THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 International semi driven by Patrick A. Desorme, 29, Kansas City, Mo. was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Brewster exit.&nbsp; 

The wind blew the semi truck and trailer were blown over. The vehicle&nbsp; came to rest in the south ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Desorme to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649271026835.png" alt="Trucks on I-70 just after 1:45p.m. Wednesday - KanDrive camera" />
 <figcaption>Trucks on I-70 just after 1:45p.m. Wednesday - KanDrive camera</figcaption>
 </figure>THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 International semi driven by Patrick A. Desorme, 29, Kansas City, Mo. was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Brewster exit.&nbsp; The wind blew the semi truck and trailer were blown over. The vehicle&nbsp; came to rest in the south ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Desorme to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after wind blows semi off I-70

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A lot of bird watchers from around the state and the region are pulling
into the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and Cheyenne Bottoms, just northeast
of Great Bend. The peak of the spring migration will occur over the next month
as thousands of birds make a stop at the wetlands as they travel north. 

KWEC
Director Curtis Wolf said if people want to see a lot of birds, this is the
time to visit Cheyenne Bottoms.


"Ducks and water fowl are the real big thing right now," said Wolf. "About every species of duck that could be there is there in great numbers. The colors are phenomenal."

Over 20 species of duck have been spotted recently at the wetlands. Wolf said
there are also pelicans, Great Blue Herons, cormorants and coots. While several
Whooping Cranes have made their way through the area, most of them don’t stay
long.


"It's very typical behavior of the Whooping Cranes to come in, they might be seen in the evening as they come in to roost and by mid-morning the next day they're gone," said Wolf. "They don't tend to stick around very long. It's such a chance event where you have to be there at the right time and place."

The KWEC is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday
from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645201349759.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA lot of bird watchers from around the state and the region are pulling
into the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and Cheyenne Bottoms, just northeast
of Great Bend. The peak of the spring migration will occur over the next month
as thousands of birds make a stop at the wetlands as they travel north. KWEC
Director Curtis Wolf said if people want to see a lot of birds, this is the
time to visit Cheyenne Bottoms.
"Ducks and water fowl are the real big thing right now," said Wolf. "About every species of duck that could be there is there in great numbers. The colors are phenomenal."Over 20 species of duck have been spotted recently at the wetlands. Wolf said
there are also pelicans, Great Blue Herons, cormorants and coots. While several
Whooping Cranes have made their way through the area, most of them don’t stay
long.
"It's very typical behavior of the Whooping Cranes to come in, they might be seen in the evening as they come in to roost and by mid-morning the next day they're gone," said Wolf. "They don't tend to stick around very long. It's such a chance event where you have to be there at the right time and place."The KWEC is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday
from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Right now is a special time at Cheyenne Bottoms

On May 6, community business leaders will once again converge
at the Smokey Hill County Club for the 13th annual Hays Chamber Golf Tournament
and Patio Party. 

The event is set to kick off with registration at 8 a.m. and
tee off at 9 a.m.

While the event is a fun way to network with professionals
around Hays, the event also helps the chamber.

“One thing people should know it's our largest fundraiser of
the year,” said Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

While typically Chamber events are limited to member
businesses, she said for the Golf Tournament that requirement is waived.

“It's just such a good opportunity to get to meet new people,”
Wasinger said.

During the event 38 teams will take the course, sponsored by
Nex-Tech Wireless.

“It's our second year as the title sponsor, we're so proud
to be partnering with the Chamber again, last year was so much fun for us,”
said Alicia Tripler, director of sales and customer development, Nex-Tech
Wireless. &nbsp;“Our teams came out, we had
golf teams and we had volunteers out on the course. And what a fun event for
everyone to get together to network to interface with a little competition
going on. A lot of fun, a great day and we're so happy to be a part of it
again.”

Along with a day on the links, participants will also be
served breakfast, and then lunch prepared by Smoky Hill Country Club.

During play Wasinger said prizes will be available including
a closest to the pin prize as well as awards for a hole in one.

And for those not having the best day on the course, the $100
Midwest energy ball will return, allowing teams to redo a hole, $20 Mulligan’s
will also be available on the front and back nine.

Hot appetizers will be served as participants wrap up on the
course.

“It seemed to go well last year, and these options people
really liked,” Tripler said. “I think the great thing about this being the
biggest fundraiser for the chamber is that there's so many different ways to
participate or to sponsor the Chamber through this. So, whether it's donating
events to the raffle or the silent auction, or participating in golf,
purchasing these additional features, or going to the patio party, in any way
you can sports chamber and have a great time.”

While the annual fundraiser is sure to bring fans of the
game itself to the Smokey Hill County Club, for those less inclined to try
their luck on the links, will also be provided a number of activites and events
during the day, including a silent auction, raffle and the Plinko Patio Party.

“Some people may not be great golfers like myself, or
perhaps they just don't have a full day to get away from the office. So, this
event is for you,” Wasinger said.

The patio party is set to begin at 11 a.m. and run until 1
p.m.

“We're so excited always to do the Plinko Patio Party,”
Wasinger said. “And this year, we're pleased to have Avalon Hays as our premier
Plinko Patio Party sponsor.”

With this year’s event only a day after Cinco de Mayo, she
said in the spirit of the day, Margarita’s will be served along with a taco bar
lunch.

Drawings for the raffle will be during the patio party, and
tickets are available now.

Tickets will be $20 each or three for $50. 

“We have we have a pretty really great golf committee and
they've decided to do three raffle prizes this year,” said Hays Chamber
administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher. “We've got a stocked liquor bar.
We've got a coffee bar, and I would say it's stocked too. It's even got a few
different kinds of liqueurs for your coffee, but it's got like a really nice
Keurig, a lot of really nice things on that coffee bar. And then we've also got
a golf package, which is golf for four with your cart to the Smoky Hill Country
Club. And then $100 gift card from the club as well. So, the chamber actually
sponsored the card and the Smoky Hill sponsored the golf in the cards. So yeah,
we've got three really great prizes.”

Slots for the Golf Tournament are currently full, but Wasinger said interested parties could join a waiting list in case of openings.

Tickets for the Plinko Patio Party are $25 each and are on sale now.

<a href="http://www.hayschamber.com.">For more information visit the Hays Chamber website, hayschamber.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649113931762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostOn May 6, community business leaders will once again converge
at the Smokey Hill County Club for the 13th annual Hays Chamber Golf Tournament
and Patio Party. The event is set to kick off with registration at 8 a.m. and
tee off at 9 a.m.While the event is a fun way to network with professionals
around Hays, the event also helps the chamber.“One thing people should know it's our largest fundraiser of
the year,” said Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger.<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber readies for 2022 Golf Tourney" 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=9mjwf-11eecb1-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>While typically Chamber events are limited to member
businesses, she said for the Golf Tournament that requirement is waived.“It's just such a good opportunity to get to meet new people,”
Wasinger said.During the event 38 teams will take the course, sponsored by
Nex-Tech Wireless.“It's our second year as the title sponsor, we're so proud
to be partnering with the Chamber again, last year was so much fun for us,”
said Alicia Tripler, director of sales and customer development, Nex-Tech
Wireless. &nbsp;“Our teams came out, we had
golf teams and we had volunteers out on the course. And what a fun event for
everyone to get together to network to interface with a little competition
going on. A lot of fun, a great day and we're so happy to be a part of it
again.”Along with a day on the links, participants will also be
served breakfast, and then lunch prepared by Smoky Hill Country Club.During play Wasinger said prizes will be available including
a closest to the pin prize as well as awards for a hole in one.And for those not having the best day on the course, the $100
Midwest energy ball will return, allowing teams to redo a hole, $20 Mulligan’s
will also be available on the front and back nine.Hot appetizers will be served as participants wrap up on the
course.“It seemed to go well last year, and these options people
really liked,” Tripler said. “I think the great thing about this being the
biggest fundraiser for the chamber is that there's so many different ways to
participate or to sponsor the Chamber through this. So, whether it's donating
events to the raffle or the silent auction, or participating in golf,
purchasing these additional features, or going to the patio party, in any way
you can sports chamber and have a great time.”<h2>MORE THAN JUST GOLF</h2><div><iframe title="Hays Chamber Golf Tourney not just golf" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7zh8r-11e5239-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315"></iframe></div>While the annual fundraiser is sure to bring fans of the
game itself to the Smokey Hill County Club, for those less inclined to try
their luck on the links, will also be provided a number of activites and events
during the day, including a silent auction, raffle and the Plinko Patio Party.“Some people may not be great golfers like myself, or
perhaps they just don't have a full day to get away from the office. So, this
event is for you,” Wasinger said.The patio party is set to begin at 11 a.m. and run until 1
p.m.“We're so excited always to do the Plinko Patio Party,”
Wasinger said. “And this year, we're pleased to have Avalon Hays as our premier
Plinko Patio Party sponsor.”With this year’s event only a day after Cinco de Mayo, she
said in the spirit of the day, Margarita’s will be served along with a taco bar
lunch.Drawings for the raffle will be during the patio party, and
tickets are available now.Tickets will be $20 each or three for $50. “We have we have a pretty really great golf committee and
they've decided to do three raffle prizes this year,” said Hays Chamber
administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher. “We've got a stocked liquor bar.
We've got a coffee bar, and I would say it's stocked too. It's even got a few
different kinds of liqueurs for your coffee, but it's got like a really nice
Keurig, a lot of really nice things on that coffee bar. And then we've also got
a golf package, which is golf for four with your cart to the Smoky Hill Country
Club. And then $100 gift card from the club as well. So, the chamber actually
sponsored the card and the Smoky Hill sponsored the golf in the cards. So yeah,
we've got three really great prizes.”Slots for the Golf Tournament are currently full, but Wasinger said interested parties could join a waiting list in case of openings.Tickets for the Plinko Patio Party are $25 each and are on sale now.<a href="http://www.hayschamber.com.">For more information visit the Hays Chamber website, hayschamber.com.</a>

Hays Chamber annual Golf Tournament fundraiser set to return for 2022

Bushel Baskets of Blessings were assembled by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109, Natoma.

St. John Lutheran Quilting Guild, Russell, joined in the effort by adding handmade quilts to each basket for women who lost their homes in the devastating Four County Wildfires of Dec. 15. 

Auxiliary members filled baskets with leather work gloves, toiletries, kitchen essentials, Gideon Bibles, devotionals, fresh breads and many other essential items for the displaced families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649088705179.jpeg" alt="Natoma American Legion Auxiliary members (L-R), Laah Tucker, Linda Crawford, and Sharon MacConnell, packed bushel baskets filled with essential items and handmade quilts by St. John Lutheran Quilting Guild, Russell, for displaced women following the Four County Wildfires. " />
 <figcaption>Natoma American Legion Auxiliary members (L-R), Laah Tucker, Linda Crawford, and Sharon MacConnell, packed bushel baskets filled with essential items and handmade quilts by St. John Lutheran Quilting Guild, Russell, for displaced women following the Four County Wildfires. </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by Laah TuckerBushel Baskets of Blessings were assembled by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109, Natoma.St. John Lutheran Quilting Guild, Russell, joined in the effort by adding handmade quilts to each basket for women who lost their homes in the devastating Four County Wildfires of Dec. 15. Auxiliary members filled baskets with leather work gloves, toiletries, kitchen essentials, Gideon Bibles, devotionals, fresh breads and many other essential items for the displaced families.

Natoma American Legion Auxiliary packs baskets for fire victims

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

I recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Kansas Ag and Rural Leaders (KARL) program. Our trip included unique farm tours like a camel dairy, falcon hospital and the oldest irrigation district in the world. We experienced local traditions and culture by visiting museums, a desert oasis, a camel race training facility, a livestock market, a palace and the grand mosque. However, the real reason people visit UAE is to see Dubai.

Dubai’s leaders seem to have committed to the “if you build it, they will come” ideal popularized in “Field of Dreams.”. Their vision for Dubai has been to replace oil revenue that will eventually dwindle with money from tourism, business and the financial sectors. They are creating a center of business for the Middle East and the world; a “City of Dreams.”

Dubai had been described by many former travelers as the Las Vegas of the Middle East. I expected the Burj Khalifa (currently the world’s tallest building) and the Palm (a manmade island complex) would have a row of sky scrapers connecting the two areas and the city might feel like Chicago or Los Angeles.

My mind was not prepared for what the city actually looks like. Everything is new and really tall; high-rise buildings as far as the eye can see. When you emerge from a cluster of them, you can see another cluster of 10 to 20 a few miles away in any direction except downtown, which is more like 100 to 200 high-rise buildings. The city is filled with brand new metro lines, shopping malls, tourist attractions and residential communities. Dubai is a modern city of stunning architecture and the latest technology.

Our tour guide joked that Emiratis’ favorite word is ‘est. They have the tallest building, largest shopping mall, deepest swimming pool, largest dancing fountain, highest Ferris wheel. The list goes longer and makes me think Guinness Book of World Records probably has an office there purely for convenience.

The most impressive part is almost none of it existed 20 years ago. Many attractions didn’t exist 10 years ago as lots of the projects were fast tracked to prepare for the World Expo, which was originally scheduled for 2020 and delayed a year because of COVID.

The six-month Expo ended March 31 and was expected to bring 25 million visitors to see the 192 country pavilions focusing on themes of sustainability, mobility and opportunity. If you are picturing the state fair, this expo was about 20 times bigger without the animals, and even though we visited at the end of month six, the place felt fresh; bathrooms were clean, pavilions and facilities were in good working order, and there were no visible signs of staff packing-up. The same feel of quality and pride could be felt throughout all the attractions we saw.

Dubai is a city of dreams. It is the manifestation of leader’s vision and ability to motivate others to join in creating something big, something people all over the world will talk about and want to see for themselves.

People ignore their field of dreams because it seems too big. Dreams don’t happen overnight. Small steps, like having a clear vision or creating things that you can be proud of, are what create the momentum to move big dreams forward.

The tallest building in the most extravagant city in the world was what one man saw when he looked across the barren desert. Just imagine what you can make of the world around you.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherI recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Kansas Ag and Rural Leaders (KARL) program. Our trip included unique farm tours like a camel dairy, falcon hospital and the oldest irrigation district in the world. We experienced local traditions and culture by visiting museums, a desert oasis, a camel race training facility, a livestock market, a palace and the grand mosque. However, the real reason people visit UAE is to see Dubai.Dubai’s leaders seem to have committed to the “if you build it, they will come” ideal popularized in “Field of Dreams.”. Their vision for Dubai has been to replace oil revenue that will eventually dwindle with money from tourism, business and the financial sectors. They are creating a center of business for the Middle East and the world; a “City of Dreams.”Dubai had been described by many former travelers as the Las Vegas of the Middle East. I expected the Burj Khalifa (currently the world’s tallest building) and the Palm (a manmade island complex) would have a row of sky scrapers connecting the two areas and the city might feel like Chicago or Los Angeles.My mind was not prepared for what the city actually looks like. Everything is new and really tall; high-rise buildings as far as the eye can see. When you emerge from a cluster of them, you can see another cluster of 10 to 20 a few miles away in any direction except downtown, which is more like 100 to 200 high-rise buildings. The city is filled with brand new metro lines, shopping malls, tourist attractions and residential communities. Dubai is a modern city of stunning architecture and the latest technology.Our tour guide joked that Emiratis’ favorite word is ‘est. They have the tallest building, largest shopping mall, deepest swimming pool, largest dancing fountain, highest Ferris wheel. The list goes longer and makes me think Guinness Book of World Records probably has an office there purely for convenience.The most impressive part is almost none of it existed 20 years ago. Many attractions didn’t exist 10 years ago as lots of the projects were fast tracked to prepare for the World Expo, which was originally scheduled for 2020 and delayed a year because of COVID.The six-month Expo ended March 31 and was expected to bring 25 million visitors to see the 192 country pavilions focusing on themes of sustainability, mobility and opportunity. If you are picturing the state fair, this expo was about 20 times bigger without the animals, and even though we visited at the end of month six, the place felt fresh; bathrooms were clean, pavilions and facilities were in good working order, and there were no visible signs of staff packing-up. The same feel of quality and pride could be felt throughout all the attractions we saw.Dubai is a city of dreams. It is the manifestation of leader’s vision and ability to motivate others to join in creating something big, something people all over the world will talk about and want to see for themselves.People ignore their field of dreams because it seems too big. Dreams don’t happen overnight. Small steps, like having a clear vision or creating things that you can be proud of, are what create the momentum to move big dreams forward.The tallest building in the most extravagant city in the world was what one man saw when he looked across the barren desert. Just imagine what you can make of the world around you."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: The city of dreams

For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649179040964.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

Three-day weather outlook

KVC HOSPITALS/HAYS SEEKING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIANS, LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES AND R.N'S

KVC HOSPITALS HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. KVC IS HIRING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIANS, LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES, REGISTERED NURSES AND MORE POSITIONS. KVC HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF. MOST OF ALL, KVC HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION – FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER. APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT KVC.ORG AND SEARCH CAREERS AND JOIN THE KVC TEAM.&nbsp; KVC HOSPITALS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

* Inspiring mission – make your career meaningful!

* KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees

* Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays

* 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match

* A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count

* Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion

* Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; get-togethers

* Ongoing training and learning opportunities

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647899492930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KVC HOSPITALS/HAYS SEEKING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIANS, LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES AND R.N'SKVC HOSPITALS HAYS, PROVIDING CHILDREN'S PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT IS LOOKING FOR COMPASSIONATE AND QUALIFIED TEAM MEMBERS. KVC IS HIRING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIANS, LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES, REGISTERED NURSES AND MORE POSITIONS. KVC HAS A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE WITH COMPETITIVE BENEFITS INCLUDING MEDICAL INSURANCE, FREE DENTAL, A 2.5 PERCENT RETIREMENT SAVINGS MATCH, AND GENEROUS PAID TIME OFF. MOST OF ALL, KVC HAS AN INSPIRING MISSION – FIND YOUR PURPOSE WITH A MEANINGFUL CAREER. APPLY TODAY ONLINE AT KVC.ORG AND SEARCH CAREERS AND JOIN THE KVC TEAM.&nbsp; KVC HOSPITALS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERKVC BENEFITS:* Inspiring mission – make your career meaningful!* Competitive pay for the industry* KVC pays 76% of medical insurance costs for employees* Free dental insurance* Generous policies for parental leave, paid time off and holidays* 403(b) retirement savings plan with 2.5% company match* A positive, supportive culture where employee opinions count* A strong focus on promoting internally* Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion* Fun employee celebrations including meals, parties and casual &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; get-togethers* Ongoing training and learning opportunitiesAND MUCH MORE!

Stolen bank ATM found on street; Ellis PD arrests three suspects

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649170457221.jpeg" alt="Upcoming Events at FHSU SAAM (1).jpg" />
 <figcaption>Upcoming Events at FHSU SAAM (1).jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Sexual assault awareness events scheduled on FHSU campus

🎥🥎⚾️ Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ten-year-old Colt's father, Kenny, died in November.

Colt made a memory box last week in which he can store mementos of his time with his dad, including snapshots. He said he and his sister both loved their dad "Bam-bam's" long, gray beard. His sister liked to twirl it, Colt demonstrated in the air with a flick of his wrist.

The top of his box was covered with hunting and fishing stickers.

"He loved to fish with me," Colt said. "He caught some giant fish. He said he would go hunting with me, but we were never able to do that."

Last week, Colt and 15 other kids who had also lost loved ones gathered at the Hays Senior Center for the Healing Kids' Heart Retreat. The retreat is offered annually by the Center for Life Experience for children 7 to 12.

Colt's dad played football, he said as he stuck another sticker on his box's lid, so Colt uses his number 72 when he plays. Colt's a left guard. 

Prominently in the middle of the box was a hot sauce sticker.

"He loved spicy stuff," he said. "He could eat a Carolina Reaper without breaking a sweat. When I had one little bit of it, I was dying."

He said the memory box is important, "so you can relive the brightest moments of your lost loved one."

Jeanna Wellbrock's older sons, Christian and Levi, now 17 and 15, have been attending the retreat for years, and their two younger daughters and their son, Lucas, 10, attended the camp this year. She said the camp has been a great help to her family.

The Wellbrocks lost their son, Matthew, five years ago when he was 3 in a tragic accident. He became trapped when a pickup truck tailgate collapsed on him.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/?s=Matthew%27s+Gift">Read related story: Matthew's Gift offers necessities for families during medical emergencies.</a>

The two girls, Ann and Elizabeth, now 6, were only 9 months old when their brother died.

"For them, they don't know Matthew. They know of Matthew," Wellbrock said. "Whereas my older three boys lost Matthew, they lost something they don't know, but they know something's missing. ...

"Everything the girls know of Matthew, they have to ask someone to tell them. They don't have any memories of their own."

Wellbrock said the grief retreats have been a starting point to talk about Matthew and what happened. She hopes this will also give the girls the opportunity to ask more questions.

"In talking with other kids who have lost parents or somebody else, it just triggers that conversation a little bit more. The next week there will be a lot more questions that I didn't think about addressing or asking," she said. ...

"It's a way for me to gauge where my kiddos are and how they're handling things."

For Levi and Christian, the first year they attended the camp, learning they weren't alone was the biggest thing, Wellbrock said.

Josh Tanguay, mental health therapist and camp volunteer, said the event allows children to come together with other children who've lost loved ones and express themselves in whatever stage of grief they may be.

 Tanguay said it's important for everyone to express grief, but children express grief differently than adults. 

"A lot of the things we as adults assume they understand because we understand them as adults, they may not," he said. "It's good to have some activities to talk about these things and give them opportunities to express themselves."

In addition to the memory boxes, the children have made glitter-filled calm-down bottles, and released balloons with attached messages for their loved ones.

The retreats are not therapy, and not all children who lose a significant loved one need to be in therapy, Tanguay said. 

"Just look out for any time if a child is struggling if they're acting notably different if they seem emotionally different or behaviorally different or socially different," Tanguay said. "Those are all things to be mindful of because it may indicate that child is having a hard time in some way and may not know how to express it."

Wellbrock said the retreats have helped her as a parent, because she's been able to meet other parents and build a network of support. 

"Society doesn't like to be uncomfortable," she said. "Grief makes people feel uncomfortable, and they'd rather you be quiet and stuff it.

"I went to school to be a teacher, and educating people is something I have always done. I refuse to be quiet."

Wellbrock said she let's her kids know its OK to crash and burn and be angry.

"It's a place to visit, not a place to stay," she said. "You get back up. I will let you crash and burn, but I will not let you stay down."

The boys have been learning to express their grief in positive ways through the grief retreats, Wellbrock said.

"One of the best things that Josh [Tanguay] told them their first year is that you can be angry. You can punch a pillow. You can punch your bed, but anything you break, you are responsible for fixing when you're done," she said. "That really resonated with my older kids." 

Despite the grief, she said she and the children still need to be accountable.

"I was not just Matthew's mom. I am also Christian, Levi, Lucas, Ann and Elizabeth's mom," she said. "That job didn't stop the day that Matthew died. I have a responsibility, and I cannot allow them to be crippled by the loss of their brother.

"It sounds horrible, but the world does not care that you lost your brother. There are people in the world who care, but the world as a whole does not care, so you are going to have to learn to function in the world."

&nbsp;Some days are tough, such as anniversaries and birthdays, but someday her kids are going to have to go to school or college or work despite those bad days, she said.

She says she hopes the children have learned from the retreats how to be better advocates for themselves when they are having those bad days.

"I tell everybody that it will never get easier,"she said. "I will not lie to someone who has lost their child and tell them it gets easier. It doesn't get easier. You get stronger."

After five years, the older boys run into volunteers from camp in the community, and Wellbrock said they know they have a whole community who supports them.

The event was also sponsored by Hays Senior Center, Hays Tees, City of Hays, Ellis County, United Way of Ellis County, Thirsty's Hays Memorial Chapel, Hospice at HaysMed Foundation and Gambino's.

If you wish to donate to Matthew's Gift, you can do so through the United Way of Ellis County's <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">Wonder Women League</a>. You can donate to Healing Kids' Heart Retreat though the <a href="https://www.cflehope.org/">Center for Life Experience</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649107802274.jpeg" alt="Ann Wellbrock, 6, works with her retreat buddy on her memory box to honor her older brother, Matthew, at the Healing Kids' Heart Retreat March 26 at the Hays Senior Center. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Ann Wellbrock, 6, works with her retreat buddy on her memory box to honor her older brother, Matthew, at the Healing Kids' Heart Retreat March 26 at the Hays Senior Center. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTen-year-old Colt's father, Kenny, died in November.Colt made a memory box last week in which he can store mementos of his time with his dad, including snapshots. He said he and his sister both loved their dad "Bam-bam's" long, gray beard. His sister liked to twirl it, Colt demonstrated in the air with a flick of his wrist. The top of his box was covered with hunting and fishing stickers."He loved to fish with me," Colt said. "He caught some giant fish. He said he would go hunting with me, but we were never able to do that."Last week, Colt and 15 other kids who had also lost loved ones gathered at the Hays Senior Center for the Healing Kids' Heart Retreat. The retreat is offered annually by the Center for Life Experience for children 7 to 12. Colt's dad played football, he said as he stuck another sticker on his box's lid, so Colt uses his number 72 when he plays. Colt's a left guard. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649108116894.jpeg" alt="Ann Wellbrock's memory box of her older brother, Matthew, who died in an accident when he was 3. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ann Wellbrock's memory box of her older brother, Matthew, who died in an accident when he was 3. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Prominently in the middle of the box was a hot sauce sticker."He loved spicy stuff," he said. "He could eat a Carolina Reaper without breaking a sweat. When I had one little bit of it, I was dying." He said the memory box is important, "so you can relive the brightest moments of your lost loved one."Jeanna Wellbrock's older sons, Christian and Levi, now 17 and 15, have been attending the retreat for years, and their two younger daughters and their son, Lucas, 10, attended the camp this year. She said the camp has been a great help to her family. The Wellbrocks lost their son, Matthew, five years ago when he was 3 in a tragic accident. He became trapped when a pickup truck tailgate collapsed on him.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/?s=Matthew%27s+Gift">Read related story: Matthew's Gift offers necessities for families during medical emergencies.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649108404672.jpeg" alt="Healing Kids' Heart Retreat participant, Colt, works on his memory box for his dad, Kenny, with his retreat buddy, Patrick. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Healing Kids' Heart Retreat participant, Colt, works on his memory box for his dad, Kenny, with his retreat buddy, Patrick. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The two girls, Ann and Elizabeth, now 6, were only 9 months old when their brother died. "For them, they don't know Matthew. They know of Matthew," Wellbrock said. "Whereas my older three boys lost Matthew, they lost something they don't know, but they know something's missing. ..."Everything the girls know of Matthew, they have to ask someone to tell them. They don't have any memories of their own."Wellbrock said the grief retreats have been a starting point to talk about Matthew and what happened. She hopes this will also give the girls the opportunity to ask more questions."In talking with other kids who have lost parents or somebody else, it just triggers that conversation a little bit more. The next week there will be a lot more questions that I didn't think about addressing or asking," she said. ... "It's a way for me to gauge where my kiddos are and how they're handling things."For Levi and Christian, the first year they attended the camp, learning they weren't alone was the biggest thing, Wellbrock said.Josh Tanguay, mental health therapist and camp volunteer, said the event allows children to come together with other children who've lost loved ones and express themselves in whatever stage of grief they may be. Tanguay said it's important for everyone to express grief, but children express grief differently than adults. "A lot of the things we as adults assume they understand because we understand them as adults, they may not," he said. "It's good to have some activities to talk about these things and give them opportunities to express themselves."In addition to the memory boxes, the children have made glitter-filled calm-down bottles, and released balloons with attached messages for their loved ones.The retreats are not therapy, and not all children who lose a significant loved one need to be in therapy, Tanguay said. "Just look out for any time if a child is struggling if they're acting notably different if they seem emotionally different or behaviorally different or socially different," Tanguay said. "Those are all things to be mindful of because it may indicate that child is having a hard time in some way and may not know how to express it." Wellbrock said the retreats have helped her as a parent, because she's been able to meet other parents and build a network of support. "Society doesn't like to be uncomfortable," she said. "Grief makes people feel uncomfortable, and they'd rather you be quiet and stuff it."I went to school to be a teacher, and educating people is something I have always done. I refuse to be quiet." Wellbrock said she let's her kids know its OK to crash and burn and be angry."It's a place to visit, not a place to stay," she said. "You get back up. I will let you crash and burn, but I will not let you stay down."The boys have been learning to express their grief in positive ways through the grief retreats, Wellbrock said. "One of the best things that Josh [Tanguay] told them their first year is that you can be angry. You can punch a pillow. You can punch your bed, but anything you break, you are responsible for fixing when you're done," she said. "That really resonated with my older kids." Despite the grief, she said she and the children still need to be accountable."I was not just Matthew's mom. I am also Christian, Levi, Lucas, Ann and Elizabeth's mom," she said. "That job didn't stop the day that Matthew died. I have a responsibility, and I cannot allow them to be crippled by the loss of their brother."It sounds horrible, but the world does not care that you lost your brother. There are people in the world who care, but the world as a whole does not care, so you are going to have to learn to function in the world." &nbsp;Some days are tough, such as anniversaries and birthdays, but someday her kids are going to have to go to school or college or work despite those bad days, she said. She says she hopes the children have learned from the retreats how to be better advocates for themselves when they are having those bad days. "I tell everybody that it will never get easier,"she said. "I will not lie to someone who has lost their child and tell them it gets easier. It doesn't get easier. You get stronger."After five years, the older boys run into volunteers from camp in the community, and Wellbrock said they know they have a whole community who supports them. The event was also sponsored by Hays Senior Center, Hays Tees, City of Hays, Ellis County, United Way of Ellis County, Thirsty's Hays Memorial Chapel, Hospice at HaysMed Foundation and Gambino's. If you wish to donate to Matthew's Gift, you can do so through the United Way of Ellis County's <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">Wonder Women League</a>. You can donate to Healing Kids' Heart Retreat though the <a href="https://www.cflehope.org/">Center for Life Experience</a>.

Memories of giant fish, hot sauce; children learn to grieve too

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/105ccc5b-872b-4cf2-a206-9554d6de582f">Read more: Teacher of the Month offers life lessons from a tube of toothpaste</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5f1002b0-5a78-4bc4-8a1e-ec6ce00e4387#//">Nominate your favorite teacher now through May 2022.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649086100234.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649085691601.jpeg" alt="Mark and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction Elite Realty present Erika Norris, fifth-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, with the February Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award." />
 <figcaption>Mark and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction Elite Realty present Erika Norris, fifth-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, with the February Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/105ccc5b-872b-4cf2-a206-9554d6de582f">Read more: Teacher of the Month offers life lessons from a tube of toothpaste</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5f1002b0-5a78-4bc4-8a1e-ec6ce00e4387#//">Nominate your favorite teacher now through May 2022.</a>

Nations Auction Elite Realty Teacher of the Month: Erika Norris

This is the second part of a three-part series examining plans included in Hays USD 489's bond proposal.

Hays Middle School was never meant to house 730 students when it was built in 1964.

The halls, cafeteria, gym and classrooms are cramped, said Tom Albers, HMS principal.

"We have been creative as we can be, but we've run out of spaces to be creative. Our creativity has expired," Albers said.

Hays USD 489 is proposing a $143.5 million bond issue, which will be up for a vote on May 10. The bond includes a new high school. The current high school would be renovated into a middle school.

The current middle school would be renovated into an elementary school. Wilson and Lincoln would be closed as elementary schools. Roosevelt and O'Loughlin elementary schools would also be renovated.

 The district released artists rendering recently of what the new high school and renovated spaces could look like.

Hallways at the current high school are already much wider than the middle school, Albers said, which would reduce congestion during passing periods.

The cafeteria is one of the most congested areas of the school. You'll see some of the big eighth-graders  with shoulders shrugged in because there isn't space for them to sit, Albers said. 

The school funnels students into the gym in the morning before classes start. The gym is holding about 400 students during this time. It gets pretty loud, which is troublesome for some sensitive students, Albers said.

The lack of any other commons or holding area for students results in a lot of wear and tear on the gym floor, Albers said.

During the school day, up to 90 students per class period use the gym for PE. About 60 of those are in standard PE and another 30 use the balcony of the gym for weight lifting.

The middle school can't host sports tournaments, because it only has one gym, Albers said.

The middle school was built at a time when girls sports were not as pervasive in schools, so the school was only built with one girls locker room.

The gym teachers have to send students to the locker rooms in waves to dress, because there isn't enough space for all the students at one time.

The crowding is even worse during sports practice. Track alone has about 75 to 90 female athletes. They also have to share the single locker room with about 30 female soccer players, who also have a spring season. 

Some of the female athletes change in bathrooms. All of the students have to take their gear outside with them and take it home every day, Albers said.

The high school, which will become the middle school, has much more locker room space. It has two gyms. It has a separate weight room and a wrestling room. 

Middle school wrestlers are currently being bused to the HMS after morning practices at the HHS.

Neither the middle school nor high school has an auditorium. Assemblies have to be conducted in the gym at both schools.

Music performances have to be done at the 12th Street Auditorium at Rockwell Administration Center, in the gym or the school has to rent the Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center from Fort Hays State University.

The new high school would be built with an auditorium. Since both HHS and HMS would be on the same campus, the middle school students could share the auditorium with the high school for performances and assemblies, Albers said.

Programs have been added since what is now HMS was built in 1964. One of these includes the mental health program. Albers said the school has struggled to find space for those offices. 

Closets and storage areas have been turned into classrooms. The school cut its boiler room in half and turned the other half into a small classroom.

Albers said he also looks forward to being able to use the career and technical education wing of the current high school to expand CTE offerings. HMS is limited on how many students can be in electives because of space.

The wood shop limits not only the number of students, but the small space poses safety concerns and limits what projects students can complete, Albers said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648756906660.jpeg" alt="Artist rendering of a proposed classroom at Hays Middle School or the new Hays High School. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489 " />
 <figcaption>Artist rendering of a proposed classroom at Hays Middle School or the new Hays High School. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489 </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648761440483.jpeg" alt="A current classroom at Hays Middle School. The teacher said the classroom is usually more cramped. Not all of her students were in class that day. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>A current classroom at Hays Middle School. The teacher said the classroom is usually more cramped. Not all of her students were in class that day. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>This is the second part of a three-part series examining plans included in Hays USD 489's bond proposal.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays Middle School was never meant to house 730 students when it was built in 1964. The halls, cafeteria, gym and classrooms are cramped, said Tom Albers, HMS principal."We have been creative as we can be, but we've run out of spaces to be creative. Our creativity has expired," Albers said. Hays USD 489 is proposing a $143.5 million bond issue, which will be up for a vote on May 10. The bond includes a new high school. The current high school would be renovated into a middle school.The current middle school would be renovated into an elementary school. Wilson and Lincoln would be closed as elementary schools. Roosevelt and O'Loughlin elementary schools would also be renovated. The district released artists rendering recently of what the new high school and renovated spaces could look like.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648761932550.jpeg" alt="An artist rendering of a new science lab at Hays Middle School. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>An artist rendering of a new science lab at Hays Middle School. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648762296051.jpeg" alt="A current science lab at HMS. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A current science lab at HMS. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hallways at the current high school are already much wider than the middle school, Albers said, which would reduce congestion during passing periods. The cafeteria is one of the most congested areas of the school. You'll see some of the big eighth-graders with shoulders shrugged in because there isn't space for them to sit, Albers said. The school funnels students into the gym in the morning before classes start. The gym is holding about 400 students during this time. It gets pretty loud, which is troublesome for some sensitive students, Albers said.The lack of any other commons or holding area for students results in a lot of wear and tear on the gym floor, Albers said.During the school day, up to 90 students per class period use the gym for PE. About 60 of those are in standard PE and another 30 use the balcony of the gym for weight lifting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648761971542.jpeg" alt="A learning commons would provide needed space for students to collaborate on projects. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>A learning commons would provide needed space for students to collaborate on projects. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648762001457.jpeg" alt="A diagram of what a block of classrooms could look like in the future middle school and high school. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>A diagram of what a block of classrooms could look like in the future middle school and high school. Image provided by DLR Group and Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>The middle school can't host sports tournaments, because it only has one gym, Albers said. The middle school was built at a time when girls sports were not as pervasive in schools, so the school was only built with one girls locker room.The gym teachers have to send students to the locker rooms in waves to dress, because there isn't enough space for all the students at one time.The crowding is even worse during sports practice. Track alone has about 75 to 90 female athletes. They also have to share the single locker room with about 30 female soccer players, who also have a spring season. Some of the female athletes change in bathrooms. All of the students have to take their gear outside with them and take it home every day, Albers said.The high school, which will become the middle school, has much more locker room space. It has two gyms. It has a separate weight room and a wrestling room. Middle school wrestlers are currently being bused to the HMS after morning practices at the HHS. Neither the middle school nor high school has an auditorium. Assemblies have to be conducted in the gym at both schools.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648762585381.jpeg" alt="The current gym at Hays Middle School. The school has only one gym and one girls locker room. As many as 90 students per class period use this space. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The current gym at Hays Middle School. The school has only one gym and one girls locker room. As many as 90 students per class period use this space. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Music performances have to be done at the 12th Street Auditorium at Rockwell Administration Center, in the gym or the school has to rent the Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center from Fort Hays State University.The new high school would be built with an auditorium. Since both HHS and HMS would be on the same campus, the middle school students could share the auditorium with the high school for performances and assemblies, Albers said.Programs have been added since what is now HMS was built in 1964. One of these includes the mental health program. Albers said the school has struggled to find space for those offices. Closets and storage areas have been turned into classrooms. The school cut its boiler room in half and turned the other half into a small classroom.Albers said he also looks forward to being able to use the career and technical education wing of the current high school to expand CTE offerings. HMS is limited on how many students can be in electives because of space.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648762686418.jpeg" alt="The current HMS wood shop is cramped, which can be a safety hazard and limits the number of students who can take the class and what projects they can complete. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The current HMS wood shop is cramped, which can be a safety hazard and limits the number of students who can take the class and what projects they can complete. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The wood shop limits not only the number of students, but the small space poses safety concerns and limits what projects students can complete, Albers said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648763037215.jpeg" alt="The hallways at HMS were not designed for the 730 students who pass through them every day. Congestion is an issue, school officials said. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The hallways at HMS were not designed for the 730 students who pass through them every day. Congestion is an issue, school officials said. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Officials: Converting HHS to middle school would provide desperately needed space

🎥 SPONSORED: USD 489 — Count Me In

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649097977248.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Monday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Dodge 1500 driven by Caleb R.&nbsp;Mullican, 19, Smithville, TN., was westbound on Interstate 70 approximate 3 miles east of Kansas 184.

The pickup traveled&nbsp; off the roadway to the north. It traveled in the ditch for a short distance and returned to the roadway. The driver over corrected, returned to the north ditch and rolled.

EMS transported Mullican to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Monday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Dodge 1500 driven by Caleb R.&nbsp;Mullican, 19, Smithville, TN., was westbound on Interstate 70 approximate 3 miles east of Kansas 184.The pickup traveled&nbsp; off the roadway to the north. It traveled in the ditch for a short distance and returned to the roadway. The driver over corrected, returned to the north ditch and rolled.EMS transported Mullican to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

19-year-old hospitalized after pickup rolls on I-70

<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — The latest installment of the Dillon Lecture 
Series will feature NASA astronaut and Kansas native Nick Hague. Hague’s
 presentation begins at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Hutchinson Sports 
Arena. The lecture is open to the public. Cost to attend the lecture is $10, with students admitted free.

Hague was born in 
Belleville and graduated from Hoxie High School in 1994. He was 
selected by NASA as an astronaut in 2013. The Kansas native earned a 
Bachelor of Science in Astronautical Engineering from the United States 
Air Force Academy in 1998, and a Master of Science in Aeronautical and 
Astronautical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
 in 2000.

In 2009, Hague was selected for the Air Force Fellows 
program in Washington and was a staff member in the U.S.&nbsp; Senate. Hague most recently served as Flight Engineer on the 
International Space Station for Expedition 59 and 60.&nbsp;

This is the
 41st season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For 
more information on the Dillon Lecture Series, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595005445504.jpeg" alt="Hague" />
 <figcaption>Hague</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — The latest installment of the Dillon Lecture 
Series will feature NASA astronaut and Kansas native Nick Hague. Hague’s
 presentation begins at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Hutchinson Sports 
Arena. The lecture is open to the public. Cost to attend the lecture is $10, with students admitted free.Hague was born in 
Belleville and graduated from Hoxie High School in 1994. He was 
selected by NASA as an astronaut in 2013. The Kansas native earned a 
Bachelor of Science in Astronautical Engineering from the United States 
Air Force Academy in 1998, and a Master of Science in Aeronautical and 
Astronautical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
 in 2000.In 2009, Hague was selected for the Air Force Fellows 
program in Washington and was a staff member in the U.S.&nbsp; Senate. Hague most recently served as Flight Engineer on the 
International Space Station for Expedition 59 and 60.&nbsp;This is the
 41st season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For 
more information on the Dillon Lecture Series, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>.

Hoxie astronaut scheduled to speak in Hutchinson

RUSSELL — At 9:20 p.m. Thursday, the City of Russell Fire Department was paged to 120 Cindy Drive for a report of a vehicle on fire.

Crews arriving on scene observed a passenger vehicle sitting in the driveway, fully engulfed. Crews deployed fire extinguishers to prevent the fire from spreading to two other vehicles that were sitting in the driveway. 

Engine 2 and Engine 1 arrived on scene and were able to fully extinguish the fire in 10 minutes. Crews stayed on scene cleaning up equipment and debris from the fire.

The area of origin of the fire was under the hood, in the engine compartment and more than likely due to an electrical issue around the engine block.

The fire was contained to the vehicle and a few small spot fires in the grass in the front yard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649085352796.jpeg" alt="Photo Credit: Jordan Harrison" />
 <figcaption>Photo Credit: Jordan Harrison</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL — At 9:20 p.m. Thursday, the City of Russell Fire Department was paged to 120 Cindy Drive for a report of a vehicle on fire.Crews arriving on scene observed a passenger vehicle sitting in the driveway, fully engulfed. Crews deployed fire extinguishers to prevent the fire from spreading to two other vehicles that were sitting in the driveway. Engine 2 and Engine 1 arrived on scene and were able to fully extinguish the fire in 10 minutes. Crews stayed on scene cleaning up equipment and debris from the fire.The area of origin of the fire was under the hood, in the engine compartment and more than likely due to an electrical issue around the engine block.The fire was contained to the vehicle and a few small spot fires in the grass in the front yard.

Russell crews respond to vehicle fire

Nebraska-based Scooter’s Coffee has announced a Hays
location is expected to open this summer.

While details remain sparse, the chain confirmed a Hays
location is planned at 2405 Vine. The property was previously home to Lucky Buffet.

A Scooter’s Coffee representative said a new building is
planned for the location and will follow its drive-through kiosk model.

An opening is expected in June or early July and the
business will employ about 15 people, he said.

Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue,
Neb., Scooter’s Coffee headquarters are in Omaha, Neb.

The chain is “best known for its amazingly fast drive-through,
specialty coffee and baked-from-scratch pastries,” a company representative said.

“Scooter’s Coffee is approaching 450 stores in 23 states
nationwide,” the representative said. 

Its franchise disclosure document for 2021 also showed the
company is expanding inside of their locations as well, with an increase in
same-store sales of more than 26 percent — and the model planned for Hays did
even better, with 31 percent growth reported.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to report such impressive
growth, especially given the challenges introduced in 2020,” said Scooter’s
Coffee vice president of franchise sales, Tim Arpin, in a press release announcing
the 2021 trends. “We’re most proud of the fact that it emphasizes the trust our
brand has with customers.

“Everyone watched their spending last year, and yet so many
customers saw our products and service worthy of their dollar,” he said. “That’s
incredibly exciting for the brand, its franchisees and those looking to join
the Scooter’s Coffee family going forward.”

And while Scooters will join a number of local and national
chain coffee shops in Hays, industry growth trends show no end in sight.

According to Statista, revenue in the coffee market segment amounted
to more than $90 million in the U.S. in 2022 and is expected to grow annually by
4.34 percent.

And “by 2025, 89 percent of spending and 21 percent of volume consumption
in the coffee segment will be attributable to out-of-home consumption,” Statista
said, with total volume growth of 1.9 percent projected in that same time frame.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1648839392128.jpeg" alt="Scooter's has announced a location is coming to Hays and is expected to open this summer.&nbsp; Photo by Cole Reif / Great Bend Post" />
 <figcaption>Scooter's has announced a location is coming to Hays and is expected to open this summer.&nbsp; Photo by Cole Reif / Great Bend Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostNebraska-based Scooter’s Coffee has announced a Hays
location is expected to open this summer.While details remain sparse, the chain confirmed a Hays
location is planned at 2405 Vine. The property was previously home to Lucky Buffet.A Scooter’s Coffee representative said a new building is
planned for the location and will follow its drive-through kiosk model.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1648839392126.jpeg" alt="The building at 2405 Vine, which was previously the Lucky Buffet, will soon be home to a new building as Scooter's Coffee plans to move into Hays this summer." />
 <figcaption>The building at 2405 Vine, which was previously the Lucky Buffet, will soon be home to a new building as Scooter's Coffee plans to move into Hays this summer.</figcaption>
 </figure>An opening is expected in June or early July and the
business will employ about 15 people, he said.Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue,
Neb., Scooter’s Coffee headquarters are in Omaha, Neb.The chain is “best known for its amazingly fast drive-through,
specialty coffee and baked-from-scratch pastries,” a company representative said.“Scooter’s Coffee is approaching 450 stores in 23 states
nationwide,” the representative said. Its franchise disclosure document for 2021 also showed the
company is expanding inside of their locations as well, with an increase in
same-store sales of more than 26 percent — and the model planned for Hays did
even better, with 31 percent growth reported.“We couldn’t be more thrilled to report such impressive
growth, especially given the challenges introduced in 2020,” said Scooter’s
Coffee vice president of franchise sales, Tim Arpin, in a press release announcing
the 2021 trends. “We’re most proud of the fact that it emphasizes the trust our
brand has with customers.“Everyone watched their spending last year, and yet so many
customers saw our products and service worthy of their dollar,” he said. “That’s
incredibly exciting for the brand, its franchisees and those looking to join
the Scooter’s Coffee family going forward.”And while Scooters will join a number of local and national
chain coffee shops in Hays, industry growth trends show no end in sight.According to Statista, revenue in the coffee market segment amounted
to more than $90 million in the U.S. in 2022 and is expected to grow annually by
4.34 percent.And “by 2025, 89 percent of spending and 21 percent of volume consumption
in the coffee segment will be attributable to out-of-home consumption,” Statista
said, with total volume growth of 1.9 percent projected in that same time frame.Statista said, “value sales of coffee have been propelled in
recent years by the out-of-home sector, which is more relevant in this segment
than in many other drinks categories.”Statista added premium coffee drink sales have grown as coffee
moves from a way to obtain caffeine into more of an experience.That Scooter’s menu “includes a number of signature drinks including the Caramelicious,
along with an array of specialty espresso beverages, single-origin coffee,
fruit smoothies, Red Bull infusions, cold brew, baked-from-scratch pastries
and breakfast options,” according to the company.Bringing their menu to the area is one of the primary
reasons cited for choosing Hays as a location for a new site.“New Scooter’s Coffee locations are chosen by a number of
factors,” the spokesman said. “A lot of times, the franchisees have a
connection to the community. Other times, we see that a community shares our
core values. But no matter what the case may be, we see a need for specialty
coffee in your area.”<a href="https://www.scooterscoffee.com/">For more information about Scooter’s Coffee, visit their website,
scooterscoffee.com.</a><figure>
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