'I know all of that stuff that I went through was for a reason. I want to get my story across to stay strong.'

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Several years ago, Sophia Linenberger was battling cancer — in a wheelchair and unable to walk. 

On May 22, Sophia, 18, will join her fellow seniors at Thomas More Prep-Marian and walk across the stage to receive her diploma.

"It feels really good," Sophia said. "It feels really good to be out of my wheelchair. I get to walk normally. I'm really excited about that and graduation."

When she was a freshman, Sophia was diagnosed with a rare cancer, Ewing's sarcoma, which affected her spine. She lost her ability to walk in only five days.

"We didn't know if she would ever walk again," said her mother, Jenny Linenberger.

Today, Sophia is a two-time cancer survivor. She is in remission and will have her six-month check-up in June.

Sophia was able to return to school three to four days before COVID hit. Because of cancer treatment and the need to isolate herself due to COVID, she has had to complete almost all of her high school academics online.

The last time she was able to attend classes in person, she was using either a wheelchair or a walker.

She did extensive physical therapy to gain enough strength and coordination to walk unaided again.

"It was a lot of hard work," she said. "I just had to keep doing my exercises every day. I've been getting better, and I try to do more, so I continue to get better."

With permission from her doctor, Sophia was finally able to return back to school in person for the final weeks of classes last week.

TMP typically has sendoffs for students attending regional and state competitions. Sophia's mom, Jenny, conceived the idea of a "send-in" for Sophia as she returned to school.

Students lined the sidewalk outside of the school, as well as the halls, to welcome their school mate back to class.

She said she has enjoyed being with her friends again at school. 

Sophia still wears a mask indoors and disinfects her desk between classes as a precaution against infections, including COVID. 

"Since COVID, we've really been on guard," Jenny Linenberger said. "We're still on guard. She's had so much damage to her lungs from both treatments of radiation. That's where COVID goes to — the lungs.

"It's been hard, but I also knew it was probably best for her to do things that she needed to do with her friends for the last couple of weeks."

Tonight Sophia will also realize a dream that in the not-so-distant past she thought was impossible. She will attend her senior prom. She picked out a flowered dress with a blue top. 

Being a part of a faith community through school and through her church has been very important to her and her family through the cancer battle, Sophia said. 

Sophia Bible journals. She and her mother prayed and sprinkled holy water on her before each chemo treatment. Sophia clutched a cross during procedures, and she and her mom also carried a Mary statute when they traveled for treatment.

"I would definitely say faith has got us through," Jenny said. "God will always be there, but Mary has always been my go-to person because she had to endure so much. She was the strongest woman ever. I always prayed to her for strength."

"Give me strength to get through this and be strong for Sophia and positive for Sophia."

Sophia's cancer is not the only tragedy that the family has had to face in the last four years.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/643056f3-3d2a-4a3e-9de7-8b60d9ccbf5b"> Sophia's father, Stan, was diagnosed with cancer in February 2021. He has received treatment and is also now in remissio</a>n.

Sophia has had extensive support not only from her peers and teachers at TMP, but from the community and beyond.

Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, met Sophia at a fundraiser for his foundation in 2019 in Kansas City. He has since worn a Sophia Strong wristband in support of Sophia.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1b369386-bd31-4c9e-8faf-063b63ccd3f3">RELATED STORY: Local teen with cancer 'attends' Super Bowl with Mahomes</a>

The Fort Hays State University football team has supported Sophia throughout her cancer journey. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4db8c0cb-2d7b-4b1b-9872-af4fd5dadabe">They hosted send-offs for her when she had to travel to Kansas City for treatment,</a> and coach Chris Brown has invited Sophia to give his players pep talks, Jenny said.

"I would say the whole community of Hays ... they've supported us, They've stood behind us. They've given us prayers. They've helped us. The community of Hays is wonderful," Jenny said.

She and Sophia said they are thankful for everyone who has supported their family.

Sophia said she is looking forward to graduation day as a culmination of not only her school work but as a celebration of her triumph over cancer.

"It just means so much to me," she said, "because I worked so hard for this. I know all of that stuff that I went through was for a reason. I want to get my story across to stay strong. I'm just so excited that I will be able to walk across that stage.

"I'm just so thankful to God, because He's the one who got me through all of this."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651869791991.jpeg" alt="Sophia Linenberger walks into Thomas More Prep-Marian on Monday, April 25 for her first day back in school in person after a four-year fight with cancer. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Sophia Linenberger walks into Thomas More Prep-Marian on Monday, April 25 for her first day back in school in person after a four-year fight with cancer. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'I know all of that stuff that I went through was for a reason. I want to get my story across to stay strong.'</h2>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSeveral years ago, Sophia Linenberger was battling cancer — in a wheelchair and unable to walk. On May 22, Sophia, 18, will join her fellow seniors at Thomas More Prep-Marian and walk across the stage to receive her diploma."It feels really good," Sophia said. "It feels really good to be out of my wheelchair. I get to walk normally. I'm really excited about that and graduation."When she was a freshman, Sophia was diagnosed with a rare cancer, Ewing's sarcoma, which affected her spine. She lost her ability to walk in only five days."We didn't know if she would ever walk again," said her mother, Jenny Linenberger.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651869985680.jpeg" alt="Sophia Linenberger, cancer survivor, is welcomed back to school by classmates on April 25. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Sophia Linenberger, cancer survivor, is welcomed back to school by classmates on April 25. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Today, Sophia is a two-time cancer survivor. She is in remission and will have her six-month check-up in June.Sophia was able to return to school three to four days before COVID hit. Because of cancer treatment and the need to isolate herself due to COVID, she has had to complete almost all of her high school academics online.The last time she was able to attend classes in person, she was using either a wheelchair or a walker.She did extensive physical therapy to gain enough strength and coordination to walk unaided again."It was a lot of hard work," she said. "I just had to keep doing my exercises every day. I've been getting better, and I try to do more, so I continue to get better."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651870183696.jpeg" alt="Sophia Linenberger is back in school after taking most of her high school courses online due to her battle with cancer and the threat of COVID to her weakened immune system. She still has to wear a mask but said she was excited to be back with her friends in the final weeks before graduation. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Sophia Linenberger is back in school after taking most of her high school courses online due to her battle with cancer and the threat of COVID to her weakened immune system. She still has to wear a mask but said she was excited to be back with her friends in the final weeks before graduation. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>With permission from her doctor, Sophia was finally able to return back to school in person for the final weeks of classes last week.TMP typically has sendoffs for students attending regional and state competitions. Sophia's mom, Jenny, conceived the idea of a "send-in" for Sophia as she returned to school.Students lined the sidewalk outside of the school, as well as the halls, to welcome their school mate back to class.She said she has enjoyed being with her friends again at school. Sophia still wears a mask indoors and disinfects her desk between classes as a precaution against infections, including COVID. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651870371244.jpeg" alt="Cancer survivor Sophia Linenberger is welcomed back to school by fellow Thomas More Prep-Marian students. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Cancer survivor Sophia Linenberger is welcomed back to school by fellow Thomas More Prep-Marian students. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>"Since COVID, we've really been on guard," Jenny Linenberger said. "We're still on guard. She's had so much damage to her lungs from both treatments of radiation. That's where COVID goes to — the lungs."It's been hard, but I also knew it was probably best for her to do things that she needed to do with her friends for the last couple of weeks." Tonight Sophia will also realize a dream that in the not-so-distant past she thought was impossible. She will attend her senior prom. She picked out a flowered dress with a blue top. Being a part of a faith community through school and through her church has been very important to her and her family through the cancer battle, Sophia said. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651870650500.jpeg" alt="A TMP football player hands Sophia Linenberger a rose in 2019 after she returned home from a round of cancer treatment. She is accompanied by her mother, Jenny, and sister, Holly. Hays Post file photo " />
 <figcaption>A TMP football player hands Sophia Linenberger a rose in 2019 after she returned home from a round of cancer treatment. She is accompanied by her mother, Jenny, and sister, Holly. Hays Post file photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Sophia Bible journals. She and her mother prayed and sprinkled holy water on her before each chemo treatment. Sophia clutched a cross during procedures, and she and her mom also carried a Mary statute when they traveled for treatment."I would definitely say faith has got us through," Jenny said. "God will always be there, but Mary has always been my go-to person because she had to endure so much. She was the strongest woman ever. I always prayed to her for strength.""Give me strength to get through this and be strong for Sophia and positive for Sophia."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651870499116.jpeg" alt="Sophia and her father, Stan, were in cancer treatment at the same time. Both are now in remission. Sophia and her mother said faith helped their family through its cancer ordeal. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Sophia and her father, Stan, were in cancer treatment at the same time. Both are now in remission. Sophia and her mother said faith helped their family through its cancer ordeal. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Sophia's cancer is not the only tragedy that the family has had to face in the last four years.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/643056f3-3d2a-4a3e-9de7-8b60d9ccbf5b"> Sophia's father, Stan, was diagnosed with cancer in February 2021. He has received treatment and is also now in remissio</a>n.Sophia has had extensive support not only from her peers and teachers at TMP, but from the community and beyond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651870751004.jpeg" alt="Sophia Linenberger, right, her sister, Holly, and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes at a charity gala in Kansas City in 2019. Since this event, Mahomes has worn a yellow wristband in honor of Sophia. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Sophia Linenberger, right, her sister, Holly, and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes at a charity gala in Kansas City in 2019. Since this event, Mahomes has worn a yellow wristband in honor of Sophia. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, met Sophia at a fundraiser for his foundation in 2019 in Kansas City. He has since worn a Sophia Strong wristband in support of Sophia.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1b369386-bd31-4c9e-8faf-063b63ccd3f3">RELATED STORY: Local teen with cancer 'attends' Super Bowl with Mahomes</a> The Fort Hays State University football team has supported Sophia throughout her cancer journey. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4db8c0cb-2d7b-4b1b-9872-af4fd5dadabe">They hosted send-offs for her when she had to travel to Kansas City for treatment,</a> and coach Chris Brown has invited Sophia to give his players pep talks, Jenny said. "I would say the whole community of Hays ... they've supported us, They've stood behind us. They've given us prayers. They've helped us. The community of Hays is wonderful," Jenny said.She and Sophia said they are thankful for everyone who has supported their family. Sophia said she is looking forward to graduation day as a culmination of not only her school work but as a celebration of her triumph over cancer. "It just means so much to me," she said, "because I worked so hard for this. I know all of that stuff that I went through was for a reason. I want to get my story across to stay strong. I'm just so excited that I will be able to walk across that stage."I'm just so thankful to God, because He's the one who got me through all of this."

Cancer survivor reaches goal of walking across stage to receive TMP diploma

Hailey Zulkoski was among a group of students honored at a reception in April at the home of Dr. Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University.

Zulkoski, a senior from Ord, Neb., is a member of the FHSU Shotgun Team, which won its eighth national championship at last fall’s&nbsp;Scholastic Clay Target Program Collegiate national tournament. President Mason hosted a reception for Zulkoski and her teammates and presented them with their national championship rings.

Zulkoski also was excited about her showing earlier in the month at the&nbsp;Association of College Unions International Clay Target Championships in San Antonio, Texas.

Zulkoski earned championship honors as the top female scorer in skeet doubles with a score of 99 out of a possible 100 at the ACUI. She was also the female champion in combined doubles for trap and skeet to help FHSU finish third as a team in Division 2. It was the best individual national finish of Zulkoski’s career.

FHSU finished with a score of 2,788 in team standings to finish just seven shots behind runner-up Emmanuel College out of Boston, Mass. Utah Southern was the Division 2 champ with a score of 2,832 (out of 3,000 targets).

Zulkoski also was part of FHSU’s Doubles American Skeet team at the ACUI national meet that finished third among all divisions with a score of 485 out of 500. Joining her on that team were Brock Barton, Zach Beers, Riley Ross, and Xander Winchel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651773259767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsHailey Zulkoski was among a group of students honored at a reception in April at the home of Dr. Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University.Zulkoski, a senior from Ord, Neb., is a member of the FHSU Shotgun Team, which won its eighth national championship at last fall’s&nbsp;Scholastic Clay Target Program Collegiate national tournament. President Mason hosted a reception for Zulkoski and her teammates and presented them with their national championship rings.Zulkoski also was excited about her showing earlier in the month at the&nbsp;Association of College Unions International Clay Target Championships in San Antonio, Texas.Zulkoski earned championship honors as the top female scorer in skeet doubles with a score of 99 out of a possible 100 at the ACUI. She was also the female champion in combined doubles for trap and skeet to help FHSU finish third as a team in Division 2. It was the best individual national finish of Zulkoski’s career.FHSU finished with a score of 2,788 in team standings to finish just seven shots behind runner-up Emmanuel College out of Boston, Mass. Utah Southern was the Division 2 champ with a score of 2,832 (out of 3,000 targets).Zulkoski also was part of FHSU’s Doubles American Skeet team at the ACUI national meet that finished third among all divisions with a score of 485 out of 500. Joining her on that team were Brock Barton, Zach Beers, Riley Ross, and Xander Winchel.FHSU’s national competitorsBrock Barton, Fairbury, Neb.Zach Beers, Syracuse, Neb.Nick Borchardt, Johnson Creek, Wis.Jade Chapman, Papillion, Neb.Katie Dettmann, Avoca, Neb.Will Dulohery, BentonJared Greenwood, BentonHank McVeigh, Lincoln, Neb.Riley Ross, St. Paul, Neb.Logan Smith, Burwell, Neb.Lane Sorensen, Hampton, Neb.Ryan St Peters, Godfrey, Ill.Mason Weller, Palmer, Neb.Xander Winchel, Spring Hill&nbsp;Hailey Zulkoski, Ord, Neb.

FHSU shotgun team places high at nationals again

TV series featuring Cottonwood Ranch, Don Rowlison to premiere on Smoky Hills PBS

"Cottonwood Connections," a new history-focused documentary series, will premiere on Smoky
Hills PBS on Sunday, May 15, at 6:00 PM.


"Cottonwood Connections" expands on the documentary film The Legacy of Cottonwood Ranch,
which recently aired on PBS stations across Kansas. The series utilizes the story of the
Cottonwood Ranch Historic Site to take a deeper dive into various historical topics related to
the Great Plains region, such as building with stone, real-life cowboys, the pre-historic past
and the role of mail order in settling the Great Plains.

The new series is hosted by Don Rowlison and presented by The Friends of Cottonwood
Ranch, an organization that supports the work of the historic site and has the mission of
encouraging historical education about the plains.

“When the documentary film was wrapping up, we discussed that there was still a lot of history
to share,” said Ed Lowry, director and producer of the series. “As a historic site that was a
settlement home, Cottonwood Ranch can serve as a springboard to talk about so many things.
And at the heart of all of that is Don Rowlison.”


Rowlison is an archeologist who specialized in studying the pre-historic people of the plains. In
1985, he became site curator for the Cottonwood Ranch Historic Site and devoted himself to
studying all the various issues that impacted people settling the region in the late 1800s.
Additionally, Don is, himself, a cowboy and was even inducted to the Kansas Cowboy Hall of
Fame in 2008 as a historian.


“Don’s vast knowledge and experience, his decades of studying and educating about the area,
not to mention his engaging personality and character, all combine to make a compelling host
for a documentary series like this,” Lowry said. “I also appreciate that Don loves to learn more
himself and is happy to bring others into the conversation.”


Guests in the early episodes include professors, archeologists, museum curators, and a
historical re-enactor.

The series will also be made available as an educational resource on the Cottonwood Ranch
web site at www.cottonwoodranchks.com following their televised airing.


Episodes of "Cottonwood Connections" will air on Smoky Hills PBS at 6:00 PM on Sundays,
then re-air the following Saturday, also at 6:00.


The first six episodes of the series will include:
 Building with Stone (May 15 and 21) 
Life of the Cowboys (May 22 and 28)
Archeology (May 29 and June 4)
 The Clothes People Wore (June 5 and 11) 
Discovering the Pre-Historic Past (June 12 and 18) 
The Role of Mail Order in Settling the Plains (June 19 and 25)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651772425857.png" alt="Don Rowlison, host of Cottonwood Connections, gives a junior high class a tour of the Cottonwood Ranch State Historic Site in Sheridan County." />
 <figcaption>Don Rowlison, host of Cottonwood Connections, gives a junior high class a tour of the Cottonwood Ranch State Historic Site in Sheridan County.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>TV series featuring Cottonwood Ranch, Don Rowlison to premiere on Smoky Hills PBS</h2>Smoky Hills PBS"Cottonwood Connections," a new history-focused documentary series, will premiere on Smoky
Hills PBS on Sunday, May 15, at 6:00 PM.
"Cottonwood Connections" expands on the documentary film The Legacy of Cottonwood Ranch,
which recently aired on PBS stations across Kansas. The series utilizes the story of the
Cottonwood Ranch Historic Site to take a deeper dive into various historical topics related to
the Great Plains region, such as building with stone, real-life cowboys, the pre-historic past
and the role of mail order in settling the Great Plains.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651772573826.png" alt="Don Rowlison, host of Cottonwood Connections, explains the use of stone in construction, a common practice in early settlement of Western Kansas. " />
 <figcaption>Don Rowlison, host of Cottonwood Connections, explains the use of stone in construction, a common practice in early settlement of Western Kansas. </figcaption>
 </figure>The new series is hosted by Don Rowlison and presented by The Friends of Cottonwood
Ranch, an organization that supports the work of the historic site and has the mission of
encouraging historical education about the plains.“When the documentary film was wrapping up, we discussed that there was still a lot of history
to share,” said Ed Lowry, director and producer of the series. “As a historic site that was a
settlement home, Cottonwood Ranch can serve as a springboard to talk about so many things.
And at the heart of all of that is Don Rowlison.”
Rowlison is an archeologist who specialized in studying the pre-historic people of the plains. In
1985, he became site curator for the Cottonwood Ranch Historic Site and devoted himself to
studying all the various issues that impacted people settling the region in the late 1800s.
Additionally, Don is, himself, a cowboy and was even inducted to the Kansas Cowboy Hall of
Fame in 2008 as a historian.
“Don’s vast knowledge and experience, his decades of studying and educating about the area,
not to mention his engaging personality and character, all combine to make a compelling host
for a documentary series like this,” Lowry said. “I also appreciate that Don loves to learn more
himself and is happy to bring others into the conversation.”
Guests in the early episodes include professors, archeologists, museum curators, and a
historical re-enactor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651772602983.png" alt="Kristin Keith, historical re-enactor at Fort Larned Historic Site, discussing the styles of clothing worn by settlers in late 1800s. " />
 <figcaption>Kristin Keith, historical re-enactor at Fort Larned Historic Site, discussing the styles of clothing worn by settlers in late 1800s. </figcaption>
 </figure>The series will also be made available as an educational resource on the Cottonwood Ranch
web site at www.cottonwoodranchks.com following their televised airing.
Episodes of "Cottonwood Connections" will air on Smoky Hills PBS at 6:00 PM on Sundays,
then re-air the following Saturday, also at 6:00.
The first six episodes of the series will include:
 Building with Stone (May 15 and 21) 
Life of the Cowboys (May 22 and 28)
Archeology (May 29 and June 4)
 The Clothes People Wore (June 5 and 11) 
Discovering the Pre-Historic Past (June 12 and 18) 
The Role of Mail Order in Settling the Plains (June 19 and 25)

'Cottonwood Connections' set to premiere on Smoky Hills PBS

<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/2022/5/1651864137416.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

The time has come to invest in our community’s school facilities. &nbsp;I was against the bond the last time it was presented to voters, but I was uninformed. &nbsp;

As our kids have reached the age to visit other schools for their sporting functions, it has become abundantly apparent that our facilities are drastically inferior to our peer communities. And to make things worse, costs have increased so much that we could only do half the improvements if we had the same amount of money as the last bond proposal. &nbsp;

And it will only get more and more expensive if we don’t do something now.&nbsp; I was wrong last time, but we can get it right now — it’s time to invest in Hays’ schools. Join me on May 10 by voting yes for both the bond and sales tax options.&nbsp;

The time has come to invest in our community’s school facilities. &nbsp;I was against the bond the last time it was presented to voters, but I was uninformed. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As our kids have reached the age to visit other schools for their sporting functions, it has become abundantly apparent that our facilities are drastically inferior to our peer communities. And to make things worse, costs have increased so much that we could only do half the improvements if we had the same amount of money as the last bond proposal. &nbsp;And it will only get more and more expensive if we don’t do something now.&nbsp; I was wrong last time, but we can get it right now — it’s time to invest in Hays’ schools. Join me on May 10 by voting yes for both the bond and sales tax options.&nbsp;Rob Readle, Hays

LETTER: Vote no to last 489 bond? Time to make the right choice

🎥 2022 Ellis County National Day of Prayer

DORRANCE — There's not much left in the little town of Dorrance — a few homes and old buildings that have been turned into boatsheds by the people hoping to frequent nearby Wilson Lake.

However, Dorrance was once a bustling farm community and whistle-stop for the Kansas Pacific Railroad.

One man is trying to preserve the community's history and his own family's past through a museum/eatery he calls the <a href="https://dorrancebankery.com/">Dorrance Bankery</a>.

On Saturday mornings, Tony Mahoney brings in baked goods made by a local home baker and invites local farmers or those whizzing by on Interstate 70 to pause awhile, sip some joe and tour the historic building.

Beginning May 14, Patsy D and her mobile barbecue of Russell will be offering barbecue over the lunch hour on Saturdays until the food is gone. Mahoney hopes this will entice more people to visit the bank and Dorrance.

The Dorrance State Bank was built in 1905. The bank closed in 1933 amid the Great Depression. In all, 9,000 banks failed during the 1930s.  By 1933, depositors saw $140 billion disappear through bank failures, according to research presented by Mahoney on the Bankery's website.

The building in downtown Dorrance was used in a variety of capacities after it was closed as a bank.

The Fritcshen family operated the community's telephone service from the building and used the building as a residence. The telephone switchboard from Dorrance is still in existence and is on display at the Fossil Station Museum in Russell.

During its time as a residence, what had been the bank vault was converted into a kitchen, which is still part of the building today.

When the modern telephone system came along, the building was converted into a small grocery store, which was operated by William and Arleen Huff. An attorney, Ray Coolidge of Russell, bought the building in 1981 and used it as an office until 1986.

The storefront was then used as a barbershop by Gerald Steinle for 21 years.

In 2007, when the barbershop closed, Mahoney, a retired pilot, purchased the bank building and took on the monumental task of refurbishing it. He applied for historical status for the bank, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

"I think it's important just because we need to save our history," Mahoney said of the restoration.

Mahoney said he was drawn to the building because it is one of the few limestone structures still standing in the community. One of the others is the Rieff Building across the street. The Rieff Building was once owned by his father, who used it as a warehouse for his Toss Back company. His father eventually donated the Rieff Building to the Dorrance Historical Society.

Mahoney finished the bulk of restorations in 2021, but this will be the first full travel season the Bankery will be open for tours.

The building's historical status allowed Mahoney to apply for grant funds to restore the bank lobby as near as possible to what it was in the early 1900s. Most of the original fixtures in the building were missing, including the bank teller windows.

Mahoney was fortunate that during the early years of the bank a prolific photographer, Leslie Halbe, was active in the area. Glass plate negatives of photos from the Dorrance area, including photos of the bank, are still in existence. Halbe prints and digital images can be viewed at the Bankery.

Mahoney employed Russell carpenter, John Sechtem, to reconstruct the teller windows and counter. The restoration included bending and curling new ornate metal bars for the teller windows.

Mahoney handpainted the stencil border that once decorated the walls of the lobby. A vintage tin ceiling, although not original to the 1905 structure, was also uncovered and restored.

The original hardwood floors could not be saved, as portions of the floor were too badly damaged to be repaired. However, keeping with the building's character, Mahoney replaced the surface with new hardwood flooring.

Perhaps one of the most interesting stories of the restoration came from what Mahoney calls the "traveling window." Mahoney was able to secure and reinstall the original stained glass window over the entrance of the bank.

However, the more than 100-year-old window took a few side trips before ending up back home in Dorrance.

One day years ago, a man stopped by the bank when Mahoney was working. He had been married to a member of the Huff family, which had since operated a grocery store out of the former bank. The man's step-daughter still had the original window for the bank.

The daughter had taken the window to Wyoming, but Tom, the step-father, retrieved the window and told Mahoney he would hold onto the glass for Mahoney until he was ready to reinstall it in the bank.

A couple of years went by. Mahoney called Tom, but he didn't answer. Mahoney drove to Russell and learned from a family member Tom had died. After a number of phone calls, he found the glass was back with Tom's step-daughter, who now lived in Montana.

Graciously, the daughter agreed to give the glass to Mahoney to be placed in the museum. Mahoney traveled to Laramie, Wyo., and drove the glass back to Dorrance, where it is now reinstalled in its original home above the door to the bank.

The window has a few minor cracks but is remarkably well preserved considering its age and travels, Mahoney said.

In addition to the restored bank lobby and memorabilia, Mahoney has displays highlighting other notable people and objects from Dorrance history.

"I thought we've got to get people off I-70 and stop in these little towns," Mahoney said. ... "That's my long-range object — to get people to come in here and see this stuff."

&nbsp;Mahoney has a display on his father, Ken Mahoney and his company, Toss Back Inc., which created the “Snap Back” breakaway basketball rim. The breakaway rim allows basketball players, including NBA professionals to dunk without shattering the back glass.

Another local man invented a golf hole cup that lifts out of the ground so sand can be easily dumped from it. Yet another local man invented an automobile hoist.

In an outbuilding, Mahoney has a display of antique tractors, including the world's largest Avery tractor and wheat threshing machine, both of which were owned and operated by his grandfather.

The Avery tractor had a brief appearance in "Paper Moon," portions of which were shot near Dorrance.

Mahoney said he also dreams of further renovating the Rieff building across the street, which once was an opera house. He said he would love that building, which is also on the historic register, to eventually be able to host shows again.

The Bankeries hours are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays

You can learn more about Dorrance and the Bankery at <a href="https://dorrancebankery.com/">https://dorrancebankery.com/</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DorranceBankerycom-234534225188457">Bankery on Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651701983588.jpeg" alt="The Bankery offers pastries and soon barbecue out of a restored 1905 bank in Dorrance. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The Bankery offers pastries and soon barbecue out of a restored 1905 bank in Dorrance. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDORRANCE — There's not much left in the little town of Dorrance — a few homes and old buildings that have been turned into boatsheds by the people hoping to frequent nearby Wilson Lake.However, Dorrance was once a bustling farm community and whistle-stop for the Kansas Pacific Railroad.One man is trying to preserve the community's history and his own family's past through a museum/eatery he calls the <a href="https://dorrancebankery.com/">Dorrance Bankery</a>.On Saturday mornings, Tony Mahoney brings in baked goods made by a local home baker and invites local farmers or those whizzing by on Interstate 70 to pause awhile, sip some joe and tour the historic building.Beginning May 14, Patsy D and her mobile barbecue of Russell will be offering barbecue over the lunch hour on Saturdays until the food is gone. Mahoney hopes this will entice more people to visit the bank and Dorrance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651702231904.jpeg" alt="Bankery owner Tony Mahoney stands in front of the teller windows that were recreated during a 15-year restoration of the Dorrance State Bank. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Bankery owner Tony Mahoney stands in front of the teller windows that were recreated during a 15-year restoration of the Dorrance State Bank. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Many lives of the Dorrance Bank</h2>The Dorrance State Bank was built in 1905. The bank closed in 1933 amid the Great Depression. In all, 9,000 banks failed during the 1930s. By 1933, depositors saw $140 billion disappear through bank failures, according to research presented by Mahoney on the Bankery's website.The building in downtown Dorrance was used in a variety of capacities after it was closed as a bank.The Fritcshen family operated the community's telephone service from the building and used the building as a residence. The telephone switchboard from Dorrance is still in existence and is on display at the Fossil Station Museum in Russell.During its time as a residence, what had been the bank vault was converted into a kitchen, which is still part of the building today.When the modern telephone system came along, the building was converted into a small grocery store, which was operated by William and Arleen Huff. An attorney, Ray Coolidge of Russell, bought the building in 1981 and used it as an office until 1986.The storefront was then used as a barbershop by Gerald Steinle for 21 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651777985076.jpeg" alt="Tony Mahoney opens a safe on display at the Bankery. The museum also has copies of checks from the bank, which operated in Dorrance from 1905 to 1933. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Tony Mahoney opens a safe on display at the Bankery. The museum also has copies of checks from the bank, which operated in Dorrance from 1905 to 1933. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Saving history</h2>In 2007, when the barbershop closed, Mahoney, a retired pilot, purchased the bank building and took on the monumental task of refurbishing it. He applied for historical status for the bank, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places."I think it's important just because we need to save our history," Mahoney said of the restoration. Mahoney said he was drawn to the building because it is one of the few limestone structures still standing in the community. One of the others is the Rieff Building across the street. The Rieff Building was once owned by his father, who used it as a warehouse for his Toss Back company. His father eventually donated the Rieff Building to the Dorrance Historical Society.Mahoney finished the bulk of restorations in 2021, but this will be the first full travel season the Bankery will be open for tours. The building's historical status allowed Mahoney to apply for grant funds to restore the bank lobby as near as possible to what it was in the early 1900s. Most of the original fixtures in the building were missing, including the bank teller windows.Mahoney was fortunate that during the early years of the bank a prolific photographer, Leslie Halbe, was active in the area. Glass plate negatives of photos from the Dorrance area, including photos of the bank, are still in existence. Halbe prints and digital images can be viewed at the Bankery.Mahoney employed Russell carpenter, John Sechtem, to reconstruct the teller windows and counter. The restoration included bending and curling new ornate metal bars for the teller windows.Mahoney handpainted the stencil border that once decorated the walls of the lobby. A vintage tin ceiling, although not original to the 1905 structure, was also uncovered and restored.The original hardwood floors could not be saved, as portions of the floor were too badly damaged to be repaired. However, keeping with the building's character, Mahoney replaced the surface with new hardwood flooring.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651776932226.jpeg" alt="After traveling across multiple states, the original stained glass window that was above the entrance of the Dorrance State Bank was reinstalled. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>After traveling across multiple states, the original stained glass window that was above the entrance of the Dorrance State Bank was reinstalled. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The traveling window</h2>Perhaps one of the most interesting stories of the restoration came from what Mahoney calls the "traveling window." Mahoney was able to secure and reinstall the original stained glass window over the entrance of the bank.However, the more than 100-year-old window took a few side trips before ending up back home in Dorrance.One day years ago, a man stopped by the bank when Mahoney was working. He had been married to a member of the Huff family, which had since operated a grocery store out of the former bank. The man's step-daughter still had the original window for the bank.The daughter had taken the window to Wyoming, but Tom, the step-father, retrieved the window and told Mahoney he would hold onto the glass for Mahoney until he was ready to reinstall it in the bank. A couple of years went by. Mahoney called Tom, but he didn't answer. Mahoney drove to Russell and learned from a family member Tom had died. After a number of phone calls, he found the glass was back with Tom's step-daughter, who now lived in Montana.Graciously, the daughter agreed to give the glass to Mahoney to be placed in the museum. Mahoney traveled to Laramie, Wyo., and drove the glass back to Dorrance, where it is now reinstalled in its original home above the door to the bank. The window has a few minor cracks but is remarkably well preserved considering its age and travels, Mahoney said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651777226121.jpeg" alt="The Dorrance Bankery also houses the largest Avery tractor ever made. The tractor belonged to Tony Mahoney's grandfather, who was a thresher in the Dorrance area. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Dorrance Bankery also houses the largest Avery tractor ever made. The tractor belonged to Tony Mahoney's grandfather, who was a thresher in the Dorrance area. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Dorrance legacy</h2>In addition to the restored bank lobby and memorabilia, Mahoney has displays highlighting other notable people and objects from Dorrance history."I thought we've got to get people off I-70 and stop in these little towns," Mahoney said. ... "That's my long-range object — to get people to come in here and see this stuff." &nbsp;Mahoney has a display on his father, Ken Mahoney and his company, Toss Back Inc., which created the “Snap Back” breakaway basketball rim. The breakaway rim allows basketball players, including NBA professionals to dunk without shattering the back glass.Another local man invented a golf hole cup that lifts out of the ground so sand can be easily dumped from it. Yet another local man invented an automobile hoist.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651777588813.jpeg" alt="The Dorrance Bankery's museum also houses this Avery thresher. The thresher was the largest that the Avery company made and was owned and operated by Tony Mahoney 's grandfather. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The Dorrance Bankery's museum also houses this Avery thresher. The thresher was the largest that the Avery company made and was owned and operated by Tony Mahoney 's grandfather. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>In an outbuilding, Mahoney has a display of antique tractors, including the world's largest Avery tractor and wheat threshing machine, both of which were owned and operated by his grandfather.The Avery tractor had a brief appearance in "Paper Moon," portions of which were shot near Dorrance. Mahoney said he also dreams of further renovating the Rieff building across the street, which once was an opera house. He said he would love that building, which is also on the historic register, to eventually be able to host shows again. The Bankeries hours are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays You can learn more about Dorrance and the Bankery at <a href="https://dorrancebankery.com/">https://dorrancebankery.com/</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DorranceBankerycom-234534225188457">Bankery on Facebook</a>.

Dorrance Bankery sweet spot for lessons in history, pastries or cup of joe

Fort Hays State University celebrated the remarkable legacy of successful alumni entrepreneurs on the evening of May 2. A chartering ceremony on campus for Sigma Nu Tau featured the first chapter of the entrepreneurship honor society for a Kansas university.

Sigma Nu Tau was founded in 2009 to promote, recognize, and reward academic excellence in entrepreneurship and to encourage and recognize the practice of principled entrepreneurship.

In her opening remarks, FHSU President Tisa Mason welcomed back to campus three distinguished alumni who traveled great distances to attend the chartering ceremony.

Coleen Ellis (Texas) is the founder of two organizations that help people deal with the loss of a beloved pet. Ward Schraeder (Kansas City area) is a builder and a venture capitalist. Along with his daughter, Tamara, co-hosts the home renovation show “Bargain Mansions” on HGTV. Peter Werth – who lives in Connecticut and flew to Hays from Arizona for the event – is the founder of ChemWerth. The full-service generic drug development and supply company provides high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredients to regulated markets worldwide.

Dr. Nancy Church, executive director of Sigma Nu Tau, presented the university with its Sigma Nu Tau charter. Henry Schwaller IV, a member of the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship faculty and a successful local businessman, then presided over an induction ceremony that welcomed new members to the honor society.

FHSU’s charter group is comprised of 50 members – 14 distinguished entrepreneurs, 34 FHSU student and faculty members, and two honorary members.

Former FHSU President Dr. Edward H. Hammond and former Provost Dr. Lawrence Gould were named honorary society members in recognition of their shared entrepreneurial approach to leadership that guided the university through a tremendous period of growth.

For more information about the entrepreneurship honor society Sigma Nu Tau, go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDr6cmOK3loQjsiu526qYqihQ7C1WiwkpccUKE8k91G3DwBx_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemGzh8NosFOQs6Udnc5TQXMtfPF-2B40C3DCBhZ65swcwQ4FbQbwU-2F4DLrio3zeGMgRRCnMwaGTmZX2n-2BK5YZGnimflWxgNCiqHJpvQQtdA17iuVTUw2r2lBabq7A62mpmiFnnu4Leyfd7hfeEIRuO60sjiVK6Alp51ayTOuq-2BD3Hz8Y3MFnKXyQl0nr0FIvwGzMSv8jjyyi6zo5F550VAEpcqT5hLctnG7bq42Xz5Zpq0D-2FtQ3t-2Bm0w9xFciccnGeXo9FnPb28hD1-2Fkumo2bR6Z8g-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://sigmanutau.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651784801133.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University celebrated the remarkable legacy of successful alumni entrepreneurs on the evening of May 2. A chartering ceremony on campus for Sigma Nu Tau featured the first chapter of the entrepreneurship honor society for a Kansas university.Sigma Nu Tau was founded in 2009 to promote, recognize, and reward academic excellence in entrepreneurship and to encourage and recognize the practice of principled entrepreneurship.In her opening remarks, FHSU President Tisa Mason welcomed back to campus three distinguished alumni who traveled great distances to attend the chartering ceremony.Coleen Ellis (Texas) is the founder of two organizations that help people deal with the loss of a beloved pet. Ward Schraeder (Kansas City area) is a builder and a venture capitalist. Along with his daughter, Tamara, co-hosts the home renovation show “Bargain Mansions” on HGTV. Peter Werth – who lives in Connecticut and flew to Hays from Arizona for the event – is the founder of ChemWerth. The full-service generic drug development and supply company provides high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredients to regulated markets worldwide.Dr. Nancy Church, executive director of Sigma Nu Tau, presented the university with its Sigma Nu Tau charter. Henry Schwaller IV, a member of the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship faculty and a successful local businessman, then presided over an induction ceremony that welcomed new members to the honor society.FHSU’s charter group is comprised of 50 members – 14 distinguished entrepreneurs, 34 FHSU student and faculty members, and two honorary members.Former FHSU President Dr. Edward H. Hammond and former Provost Dr. Lawrence Gould were named honorary society members in recognition of their shared entrepreneurial approach to leadership that guided the university through a tremendous period of growth.For more information about the entrepreneurship honor society Sigma Nu Tau, go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDr6cmOK3loQjsiu526qYqihQ7C1WiwkpccUKE8k91G3DwBx_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemGzh8NosFOQs6Udnc5TQXMtfPF-2B40C3DCBhZ65swcwQ4FbQbwU-2F4DLrio3zeGMgRRCnMwaGTmZX2n-2BK5YZGnimflWxgNCiqHJpvQQtdA17iuVTUw2r2lBabq7A62mpmiFnnu4Leyfd7hfeEIRuO60sjiVK6Alp51ayTOuq-2BD3Hz8Y3MFnKXyQl0nr0FIvwGzMSv8jjyyi6zo5F550VAEpcqT5hLctnG7bq42Xz5Zpq0D-2FtQ3t-2Bm0w9xFciccnGeXo9FnPb28hD1-2Fkumo2bR6Z8g-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://sigmanutau.org/</a>.

First entrepreneurial honor society in Kansas established at FHSU

Early voting for the USD 489 bond issue has already brought out over 1,200 area residents to the polls.

Now with early voting set to end at noon Monday, the measure will be decided Tuesday with polling places open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Voters during this election will have the choice to use one of Ellis County's newest voting machines.

Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer&nbsp;Bobbi Dreiling demonstrates the new machines below.

F<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2a94d25d-ba77-49d6-9665-2651a7667965">or more information about the bond issue, click here.</a>

Hays PostEarly voting for the USD 489 bond issue has already brought out over 1,200 area residents to the polls.Now with early voting set to end at noon Monday, the measure will be decided Tuesday with polling places open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.Voters during this election will have the choice to use one of Ellis County's newest voting machines.Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer&nbsp;Bobbi Dreiling demonstrates the new machines below.F<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2a94d25d-ba77-49d6-9665-2651a7667965">or more information about the bond issue, click here.</a><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CYcU4NdhyQs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

USD 489 bond Issue early voting ends Monday; election Tuesday

Congratulations to the following lucky winners of the raffle prizes at ACE 2022:

Bill '71 &amp; Paula Robben - 2022 Hyundai Accent donated by Auto World, Dick &amp; Kay Werth

Vern '86 Ruder - $5000 Cash donated by Ernest '53 &amp; Joan Horinek

Irvin '68 Leiker - $5000 Cash donated by the Art &amp;&nbsp;Mae Wilkens Family

Michelle Dewitt - $2000 Cash donated by the Linus &amp; Berneice Werth Family

Jerri '62 (McCarthy) Moore - $1000 Cash donated by Neil '90 &amp;&nbsp;Ann '94 Gottschalk

Paul '65 Jarrett - $1000 Cash donated by Bernice '52 &amp; the late Leroy Herrman

Judy '73 (Gross) Werth - $1000 Cash donated by Joe &amp; Virginia Hess

Melissa '86 Windholz - $1000 Cash donated by Hays Car &amp;&nbsp;Truck Alignment, Dave '78 &amp;&nbsp;Debbie '79 Werth, Matt &amp;&nbsp;Jenn Werth, &amp; Tyler '07 Werth

Matt&nbsp; '01 Allen - $500 Cash donated by Mike '73 &amp;&nbsp;Lori&nbsp; '74 Hertel

Ron '75 Flax - $500 Cash donated by Glassman Corporation

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651773644825.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MCongratulations to the following lucky winners of the raffle prizes at ACE 2022:Bill '71 &amp; Paula Robben - 2022 Hyundai Accent donated by Auto World, Dick &amp; Kay WerthVern '86 Ruder - $5000 Cash donated by Ernest '53 &amp; Joan HorinekIrvin '68 Leiker - $5000 Cash donated by the Art &amp;&nbsp;Mae Wilkens FamilyMichelle Dewitt - $2000 Cash donated by the Linus &amp; Berneice Werth FamilyJerri '62 (McCarthy) Moore - $1000 Cash donated by Neil '90 &amp;&nbsp;Ann '94 GottschalkPaul '65 Jarrett - $1000 Cash donated by Bernice '52 &amp; the late Leroy HerrmanJudy '73 (Gross) Werth - $1000 Cash donated by Joe &amp; Virginia HessMelissa '86 Windholz - $1000 Cash donated by Hays Car &amp;&nbsp;Truck Alignment, Dave '78 &amp;&nbsp;Debbie '79 Werth, Matt &amp;&nbsp;Jenn Werth, &amp; Tyler '07 WerthMatt&nbsp; '01 Allen - $500 Cash donated by Mike '73 &amp;&nbsp;Lori&nbsp; '74 HertelRon '75 Flax - $500 Cash donated by Glassman Corporation

2022 ACE raffle winners announced

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651864005796.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>

Imagine what a Bond investment could do for our community’s students.


We’ve heard from many in our community about the various economic reasons to support or oppose
the upcoming vote on the USD 489 Bond. We wanted to take a moment of your time to provide the
perspective of educators in USD 489.

We have the immense privilege of spending most of our days during the school year with the children of
our community. It is not lost on us what an incredible responsibility it is to be entrusted with other
peoples’ children and their education. We also know how fortunate we are to live in a community that
has done its utmost to provide the best educational opportunities possible to children and families in
both the public and private realms. Right now, it is no different. This Bond proposal is asking us to
invest in maintaining our ability to provide the best educational experiences we can. All investments
come at a cost, which must be weighed against the return. Here is how we see the return on our
investment beyond the economic impacts discussed by so many prior editorials.


Imagine the first day of school: students walking into the same buildings across our town that their
parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents attended. The flood of sentimental feelings and
excitement fill us on those first days of school. Now, imagine that same scene a few years into the future
after a successful Bond measure. The kids are going into buildings our community invested in, that are
designed for them, so they can create and carve out a legacy upon which we laid the foundation.


Think about children sitting in one of our classrooms today, with our amazing teachers being successful,
despite our space limitations. Now, imagine them in a new classroom experiencing creative, hands-on,
and collaborative learning because we made sure that classroom space was built for their 21st-century
learning needs. For example, science labs created large enough so that students are safely spread out
while working hands on with new materials. CTE classrooms designed to allow more students to enroll
in career-focused classes that can help them after graduation. An auditorium constructed that will allow
for our students to present, create, and share with our community. Education is about more than
“reading, writing, and arithmetic,” and our students deserve a space to learn and grow in ways that will
benefit not only themselves, but also our general public.


Think about children who can’t access a safe storm shelter in our buildings without adults carrying them
up and down a flight of stairs. Or what about students who only have one bathroom in the building that
can accommodate their needs, but they can’t open the door by themselves. We have the power to
restore their dignity, peace of mind, and unfettered access to everything their peers have available to
them.


This is the future we can invest in on May 10th. This Bond proposal addresses our current and future
needs. We have said from the beginning of the process, we need to do it right with an eye toward the
future, and we need to do it now. Nothing worth doing is ever easy and without sacrifice, but this will
be worth it.


Abby Gillan, Allison Kitchen, Marie Henderson, Jayme Goetz, Luke Lundmark, Tony Crough, Cole
Cherryholmes, Alex Underwood, Tracy Archer, Mindi Dreiling, Kyle Hadley, Adam Goetz, Lisa Renz,
Peyton Morlan, Matt Rome, Sydney Niernberger, Troy Dale, Bruce Rupp, Aly Reed, Sarah Mackey,
Peyton Ostmeyer, Erika Norris, Michelle Callahan, Pam Grizzell, Kate Hughes, Kristy Oborny, Michele
Brungardt, Leslie Karlin, Julie Brown, Jessie Groff, Madison Henningsen, Nicole Lind, Nicole Linenberger,
Kelly Ackerman, Jolene Windholz, Lacy Bruggeman, Jenny Klaus, Jaici Simon, Katelyn Schmidt, Jennifer
Grabbe, Julie Zollinger, Laura Gaughn, Chris Sramek, Devann Fisher, Jerry Braun, Jessica Schwien,
Melissa Treinen, Alicia Brungardt, Jessica Clingan, Jessica Dale, Krista Brooks, Jessica Augustine, Jamie
Wolbert, Jolene Vitztum, Tasha Lang, Patty Maldonado, Ashley Taylor, Mary Befort, Lynn Zimmerman,
Dayna Crawford, Jennifer Olt, Amy Wasinger, Kay Shippy, Sarah Doerfler, Deaira Lesage, Jenny Price,
Keri Peterson, Jody Dinkel, Daphne Brown, Sarah Smith, Cheryl Shepherd-Adams, Katelyn Gannon,
Kaleigh Wentworth, Betsy Fornash, Dan Dickerson, Kenda Leiker, Valerie Colip, Ashley Butler, Amber
Binder, Kathy Wagoner, Lora Gallegos-Haynes, Tina Shepherd, Shawn Henderson, Kayla Brown, Erin Ray,
Jerold Harris, Dan Balman, Suellyn Stenger, Rebecca Kuehl, Beth Simon, Alex Hutchins, Anita Scheve,
Becky Hickert, Rene Burns, Brooke Nuss, Shauna Zweifel, Luann Stephen, Bryan Zollinger, Matt Whitney

Imagine what a Bond investment could do for our community’s students.
We’ve heard from many in our community about the various economic reasons to support or oppose
the upcoming vote on the USD 489 Bond. We wanted to take a moment of your time to provide the
perspective of educators in USD 489.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We have the immense privilege of spending most of our days during the school year with the children of
our community. It is not lost on us what an incredible responsibility it is to be entrusted with other
peoples’ children and their education. We also know how fortunate we are to live in a community that
has done its utmost to provide the best educational opportunities possible to children and families in
both the public and private realms. Right now, it is no different. This Bond proposal is asking us to
invest in maintaining our ability to provide the best educational experiences we can. All investments
come at a cost, which must be weighed against the return. Here is how we see the return on our
investment beyond the economic impacts discussed by so many prior editorials.
Imagine the first day of school: students walking into the same buildings across our town that their
parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents attended. The flood of sentimental feelings and
excitement fill us on those first days of school. Now, imagine that same scene a few years into the future
after a successful Bond measure. The kids are going into buildings our community invested in, that are
designed for them, so they can create and carve out a legacy upon which we laid the foundation.
Think about children sitting in one of our classrooms today, with our amazing teachers being successful,
despite our space limitations. Now, imagine them in a new classroom experiencing creative, hands-on,
and collaborative learning because we made sure that classroom space was built for their 21st-century
learning needs. For example, science labs created large enough so that students are safely spread out
while working hands on with new materials. CTE classrooms designed to allow more students to enroll
in career-focused classes that can help them after graduation. An auditorium constructed that will allow
for our students to present, create, and share with our community. Education is about more than
“reading, writing, and arithmetic,” and our students deserve a space to learn and grow in ways that will
benefit not only themselves, but also our general public.
Think about children who can’t access a safe storm shelter in our buildings without adults carrying them
up and down a flight of stairs. Or what about students who only have one bathroom in the building that
can accommodate their needs, but they can’t open the door by themselves. We have the power to
restore their dignity, peace of mind, and unfettered access to everything their peers have available to
them.
This is the future we can invest in on May 10th. This Bond proposal addresses our current and future
needs. We have said from the beginning of the process, we need to do it right with an eye toward the
future, and we need to do it now. Nothing worth doing is ever easy and without sacrifice, but this will
be worth it.
Sincerely,
Abby Gillan, Allison Kitchen, Marie Henderson, Jayme Goetz, Luke Lundmark, Tony Crough, Cole
Cherryholmes, Alex Underwood, Tracy Archer, Mindi Dreiling, Kyle Hadley, Adam Goetz, Lisa Renz,
Peyton Morlan, Matt Rome, Sydney Niernberger, Troy Dale, Bruce Rupp, Aly Reed, Sarah Mackey,
Peyton Ostmeyer, Erika Norris, Michelle Callahan, Pam Grizzell, Kate Hughes, Kristy Oborny, Michele
Brungardt, Leslie Karlin, Julie Brown, Jessie Groff, Madison Henningsen, Nicole Lind, Nicole Linenberger,
Kelly Ackerman, Jolene Windholz, Lacy Bruggeman, Jenny Klaus, Jaici Simon, Katelyn Schmidt, Jennifer
Grabbe, Julie Zollinger, Laura Gaughn, Chris Sramek, Devann Fisher, Jerry Braun, Jessica Schwien,
Melissa Treinen, Alicia Brungardt, Jessica Clingan, Jessica Dale, Krista Brooks, Jessica Augustine, Jamie
Wolbert, Jolene Vitztum, Tasha Lang, Patty Maldonado, Ashley Taylor, Mary Befort, Lynn Zimmerman,
Dayna Crawford, Jennifer Olt, Amy Wasinger, Kay Shippy, Sarah Doerfler, Deaira Lesage, Jenny Price,
Keri Peterson, Jody Dinkel, Daphne Brown, Sarah Smith, Cheryl Shepherd-Adams, Katelyn Gannon,
Kaleigh Wentworth, Betsy Fornash, Dan Dickerson, Kenda Leiker, Valerie Colip, Ashley Butler, Amber
Binder, Kathy Wagoner, Lora Gallegos-Haynes, Tina Shepherd, Shawn Henderson, Kayla Brown, Erin Ray,
Jerold Harris, Dan Balman, Suellyn Stenger, Rebecca Kuehl, Beth Simon, Alex Hutchins, Anita Scheve,
Becky Hickert, Rene Burns, Brooke Nuss, Shauna Zweifel, Luann Stephen, Bryan Zollinger, Matt Whitney

LETTER: The educational return of a bond investment

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

No, this is not about tasty caramels, it is indeed about camels. Beyond that, it is really about an educational leadership development experience that is helping rural Kansas leaders expand their skills, relationships and global knowledge.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jill Zimmerman is president of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership program, or KARL for short. A K-State and KARL program graduate, Jill was an extension agent and later executive director of the Kansas FFA Foundation. She was on the executive team of Eastern Kansas Agri-Energy in Garnett before being named president of the KARL program in 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

KARL is a privately-funded, two-year leadership development program for up to 30 individuals across Kansas. The program is headquartered on the campus of Kansas State in Manhattan. It began 33 years ago, under the guidance of the founding board members, the late professor Barry Flinchbaugh, and the program’s first president, Jack Lindquist of Manhattan.&nbsp;

“The purpose of KARL is to take a group of thought leaders who are already committed to their purpose -- be it for agriculture, rural communities, or the general needs of Kansas -- and provide them a learning experience through which they create a bond that allows them to be change-makers,” Zimmerman said.&nbsp;

“Leaders need to be lifelong learners,” she said.&nbsp;

The KARL program provides these learning opportunities through a series of seminars in communities across Kansas. The capstone of year one is a trip to Washington DC and Gettysburg, and the capstone of year two is an international study tour.&nbsp;

Zimmerman is a graduate of KARL class V. The program is now in the process of selecting class XVI. “I met lifelong friends who have been pivotal in my life and career,” she said.&nbsp;

Her KARL class went to Australia and New Zealand. The most recent KARL class went to the United Arab Emirates. “It was a very cool experience,” Zimmerman said.&nbsp;

The UAE is a federation of seven emirates. While the history of Arabic culture is ancient, the UAE as an independent country has only existed since 1971. The nation’s population has achieved a literacy rate of nearly 95 percent (compared to 88 percent in the U.S.).&nbsp;&nbsp;The UAE can claim the world’s tallest building, the deepest pool, and the fastest roller coaster, among other things. Located in a desert, nearly all the country’s food and feed must be imported, and they are interested in sustainability.&nbsp;

As written in the KARL newsletter: “The study tour becomes an extended trip, not necessarily of continued travel, but critical thought in the ways we see our world, our community, our farms and ranches, the way we view economies, food and people and culture – we see things through a different lens.”&nbsp;

According to Zimmerman, “the four pillars of KARL are recruitment, of both board and class members; curriculum, which we seek to continually improve; alumni engagement; and strong financial backing from people who care about the future of agriculture and rural Kansas.”&nbsp;

It’s great to see a program which focuses on rural Kansas. Zimmerman, herself, is from a farm near the rural community of South Haven, population 324 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

One of the most unusual features of the recent international study tour was their visit to Camelicious, the largest camel dairy in the world. Ten thousand camels are milked daily…I am not making this up.&nbsp;

Compared to traditional cows milk, camel milk has higher antioxidants, is lower in saturated fat, and better for those who are lactose intolerant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“(International travel) gives us a more expansive view of the world,” Zimmerman said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The KARL program helps us to become better versions of ourselves.”&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.karlprogram.com/">www.karlprogram.com</a>.&nbsp;

Camelicious. That name doesn’t refer to caramels, it refers to camels, and the world’s largest camel dairy that was visited by the KARL class. This is one example of an experience that is helping leaders gain global knowledge to bring home to benefit their communities and organizations.&nbsp;

We commend president Jill Zimmerman, her board, and all others involved with the KARL program for making a difference with experiential learning and growth. It’s KARL-licious.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651064924406.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Camelicious.”&nbsp;No, this is not about tasty caramels, it is indeed about camels. Beyond that, it is really about an educational leadership development experience that is helping rural Kansas leaders expand their skills, relationships and global knowledge.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jill Zimmerman is president of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership program, or KARL for short. A K-State and KARL program graduate, Jill was an extension agent and later executive director of the Kansas FFA Foundation. She was on the executive team of Eastern Kansas Agri-Energy in Garnett before being named president of the KARL program in 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;KARL is a privately-funded, two-year leadership development program for up to 30 individuals across Kansas. The program is headquartered on the campus of Kansas State in Manhattan. It began 33 years ago, under the guidance of the founding board members, the late professor Barry Flinchbaugh, and the program’s first president, Jack Lindquist of Manhattan.&nbsp;“The purpose of KARL is to take a group of thought leaders who are already committed to their purpose -- be it for agriculture, rural communities, or the general needs of Kansas -- and provide them a learning experience through which they create a bond that allows them to be change-makers,” Zimmerman said.&nbsp;“Leaders need to be lifelong learners,” she said.&nbsp;The KARL program provides these learning opportunities through a series of seminars in communities across Kansas. The capstone of year one is a trip to Washington DC and Gettysburg, and the capstone of year two is an international study tour.&nbsp;Zimmerman is a graduate of KARL class V. The program is now in the process of selecting class XVI. “I met lifelong friends who have been pivotal in my life and career,” she said.&nbsp;Her KARL class went to Australia and New Zealand. The most recent KARL class went to the United Arab Emirates. “It was a very cool experience,” Zimmerman said.&nbsp;The UAE is a federation of seven emirates. While the history of Arabic culture is ancient, the UAE as an independent country has only existed since 1971. The nation’s population has achieved a literacy rate of nearly 95 percent (compared to 88 percent in the U.S.).&nbsp;&nbsp;The UAE can claim the world’s tallest building, the deepest pool, and the fastest roller coaster, among other things. Located in a desert, nearly all the country’s food and feed must be imported, and they are interested in sustainability.&nbsp;As written in the KARL newsletter: “The study tour becomes an extended trip, not necessarily of continued travel, but critical thought in the ways we see our world, our community, our farms and ranches, the way we view economies, food and people and culture – we see things through a different lens.”&nbsp;According to Zimmerman, “the four pillars of KARL are recruitment, of both board and class members; curriculum, which we seek to continually improve; alumni engagement; and strong financial backing from people who care about the future of agriculture and rural Kansas.”&nbsp;It’s great to see a program which focuses on rural Kansas. Zimmerman, herself, is from a farm near the rural community of South Haven, population 324 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;One of the most unusual features of the recent international study tour was their visit to Camelicious, the largest camel dairy in the world. Ten thousand camels are milked daily…I am not making this up.&nbsp;Compared to traditional cows milk, camel milk has higher antioxidants, is lower in saturated fat, and better for those who are lactose intolerant.&nbsp;&nbsp;“(International travel) gives us a more expansive view of the world,” Zimmerman said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The KARL program helps us to become better versions of ourselves.”&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.karlprogram.com/">www.karlprogram.com</a>.&nbsp;Camelicious. That name doesn’t refer to caramels, it refers to camels, and the world’s largest camel dairy that was visited by the KARL class. This is one example of an experience that is helping leaders gain global knowledge to bring home to benefit their communities and organizations.&nbsp;We commend president Jill Zimmerman, her board, and all others involved with the KARL program for making a difference with experiential learning and growth. It’s KARL-licious.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Jill Zimmerman, KARL program 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported seven new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County in the last week.

KDHE now reports updated case numbers weekly on Fridays.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 7,149 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE has also discontinued county-by-county death totals.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651876881877.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported seven new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County in the last week.KDHE now reports updated case numbers weekly on Fridays.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 7,149 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE has also discontinued county-by-county death totals.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651876930375.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Seven new COVID cases in Ellis County in last week

COLBY — A western Kansas woman has been sentenced to pay nearly $18,000 in restitution in connection with filing fraudulent insurance claims for medical services, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said today.

Lace Morford, 41, of Sharon Springs, was sentenced Wednesday in Thomas County District Court by Judge Kevin N. Berens on one count of insurance fraud, one count of unlawful use of a computer, one count of forgery and one count of theft. Berens sentenced Morford to make restitution in the amount of $17,942.50, pay a $500 fine and spend 15 days in the county jail as a condition of her probation.

Morford pleaded guilty to the charges in February. Investigators with the Kansas Insurance Department determined that Morford filed 15 invalid medical claims with her insurance carrier between June 2016 and May 2019. Morford used computers and a computer network at her place of work to falsify medical records to support her claims filed with the insurance carrier.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Brandon Hottman of the Fraud and Abuse Litigation Division in Schmidt’s office.

Office of the Attorney GeneralCOLBY — A western Kansas woman has been sentenced to pay nearly $18,000 in restitution in connection with filing fraudulent insurance claims for medical services, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said today.Lace Morford, 41, of Sharon Springs, was sentenced Wednesday in Thomas County District Court by Judge Kevin N. Berens on one count of insurance fraud, one count of unlawful use of a computer, one count of forgery and one count of theft. Berens sentenced Morford to make restitution in the amount of $17,942.50, pay a $500 fine and spend 15 days in the county jail as a condition of her probation.Morford pleaded guilty to the charges in February. Investigators with the Kansas Insurance Department determined that Morford filed 15 invalid medical claims with her insurance carrier between June 2016 and May 2019. Morford used computers and a computer network at her place of work to falsify medical records to support her claims filed with the insurance carrier.The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Brandon Hottman of the Fraud and Abuse Litigation Division in Schmidt’s office.

Western Kan. woman sentenced for insurance fraud, restitution

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple charges after a standoff in Phillipsburg.

Just before 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a reported domestic violence incident in the 400 block of D Street in Phillipsburg, according to a media release from the Phillips Co. Sheriff.

Upon meeting with the reporting party it was learned that a man had discharged a firearm at the reporting party inside a residence.  The man remained in the home. 

Deputies contacted the man on the phone and asked him to step outside so they could speak with him.  He refused to do so and a perimeter was established around the residence and nearby residents were evacuated for their safety.  Attempts to get the man to come outside continued throughout the night. 

Assistance was requested from the Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team which arrived early Thursday morning.  They assumed control of the perimeter and negotiations with the man continued. 

At approximately 2:00 p.m. Thursday 78-year-old Edgar R. Wintersteen surrendered without incident.  He was checked by medical personnel and transported to the Phillips County Sheriffs Office where he was booked into jail on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm, Interference with Law Enforcement and Criminal Damage to property.  He remains in custody with a $30,000 bond. 

Upon Wintersteen's surrender, a search warrant was executed on the residence and a stolen firearm was recovered for which charges are pending. 

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple charges after a standoff in Phillipsburg.Just before 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a reported domestic violence incident in the 400 block of D Street in Phillipsburg, according to a media release from the Phillips Co. Sheriff.Upon meeting with the reporting party it was learned that a man had discharged a firearm at the reporting party inside a residence. The man remained in the home. Deputies contacted the man on the phone and asked him to step outside so they could speak with him. He refused to do so and a perimeter was established around the residence and nearby residents were evacuated for their safety. Attempts to get the man to come outside continued throughout the night. Assistance was requested from the Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team which arrived early Thursday morning. They assumed control of the perimeter and negotiations with the man continued. At approximately 2:00 p.m. Thursday 78-year-old Edgar R. Wintersteen surrendered without incident. He was checked by medical personnel and transported to the Phillips County Sheriffs Office where he was booked into jail on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm, Interference with Law Enforcement and Criminal Damage to property. He remains in custody with a $30,000 bond. Upon Wintersteen's surrender, a search warrant was executed on the residence and a stolen firearm was recovered for which charges are pending.

Sheriff: 78-year-old jailed after standoff in Phillipsburg

United Way of Ellis County los invita a una tarde llena de información y diversión. Vengan a aprender sobre los diferentes recursos y servicios que brindan nuestras agencias asociadas mientras disfrutan de algunas comidas locales. Además, habrá piñatas, baile y casetas culturales. No querrá perderse esta experiencia única.

The United Way of Ellis County is sponsoring a Tardeada to promote information and cultural sharing with the Hispanic community.

The Tardeada, a Mexican-American term, meaning to party in the afternoon, will be Saturday at the Downtown Pavilion at 10th and Main in Hays. From 4 to 6 p.m., the event will include food, music and information booths. Food, DJ and a dance will be from 6 to 10 p.m.

Immaculate Heart of Mary will have matachine dancers to perform a dance honoring the Feast of the Lady of Guadalupe from 5:30 to 6 p.m.

"The  Tardeada Community Fiesta was created to include the community," said Meleny Jacome, United Way administrative assistant, "but also the Hispanic population to have something there for them, so they can learn about our partner agencies, learn about businesses, learn about services that are available for them. 

"We also wanted to have an event where [Hispanic families] could feel included in the community and have something for them that they could celebrate their culture."

Jacome said the event is open to all people of all ages and is also meant to help the community at-large learn about the Hispanic culture.

Cultural booths, which will also be offered from 4 to 6 p.m., will focus on the culture and history of different Spanish-speaking cultures.

"The goal is to have a more inclusive community that celebrates diversity," Jacome said.

Jacome noted the Hispanic population is the largest minority population in Ellis County. More than 1,700 people in Ellis County identify as Hispanic, according to the 2020 census.

Ten of the United Way partner agencies will be in attendance. Spanish interpreters will be on-hand to help the agencies and businesses share information with Spanish speakers.

"We really want to get people informed about what United Way does and our partner agencies do," Jacome said.

Court Appointed Special Advocates, also known as CASA, will have a raffle for a piñata. Other nonprofits will have donation jars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647442117751.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Ellis County los invita a una tarde llena de información y diversión. Vengan a aprender sobre los diferentes recursos y servicios que brindan nuestras agencias asociadas mientras disfrutan de algunas comidas locales. Además, habrá piñatas, baile y casetas culturales. No querrá perderse esta experiencia única.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe United Way of Ellis County is sponsoring a Tardeada to promote information and cultural sharing with the Hispanic community.The Tardeada, a Mexican-American term, meaning to party in the afternoon, will be Saturday at the Downtown Pavilion at 10th and Main in Hays. From 4 to 6 p.m., the event will include food, music and information booths. Food, DJ and a dance will be from 6 to 10 p.m.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1234675399&color=%232b7fb4&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tardeada1-1" title="Tardeada1" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tardeada1</a></div></div>Immaculate Heart of Mary will have matachine dancers to perform a dance honoring the Feast of the Lady of Guadalupe from 5:30 to 6 p.m."The Tardeada Community Fiesta was created to include the community," said Meleny Jacome, United Way administrative assistant, "but also the Hispanic population to have something there for them, so they can learn about our partner agencies, learn about businesses, learn about services that are available for them. "We also wanted to have an event where [Hispanic families] could feel included in the community and have something for them that they could celebrate their culture."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647618404869.jpeg" alt="Someone cooks food at last year's Tardeada in Hays. Taco Riendo and Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church will both be serving food at this year's event. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Someone cooks food at last year's Tardeada in Hays. Taco Riendo and Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church will both be serving food at this year's event. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Jacome said the event is open to all people of all ages and is also meant to help the community at-large learn about the Hispanic culture.Cultural booths, which will also be offered from 4 to 6 p.m., will focus on the culture and history of different Spanish-speaking cultures. "The goal is to have a more inclusive community that celebrates diversity," Jacome said.Jacome noted the Hispanic population is the largest minority population in Ellis County. More than 1,700 people in Ellis County identify as Hispanic, according to the 2020 census. Ten of the United Way partner agencies will be in attendance. Spanish interpreters will be on-hand to help the agencies and businesses share information with Spanish speakers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647618688950.jpeg" alt="A child enjoying a piñatas at last year's Tardeada. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>A child enjoying a piñatas at last year's Tardeada. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure>"We really want to get people informed about what United Way does and our partner agencies do," Jacome said. Court Appointed Special Advocates, also known as CASA, will have a raffle for a piñata. Other nonprofits will have donation jars.Eagle Radio and Hays Post will be at the event answering questions. The company also hopes to demonstrate how users can set preferences on their devices to translate Hays Post into Spanish.The Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau and the Wonder Women League will also be on hand.Taco Riendo will be on location during the entire event. Ten percent of the truck's proceeds from that night will go to the United Way. Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church will also be selling Latin food as a fundraiser.There will be a piñata and face-painting for the children, so parents are encouraged to bring their whole families to attend."Come with an open mind and be ready to learn," Jacome said. "It's for both cultures, for the Hispanic culture and the non-Hispanic culture. Be ready to learn about the United Way and what it offers and be ready to learn about different cultures that are here in Hays."Be ready to celebrate the minority groups."<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1234676296&color=%232b7fb4&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tardeada2-1" title="Tardeada2" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tardeada2</a></div></div>