMOM</a>

Bielser also talked about recent activities of the parks department as spring weather returns.

Parks department employees work year-round to keep existing trees in good health and also plant or transplant new trees on city property throughout town.

A professional contractor was recently hired to trim dead limbs off 21 trees along Chetolah Draw between 22nd Street and Centennial.

"They actually took out two dead and hazardous trees," Bielser said. "City staff collected all the downed branches -  18 truckloads were hauled away." 

During last week's Arbor Day observation, Hays received a "Tree City USA" award from the national Arbor Day Foundation for the 43rd consecutive year.

Parks Director Jeff Boyle was also recognized with the inaugural "Jim Strine Community Forestry Award" by the Kansas Forestry Service.&nbsp; A resident of Hays, Strine was a longtime Kansas State District Forester who passed away in January.

Workers also transplanted 104 seedlings in the city's tree nursery east of Canterbury Drive.&nbsp;

More recent projects and programs conducted by city departments are noted in Collins' report below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651469941267.jpeg" alt="More than 520 people received free dental care during the KMOM event in Hays hosted by the Kansas Charitable Dental Foundation. (Photo courtesy City of Hays)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>More than 520 people received free dental care during the KMOM event in Hays hosted by the Kansas Charitable Dental Foundation. (Photo courtesy City of Hays)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIn late March, the city of Hays and its Convention and Visitors Bureau welcomed the annual Kansas Mission of Mercy, the free dental clinic sponsored by Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation.&nbsp;It was the first time the two-day event was hosted in Hays."To cover expenses for the event, $159,000 in funds was raised," Asst. City Manager Collin Bielser told the city commission during their meeting last week.&nbsp;"Approximately 526 patients were seen, resulting in 471 fillings and over 1,500 extractions occurred," Bielser said, "for a donated service value of $673,000."More than 500 lay people volunteered at KMOM, including nursing students from Fort Hays State University and NCK Technical College, as well as NCK Tech plumbing and electrical students.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2948bc62-23cd-4705-8ef2-b0b54a6cf041">RELATED: READ HAYS POST COVERAGE OF KMOM</a>Bielser also talked about recent activities of the parks department as spring weather returns.Parks department employees work year-round to keep existing trees in good health and also plant or transplant new trees on city property throughout town.A professional contractor was recently hired to trim dead limbs off 21 trees along Chetolah Draw between 22nd Street and Centennial."They actually took out two dead and hazardous trees," Bielser said. "City staff collected all the downed branches - 18 truckloads were hauled away." <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651470883949.jpeg" alt="Hays Parks Director Jeff Boyle was awarded&nbsp;the inaugural "Jim Strine Community Forestry Award" by the Kansas Forestry Service. (Photo courtesy City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Hays Parks Director Jeff Boyle was awarded&nbsp;the inaugural "Jim Strine Community Forestry Award" by the Kansas Forestry Service. (Photo courtesy City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>During last week's Arbor Day observation, Hays received a "Tree City USA" award from the national Arbor Day Foundation for the 43rd consecutive year.Parks Director Jeff Boyle was also recognized with the inaugural "Jim Strine Community Forestry Award" by the Kansas Forestry Service.&nbsp; A resident of Hays, Strine was a longtime Kansas State District Forester who passed away in January.Workers also transplanted 104 seedlings in the city's tree nursery east of Canterbury Drive.&nbsp;More recent projects and programs conducted by city departments are noted in Collins' report below.&nbsp;<figure>
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🎥 More than 520 patients treated in Hays during KMOM free dental clinic

For the first time since 2019, Fort Hays State University’s Hispanic College Institute will be back to a full schedule in June.

The HCI is a free, four-day residential program held on the FHSU campus. It is targeted at first-generation high school students who are entering their junior or senior year in the 2022-23 academic year. However, any high school student entering their junior or senior year in high school is welcome to attend. Fort Hays State provides free transportation to campus for the students, and there is still time to sign up. More information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtNIf0BcSsqrLMDeEjdN2qtIkpczItI0Et0EkSPCweMFyWrMy_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem4jaG3ekCg3VtduxEejvM-2FKgidVT9Dwi1vSpHHqcntiUmyh0ib-2BgAtxP8tSNDOaedw-2BUd9NAp8lEQfiOQCVWSsk4CLhyNp2NsVNXjyZu92N82TpKShTRt3spLWOklwTAl4KhVf74-2F-2F5t5tsskW1qAvSbTg0LZAlRfqaTzhIHaxYD-2BiiuFa3seKdi3g2GGeq7LIZhdp6czl8P3-2BauqHLr6SoyMHVgQ6tvR0gjqhdfNdlogVnPcG4eTvj1SYl3k-2B5evgJjVoDzW3Z-2FqWrRj6joJuA-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/hci</a>.

After the pandemic forced the cancellation of the HCI in 2020, it was held in a shortened format last year. Hugo Perez, assistant director of admissions at FHSU, said he and the rest of the HCI planning committee are looking forward to returning to the full four-day, three-night schedule.

Perez well remembers the challenges he faced when trying to apply for college as a senior at Salina Central High School. Neither of his parents, natives of Mexico, were high school graduates. The only frame of reference to post-secondary education for Perez was an uncle who attended college.

So he always gets a feeling of exhilaration this time of year while preparing for the annual HCI.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651240212022.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFor the first time since 2019, Fort Hays State University’s Hispanic College Institute will be back to a full schedule in June.The HCI is a free, four-day residential program held on the FHSU campus. It is targeted at first-generation high school students who are entering their junior or senior year in the 2022-23 academic year. However, any high school student entering their junior or senior year in high school is welcome to attend. Fort Hays State provides free transportation to campus for the students, and there is still time to sign up. More information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtNIf0BcSsqrLMDeEjdN2qtIkpczItI0Et0EkSPCweMFyWrMy_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem4jaG3ekCg3VtduxEejvM-2FKgidVT9Dwi1vSpHHqcntiUmyh0ib-2BgAtxP8tSNDOaedw-2BUd9NAp8lEQfiOQCVWSsk4CLhyNp2NsVNXjyZu92N82TpKShTRt3spLWOklwTAl4KhVf74-2F-2F5t5tsskW1qAvSbTg0LZAlRfqaTzhIHaxYD-2BiiuFa3seKdi3g2GGeq7LIZhdp6czl8P3-2BauqHLr6SoyMHVgQ6tvR0gjqhdfNdlogVnPcG4eTvj1SYl3k-2B5evgJjVoDzW3Z-2FqWrRj6joJuA-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/hci</a>.After the pandemic forced the cancellation of the HCI in 2020, it was held in a shortened format last year. Hugo Perez, assistant director of admissions at FHSU, said he and the rest of the HCI planning committee are looking forward to returning to the full four-day, three-night schedule.Perez well remembers the challenges he faced when trying to apply for college as a senior at Salina Central High School. Neither of his parents, natives of Mexico, were high school graduates. The only frame of reference to post-secondary education for Perez was an uncle who attended college.So he always gets a feeling of exhilaration this time of year while preparing for the annual HCI.&nbsp;“Growing up in Salina, most Hispanic students always thought we would work at Tony’s Pizza or Exide Battery because that’s what our parents did,” said Perez, the oldest of three siblings. “To even able to have the knowledge that you anyone can go to college if that’s what you desire to do is huge.”Perez did attend college and graduated from Garden City Community College and Fort Hays State. But he knows the process would have been easier had he been able to attend the HCI or a program like it.“It would have given me a path of less resistance, showing us the ropes of even where to start,” he said. “With my parents not having gone to college, that whole experience was eye-opening.”Students will learn about foundations for success in college, beginning with how to fill out applications for college as well as for financial aid. They will hear from FHSU alumni, telling about the impact that the Fort Hays State education experience has had on their lives. And they will make new friends.The HCI gives students a taste of college life while introducing them to the beautiful Fort Hays State campus.This year’s HCI is set for June 1-4. Perez said he can see a difference in students from the time they walk on campus to their departure date.“The more students we get here, the more students who learn about the college experience,” he said.&nbsp;“To get an understanding of what college is all about is a tremendous benefit for students,” he said. “The majority of students who come to HCI are first-generation students. This is a way of making them aware of and guiding them through the financial aid and application process – just getting a taste of what college life is like – is so beneficial to them. They find out that they can follow their dream of attending college.”

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