LANE COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accient just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Lane County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford SUV driven by Austin N. Handy, 18, Dighton, was southbound on North Elm.

The driver failed to yield the right of way at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at Kanas 4. The SUV struck the driver's side of southbound 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Daniel S. Maske, 41, Hill City.

EMS transported Handy to the Lane County Hospital. Maske was not injured. Handy was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LANE COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accient just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Lane County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford SUV driven by Austin N. Handy, 18, Dighton, was southbound on North Elm.The driver failed to yield the right of way at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at Kanas 4. The SUV struck the driver's side of southbound 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Daniel S. Maske, 41, Hill City.EMS transported Handy to the Lane County Hospital. Maske was not injured. Handy was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas teen hospitalized after SUV, semi crash

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 63 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from June 4 to 10.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

The KDHE dashboard was experiencing technical difficulties Wednesday afternoon.

<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 7,268 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;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 63 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from June 4 to 10.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.The KDHE dashboard was experiencing technical difficulties Wednesday afternoon.<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 7,268 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;

KDHE: 63 COVID cases in Ellis Co. in past week

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1996 Chevy 1500 driven by Jaden R. Spencer, 23, Limon, Colorado,&nbsp;was northbound on U.S. 283 one mile north of AA Road.

The pickup traveled off the road the road, entered the west ditch, re-entered the roadway, spun counter clockwise, entered the west ditch again and overturned onto the passenger side.

EMS transported&nbsp;Spencer to Hays Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Thomas County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1996 Chevy 1500 driven by Jaden R. Spencer, 23, Limon, Colorado,&nbsp;was northbound on U.S. 283 one mile north of AA Road.The pickup traveled off the road the road, entered the west ditch, re-entered the roadway, spun counter clockwise, entered the west ditch again and overturned onto the passenger side.EMS transported&nbsp;Spencer to Hays Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized in Hays after pickup overturns

Video shared on Facebook helped the Hays Police Department with identifying suspects, ultimately leading to arrests, following a string of burglaries in Hays this month.

On June 8, the Hays Police Department received multiple burglary reports, with at least five in one day, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.

He said it was determined that the thefts were reported from vehicles that remained unlocked overnight.

On the following evening, similar reports came in, along with reports of two stolen vehicles.

During the evening, potential suspects were captured on video.

<a href="https://fb.watch/dFZAX8MQJA/">"We shared that video on our Facebook page and based on a tip that we received on that Facebook page patrol officers were able to go out and identify some juveniles who were out after curfew,"</a> Scheibler said. "And based on those follow-up investigations, arrests have been made for all the recent burglaries and stolen vehicle cases."

He credited the tip and the work of the patrol division for the arrests.

And while the suspects are in custody and the vehicles returned to their owners, Scheibler said the situation is a stark reminder to keep vehicles free of valuable items and locked when unattended.

He also asked parents to help ensure they are aware of their children's activities overnight.

"People need to know where their kids are at. And if your kids are out after dark and they're up to no good, that's going to be a problem," Scheibler said. "This was a case of kids being out after curfew and engaging in criminal conduct."

By JAMES BELL Hays PostVideo shared on Facebook helped the Hays Police Department with identifying suspects, ultimately leading to arrests, following a string of burglaries in Hays this month.On June 8, the Hays Police Department received multiple burglary reports, with at least five in one day, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.He said it was determined that the thefts were reported from vehicles that remained unlocked overnight.On the following evening, similar reports came in, along with reports of two stolen vehicles.During the evening, potential suspects were captured on video.<a href="https://fb.watch/dFZAX8MQJA/">"We shared that video on our Facebook page and based on a tip that we received on that Facebook page patrol officers were able to go out and identify some juveniles who were out after curfew,"</a> Scheibler said. "And based on those follow-up investigations, arrests have been made for all the recent burglaries and stolen vehicle cases."He credited the tip and the work of the patrol division for the arrests.And while the suspects are in custody and the vehicles returned to their owners, Scheibler said the situation is a stark reminder to keep vehicles free of valuable items and locked when unattended.He also asked parents to help ensure they are aware of their children's activities overnight."People need to know where their kids are at. And if your kids are out after dark and they're up to no good, that's going to be a problem," Scheibler said. "This was a case of kids being out after curfew and engaging in criminal conduct."

Juveniles arrested in Hays following string of burglaries

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran announced on Friday the award of a $17 million federal grant for the renovation of Fort Hays State University's Forsyth Library.&nbsp;

<a></a>Moran shared his memories of growing up in Plainville, frequently visiting the old Forsyth Library and Sternberg Museum of Natural History, and being the first non-high school graduate to attend summer school at FHSU. Moran also spoke about the importance of the role FHSU plays in Western Kansas. He&nbsp;shared&nbsp;his belief that&nbsp;Western Kansas's prosperity greatly depends upon whoever is the president of FHSU.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FHSU President Tisa Mason welcomed and thanked Sen. Moran, noting his critical role over the past year in securing several federal grants. Two grants received in the fall of 2021 and totaling $2.75 mil helped the university expand the reach of the Regional De-escalation Training Center's law enforcement training programs to a multi-state area in the central United States. Moran was on campus in April of this year to announce $1.2 mil in funding for a new teacher licensing program designed to expand the number of Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology (STEM) teachers working in rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Ginger Williams, dean of library services, shared an overview of the renovation project and details on the initial work of the Library Renovation Committee she chairs. Over the past several months, the committee sought input from students, faculty, and staff to learn more about their needs. The feedback received at these in-person town hall events and an online form sent to the entire campus helped shape the committee's vision for a dynamic hub for student engagement and academic exploration.&nbsp;

The Forsyth Library opened in 1967, and its three floors have been remodeled over the years to accommodate new departments and services. It currently houses the Writing Center, the Learning Commons, the Center for Ethnic Studies, the Honors College, the Tiger Food Exchange, Makerspace, and the various library departments.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655321717014.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsU.S. Sen. Jerry Moran announced on Friday the award of a $17 million federal grant for the renovation of Fort Hays State University's Forsyth Library.&nbsp;<a></a>Moran shared his memories of growing up in Plainville, frequently visiting the old Forsyth Library and Sternberg Museum of Natural History, and being the first non-high school graduate to attend summer school at FHSU. Moran also spoke about the importance of the role FHSU plays in Western Kansas. He&nbsp;shared&nbsp;his belief that&nbsp;Western Kansas's prosperity greatly depends upon whoever is the president of FHSU.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU President Tisa Mason welcomed and thanked Sen. Moran, noting his critical role over the past year in securing several federal grants. Two grants received in the fall of 2021 and totaling $2.75 mil helped the university expand the reach of the Regional De-escalation Training Center's law enforcement training programs to a multi-state area in the central United States. Moran was on campus in April of this year to announce $1.2 mil in funding for a new teacher licensing program designed to expand the number of Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology (STEM) teachers working in rural Kansas.&nbsp;Ginger Williams, dean of library services, shared an overview of the renovation project and details on the initial work of the Library Renovation Committee she chairs. Over the past several months, the committee sought input from students, faculty, and staff to learn more about their needs. The feedback received at these in-person town hall events and an online form sent to the entire campus helped shape the committee's vision for a dynamic hub for student engagement and academic exploration.&nbsp;The Forsyth Library opened in 1967, and its three floors have been remodeled over the years to accommodate new departments and services. It currently houses the Writing Center, the Learning Commons, the Center for Ethnic Studies, the Honors College, the Tiger Food Exchange, Makerspace, and the various library departments.&nbsp;

FHSU receives $17 million library renovation grant

A new initiative from the Heartland Community Foundation
looks for a new perspective on the future of the area – youth.

Members of the Youth Action Council will help inform the future
of the area, by developing ideas and sharing their perspectives as they begin
meeting later this summer.

“This has kind of been brewing for a while,” said Sarah Meitner,
Heartland Community Foundation executive director. “And it really stems from
the feedback that we were getting from the teenagers in our area in the past.”

She said&nbsp; $40,000
was awarded to teenage-led projects during a regular grant cycle over a year ago. This led to a realization of how
involved in shaping the future some area youth wanted to be.

“They were coming to us and applying for grant money to do
those projects, and when I added it all up, it was just staggering,” Meitner
said. “The amount that the kids were coming in and asking for, which is amazing,
just kind of tells me that there was already discussion in the schools with
some of the teenagers or possibly the Scout Troops because it was also Eagle Scouts
that were considering Heartland and grant opportunities when they were looking
for funding.”

And so, last August, the foundation hosted Teen Talkback to
get a feel for what they see as community needs.

“That sort of kicked it off,” Meitner said. “We’ve had some
projects that came out of that, but I wanted to have something a little bit
more regular — something that would meet regularly. [I wanted something] a little bit more formal and
would follow the steps of a leadership program a little bit like
what Leadership Hays does, but in a teen format.”

The result is what she calls a community engagement program.

Participants submitted applications in April. Those who were selected to participate were notified in May. She said she was “blown
away” by the ideas that came from the applications.

“So, I'm really looking forward to getting this group of
kids in a room,” she said.

So far, 23 participants were selected, 10 from Ellis, 11
from Rooks and two from Trego counties. Meitner said she hopes to find more participants from
Trego County.

“We wanted representation from all of the area high
schools, and there are seven in the Heartland area,” Meitner said. “They are going
to all come together as a Heartland group in August for orientation. We'll
start learning about community foundations and what it means to be
engaged in your community. Then [we will be] doing some of those personality type things
that you do at leadership programs to [gain] some self-awareness.”

“And then after that, they're going to meet as individual
counties for the next few months to keep learning about what their
own county needs are,” she continued.

The groups will do more than just develop ideas. During
the foundation’s fall grant cycle, the groups will be given the opportunity to
review applications and allocate some funds.

“I'm going to pull four or five grant applications per county
and let that group of kids review them and then allocate some funds,” Meitner
said. “That way they are kind of given the power to decide how might these
granting situations look and what projects are most important.”

A retreat is planned in January, and they will be given opportunities to begin their own projects.

“I’ve applied for some funding from the Hansen Foundation
to give them some seed money,” Meitner said. “I don't know for sure exactly how
much of that they're going to get yet, but the hope is they'll each get a
nice little chunk of money to come up with projects that they think are important and they want to lead.”

While the money is intended to help launch the projects,
the youth will also need to secure funds on their own.

“They're going to need to do a little bit of fundraising,”
Meitner said.

She said she had already been in touch with some local
companies that have agreed to hear funding requests from the group, but Meitner is
also hopeful others will step up.

While the group will likely look at immediate needs, Meitner
also hopes it can be the basis of long-term planning for the area.

“The long-term impact of this, because we're working on a
project that they feel is important and that they put their hearts into and that
they work on, is it will tether them to this region," Meitner said.

 "Whether they go on to K-State or they move on or leave Kansas altogether, they will still have that
project that they did here at home. Who knows how that might bring them
back someday.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655231832596.jpeg" alt="Area youth discuss the future of the area during a Heartland Community Foundation Strategic Doing event last August. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Area youth discuss the future of the area during a Heartland Community Foundation Strategic Doing event last August. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostA new initiative from the Heartland Community Foundation
looks for a new perspective on the future of the area – youth.Members of the Youth Action Council will help inform the future
of the area, by developing ideas and sharing their perspectives as they begin
meeting later this summer.“This has kind of been brewing for a while,” said Sarah Meitner,
Heartland Community Foundation executive director. “And it really stems from
the feedback that we were getting from the teenagers in our area in the past.”She said&nbsp; $40,000
was awarded to teenage-led projects during a regular grant cycle over a year ago. This led to a realization of how
involved in shaping the future some area youth wanted to be.“They were coming to us and applying for grant money to do
those projects, and when I added it all up, it was just staggering,” Meitner
said. “The amount that the kids were coming in and asking for, which is amazing,
just kind of tells me that there was already discussion in the schools with
some of the teenagers or possibly the Scout Troops because it was also Eagle Scouts
that were considering Heartland and grant opportunities when they were looking
for funding.”<div><iframe title="New group seeks youth perspective on area needs" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=jw779-124e62c-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>And so, last August, the foundation hosted Teen Talkback to
get a feel for what they see as community needs.“That sort of kicked it off,” Meitner said. “We’ve had some
projects that came out of that, but I wanted to have something a little bit
more regular — something that would meet regularly. [I wanted something] a little bit more formal and
would follow the steps of a leadership program a little bit like
what Leadership Hays does, but in a teen format.”The result is what she calls a community engagement program.Participants submitted applications in April. Those who were selected to participate were notified in May. She said she was “blown
away” by the ideas that came from the applications.“So, I'm really looking forward to getting this group of
kids in a room,” she said.So far, 23 participants were selected, 10 from Ellis, 11
from Rooks and two from Trego counties. Meitner said she hopes to find more participants from
Trego County.“We wanted representation from all of the area high
schools, and there are seven in the Heartland area,” Meitner said. “They are going
to all come together as a Heartland group in August for orientation. We'll
start learning about community foundations and what it means to be
engaged in your community. Then [we will be] doing some of those personality type things
that you do at leadership programs to [gain] some self-awareness.”“And then after that, they're going to meet as individual
counties for the next few months to keep learning about what their
own county needs are,” she continued.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584391794153.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The groups will do more than just develop ideas. During
the foundation’s fall grant cycle, the groups will be given the opportunity to
review applications and allocate some funds.“I'm going to pull four or five grant applications per county
and let that group of kids review them and then allocate some funds,” Meitner
said. “That way they are kind of given the power to decide how might these
granting situations look and what projects are most important.”A retreat is planned in January, and they will be given opportunities to begin their own projects.“I’ve applied for some funding from the Hansen Foundation
to give them some seed money,” Meitner said. “I don't know for sure exactly how
much of that they're going to get yet, but the hope is they'll each get a
nice little chunk of money to come up with projects that they think are important and they want to lead.”While the money is intended to help launch the projects,
the youth will also need to secure funds on their own.“They're going to need to do a little bit of fundraising,”
Meitner said.She said she had already been in touch with some local
companies that have agreed to hear funding requests from the group, but Meitner is
also hopeful others will step up.While the group will likely look at immediate needs, Meitner
also hopes it can be the basis of long-term planning for the area.“The long-term impact of this, because we're working on a
project that they feel is important and that they put their hearts into and that
they work on, is it will tether them to this region," Meitner said. "Whether they go on to K-State or they move on or leave Kansas altogether, they will still have that
project that they did here at home. Who knows how that might bring them
back someday.”

🎙 From the mouths of babes; New group seeks different perspective on area needs

Thomas More Prep-Marian has announced it has filled all faculty openings for the 2022-23 school year. Seven new teachers are excited to join the Monarch family and work with the students.

Hector Hernandez has been hired to lead the Band program. Mr. 
Hernandez most recently taught Band at Dodge City Middle School, where 
he was assistant band director. He was also an assistant for the Dodge 
City High School summer band program the past two years. Mr. Hernandez 
earned his Bachelors of Music and Secondary Education from FHSU in 2020.

“I am excited to return to Hays and to start teaching at TMP-M!” said Mr. Hernandez.

“Mr. Hernandez will bring an energy and enthusiasm to the band 
program that our students will love!” said TMP-M principal Chad Meitner.
 Mr. Hernandez is married to wife Celeste. They have one son, Leonidas 
or Leon for short.

Sianna Miller will stay with the TMP-Marian faculty after completing 
her student teaching this spring under veteran teacher Jennie Helget. 
Ms. Miller will teach high school math.

She has also led Totus Tuus and been active in the Comeau Catholic 
Center on the campus of FHSU, where she graduated in May 2022 with a 
Bachelor’s in Math and Secondary Education.

“We are very excited for Sianna to join our TMP-M family. She has a 
strong Catholic faith and will be a great addition to the math 
department,” said assistant junior high principal Melissa Schoepf. Ms. 
Miller originally hails from Goodland.

Also joining the faculty is John Linn. Mr. Linn will teach Business 
classes. Most recently he worked for Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas
 (JAG-K). Previously, he was assistant principal at Hays High School and
 an administrator and teacher in Victoria.

“We are beyond excited to bring in someone like John Linn. He’s well 
known in our community as a top-notch educator and Catholic man,” said 
principal Meitner. “To welcome a teacher with his breadth of experience 
is quite a blessing.”

Mr. Linn is married to Sonya, and they have two children, Derek and Erica.

Joining the school as a special education teacher is Rhonda Windholz.
 Mrs. Windholz recently moved back to Hays from the Kansas City area 
where she taught special education for Olathe Public Schools. She has 
worked in education for 27 years.

“I love the holistic approach of being able to incorporate our 
Catholic faith with the strong academic core that TMP-M offers,” said 
Mrs. Windholz. “Supporting students and watching them succeed in and out
 of the classroom brings me great joy. I look forward to becoming a part
 of the TMP-M family.”

Mrs. Windholz has 5 children and 4 grandchildren who all live in the Hays area.

There will be another Mrs. Windholz in the resource room. Jill 
Windholz is joining Rhonda Windholz as a special education teacher 
sharing time between TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary. She is 
coming back to the Hays/Victoria area from Ellsworth.

“I am originally from Ellis county and am so excited to move back and
 start teaching at Holy Family and TMP-M!” said Mrs. Windholz. She and 
her husband Ken have 2 children.

“Both the junior high and high school are extremely excited to 
welcome teachers like Rhonda and Jill Windholz,” said principal Meitner.
 “The resource room teachers play such an integral and creative role in 
the education of our students. Having their presence in our school will 
bring great stability.”

Additionally, Katie Vaughn will teach Digital Art with Mrs. Nancy 
Flax during the fall semester. Katie is a senior at FHSU in the art 
department, majoring in Graphic Design. She is also earning her 
Certificate in Drawing and Motion Design.

Ms. Vaughn loves art in all forms, graphic/digital, traditional, music, and storytelling.

“I’m excited to join the TMP-M teaching team as a digital art 
teacher,” Vaughn said. “This allows me to spread creativity to younger 
students through an avenue not many know about.”

Ms. Vaughn was born and raised in Hays and is looking forward to 
giving back to her community. “I look forward to helping these students 
through their creative adventures, wherever it may lead,” said Vaughn.

Finally, Seth ‘21 Perrett will be a teaching assistant with Mr. 
Travis Grizzell in the fall semester for Debate. Mr. Perrett currently 
attends FHSU majoring in Math and Secondary Education.

“It is exciting to see TMP-Marian graduates getting into the field of
 education, especially at their alma mater,” said principal Meitner. “We
 welcome Mr. Perrett who is very familiar with TMP-M traditions and 
expectations.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655141536890.png" alt="Top row, from left: Hector Hernandez, Sianna Miller, John Linn,&nbsp;Rhonda Windholz. Bottom row, from left:&nbsp;Jill Windholz,&nbsp;Katie Vaughn,&nbsp;Seth Perrett." />
 <figcaption>Top row, from left: Hector Hernandez, Sianna Miller, John Linn,&nbsp;Rhonda Windholz. Bottom row, from left:&nbsp;Jill Windholz,&nbsp;Katie Vaughn,&nbsp;Seth Perrett.</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MarianThomas More Prep-Marian has announced it has filled all faculty openings for the 2022-23 school year. Seven new teachers are excited to join the Monarch family and work with the students.Hector Hernandez has been hired to lead the Band program. Mr. 
Hernandez most recently taught Band at Dodge City Middle School, where 
he was assistant band director. He was also an assistant for the Dodge 
City High School summer band program the past two years. Mr. Hernandez 
earned his Bachelors of Music and Secondary Education from FHSU in 2020.“I am excited to return to Hays and to start teaching at TMP-M!” said Mr. Hernandez.“Mr. Hernandez will bring an energy and enthusiasm to the band 
program that our students will love!” said TMP-M principal Chad Meitner.
 Mr. Hernandez is married to wife Celeste. They have one son, Leonidas 
or Leon for short.Sianna Miller will stay with the TMP-Marian faculty after completing 
her student teaching this spring under veteran teacher Jennie Helget. 
Ms. Miller will teach high school math.She has also led Totus Tuus and been active in the Comeau Catholic 
Center on the campus of FHSU, where she graduated in May 2022 with a 
Bachelor’s in Math and Secondary Education.“We are very excited for Sianna to join our TMP-M family. She has a 
strong Catholic faith and will be a great addition to the math 
department,” said assistant junior high principal Melissa Schoepf. Ms. 
Miller originally hails from Goodland.Also joining the faculty is John Linn. Mr. Linn will teach Business 
classes. Most recently he worked for Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas
 (JAG-K). Previously, he was assistant principal at Hays High School and
 an administrator and teacher in Victoria.“We are beyond excited to bring in someone like John Linn. He’s well 
known in our community as a top-notch educator and Catholic man,” said 
principal Meitner. “To welcome a teacher with his breadth of experience 
is quite a blessing.”Mr. Linn is married to Sonya, and they have two children, Derek and Erica.Joining the school as a special education teacher is Rhonda Windholz.
 Mrs. Windholz recently moved back to Hays from the Kansas City area 
where she taught special education for Olathe Public Schools. She has 
worked in education for 27 years.“I love the holistic approach of being able to incorporate our 
Catholic faith with the strong academic core that TMP-M offers,” said 
Mrs. Windholz. “Supporting students and watching them succeed in and out
 of the classroom brings me great joy. I look forward to becoming a part
 of the TMP-M family.”Mrs. Windholz has 5 children and 4 grandchildren who all live in the Hays area.There will be another Mrs. Windholz in the resource room. Jill 
Windholz is joining Rhonda Windholz as a special education teacher 
sharing time between TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary. She is 
coming back to the Hays/Victoria area from Ellsworth.“I am originally from Ellis county and am so excited to move back and
 start teaching at Holy Family and TMP-M!” said Mrs. Windholz. She and 
her husband Ken have 2 children.“Both the junior high and high school are extremely excited to 
welcome teachers like Rhonda and Jill Windholz,” said principal Meitner.
 “The resource room teachers play such an integral and creative role in 
the education of our students. Having their presence in our school will 
bring great stability.”Additionally, Katie Vaughn will teach Digital Art with Mrs. Nancy 
Flax during the fall semester. Katie is a senior at FHSU in the art 
department, majoring in Graphic Design. She is also earning her 
Certificate in Drawing and Motion Design.Ms. Vaughn loves art in all forms, graphic/digital, traditional, music, and storytelling.“I’m excited to join the TMP-M teaching team as a digital art 
teacher,” Vaughn said. “This allows me to spread creativity to younger 
students through an avenue not many know about.”Ms. Vaughn was born and raised in Hays and is looking forward to 
giving back to her community. “I look forward to helping these students 
through their creative adventures, wherever it may lead,” said Vaughn.Finally, Seth ‘21 Perrett will be a teaching assistant with Mr. 
Travis Grizzell in the fall semester for Debate. Mr. Perrett currently 
attends FHSU majoring in Math and Secondary Education.“It is exciting to see TMP-Marian graduates getting into the field of
 education, especially at their alma mater,” said principal Meitner. “We
 welcome Mr. Perrett who is very familiar with TMP-M traditions and 
expectations.”

TMP-M announces new faculty members for 2022-23

By LAAH TUCKER Special to Hays Post

NATOMA — In Natoma, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 organized Memorial Day flags for seven cemeteries and Memorial Day services for three rural and one town cemetery in Osborne and Russell counties. 

Following the services, members prepared and served a community-wide “beef and noodle” dinner in the newly restored American Legion Post 109 Hall.

The rich history of the American Legion Auxiliary is a portrait of dedicated women volunteering during war and peace for more than 100 years. From 1919 until today, the Auxiliary is dedicated to the founding purposes: rehabilitation of veterans; children and youth activities; serving the local community; disaster relief; and peace and security.

The American Legion Hall’s five-year restoration project included one additional year after a disastrous flood in 2021.

The finished project illuminates the tenacity and perseverance of veterans, families of veterans, and volunteers in giving new life to the aging building.

The restoration was possible through generous grants from American Legions, American Legion Auxiliaries, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Osborne County Community Foundation, Midwest Energy, Western Cooperative Electric, Sarver Family Charitable, McFadden Family Charitable, Lions Clubs, and private donors.

The Hall was a former WWII Army Air Corp barrack for B-29 pilots moved to the current site following WWII.

The Natoma community continues to celebrate the beautifully renewed iconic building used for decades in celebrations, memorials, graduations, and community events in the small rural community on the High Plains.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655136126755.jpeg" alt="American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 continues to persevere with the “We Can Do It” American Spirit to serve veterans and the community. Pictured in a sparkling new kitchen are Jenjer Murphy, Shawna Dunlap, Linda Crawford, Bonnie Schamberger, Sheri Beisner, Cindy Elliot, Kathy McNeal, Marge Kertz, Connie Beisner, Cynthia Steeples, and Laah Tucker. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 continues to persevere with the “We Can Do It” American Spirit to serve veterans and the community. Pictured in a sparkling new kitchen are Jenjer Murphy, Shawna Dunlap, Linda Crawford, Bonnie Schamberger, Sheri Beisner, Cindy Elliot, Kathy McNeal, Marge Kertz, Connie Beisner, Cynthia Steeples, and Laah Tucker. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By LAAH TUCKER Special to Hays Post NATOMA — In Natoma, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 organized Memorial Day flags for seven cemeteries and Memorial Day services for three rural and one town cemetery in Osborne and Russell counties. Following the services, members prepared and served a community-wide “beef and noodle” dinner in the newly restored American Legion Post 109 Hall.The rich history of the American Legion Auxiliary is a portrait of dedicated women volunteering during war and peace for more than 100 years. From 1919 until today, the Auxiliary is dedicated to the founding purposes: rehabilitation of veterans; children and youth activities; serving the local community; disaster relief; and peace and security.The American Legion Hall’s five-year restoration project included one additional year after a disastrous flood in 2021.The finished project illuminates the tenacity and perseverance of veterans, families of veterans, and volunteers in giving new life to the aging building.The restoration was possible through generous grants from American Legions, American Legion Auxiliaries, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Osborne County Community Foundation, Midwest Energy, Western Cooperative Electric, Sarver Family Charitable, McFadden Family Charitable, Lions Clubs, and private donors.The Hall was a former WWII Army Air Corp barrack for B-29 pilots moved to the current site following WWII.The Natoma community continues to celebrate the beautifully renewed iconic building used for decades in celebrations, memorials, graduations, and community events in the small rural community on the High Plains.&nbsp;

Natoma American Legion Auxiliary posts flags at cemeteries 

Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Mon Jun 13 2022 10:40:53 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Christopher Echavarria"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/UFQjj2Vv-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/UFQjj2Vv-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/UFQjj2Vv-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Christopher Echavarria" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Christopher Echavarria

<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/2022/6/1655229467869.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

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Public Library communications coordinator Callie Kolacny shares information about upcoming activities.

<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="As summer heats up so do Hays Public Library activities" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=jafkk-124e2e0-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Public Library communications coordinator Callie Kolacny shares information about upcoming activities.<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: As summer heats up so do Hays Public Library activities

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Two hotly contested Ellis County Commission races will
likely be decided in the August primary election.

Following the deadline earlier this month for candidates to
file for two county commission districts up for election this fall, there were
a total of six Republican candidates who filed the necessary paperwork.

According to election documents. Republicans Michael Berges of
Hays and Jim Pfeifer of Ellis filed to run for the Ellis County Commission
District No. 1 seat. 

The seat is currently held by commission chair Butch Schlyer, who confirmed earlier this month he would not seek re-election.

The First District represents a portion of Hays and the
northwest part of Ellis County, including the city of Ellis.

There are four candidates vying for the Third District seat
on the county commission. 

Joe Leroux of Victoria was appointed in January to the seat for the
rest of the year, after then-Commissioner Dean Haselhorst resigned.

Leroux has filed for re-election and will face fellow
Republicans Nathan Leiker, Randy Marintzer and Chris McGowne, all of Hays. 

The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.

The winner of the race in the Third District will serve a two-year
term. 

The winner of both districts in the primary election could
face challenges from independent candidates in the November general election. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostTwo hotly contested Ellis County Commission races will
likely be decided in the August primary election.Following the deadline earlier this month for candidates to
file for two county commission districts up for election this fall, there were
a total of six Republican candidates who filed the necessary paperwork.According to election documents. Republicans Michael Berges of
Hays and Jim Pfeifer of Ellis filed to run for the Ellis County Commission
District No. 1 seat. The seat is currently held by commission chair Butch Schlyer, who confirmed earlier this month he would not seek re-election.The First District represents a portion of Hays and the
northwest part of Ellis County, including the city of Ellis.There are four candidates vying for the Third District seat
on the county commission. Joe Leroux of Victoria was appointed in January to the seat for the
rest of the year, after then-Commissioner Dean Haselhorst resigned.Leroux has filed for re-election and will face fellow
Republicans Nathan Leiker, Randy Marintzer and Chris McGowne, all of Hays. The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.The winner of the race in the Third District will serve a two-year
term. The winner of both districts in the primary election could
face challenges from independent candidates in the November general election.

Six Republicans file for two seats on Ellis County Commission 

Hays Post and Eagle Radio of Hays news, video and graphic design professionals were honored last week with 2022 Kansas Press Association Awards of Excellence.

Awards were presented at the annual KPA convention Friday in Newton.

Cristina Janney earned a first-place award for spot news for follow-up coverage of the December Four County Wildfire, as well as first place in the senior story category. Janney also earned to third-place awards in the best environmental portrait and education story categories.

Janney also shared first-place honors with James Bell in the photo package category for overage of UP4014 Big Boy's visit to Hays.

Bell also earned first place in the best digital project category for Post Podcast, and second place in the photo package category.

Jarrod Brantley earned first place in the best sports video category for his work on the Hays High basketball team's 2020-21 highlight reel, as well as second place in the best motion ad category.&nbsp;

Becky Kiser earned a first for best story originating from a public notice, and Jordan Schaeffer earned a first for best motion ad.

Hays Post, one of a handful of digital-only KPA members, competes against the largest publications in the state of Kansas, including the Wichita Eagle, Kansas City Star and Topeka Capital Journal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post and Eagle Radio of Hays news, video and graphic design professionals were honored last week with 2022 Kansas Press Association Awards of Excellence.Awards were presented at the annual KPA convention Friday in Newton.Cristina Janney earned a first-place award for spot news for follow-up coverage of the December Four County Wildfire, as well as first place in the senior story category. Janney also earned to third-place awards in the best environmental portrait and education story categories.Janney also shared first-place honors with James Bell in the photo package category for overage of UP4014 Big Boy's visit to Hays.Bell also earned first place in the best digital project category for Post Podcast, and second place in the photo package category.Jarrod Brantley earned first place in the best sports video category for his work on the Hays High basketball team's 2020-21 highlight reel, as well as second place in the best motion ad category.&nbsp;Becky Kiser earned a first for best story originating from a public notice, and Jordan Schaeffer earned a first for best motion ad.Hays Post, one of a handful of digital-only KPA members, competes against the largest publications in the state of Kansas, including the Wichita Eagle, Kansas City Star and Topeka Capital Journal.

Hays Post honored in Kansas Press Association award contest

VICTORIA — On Wednesday, Victoria residents gathered at the Veterans of
Foreign Wars hall, 204 E. Main, to discuss issues the community faces while compiling
data for a Housing Assessment Tool required for state funding applications.

&nbsp;The Victoria Community
Coalition organized the meeting, led by Coalition member Jeff Pfeifer and nonprofit
organizer with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Betty Johnson.

“I am tickled pink just to see everybody here,” Pfeifer
said. “It means a lot to me to have every one of you take some time out of your
busy week or evening where you like to relax and come out here to do something
for our community. And that’s what we’re here tonight to do.”

The meeting’s main goal was to allow the coalition to gather
feedback and have surveys completed from area residents that will enable grant
funding applications to benefit the city and its residents.

“We’re trying to partner with the city to go after some of
this grant money that’s out there that could help our community,” Pfeifer said.
“It could be on buildings and could be on roads.”

He noted the ongoing repair work on Cathedral Avenue, funded
with grant funds along with improvements to the city’s water system.

“We need to start someplace,” Pfeifer said. “And that’s just
with getting the community together and having some ideas about what you think
it could look like in the future.”

Kicking off the information gather session, Johnson asked
the crowd to consider the city’s strengths.

The crowd quickly noted the work ethic engrained in the citizens
of Victoria, along with strong ties to faith, family and the community.

And while the community’s strengths centered around the
people, when the time came to discuss weaknesses, a lack of significant business
in town was offered as a primary concern.

Along with the desire to see a grocery store of some sort, perhaps
in the vein of a Dollar General-type location, a lack of housing and child care
was among the top needs for the community. 

While many more significant concerns were prominent parts of
the conversation, smaller actionable ideas also entered the conversation as the
discussion drifted toward opportunities.

And they noted, small steps like planting trees and creating
more activities for city youngsters assists in the effort to recruit and retain
younger families to the city.

“We also need to get more people involved,” Johnson said. 

The group then prioritized needs, with housing and childcare
offered as the most pressing. However, as the conversation continued, prioritizing
shopping locally, whenever possible, was noted as an important way to ensure
businesses that open in Victoria remain viable.

But a farmers market was proposed as a way to encourage
local shopping without the need for a business to open.

“Those are quite popular,” Johnson said. “Then you could
really do some community building around them if you do it on a Wednesday
evening. I’ve got one community that brings in some of the high school kids and
play music, and they have a food truck comes in occasionally, and they kind of
have community events around their middle of the week evening.

“It’s really got to be a little community party every
Wednesday night,” she continued. “So you can really kind of have fun with that and
really take that idea and start building.”

A cooperative grocery store was also proposed.

“We’ve got models out there across northwest Kansas,”
Johnson said. “So we’ve been doing that.”

She also encouraged the crowd to explore what other similarly
size area towns have done to grow their commerce options.

“Reach out to some other similar communities and see what
they’re doing,” Johnson said. “Go visit and talk with some of their
locals and see what they’re doing and see what you could work and what you
could bring back here. … There’s a lot of great things happening in our small
rural communities. A lot of them are really taking a lot of initiative.”

For Victoria, a start to many initiatives is getting surveys
back from the community. While attendees filled in their surveys at the
meeting, many more are needed, and Pfeifer said ultimately, if needed,
committee members will go door to door.

“If you’re trying to get steps and you want to get your
steps done, I’m sure they could use some volunteers to help knock on doors and
enhance some of those out,” Johnson said.

And the more surveys, the better, she said.

“The better the participation, the more chance of getting
the grants and the dollars,” Johnson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655144237516.jpeg" alt="Jeff Pfeifer records Victoria's strengths listed by attendees of a town-hall city meeting last Wednesday.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Pfeifer records Victoria's strengths listed by attendees of a town-hall city meeting last Wednesday.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostVICTORIA — On Wednesday, Victoria residents gathered at the Veterans of
Foreign Wars hall, 204 E. Main, to discuss issues the community faces while compiling
data for a Housing Assessment Tool required for state funding applications.&nbsp;The Victoria Community
Coalition organized the meeting, led by Coalition member Jeff Pfeifer and nonprofit
organizer with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Betty Johnson.“I am tickled pink just to see everybody here,” Pfeifer
said. “It means a lot to me to have every one of you take some time out of your
busy week or evening where you like to relax and come out here to do something
for our community. And that’s what we’re here tonight to do.”The meeting’s main goal was to allow the coalition to gather
feedback and have surveys completed from area residents that will enable grant
funding applications to benefit the city and its residents.“We’re trying to partner with the city to go after some of
this grant money that’s out there that could help our community,” Pfeifer said.
“It could be on buildings and could be on roads.”He noted the ongoing repair work on Cathedral Avenue, funded
with grant funds along with improvements to the city’s water system.“We need to start someplace,” Pfeifer said. “And that’s just
with getting the community together and having some ideas about what you think
it could look like in the future.”Kicking off the information gather session, Johnson asked
the crowd to consider the city’s strengths.The crowd quickly noted the work ethic engrained in the citizens
of Victoria, along with strong ties to faith, family and the community.And while the community’s strengths centered around the
people, when the time came to discuss weaknesses, a lack of significant business
in town was offered as a primary concern.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655144251680.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Along with the desire to see a grocery store of some sort, perhaps
in the vein of a Dollar General-type location, a lack of housing and child care
was among the top needs for the community. While many more significant concerns were prominent parts of
the conversation, smaller actionable ideas also entered the conversation as the
discussion drifted toward opportunities.And they noted, small steps like planting trees and creating
more activities for city youngsters assists in the effort to recruit and retain
younger families to the city.“We also need to get more people involved,” Johnson said. The group then prioritized needs, with housing and childcare
offered as the most pressing. However, as the conversation continued, prioritizing
shopping locally, whenever possible, was noted as an important way to ensure
businesses that open in Victoria remain viable.But a farmers market was proposed as a way to encourage
local shopping without the need for a business to open.“Those are quite popular,” Johnson said. “Then you could
really do some community building around them if you do it on a Wednesday
evening. I’ve got one community that brings in some of the high school kids and
play music, and they have a food truck comes in occasionally, and they kind of
have community events around their middle of the week evening.“It’s really got to be a little community party every
Wednesday night,” she continued. “So you can really kind of have fun with that and
really take that idea and start building.”A cooperative grocery store was also proposed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655144267717.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We’ve got models out there across northwest Kansas,”
Johnson said. “So we’ve been doing that.”She also encouraged the crowd to explore what other similarly
size area towns have done to grow their commerce options.“Reach out to some other similar communities and see what
they’re doing,” Johnson said. “Go visit and talk with some of their
locals and see what they’re doing and see what you could work and what you
could bring back here. … There’s a lot of great things happening in our small
rural communities. A lot of them are really taking a lot of initiative.”For Victoria, a start to many initiatives is getting surveys
back from the community. While attendees filled in their surveys at the
meeting, many more are needed, and Pfeifer said ultimately, if needed,
committee members will go door to door.“If you’re trying to get steps and you want to get your
steps done, I’m sure they could use some volunteers to help knock on doors and
enhance some of those out,” Johnson said.And the more surveys, the better, she said.“The better the participation, the more chance of getting
the grants and the dollars,” Johnson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655144220604.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Victoria residents gather for town-hall discussion of city needs

The Kansas Masonic Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities, has partnered with Hays Lodge No. 195 to donate $12,000 to the&nbsp;<a href="https://foundation.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=df41901562e4cd17c79971f1f&amp;id=e3b5c89cf3&amp;e=0e203346aa" target="_blank">Fort Hays State University Literacy Institute</a>, an organization that provides free literacy services to all Kansans in need.

Founded in 1881, Hays Lodge No. 195 is a Kansas Masonic lodge dedicated to Freemasonry, the oldest surviving fraternal organization in the world. The lodge has 60 members and supports various local organizations and programs, including the Community Assistance Center, the Firefighters’ Relief Association, and the Kansas Masonic High School Essay Contest. Over the last eight years, the lodge has provided over $30,000 in scholarships to students attending technical and four-year university programs and was able to donate $11,500 to the Fort Hayes State University Virtual Literacy Institute.&nbsp;

“The FHSU Literacy Institute provides free literacy services to all Kansans in need. Because literacy services are scarce in rural areas and costly across the state, it is nearly impossible for rural, low-income families to receive help,” said Hays Lodge No. 195 Master Christopher Neeley. “The FHSU Literacy Institute removes the barriers limiting students from reaching their full potential by providing this free, virtual and in-person service. Dr. Miller's program addresses a specific need which is largely unserved in our area, which is why our Brothers at Hays Lodge No. 195 are passionate about supporting the organization.”

This year, the Brothers at Hays Lodge No. 195 have teamed up with the Kansas Masonic Foundation to donate $12,000 to FHSU Literacy Institute, which will be used to purchase the Reading Horizons software needed to offer language and literacy tutoring services online. The program rejects some of the traditionally accepted methods and incorporates more modern instruction based upon experimentally proven methods within the science of reading practices. The program’s brick-and-mortar grand opening will take place on September 15, 2022, and there are currently nine volunteers on staff that will provide literacy tutoring in addition to the FHSU education students. A formal donation announcement was previously made on June 2, 2022, at the lodge’s scholarship banquet.&nbsp;

About the Kansas Masonic Foundation As the philanthropic arm of Kansas Masons, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities and supporting fellow Masons and their families. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $50 million in Kansas communities and individuals through funding academic, scientific, and charitable endeavors. For additional information about the Kansas Masonic Foundation and to get involved, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://foundation.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=df41901562e4cd17c79971f1f&amp;id=87a9f56b2b&amp;e=0e203346aa" target="_blank">https://kansasmasonic.foundation/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647887904337.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Kansas Masonic Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities, has partnered with Hays Lodge No. 195 to donate $12,000 to the&nbsp;<a href="https://foundation.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=df41901562e4cd17c79971f1f&amp;id=e3b5c89cf3&amp;e=0e203346aa" target="_blank">Fort Hays State University Literacy Institute</a>, an organization that provides free literacy services to all Kansans in need.Founded in 1881, Hays Lodge No. 195 is a Kansas Masonic lodge dedicated to Freemasonry, the oldest surviving fraternal organization in the world. The lodge has 60 members and supports various local organizations and programs, including the Community Assistance Center, the Firefighters’ Relief Association, and the Kansas Masonic High School Essay Contest. Over the last eight years, the lodge has provided over $30,000 in scholarships to students attending technical and four-year university programs and was able to donate $11,500 to the Fort Hayes State University Virtual Literacy Institute.&nbsp;“The FHSU Literacy Institute provides free literacy services to all Kansans in need. Because literacy services are scarce in rural areas and costly across the state, it is nearly impossible for rural, low-income families to receive help,” said Hays Lodge No. 195 Master Christopher Neeley. “The FHSU Literacy Institute removes the barriers limiting students from reaching their full potential by providing this free, virtual and in-person service. Dr. Miller's program addresses a specific need which is largely unserved in our area, which is why our Brothers at Hays Lodge No. 195 are passionate about supporting the organization.”This year, the Brothers at Hays Lodge No. 195 have teamed up with the Kansas Masonic Foundation to donate $12,000 to FHSU Literacy Institute, which will be used to purchase the Reading Horizons software needed to offer language and literacy tutoring services online. The program rejects some of the traditionally accepted methods and incorporates more modern instruction based upon experimentally proven methods within the science of reading practices. The program’s brick-and-mortar grand opening will take place on September 15, 2022, and there are currently nine volunteers on staff that will provide literacy tutoring in addition to the FHSU education students. A formal donation announcement was previously made on June 2, 2022, at the lodge’s scholarship banquet.&nbsp;About the Kansas Masonic Foundation As the philanthropic arm of Kansas Masons, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities and supporting fellow Masons and their families. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $50 million in Kansas communities and individuals through funding academic, scientific, and charitable endeavors. For additional information about the Kansas Masonic Foundation and to get involved, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://foundation.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=df41901562e4cd17c79971f1f&amp;id=87a9f56b2b&amp;e=0e203346aa" target="_blank">https://kansasmasonic.foundation/</a>

Hays Masonic Lodge donates $12,000 to FHSU Literacy Institute

Crude prices retreated from three-month highs after China warned of an "explosive" outbreak of COVID-19. By midday Monday, the benchmark futures contract in New York had dropped to $119.83 per barrel. London Brent was down to $121.19 per barrel.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped 75 cents on Friday and starts the week at $111 per barrel. The auto club AAA reports the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was over $5.01 on Monday. A spokesperson said we may soon see people start to change their daily driving habits, or lifestyle, but it hasn't happened yet. Prices are 15 cents higher than a week ago, and nearly two dollars higher than last year at this time. There are 21 states with average prices over $5. The average in Kansas Monday was over $4.66 per gallon. The government reported a slight dip in domestic crude-oil production last week. The Energy Information Administration says US operators pumped 11.945 million barrels per day in the week through June 3rd. That's down 5,000 barrels per day from the week before. Imports were down as well. EIA reports average imports of 6.2 million barrels per day, down by 64,000 barrels from the week before.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reports 733 active drilling rigs across the US on Friday, an increase of six oil rigs. The count in New Mexico was up five rigs. Texas was down one. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Russell County and another in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators were about to spud a new well in Barton County. Kansas Regulators approved 21 permits for drilling at new locations across the state last week, ten in eastern Kansas and eleven west of Wichita, including one new permit in Stafford County. year-to-date, there are 649 new drilling permits in Kansas. Operators completed 19 new wells last week, nine of them east of Wichita and ten in Western Kansas including one in Barton County. That's 687 new well-completions so far this year. Oil-by-rail across the US was down nearly three hundred tanker carloads from the week before. The Association of American Railroads says that marks a 7.6% drop from a year ago. Traffic in Canada was down week-over-week, but up 4.4% over last year. Russia's export revenues are &nbsp;actually rising since its invasion of Ukraine, thanks in part to a dramatic increase in crude purchases by India and other Asian nations. Analysts say Russia earned more than $97 BILLION dollars from fossil fuel exports in the first 100 days of the invasion. So far this year India has imported nearly 60-million barrels from Russia, nearly five times their total of 12 million barrels for all of &nbsp;last year. The Governor of Colorado last week signed into law a ban on certain chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing operations. The law banning so-called PFAs takes effect in 2024. It also bans a wide range of consumer items ranging from cosmetics to car seats. The government reports a continuing rise in oil-patch employment. The oilfield services and equipment sector saw employment rising by nearly 5,000 jobs in May, with increases in five out of seven categories they tracked. The biggest spikes were in support activities, and engineering construction. There were slight losses in product and machine manufacturing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports says these are the best job totals in the patch since September 2021. The chief executive at Chevron tells Bloomberg TV there may never be a new refinery built in the US. The last new refinery was built in the 1970s. CEO Mike Wirth says you have to commit capital ten years ahead, and then wait decades for a return on investment, which he says is not easy in the current fiscal and political environment.

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude prices retreated from three-month highs after China warned of an "explosive" outbreak of COVID-19. By midday Monday, the benchmark futures contract in New York had dropped to $119.83 per barrel. London Brent was down to $121.19 per barrel.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped 75 cents on Friday and starts the week at $111 per barrel. The auto club AAA reports the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was over $5.01 on Monday. A spokesperson said we may soon see people start to change their daily driving habits, or lifestyle, but it hasn't happened yet. Prices are 15 cents higher than a week ago, and nearly two dollars higher than last year at this time. There are 21 states with average prices over $5. The average in Kansas Monday was over $4.66 per gallon. The government reported a slight dip in domestic crude-oil production last week. The Energy Information Administration says US operators pumped 11.945 million barrels per day in the week through June 3rd. That's down 5,000 barrels per day from the week before. Imports were down as well. EIA reports average imports of 6.2 million barrels per day, down by 64,000 barrels from the week before.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reports 733 active drilling rigs across the US on Friday, an increase of six oil rigs. The count in New Mexico was up five rigs. Texas was down one. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Russell County and another in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators were about to spud a new well in Barton County. Kansas Regulators approved 21 permits for drilling at new locations across the state last week, ten in eastern Kansas and eleven west of Wichita, including one new permit in Stafford County. year-to-date, there are 649 new drilling permits in Kansas. Operators completed 19 new wells last week, nine of them east of Wichita and ten in Western Kansas including one in Barton County. That's 687 new well-completions so far this year. Oil-by-rail across the US was down nearly three hundred tanker carloads from the week before. The Association of American Railroads says that marks a 7.6% drop from a year ago. Traffic in Canada was down week-over-week, but up 4.4% over last year. Russia's export revenues are &nbsp;actually rising since its invasion of Ukraine, thanks in part to a dramatic increase in crude purchases by India and other Asian nations. Analysts say Russia earned more than $97 BILLION dollars from fossil fuel exports in the first 100 days of the invasion. So far this year India has imported nearly 60-million barrels from Russia, nearly five times their total of 12 million barrels for all of &nbsp;last year. The Governor of Colorado last week signed into law a ban on certain chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing operations. The law banning so-called PFAs takes effect in 2024. It also bans a wide range of consumer items ranging from cosmetics to car seats. The government reports a continuing rise in oil-patch employment. The oilfield services and equipment sector saw employment rising by nearly 5,000 jobs in May, with increases in five out of seven categories they tracked. The biggest spikes were in support activities, and engineering construction. There were slight losses in product and machine manufacturing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports says these are the best job totals in the patch since September 2021. The chief executive at Chevron tells Bloomberg TV there may never be a new refinery built in the US. The last new refinery was built in the 1970s. CEO Mike Wirth says you have to commit capital ten years ahead, and then wait decades for a return on investment, which he says is not easy in the current fiscal and political environment.

News From the Oil Patch: COVID warning drops prices

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Mon Jun 13 2022 10:40:54 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Cade Brown"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/rUrIJADZ-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/rUrIJADZ-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/rUrIJADZ-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Cade Brown" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Cade Brown

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655139871538.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>

The Hays City Band will again be filling downtown Hays with
music with three concerts scheduled for June.

The first concert is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Downtown
Pavillion in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main.

Concerts will follow weekly at the same time and place for
the following two Tuesdays. 

Rehearsals for the City Band have commenced, but director
Matt Rome said all are welcome to join at any time.

“City band is well underway for our 2022 season,” he said. “But
don’t let that stop you from coming out if you’re hearing about it for the
first time.”

He said it is common for participants to perform in only one
or two concerts as people come and go during the summer.

“We have people that will play the entire season. They’ll
play every rehearsal and every concert,” Rome said. “But of course, there’s
vacations, family trips, and so we work around that. The name of the game is no
stress. It’s light. It’s fun. We just want to get people playing again.

“And so if maybe you can only make the last week, great, we’ll
take you for that,” he continued. “Or if you want to play more, certainly happy
to do that, too.”

For those that wish to play, no advance registration is required.

“They’re more than welcome to just show up,” Rome said. If
an instrument is needed, he said players could reach out in advance, “otherwise,
if you own your own instrument, just bring it on over. We’ve got music for you.
We’ve got folders. Be glad to have you.”

The band members come from a diverse group of area residents,
from advanced junior high students to seniors.

“It really is the full gamut,” Rome said. “We have amateur
to professional and everything in between. So it’s a really cool vibe in the
rehearsal hall.”

And any level of ability is welcome, and no notice is
required.

“It’s all a testament to the music scene in Hays and how
diverse and how strong it is,” Rome said. “It’s great, and it’s a pleasure to
be a part of it. I love that we’re able to keep this tradition going and look
forward to seeing where it’s going to go by the end of the month.”

Rehearsals are scheduled for 7 to 9 p.m. June 13, 20
and 27 at Hays Middle School, 201 W. 29th.

“If you’re a little gunshy and thinking, ‘Yeah, I haven’t
played in years,’ just come on out and try it,” Rome said. “After the first
rehearsal, a couple people had come up to me and said, ‘You know, I forgot what
this was like. But it’s kind of fun to do it again.’ ”

Performances will include city band standards, but each
concert will feature different music.

“I’m sticking to that kind of concert band repertoire
idea throughout,” Rome said. “We will substitute pieces in and out as the season
goes on. So some of the sets will remain constant. But the idea is, we’ll have
new things each week if someone were to come out and listen to all three.”

The concerts are free and open to the public, and he said they
are a great way to explore music.

“The beauty of what I think is summer bands and city band
tradition is. It is lighter. It’s not the snobby, nose-in-the-air concert fare
that you must only clap at certain times,” Rome said. “Bring the kids, bring
lawn chairs out. Just have a good time and enjoy some great music. It’s just relaxed
for everybody, players and audience alike. And I think that it’s a really,
really great experience.”

This year’s theme, he said, is Past meets Present and also
features a diverse lineup.

“I’ve tried to pick a variety of just good concert band
repertoire, some staples, some classics, written as early as the 60s,” Rome
said. “And then some modern compositions by a variety of composers that have
been written as recently ... as 2018.

“We’re playing the whole spectrum of music,” he continued. “And
so I just thought that it fit the group. We’ve got a wide spectrum of players,
and so the repertoire should reflect that.

“So, if you just want to come out, hear some great band
literature, please do come out and support these musicians,” Rome said. “They
sound fabulous.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623075342039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Hays City Band will again be filling downtown Hays with
music with three concerts scheduled for June.The first concert is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Downtown
Pavillion in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main.Concerts will follow weekly at the same time and place for
the following two Tuesdays. Rehearsals for the City Band have commenced, but director
Matt Rome said all are welcome to join at any time.“City band is well underway for our 2022 season,” he said. “But
don’t let that stop you from coming out if you’re hearing about it for the
first time.”<div><iframe title="Hays City Band returns for 2022" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=44i5b-1249a83-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=450" allowfullscreen=""</iframe>
</div>He said it is common for participants to perform in only one
or two concerts as people come and go during the summer.“We have people that will play the entire season. They’ll
play every rehearsal and every concert,” Rome said. “But of course, there’s
vacations, family trips, and so we work around that. The name of the game is no
stress. It’s light. It’s fun. We just want to get people playing again.“And so if maybe you can only make the last week, great, we’ll
take you for that,” he continued. “Or if you want to play more, certainly happy
to do that, too.”For those that wish to play, no advance registration is required.“They’re more than welcome to just show up,” Rome said. If
an instrument is needed, he said players could reach out in advance, “otherwise,
if you own your own instrument, just bring it on over. We’ve got music for you.
We’ve got folders. Be glad to have you.”The band members come from a diverse group of area residents,
from advanced junior high students to seniors.“It really is the full gamut,” Rome said. “We have amateur
to professional and everything in between. So it’s a really cool vibe in the
rehearsal hall.”And any level of ability is welcome, and no notice is
required.“It’s all a testament to the music scene in Hays and how
diverse and how strong it is,” Rome said. “It’s great, and it’s a pleasure to
be a part of it. I love that we’re able to keep this tradition going and look
forward to seeing where it’s going to go by the end of the month.”Rehearsals are scheduled for 7 to 9 p.m. June 13, 20
and 27 at Hays Middle School, 201 W. 29th.“If you’re a little gunshy and thinking, ‘Yeah, I haven’t
played in years,’ just come on out and try it,” Rome said. “After the first
rehearsal, a couple people had come up to me and said, ‘You know, I forgot what
this was like. But it’s kind of fun to do it again.’ ”<h2>Hays City Band concert lineup locked in</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620767739463.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Performances will include city band standards, but each
concert will feature different music.“I’m sticking to that kind of concert band repertoire
idea throughout,” Rome said. “We will substitute pieces in and out as the season
goes on. So some of the sets will remain constant. But the idea is, we’ll have
new things each week if someone were to come out and listen to all three.”The concerts are free and open to the public, and he said they
are a great way to explore music.“The beauty of what I think is summer bands and city band
tradition is. It is lighter. It’s not the snobby, nose-in-the-air concert fare
that you must only clap at certain times,” Rome said. “Bring the kids, bring
lawn chairs out. Just have a good time and enjoy some great music. It’s just relaxed
for everybody, players and audience alike. And I think that it’s a really,
really great experience.”This year’s theme, he said, is Past meets Present and also
features a diverse lineup.“I’ve tried to pick a variety of just good concert band
repertoire, some staples, some classics, written as early as the 60s,” Rome
said. “And then some modern compositions by a variety of composers that have
been written as recently ... as 2018.“We’re playing the whole spectrum of music,” he continued. “And
so I just thought that it fit the group. We’ve got a wide spectrum of players,
and so the repertoire should reflect that.“So, if you just want to come out, hear some great band
literature, please do come out and support these musicians,” Rome said. “They
sound fabulous.”

🎙 Hays City Band brings musical diversity to summer concert series

By NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON — The newly crowned Miss Kansas, Ayanna Hensley, is still running on adrenaline and shock after being crowned in Pratt on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655145007906.jpeg" alt="2022 Miss Kansas Crowning-Photo by Bill Rea" />
 <figcaption>2022 Miss Kansas Crowning-Photo by Bill Rea</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON — The newly crowned Miss Kansas, Ayanna Hensley, is still running on adrenaline and shock after being crowned in Pratt on Saturday."I don't think it will set in until a couple weeks down the road," Hensley said. "It's still just so surreal to me. When it was time for crowning, the feeling, you can't describe. The best way I can describe it is static. When you're holding hands with the first runner up or the current Miss Kansas, you just never really know, but at that moment, you know, you're both so qualified and you're both so ready for this moment. If you look back at my crowning moment with my awesome first runner up, Jetta Smith, she was actually speaking over me, she was speaking over the legacy that I'll leave as Miss Kansas and as Ayanna, myself. I'm getting really emotional in that moment. From that moment on, it's been a whirlwind."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655145107993.jpeg" alt="Ayanna Hensley is a recent graduate of Fort Hays State-Photo by Josh Rosener Photography" />
 <figcaption>Ayanna Hensley is a recent graduate of Fort Hays State-Photo by Josh Rosener Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>Hensley's platform of ACEs Low: Overcoming Adverse Childhood Experiences is personally important to her."It entails going through your past and being able to work through the things that haunt you at night," Hensley said. "It's obviously geared towards children, because they are able to digest it a little bit faster. It's really fresh for them and obviously that catapults them into a brighter future."For Hensley, her faith has helped her to become the person she is today and overcome her own childhood trauma."My parents were really young when they had me," Hensley said. "I was the result of a teen pregnancy. Obviously, there was a lot of growing on both ends that was involved. My parents struggled with addiction in and out of my life. That was just a form of inconsistency. The biggest thing I struggled with is a very inconsistent childhood and even early adulthood."That's why she wants to spread the message to kids and to Kansas that you can recover and become whatever you dream to be, even a Miss Kansas winner. The date for the Miss America pageant has not yet been announced.

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