The Heartland Community Foundation raised $410,145 for Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties during its fifth-annual Twice As Nice campaign in February – surpassing its goal and earning all of the matching funds available from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.

Heartland raised almost $185,145 from donors: $63,410 in Rooks County, $62,000 in Ellis County, and $59,735 in Trego County. The Hansen Foundation committed matching dollars up to $50,000 per county, plus a bonus $25,000 per county for the foundation’s administrative fund upon reaching the goal.

Thanks to the generous community support, tenacious board members, and business partnerships, Heartland was able to capture all of the match dollars, which added $225,000 to the total.

Money raised will be invested into the foundation’s county grant endowment funds, which make funds available to award as grants to local nonprofits, charitable programs and projects. The money raised in each county stays in that county.

Donations in Ellis County increased more than 20 percent compared to a year ago. That increase was helped in part by a special initiative led by Hays-area banks. Every bank in Hays donated to the campaign, putting their collective total at almost $7,500.

Donations varied in amount, but ranged from $50 to $1,000 each. Participating banks included: Astra Bank, Bank of Hays, Central National Bank, Commerce Bank, Emprise Bank, Equity Bank, Farmers Credit Union, First Kansas Bank, Golden Belt Bank, Golden Plains Credit Union, Gorham State Bank, High Plains Farm Credit, and Sunflower Bank.

“It is awesome to see all of the banks and financial institutions in Ellis County come together and raise money for Heartland Community Foundation,” said Josh Dreher, HCF board member and senior vice president at Bank of Hays. “When I made the ask, it was obvious that each institution wanted to be a part of an effort that will leave a lasting impact in Ellis County. I am proud to be a part of the banking community and Heartland Community Foundation.”

Several of the banks hosted special initiatives during the month to encourage employees to give, as well. First Kansas Bank and Bank of Hays both had “blue jeans” days during the month, for an employee donation on top of their corporate donations. Bank of Hays employees raised $860.

Golden Belt Bank hosted a “healthy habits” program all month long. For every “healthy habit” an employee noted, the bank made a donation to Heartland. The entity ended up donating $1,000.

Because of the success of the annual Twice As Nice campaign and the commitment of matching funds from the Hansen Foundation, the county grant endowment funds have each passed the half-million mark in just five years. The current balance of those funds is: $572,728 (Ellis County), $541,956 (Rooks County), and $535,282 (Trego County).

“We are so grateful to our community of supporters in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties," said Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation. “We were unsure how the economic climate might impact giving, but the communities exceeded our expectations.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618336567135.jpeg" alt="Golden Belt Bank hosted a “healthy habits” program. For every “healthy habit” an employee noted, the bank made a donation to the Heartland Community Foundation. The bank donated $1,000." />
 <figcaption>Golden Belt Bank hosted a “healthy habits” program. For every “healthy habit” an employee noted, the bank made a donation to the Heartland Community Foundation. The bank donated $1,000.</figcaption>
 </figure>Heartland Community FoundationThe Heartland Community Foundation raised $410,145 for Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties during its fifth-annual Twice As Nice campaign in February – surpassing its goal and earning all of the matching funds available from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.Heartland raised almost $185,145 from donors: $63,410 in Rooks County, $62,000 in Ellis County, and $59,735 in Trego County. The Hansen Foundation committed matching dollars up to $50,000 per county, plus a bonus $25,000 per county for the foundation’s administrative fund upon reaching the goal.Thanks to the generous community support, tenacious board members, and business partnerships, Heartland was able to capture all of the match dollars, which added $225,000 to the total.Money raised will be invested into the foundation’s county grant endowment funds, which make funds available to award as grants to local nonprofits, charitable programs and projects. The money raised in each county stays in that county.Donations in Ellis County increased more than 20 percent compared to a year ago. That increase was helped in part by a special initiative led by Hays-area banks. Every bank in Hays donated to the campaign, putting their collective total at almost $7,500.Donations varied in amount, but ranged from $50 to $1,000 each. Participating banks included: Astra Bank, Bank of Hays, Central National Bank, Commerce Bank, Emprise Bank, Equity Bank, Farmers Credit Union, First Kansas Bank, Golden Belt Bank, Golden Plains Credit Union, Gorham State Bank, High Plains Farm Credit, and Sunflower Bank.“It is awesome to see all of the banks and financial institutions in Ellis County come together and raise money for Heartland Community Foundation,” said Josh Dreher, HCF board member and senior vice president at Bank of Hays. “When I made the ask, it was obvious that each institution wanted to be a part of an effort that will leave a lasting impact in Ellis County. I am proud to be a part of the banking community and Heartland Community Foundation.”Several of the banks hosted special initiatives during the month to encourage employees to give, as well. First Kansas Bank and Bank of Hays both had “blue jeans” days during the month, for an employee donation on top of their corporate donations. Bank of Hays employees raised $860.Golden Belt Bank hosted a “healthy habits” program all month long. For every “healthy habit” an employee noted, the bank made a donation to Heartland. The entity ended up donating $1,000.Because of the success of the annual Twice As Nice campaign and the commitment of matching funds from the Hansen Foundation, the county grant endowment funds have each passed the half-million mark in just five years. The current balance of those funds is: $572,728 (Ellis County), $541,956 (Rooks County), and $535,282 (Trego County).“We are so grateful to our community of supporters in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties," said Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation. “We were unsure how the economic climate might impact giving, but the communities exceeded our expectations.”

Heartland raises $410,145 for Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties

Governor Laura Kelly just took an interesting tack on the Kansas Legislature’s bill prohibiting Transgender girls from competing in girls’ athletics.&nbsp; She calls it a job killer.&nbsp; Is she right?	

	Kelly noted that states like North Carolina have experienced companies moving out of,&nbsp; or refusing to relocate into their state due to discriminatory laws.&nbsp; Georgia’s restrictive new election laws have also generated calls for corporate boycotts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

	The Governor is alluding to an idea called the creative class, advanced in the early 2000s by urban studies professor Richard Florida.&nbsp; He argued that a new social class was beginning to shape American politics and society.&nbsp; They combine college education, professional aspirations, and socially-liberal values.&nbsp; The creative class questions traditional institutions.&nbsp; They are less likely to get married or go to church, for example. They also reinvented the workplace.&nbsp; Increasingly, in the professional world you are judged on what you accomplished, not where you worked, what schedule you kept, or how you dressed.&nbsp; Work facilities such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft headquarters incorporate coffee bars, gyms, outdoor recreational areas, and child care centers.&nbsp; Kansas City’s massive Cerner headquarters also has many of these.&nbsp; Long before the pandemic and Zoom, Florida envisioned more and more professionals working on laptops while sitting on park benches or in coffeehouses.&nbsp; 	

	According to Florida, this new creative class celebrates tolerance.&nbsp; Even those not directly affected still perceive a community hostile to its Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) neighbors as being equally hostile to the inventive, nontraditional new approaches to work, family and play embraced by creatives.&nbsp; It would also be unwelcome to their friends and family who are LGBT.&nbsp; Non-inclusive communities would be passed over by employers because they could not recruit their creative, often (but not always) college-educated employees to move there.&nbsp;&nbsp;

	A few years ago, Amazon announced after an intense competition that it was building a second headquarters in the Virginia suburbs of Washington, DC.&nbsp; Even with generous tax breaks, that area has a much higher cost of doing business than many other possible locations.&nbsp; However, it offered the right mix-- a transportation hub and a cosmopolitan metropolitan area attracting the creative class professionals that Amazon needs.

	In some ways, the theory appears to fit Kansas.&nbsp; This state’s highest-growth locations are suburbs such as Johnson County, along with the larger college towns, Lawrence and Manhattan.&nbsp; Responsible for 25% of the state’s GDP, JoCo is represented by Sharice Davids, who is lesbian, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress, and the state’s only Congressional Democrat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

	Then again, Florida’s analysis has also faced withering criticism.&nbsp; Not all creative class workers are socially liberal.&nbsp; Also, workers still go where they can find jobs, particularly when jobs are scarce.&nbsp; There is also a cause-and-effect issue.&nbsp; Do more professionals make a place tolerant, or vice-versa?&nbsp; Finally, will creatives decide if they can live here based on the statewide environment, or that of specific communities like Lawrence?&nbsp; Consider Austin, Texas.&nbsp; Austin is one of the nation’s premier creative class hubs, attracting many people who disagree with Texas’ statewide political climate.

	To be clear: this “Trans ban” is a completely unneeded attack on the personhood of Trans girls.&nbsp; It mandates discrimination based on fearmongering and ignorance about science.&nbsp; It is a blatant, politicized attempt to drive a wedge between advocates for girls’ sports and advocates for Transgender rights.&nbsp; However, the Governor’s economic argument is not the strongest case against this bill.&nbsp; There are plenty of others.&nbsp; 

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579108824567.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly just took an interesting tack on the Kansas Legislature’s bill prohibiting Transgender girls from competing in girls’ athletics.&nbsp; She calls it a job killer.&nbsp; Is she right?		Kelly noted that states like North Carolina have experienced companies moving out of,&nbsp; or refusing to relocate into their state due to discriminatory laws.&nbsp; Georgia’s restrictive new election laws have also generated calls for corporate boycotts.&nbsp;&nbsp;	The Governor is alluding to an idea called the creative class, advanced in the early 2000s by urban studies professor Richard Florida.&nbsp; He argued that a new social class was beginning to shape American politics and society.&nbsp; They combine college education, professional aspirations, and socially-liberal values.&nbsp; The creative class questions traditional institutions.&nbsp; They are less likely to get married or go to church, for example. They also reinvented the workplace.&nbsp; Increasingly, in the professional world you are judged on what you accomplished, not where you worked, what schedule you kept, or how you dressed.&nbsp; Work facilities such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft headquarters incorporate coffee bars, gyms, outdoor recreational areas, and child care centers.&nbsp; Kansas City’s massive Cerner headquarters also has many of these.&nbsp; Long before the pandemic and Zoom, Florida envisioned more and more professionals working on laptops while sitting on park benches or in coffeehouses.&nbsp; 		According to Florida, this new creative class celebrates tolerance.&nbsp; Even those not directly affected still perceive a community hostile to its Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) neighbors as being equally hostile to the inventive, nontraditional new approaches to work, family and play embraced by creatives.&nbsp; It would also be unwelcome to their friends and family who are LGBT.&nbsp; Non-inclusive communities would be passed over by employers because they could not recruit their creative, often (but not always) college-educated employees to move there.&nbsp;&nbsp;	A few years ago, Amazon announced after an intense competition that it was building a second headquarters in the Virginia suburbs of Washington, DC.&nbsp; Even with generous tax breaks, that area has a much higher cost of doing business than many other possible locations.&nbsp; However, it offered the right mix-- a transportation hub and a cosmopolitan metropolitan area attracting the creative class professionals that Amazon needs.	In some ways, the theory appears to fit Kansas.&nbsp; This state’s highest-growth locations are suburbs such as Johnson County, along with the larger college towns, Lawrence and Manhattan.&nbsp; Responsible for 25% of the state’s GDP, JoCo is represented by Sharice Davids, who is lesbian, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress, and the state’s only Congressional Democrat.&nbsp;&nbsp;	Then again, Florida’s analysis has also faced withering criticism.&nbsp; Not all creative class workers are socially liberal.&nbsp; Also, workers still go where they can find jobs, particularly when jobs are scarce.&nbsp; There is also a cause-and-effect issue.&nbsp; Do more professionals make a place tolerant, or vice-versa?&nbsp; Finally, will creatives decide if they can live here based on the statewide environment, or that of specific communities like Lawrence?&nbsp; Consider Austin, Texas.&nbsp; Austin is one of the nation’s premier creative class hubs, attracting many people who disagree with Texas’ statewide political climate.	To be clear: this “Trans ban” is a completely unneeded attack on the personhood of Trans girls.&nbsp; It mandates discrimination based on fearmongering and ignorance about science.&nbsp; It is a blatant, politicized attempt to drive a wedge between advocates for girls’ sports and advocates for Transgender rights.&nbsp; However, the Governor’s economic argument is not the strongest case against this bill.&nbsp; There are plenty of others.&nbsp; Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Is the trans ban a job killer?

Three-day weather outlook

The City of Hays is looking for their next employee to be a lifeline for citizens of Ellis County as well as Law Enforcement, Fire, &amp; EMS personnel. Dispatchers are responsible for making sure citizens get quick responses for the help they need by answering both emergency &amp; non-emergency calls.

The work schedule includes 12-hour shifts which provides for 7 days off within a 14-day period including every other weekend off.&nbsp; Weekends &amp; holidays required.

Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate.&nbsp;All Dispatchers are required to live within a 40-mile radius of the City of Hays within 6 months of employment.

Starting Base Pay: $16.07/hour with mandatory overtime plus holiday pay compensation.&nbsp; Additional pay may be given for previous experience with opportunities to advance to a Senior Dispatcher.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays also offers great benefits.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysusa.com/dispatcher">www.haysusa.com/dispatcher</a>&nbsp;for more information on benefits and how to apply.&nbsp; Contact Human Resources by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or calling 785-628-7320 for any questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618415536043.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Hays is looking for their next employee to be a lifeline for citizens of Ellis County as well as Law Enforcement, Fire, &amp; EMS personnel. Dispatchers are responsible for making sure citizens get quick responses for the help they need by answering both emergency &amp; non-emergency calls.The work schedule includes 12-hour shifts which provides for 7 days off within a 14-day period including every other weekend off.&nbsp; Weekends &amp; holidays required.Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate.&nbsp;All Dispatchers are required to live within a 40-mile radius of the City of Hays within 6 months of employment.Starting Base Pay: $16.07/hour with mandatory overtime plus holiday pay compensation.&nbsp; Additional pay may be given for previous experience with opportunities to advance to a Senior Dispatcher.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays also offers great benefits.Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysusa.com/dispatcher">www.haysusa.com/dispatcher</a>&nbsp;for more information on benefits and how to apply.&nbsp; Contact Human Resources by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or calling 785-628-7320 for any questions.

NWS: Front will bring cold air, precipitation to northwest Kan.

Hays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary have revised the school’s policy regarding the wearing of facial masks within school buildings.&nbsp;

Beginning April 23, the wearing of masks by students and staff will no longer be mandated. However, guidelines for safety will be enforced.&nbsp;

The decision to revise the masking policy is based on reports of community positive cases of COVID-19 over a period of time, CDC guidelines and collaboration with the Ellis County Health Department and local medical authorities. If COVID-19 numbers increase, the schools reserve the right to reinstate the current mask mandate.

Holy Family Elementary will require students and staff to wear facial masks during arrival to and dismissal from the school building. HFE students will not be required to wear masks while with their cohort groups throughout the day.&nbsp;

TMP-Marian will not require the use of facial masks in the school buildings unless required by the teacher. Students and staff will be encouraged to carry masks with them in the event prolonged close contact is unavoidable.&nbsp;

Both TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary will continue to encourage social distancing and hand hygiene throughout the day. Visitors to the schools may be required to wear a facial mask depending on specific circumstances.&nbsp; External guidelines will be enforced such as school district transportation and KSHSAA regulations.

These decisions have not been made lightly. They are with strong regard for the health and well-being of our students, staff and community. As we approach the conclusion of another successful school year, we are grateful that we have been able to maintain in-person learning and look forward to ending the school year with joy and good health.

SubmittedHays Catholic Schools, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary have revised the school’s policy regarding the wearing of facial masks within school buildings.&nbsp;Beginning April 23, the wearing of masks by students and staff will no longer be mandated. However, guidelines for safety will be enforced.&nbsp;The decision to revise the masking policy is based on reports of community positive cases of COVID-19 over a period of time, CDC guidelines and collaboration with the Ellis County Health Department and local medical authorities. If COVID-19 numbers increase, the schools reserve the right to reinstate the current mask mandate.Holy Family Elementary will require students and staff to wear facial masks during arrival to and dismissal from the school building. HFE students will not be required to wear masks while with their cohort groups throughout the day.&nbsp;TMP-Marian will not require the use of facial masks in the school buildings unless required by the teacher. Students and staff will be encouraged to carry masks with them in the event prolonged close contact is unavoidable.&nbsp;Both TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary will continue to encourage social distancing and hand hygiene throughout the day. Visitors to the schools may be required to wear a facial mask depending on specific circumstances.&nbsp; External guidelines will be enforced such as school district transportation and KSHSAA regulations.These decisions have not been made lightly. They are with strong regard for the health and well-being of our students, staff and community. As we approach the conclusion of another successful school year, we are grateful that we have been able to maintain in-person learning and look forward to ending the school year with joy and good health.

Holy Family Elementary/TMP-Marian announce mask policy revision

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Thomas More Prep-Marian will present Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Phantom of the Opera" tonight through Sunday in a performance dedicated to their former music director&nbsp;Jim Balthazor.

Showtimes are 7 p.m. tonight, Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the TMP&nbsp;Dreiling Theater, 1701 Hall. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/phantom/">online</a>.

Travis Grizzell, director, said he knew he had a special group of talented seniors this year and wanted to have something special for them to perform their last year in high school.

"Right before the pandemic hit and we went to remote learning, my music director at the time, Jim Balthazor, and I were having a hard time selecting a musical for this year," Grizzell said.

"I made a side note to myself about Phantom, and I finally brought it up to him.  He just said 'What the hell, let's get crazy.'"

Auditions were held in June for what was supposed to be a fall musical.

"The fall semester came and things were not better pandemic-wise, and we just couldn't do a musical, so we decided to postpone until the spring. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27668c6a-8208-43f4-9117-5337684ab3cc">Later that fall, we lost Jim</a>," Grizzell said.

Alexandra Rome, who was going to help with vocals anyway, stepped into the full role of music director and the school is finally getting to present the show it began over a year ago.&nbsp;

"These young people have been through a lot this year, and the fact that we're doing a musical at all is amazing.  Our show is dedicated to Mr. Jim Balthazor," Grizzell said.

Ben Pfannenstiel, senior, is the Phantom and has inhabited a role that really showcases his range and talent, Grizzell said.

"Our two female leads, Maggie Baalmann (Christine) and Madelyn Seiler (Carlotta) are nothing short of amazing," Grizzell said. "They're extremely gifted vocalists and are naturals on the stage."

Seiler&nbsp;has also done a lot of choreography for TMP's last few musicals, and&nbsp;Baalmann is always involved with stage art and painting. 

"Like the rest of the cast, they've worked hard, are very talented, and excited to finally unveil our production," Grizzell said.

"Phantom of the Opera" is the longest-running show in Broadway history and has been seen by more than 140 million people worldwide.

"The Phantom of the Opera" tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it, according to the TMP website.

 He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command, the site said.

Jensen Brull - Auctioneer, Don Attilo, Passarino Ben Pfannenstiel – The Phantom of the Opera Hunter Flax – Raoul the Vicomte de Chagny Nathan Stecklein – Ubaldo Piangi Aidan Normandin&nbsp;– Monsieur Gilles Andre Seth Perrett&nbsp;– Joseph Buquet/Fire Chief Nick Herrman&nbsp;– Monsieur Reyer Aakash Patel&nbsp;– Monsieur Richard Firmin Travis Grizzell&nbsp;– Monsieur Lefevre

Julianna Baalmann&nbsp;– Slave, Chorus/Ensemble Allison Weber&nbsp;– Fop 1, Slave, Ensemble/Chorus Natalie Loftus&nbsp;– Meg Giry Madelyn Seiler&nbsp;– Carlotta Giudicelli Izzy Peine&nbsp;– Slave Master, Ballet Chorus McKynlee Stecklein&nbsp;– Confidante, Ballet Chorus Mary Greenwood&nbsp;– Slave, Maid, Chorus/Ensemble Kadrian Ayarza&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Chorus/Ensemble Delaney Staab&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Chorus/Ensemble

Morgan Olmstead&nbsp;– Madame Firmin, Persian Princess, Chorus/Ensemble Ashley Hipp&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Chorus/Ensemble Maggie Brull&nbsp;– Madame Giri Maggie Baalmann&nbsp;– Christine Daae Anabelle Leach&nbsp;– Nurse, Chorus/Ensemble Jessica Herrman&nbsp;– Persian Guard, Chorus/Ensemble Avery Werth&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Fop 2, Chorus/Ensemble Whitney Befort&nbsp;– Persian Guard, Inn Keeper’s Wife, Chorus/Ensemble Kylie Dreiling&nbsp;– Porter/Chorus

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618416024571.jpeg" alt="The Phantom (Ben Pfannenstiel)&nbsp;attempts to charm the&nbsp;soprano Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;in Thomas More Prep-Marian's presentation of "The Phantom of the Opera."" />
 <figcaption>The Phantom (Ben Pfannenstiel)&nbsp;attempts to charm the&nbsp;soprano Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;in Thomas More Prep-Marian's presentation of "The Phantom of the Opera."</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThomas More Prep-Marian will present Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Phantom of the Opera" tonight through Sunday in a performance dedicated to their former music director&nbsp;Jim Balthazor.Showtimes are 7 p.m. tonight, Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the TMP&nbsp;Dreiling Theater, 1701 Hall. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/phantom/">online</a>.Travis Grizzell, director, said he knew he had a special group of talented seniors this year and wanted to have something special for them to perform their last year in high school."Right before the pandemic hit and we went to remote learning, my music director at the time, Jim Balthazor, and I were having a hard time selecting a musical for this year," Grizzell said."I made a side note to myself about Phantom, and I finally brought it up to him. He just said 'What the hell, let's get crazy.'"Auditions were held in June for what was supposed to be a fall musical.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618448318361.png" alt="Jim Balthazor" />
 <figcaption>Jim Balthazor</figcaption>
 </figure>"The fall semester came and things were not better pandemic-wise, and we just couldn't do a musical, so we decided to postpone until the spring. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27668c6a-8208-43f4-9117-5337684ab3cc">Later that fall, we lost Jim</a>," Grizzell said.Alexandra Rome, who was going to help with vocals anyway, stepped into the full role of music director and the school is finally getting to present the show it began over a year ago.&nbsp;"These young people have been through a lot this year, and the fact that we're doing a musical at all is amazing. Our show is dedicated to Mr. Jim Balthazor," Grizzell said.Ben Pfannenstiel, senior, is the Phantom and has inhabited a role that really showcases his range and talent, Grizzell said."Our two female leads, Maggie Baalmann (Christine) and Madelyn Seiler (Carlotta) are nothing short of amazing," Grizzell said. "They're extremely gifted vocalists and are naturals on the stage."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618416850964.jpeg" alt="The Phantom (Ben Pfannenstiel)&nbsp;leads Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;to his lair in the catacombs beneath Paris." />
 <figcaption>The Phantom (Ben Pfannenstiel)&nbsp;leads Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;to his lair in the catacombs beneath Paris.</figcaption>
 </figure>They are both juniors at TMP-Marian.Seiler&nbsp;has also done a lot of choreography for TMP's last few musicals, and&nbsp;Baalmann is always involved with stage art and painting. "Like the rest of the cast, they've worked hard, are very talented, and excited to finally unveil our production," Grizzell said."Phantom of the Opera" is the longest-running show in Broadway history and has been seen by more than 140 million people worldwide."The Phantom of the Opera" tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it, according to the TMP website. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command, the site said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618417079804.jpeg" alt="The Phantom (Ben Pfannenstiel)&nbsp;in his lair in the catacombs of Paris." />
 <figcaption>The Phantom (Ben Pfannenstiel)&nbsp;in his lair in the catacombs of Paris.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Cast</h2>Jensen Brull - Auctioneer, Don Attilo, Passarino Ben Pfannenstiel – The Phantom of the Opera Hunter Flax – Raoul the Vicomte de Chagny Nathan Stecklein – Ubaldo Piangi Aidan Normandin&nbsp;– Monsieur Gilles Andre Seth Perrett&nbsp;– Joseph Buquet/Fire Chief Nick Herrman&nbsp;– Monsieur Reyer Aakash Patel&nbsp;– Monsieur Richard Firmin Travis Grizzell&nbsp;– Monsieur Lefevre<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618417146425.jpeg" alt="Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;receives a rose from her anonymous vocal tutor after a performance at the Paris Opera House." />
 <figcaption>Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;receives a rose from her anonymous vocal tutor after a performance at the Paris Opera House.</figcaption>
 </figure>Julianna Baalmann&nbsp;– Slave, Chorus/Ensemble Allison Weber&nbsp;– Fop 1, Slave, Ensemble/Chorus Natalie Loftus&nbsp;– Meg Giry Madelyn Seiler&nbsp;– Carlotta Giudicelli Izzy Peine&nbsp;– Slave Master, Ballet Chorus McKynlee Stecklein&nbsp;– Confidante, Ballet Chorus Mary Greenwood&nbsp;– Slave, Maid, Chorus/Ensemble Kadrian Ayarza&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Chorus/Ensemble Delaney Staab&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Chorus/Ensemble <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618417103316.jpeg" alt="Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;performs at the Paris Opera House" />
 <figcaption>Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;performs at the Paris Opera House</figcaption>
 </figure>Morgan Olmstead&nbsp;– Madame Firmin, Persian Princess, Chorus/Ensemble Ashley Hipp&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Chorus/Ensemble Maggie Brull&nbsp;– Madame Giri Maggie Baalmann&nbsp;– Christine Daae Anabelle Leach&nbsp;– Nurse, Chorus/Ensemble Jessica Herrman&nbsp;– Persian Guard, Chorus/Ensemble Avery Werth&nbsp;– Ballet Chorus, Fop 2, Chorus/Ensemble Whitney Befort&nbsp;– Persian Guard, Inn Keeper’s Wife, Chorus/Ensemble Kylie Dreiling&nbsp;– Porter/Chorus<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618417124035.jpeg" alt="Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;is reunited with her old friend after a performance at the opera house." />
 <figcaption>Christine (Maggie Baalmann)&nbsp;is reunited with her old friend after a performance at the opera house.</figcaption>
 </figure>

TMP's 'Phantom of the Opera' to go on without beloved music director

Kansas State Department of Education

Lisa Renz, an English teacher at Hays High School, Hays USD 489, was named as a semi-finalist for the Kansas Teacher of the Year program.

Renz was&nbsp;among six Teacher of the Year semifinalists from Region 1, which covers the first U.S. congressional district.&nbsp;This award recognizes excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state.

Each of the semifinalists will receive a red marble apple with a wooden base, compliments of The Master Teacher in Manhattan.

Susanne Stevenson, a fourth-grade teacher at Beeson Elementary School, Dodge City Unified School District 443, and Amber Carithers, an English language arts teacher at Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson USD 308, were named Region 1 finalists for the 2022 Kansas Teacher of the Year award during a virtual ceremony March 27.&nbsp;

In prior years, the Kansas Teacher of the Year finalist ceremony has taken place in person. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event took place virtually this year.

As finalists for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction, Stevenson and Carithers each will receive a $2,000 cash award from Security Benefit, the major corporate partner for the Kansas Teacher of the Year program. In addition, they are each now eligible to be named Kansas Teacher of the Year, which will be announced during a ceremony Sept 25 in Wichita.

Other semifinalists were Rachel Harder, a fourth-grade teacher at Union Valley Elementary School, Buhler USD 313; Kendra Stoppel, a first-grade teacher at Scott City Elementary School, Scott City USD 466; and Christi Reid, a seventh-grade mathematics teacher at Lyons Middle School, Lyons USD 405.

This year, 138 educators across the state were nominated for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction.

Nominations are made in each of four regions in the state. The Kansas State Department of Education, sponsor of the Kansas Teacher of the Year program, appoints regional selection panels comprised of teachers, education administrators and higher education representatives to select semifinalists and finalists from each region.

Each panel selects six semifinalists — three elementary teachers and three secondary teachers. From those semifinalists, the panel in each region then selects one elementary finalist and one secondary finalist. The Kansas Teacher of the Year is selected from among the state’s eight regional finalists.&nbsp;

The mission of the Kansas Teacher of the Year program is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.

The Kansas Teacher of the Year team, comprised of the Teacher of the Year and state finalists, serves as an ambassador for education in Kansas, making public appearances across the state promoting education and the teaching profession.

The individual selected as the Kansas Teacher of the Year is eligible for national distinction as National Teacher of the Year.

The National Teacher of the Year program is a project of the Council of Chief State School Officers in partnership with the Voya Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618348504042.jpeg" alt="Lisa Renz" />
 <figcaption>Lisa Renz</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State Department of EducationLisa Renz, an English teacher at Hays High School, Hays USD 489, was named as a semi-finalist for the Kansas Teacher of the Year program.Renz was&nbsp;among six Teacher of the Year semifinalists from Region 1, which covers the first U.S. congressional district.&nbsp;This award recognizes excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state.Each of the semifinalists will receive a red marble apple with a wooden base, compliments of The Master Teacher in Manhattan.Susanne Stevenson, a fourth-grade teacher at Beeson Elementary School, Dodge City Unified School District 443, and Amber Carithers, an English language arts teacher at Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson USD 308, were named Region 1 finalists for the 2022 Kansas Teacher of the Year award during a virtual ceremony March 27.&nbsp;In prior years, the Kansas Teacher of the Year finalist ceremony has taken place in person. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event took place virtually this year.As finalists for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction, Stevenson and Carithers each will receive a $2,000 cash award from Security Benefit, the major corporate partner for the Kansas Teacher of the Year program. In addition, they are each now eligible to be named Kansas Teacher of the Year, which will be announced during a ceremony Sept 25 in Wichita.Other semifinalists were Rachel Harder, a fourth-grade teacher at Union Valley Elementary School, Buhler USD 313; Kendra Stoppel, a first-grade teacher at Scott City Elementary School, Scott City USD 466; and Christi Reid, a seventh-grade mathematics teacher at Lyons Middle School, Lyons USD 405.This year, 138 educators across the state were nominated for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction.Nominations are made in each of four regions in the state. The Kansas State Department of Education, sponsor of the Kansas Teacher of the Year program, appoints regional selection panels comprised of teachers, education administrators and higher education representatives to select semifinalists and finalists from each region.Each panel selects six semifinalists — three elementary teachers and three secondary teachers. From those semifinalists, the panel in each region then selects one elementary finalist and one secondary finalist. The Kansas Teacher of the Year is selected from among the state’s eight regional finalists.&nbsp;The mission of the Kansas Teacher of the Year program is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.The Kansas Teacher of the Year team, comprised of the Teacher of the Year and state finalists, serves as an ambassador for education in Kansas, making public appearances across the state promoting education and the teaching profession.The individual selected as the Kansas Teacher of the Year is eligible for national distinction as National Teacher of the Year.The National Teacher of the Year program is a project of the Council of Chief State School Officers in partnership with the Voya Foundation.

Hays High teacher semifinalist for Kansas Teacher of the Year

Seven freshman students for the fall semester at Fort Hays State University have been selected to receive scholarships from the Rudd Foundation in Wichita.

Rudd Scholarship recipients are selected after a rigorous application process. Incoming, full-time, freshman Kansas students who qualify for Pell Grants are eligible to apply.

The scholarships cover any costs remaining after all other aid, grants and scholarships are applied to a student’s account. Cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, supplies, and room and board. Preference is given to first-generation and underrepresented students.

Students who were selected for scholarships and chose to attend Fort Hays State are listed by hometown.

DIGHTON:&nbsp;Lexis Beesley, a 2021 graduate of Dighton High School, plans to major in art (studio art).&nbsp;

LOGAN:&nbsp;Khloee Braun, a 2021 graduate of Logan High School, plans to major in biology (health professions).

ELLSWORTH: Logan Erichsen, a 2021 graduate of Ellsworth High School, plans to major in geosciences (geology).

CLYDE:&nbsp;Quin Girard, a 2021 graduate of Clifton-Clyde High School, plans to major in agriculture.

ASSARIA:&nbsp;Sadie James, a 2021 graduate of Southeast of Saline High School, plans to major in nursing.

ST. JOHN:&nbsp;Dylan Reed, a 2021 graduate of St. John Jr/Sr High School, plans to major in elementary education.

SALINA:&nbsp;Yaritza Vega, a 2021 graduate of Salina South High School, plans to major in nursing.

Students who choose to attend Wichita State University or Emporia State University are also eligible.

Leslie Rudd established the Rudd Foundation in 1998 to honor the Midwestern values that strengthen character and lead to a lifetime of success in business, community, and family. The foundation gives back in meaningful ways to help both people and organizations who possess the initiative, determination and capacity to achieve their goals and thereby make a positive impact for those around them. For more information, contact&nbsp;Corri Roberts, 316-847-4828,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:corri.roberts@ruddfoundation.org">corri.roberts@ruddfoundation.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618260262038.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsSeven freshman students for the fall semester at Fort Hays State University have been selected to receive scholarships from the Rudd Foundation in Wichita.Rudd Scholarship recipients are selected after a rigorous application process. Incoming, full-time, freshman Kansas students who qualify for Pell Grants are eligible to apply.The scholarships cover any costs remaining after all other aid, grants and scholarships are applied to a student’s account. Cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, supplies, and room and board. Preference is given to first-generation and underrepresented students.Students who were selected for scholarships and chose to attend Fort Hays State are listed by hometown.DIGHTON:&nbsp;Lexis Beesley, a 2021 graduate of Dighton High School, plans to major in art (studio art).&nbsp;LOGAN:&nbsp;Khloee Braun, a 2021 graduate of Logan High School, plans to major in biology (health professions).ELLSWORTH: Logan Erichsen, a 2021 graduate of Ellsworth High School, plans to major in geosciences (geology).CLYDE:&nbsp;Quin Girard, a 2021 graduate of Clifton-Clyde High School, plans to major in agriculture.ASSARIA:&nbsp;Sadie James, a 2021 graduate of Southeast of Saline High School, plans to major in nursing.ST. JOHN:&nbsp;Dylan Reed, a 2021 graduate of St. John Jr/Sr High School, plans to major in elementary education.SALINA:&nbsp;Yaritza Vega, a 2021 graduate of Salina South High School, plans to major in nursing.Students who choose to attend Wichita State University or Emporia State University are also eligible.<h2>About the Rudd Foundation</h2>Leslie Rudd established the Rudd Foundation in 1998 to honor the Midwestern values that strengthen character and lead to a lifetime of success in business, community, and family. The foundation gives back in meaningful ways to help both people and organizations who possess the initiative, determination and capacity to achieve their goals and thereby make a positive impact for those around them. For more information, contact&nbsp;Corri Roberts, 316-847-4828,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:corri.roberts@ruddfoundation.org">corri.roberts@ruddfoundation.org</a>

Rudd scholarships go to incoming freshmen at Fort Hays State

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt today recognized Jennifer Hecker, executive director of the Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, for her outstanding service to crime victims.

In a video presentation as part of this year’s virtual Crime Victims’ Rights Conference, Schmidt announced Hecker was the recipient of the Outstanding Community Based Advocate Award.

Hecker has served as the organization’s executive director since 2017. One of Hecker’s major achievements has been developing trauma-informed, community-based collaborations that support a broad spectrum of victims and survivors, including those who survive domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking in western Kansas.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler shared his support for Hecker’s recognition.

“I have been in law enforcement since 1993, and Options has always played a major role in our communities. Jennifer has taken the role of Options to the next level,” Scheibler said. “Jennifer spends countless hours, before the sun goes up and comes down, doing the behind-the-scenes work that makes Options what it is today.”

The annual recognition of those who provide outstanding service to victims of crime is taking place during the 23rd Annual Crime Victims’ Rights Conference, hosted this week by the governor and attorney general.

This conference is being held virtually for the first time and comes ahead of next week’s observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

The video highlighting all of this year’s award recipients is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/vvtQNvOIOyE" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/vvtQNvOIOyE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618435346379.jpeg" alt="Jennifer Hecker" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Hecker</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt today recognized Jennifer Hecker, executive director of the Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, for her outstanding service to crime victims.In a video presentation as part of this year’s virtual Crime Victims’ Rights Conference, Schmidt announced Hecker was the recipient of the Outstanding Community Based Advocate Award.Hecker has served as the organization’s executive director since 2017. One of Hecker’s major achievements has been developing trauma-informed, community-based collaborations that support a broad spectrum of victims and survivors, including those who survive domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking in western Kansas.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler shared his support for Hecker’s recognition.“I have been in law enforcement since 1993, and Options has always played a major role in our communities. Jennifer has taken the role of Options to the next level,” Scheibler said. “Jennifer spends countless hours, before the sun goes up and comes down, doing the behind-the-scenes work that makes Options what it is today.”The annual recognition of those who provide outstanding service to victims of crime is taking place during the 23rd Annual Crime Victims’ Rights Conference, hosted this week by the governor and attorney general.This conference is being held virtually for the first time and comes ahead of next week’s observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.The video highlighting all of this year’s award recipients is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/vvtQNvOIOyE" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/vvtQNvOIOyE</a>.

Options' Hecker recognized for service to crime victims

WICHITA — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will welcome 101 new U.S. citizens Friday at Wichita State University. Senior United States District Judge J. Thomas Marten will preside, and a clerk of the court will administer the Oath of Allegiance.

The citizenship candidates originate from 31 countries: Australia, Burma, Congo (Kinshasa), Cuba, El Salvador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Guinea, Haiti, Honduras, India, Iran, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Philippines, Portugal, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Togo, Turkey, Ukraine and Vietnam.

The citizenship candidates live in Bel Aire, Chanute, Deerfield, Dodge City, Garden City, Greensburg, Goodland, Haysville, Hugoton, Hutchinson, Independence, Kismet, Liberal, McConnell Air Force Base, Newton, Parsons, Salina, Sedgwick, St. Francis, Ulysses and Wichita.

The League of Women Voters will accept voter registration cards outside after the ceremony.

USCIS encourages new U.S. citizens and their families and friends to share their naturalization photos on social media using the hashtag #NewUSCitizen.

USCIS naturalized approximately 625,000 people in fiscal year 2020. More than seven million people have applied online for immigration benefits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618264461695.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USCISWICHITA — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will welcome 101 new U.S. citizens Friday at Wichita State University. Senior United States District Judge J. Thomas Marten will preside, and a clerk of the court will administer the Oath of Allegiance.The citizenship candidates originate from 31 countries: Australia, Burma, Congo (Kinshasa), Cuba, El Salvador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Guinea, Haiti, Honduras, India, Iran, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Philippines, Portugal, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Togo, Turkey, Ukraine and Vietnam.The citizenship candidates live in Bel Aire, Chanute, Deerfield, Dodge City, Garden City, Greensburg, Goodland, Haysville, Hugoton, Hutchinson, Independence, Kismet, Liberal, McConnell Air Force Base, Newton, Parsons, Salina, Sedgwick, St. Francis, Ulysses and Wichita.The League of Women Voters will accept voter registration cards outside after the ceremony.USCIS encourages new U.S. citizens and their families and friends to share their naturalization photos on social media using the hashtag #NewUSCitizen.USCIS naturalized approximately 625,000 people in fiscal year 2020. More than seven million people have applied online for immigration benefits.

Goodland, St. Francis residents among 101 to become U.S. citizens

Gen. Colin L. Powell will deliver the following remarks at the Freedom Forum’s <a href="https://www.freeexpressionawards.org/" target="_blank">2021 Free Expression Awards</a>
 celebration tonight, April 15, at 7 p.m. Eastern. Powell, former U.S. 
secretary of state and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is the 
recipient of the event’s Global Freedom of Expression Leadership Award. 
His remarks have been edited for clarity and length.

Good evening everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be with you as you 
pay tribute to all of these wonderful people who have been involved in 
the work of your group and who also represent the kind of fantastic 
things that we have to say about what we are doing with respect to 
freedom of speech.

I have a deep sense of feeling for what you stand for. I have been an
 American in public life for going on 50 years. The first 35 of them 
were to be a soldier. One of the responsibilities I had was to defend 
the Constitution of the United States, to defend the United States of 
America.

One of the things I had to defend was not just fighting an enemy but 
dealing with another enemy that could come about: somebody trying to 
shut down freedom of speech. I believe the First Amendment, the first 
element of the Bill of Rights, is one of the most important elements of 
our Constitution and especially of all the amendments to the 
Constitution.

What do I mean? I was fighting for freedom of speech. I was serving 
my country for freedom of religion. I was doing everything I could to 
protect my country in every single way with respect to what we stand for
 — not just battles or armies but things, visions, what we’re doing here
 tonight.

In the military I would occasionally get into little fights with some
 members of the media. I like working with the media. I trust the media,
 and I hope the media trusts me.

But you have to understand this: I will help the media in every way 
to give them all the information I have and they need, with one 
exception. I also have to protect the soldiers of the United States of 
America. There’s always a bit of a conflict in how close we can come 
between these two objectives. My responsibility as a soldier and as a 
citizen is to tell the public, tell my fellow citizens, all I can as 
long as I’m not putting soldiers’ lives at risk.

The people I worked with in the Army were putting their lives at 
risk. I had to defend the rights that they had: the rights to come home 
safely … and to always believe in and get ready to fight for freedom of 
the press, freedom of religion, and all the other freedoms that line up 
in your wonderful organization and in our wonderful country.

So I want to thank all of you for coming together tonight to give 
awards to these individuals. I am especially honored and pleased that 
you would see me fit to give me an award of this kind.

But I want to tell you this: Many times people said, “Tell us more.” 
No. I will tell you what I can, but I will not give away things you 
should not have.

I’ve tried hard to always be honest with the public, to be honest 
with the press. The press is the public, the public is the press. That’s
 what we’re all about. I cannot imagine an America that does not believe
 in these values.

I cannot imagine that I fought for an America that did not realize 
what freedom of speech, freedom of religion and all the other freedoms 
are about. That’s the America I fought for. That’s the America I believe
 in. That’s the America so many Americans believe in.

We have to stand up against those Americans who see fit not to 
support us. This is what we do for a living. This is what I’m prepared 
to give my life for.

My right to speak out, your right to speak out, this is what the 
foundation’s all about, what you guys are all about. This is what makes 
your organization so impressive and so important to the nation. I also 
want to thank you again for what you have done to honor those of us who 
have received the honor.

I’m not sure I really deserve it compared to those members of the 
press, members of the media who have also put themselves in danger 
without being able to defend themselves. … We could not be the country 
we are if it wasn’t for those of you who … tell us the truth and fight 
against those who will not tell us the truth.

I’ve always tried to do it. I’ve gotten in trouble a few times in the
 military or even in civilian life, when I pushed back and said, “No. 
Won’t do it. Can’t do it.”

“Because I’m violating the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. But 
more importantly, I’m violating the people of the United States, who are
 expecting me to do it the way I’ve said I will do it, the way I’ve been
 told to do it by the Constitution, and the way I have been told to do 
it by every one of my fellow citizens.”

When I see something wrong, I will speak out about it. I’ve done that
 a number of times — with the flag, several times. Honor the flag. Honor
 what it stands for. But if you want to burn it, you have the freedom to
 do that. It is a piece of cloth that has been purchased by a civilian. 
That piece of cloth is owned by that civilian to use in whatever way 
that civilian wants. I hope he won’t (burn) it, but he has a right and 
the freedom to do it. Because he has that right and freedom, I have 
protected my rights and my freedoms.

It’s a great pleasure to be with you tonight to share this evening 
with all those who have been given honors, and to give my best wishes to
 the Freedom Forum. You are making a difference.

Tonight’s virtual<a href="https://www.freeexpressionawards.org/" target="_blank"> Free Expression Awards</a> ceremony is free and open to all. It begins at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618493549258.png" alt="Gen. Colin Powell" />
 <figcaption>Gen. Colin Powell</figcaption>
 </figure>Gen. Colin L. Powell will deliver the following remarks at the Freedom Forum’s <a href="https://www.freeexpressionawards.org/" target="_blank">2021 Free Expression Awards</a>
 celebration tonight, April 15, at 7 p.m. Eastern. Powell, former U.S. 
secretary of state and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is the 
recipient of the event’s Global Freedom of Expression Leadership Award. 
His remarks have been edited for clarity and length.Good evening everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be with you as you 
pay tribute to all of these wonderful people who have been involved in 
the work of your group and who also represent the kind of fantastic 
things that we have to say about what we are doing with respect to 
freedom of speech.I have a deep sense of feeling for what you stand for. I have been an
 American in public life for going on 50 years. The first 35 of them 
were to be a soldier. One of the responsibilities I had was to defend 
the Constitution of the United States, to defend the United States of 
America.One of the things I had to defend was not just fighting an enemy but 
dealing with another enemy that could come about: somebody trying to 
shut down freedom of speech. I believe the First Amendment, the first 
element of the Bill of Rights, is one of the most important elements of 
our Constitution and especially of all the amendments to the 
Constitution.What do I mean? I was fighting for freedom of speech. I was serving 
my country for freedom of religion. I was doing everything I could to 
protect my country in every single way with respect to what we stand for
 — not just battles or armies but things, visions, what we’re doing here
 tonight.In the military I would occasionally get into little fights with some
 members of the media. I like working with the media. I trust the media,
 and I hope the media trusts me.But you have to understand this: I will help the media in every way 
to give them all the information I have and they need, with one 
exception. I also have to protect the soldiers of the United States of 
America. There’s always a bit of a conflict in how close we can come 
between these two objectives. My responsibility as a soldier and as a 
citizen is to tell the public, tell my fellow citizens, all I can as 
long as I’m not putting soldiers’ lives at risk.The people I worked with in the Army were putting their lives at 
risk. I had to defend the rights that they had: the rights to come home 
safely … and to always believe in and get ready to fight for freedom of 
the press, freedom of religion, and all the other freedoms that line up 
in your wonderful organization and in our wonderful country.So I want to thank all of you for coming together tonight to give 
awards to these individuals. I am especially honored and pleased that 
you would see me fit to give me an award of this kind.But I want to tell you this: Many times people said, “Tell us more.” 
No. I will tell you what I can, but I will not give away things you 
should not have.I’ve tried hard to always be honest with the public, to be honest 
with the press. The press is the public, the public is the press. That’s
 what we’re all about. I cannot imagine an America that does not believe
 in these values.I cannot imagine that I fought for an America that did not realize 
what freedom of speech, freedom of religion and all the other freedoms 
are about. That’s the America I fought for. That’s the America I believe
 in. That’s the America so many Americans believe in.We have to stand up against those Americans who see fit not to 
support us. This is what we do for a living. This is what I’m prepared 
to give my life for.My right to speak out, your right to speak out, this is what the 
foundation’s all about, what you guys are all about. This is what makes 
your organization so impressive and so important to the nation. I also 
want to thank you again for what you have done to honor those of us who 
have received the honor.I’m not sure I really deserve it compared to those members of the 
press, members of the media who have also put themselves in danger 
without being able to defend themselves. … We could not be the country 
we are if it wasn’t for those of you who … tell us the truth and fight 
against those who will not tell us the truth.I’ve always tried to do it. I’ve gotten in trouble a few times in the
 military or even in civilian life, when I pushed back and said, “No. 
Won’t do it. Can’t do it.”“Why can’t you do it?”“Because I’m violating the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. But 
more importantly, I’m violating the people of the United States, who are
 expecting me to do it the way I’ve said I will do it, the way I’ve been
 told to do it by the Constitution, and the way I have been told to do 
it by every one of my fellow citizens.”When I see something wrong, I will speak out about it. I’ve done that
 a number of times — with the flag, several times. Honor the flag. Honor
 what it stands for. But if you want to burn it, you have the freedom to
 do that. It is a piece of cloth that has been purchased by a civilian. 
That piece of cloth is owned by that civilian to use in whatever way 
that civilian wants. I hope he won’t (burn) it, but he has a right and 
the freedom to do it. Because he has that right and freedom, I have 
protected my rights and my freedoms.It’s a great pleasure to be with you tonight to share this evening 
with all those who have been given honors, and to give my best wishes to
 the Freedom Forum. You are making a difference.Thank you.Tonight’s virtual<a href="https://www.freeexpressionawards.org/" target="_blank"> Free Expression Awards</a> ceremony is free and open to all. It begins at 7 p.m.

Powell defends First Amendment in Freedom Forum address

I turned onto the street that runs in front of our home in the quiet, sleepy, little town of Inman, KS. I hadn’t driven more than fifty feet, when out from between two neighbors’ houses trotted a canine that was not a dog. The long, bushy tail with a white tip held straight out behind as it sauntered across the street, gave it away as a red fox. I followed it as it crossed the grade school parking lot, walked across the front lawn of the school, then crossed the street into a neighboring yard, never spooked and merely strolling along.

A few years back, a pair of red foxes called Inman home for awhile until the den was found and everybody and their brother began showing up to sneak a peek, at which point the foxes moved on. I had heard some were again being seen around town, and was glad for the show. Red foxes live in many of our small Kansas towns, having found all they need there for good, safe lives away from marauding coyotes that will kill them given the chance.&nbsp;

One of my editors who runs a monthly outdoor page suggested I do a column entitled “When wild animals encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t.” Welcome to spring in the Kansas outdoors when all the critters are on the prowl around chicken coops, corrals and even backyards looking for quick, easy meals to feed dens and nests full of youngins.’ This time of the year emboldens predators to hunt and prowl during the day when they would otherwise never think of it. &nbsp;

Like springtime on the farm, springtime in the wild is a season filled with babies everywhere. It is no coincidence that there is more prey available in the form of young, easily caught critters at this time each year, just exactly when every wild animal needs extra prey to feed its young.&nbsp; Isn’t it amazing how everything seems to come full circle back to the fact that God knew exactly what He was doing when he engineered the order of things! Even with the glut of easily caught “wild” lunches right now, predators are still opportunists at heart and will not think twice about grabbing a young farm animal or even cats, kittens and small dogs if given the chance. As spring turns into July and August, increased predation seen in the spring will slow again, but in the meantime, there are a few extra precautions that can be taken to at least make the opportunists think twice about grabbing’ something from the coop, corral or backyard.

Even though you can’t keep an eye on poultry and young farm animals 24/7, giving them a place under roof to spend the night will help dramatically. Giving poultry a place to spend the night behind a closed door is a good thing any time of the year. Remember, despite their willingness to prowl more during daylight right now, a predator’s favorite time to hunt is still after dark. Keeping the grass and weeds mowed and trees pruned around pens will help also, as removing any cover predators can use to sneak close to a barn, chicken house or yard will help deter their presence. Sadly, there’s not a lot that can be done in town to deter predators aside from keeping cats, dogs and chickens within a fenced yard or enclosure of some sort.

&nbsp;Playing a radio and keeping a couple lights lit in the barn where sheep and goats spend the night will sound like human activity to a predator and can help deter their presence. The most effective predator prevention is probably a good watch dog, even if it’s small.&nbsp; Dogs of any size make predators nervous, and even though any coyote, bobcat or raccoon worth its salt can easily overpower most small dogs especially if they catch them out in the open, a noisy little mutt relentlessly yapping away at them as they slink around the barn or sheep pen might at least make them question their plan, and will likely alert you in the process. Unfortunately, a yappy little dog will probably not work well in town, as it will probably keep you in hot water with the rest of the neighborhood.

Yup, its spring time in the Kansas outdoors again, and all the critters and predators have families to feed and might “Encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t” as they follow their God-given instincts to protect and feed their young. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not condoning that, after all, I’m a coyote trapper. But I am saying that understanding why it happens helps me look at it from a slightly different perspective. …. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>I turned onto the street that runs in front of our home in the quiet, sleepy, little town of Inman, KS. I hadn’t driven more than fifty feet, when out from between two neighbors’ houses trotted a canine that was not a dog. The long, bushy tail with a white tip held straight out behind as it sauntered across the street, gave it away as a red fox. I followed it as it crossed the grade school parking lot, walked across the front lawn of the school, then crossed the street into a neighboring yard, never spooked and merely strolling along.A few years back, a pair of red foxes called Inman home for awhile until the den was found and everybody and their brother began showing up to sneak a peek, at which point the foxes moved on. I had heard some were again being seen around town, and was glad for the show. Red foxes live in many of our small Kansas towns, having found all they need there for good, safe lives away from marauding coyotes that will kill them given the chance.&nbsp;One of my editors who runs a monthly outdoor page suggested I do a column entitled “When wild animals encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t.” Welcome to spring in the Kansas outdoors when all the critters are on the prowl around chicken coops, corrals and even backyards looking for quick, easy meals to feed dens and nests full of youngins.’ This time of the year emboldens predators to hunt and prowl during the day when they would otherwise never think of it. &nbsp;Like springtime on the farm, springtime in the wild is a season filled with babies everywhere. It is no coincidence that there is more prey available in the form of young, easily caught critters at this time each year, just exactly when every wild animal needs extra prey to feed its young.&nbsp; Isn’t it amazing how everything seems to come full circle back to the fact that God knew exactly what He was doing when he engineered the order of things! Even with the glut of easily caught “wild” lunches right now, predators are still opportunists at heart and will not think twice about grabbing a young farm animal or even cats, kittens and small dogs if given the chance. As spring turns into July and August, increased predation seen in the spring will slow again, but in the meantime, there are a few extra precautions that can be taken to at least make the opportunists think twice about grabbing’ something from the coop, corral or backyard.Even though you can’t keep an eye on poultry and young farm animals 24/7, giving them a place under roof to spend the night will help dramatically. Giving poultry a place to spend the night behind a closed door is a good thing any time of the year. Remember, despite their willingness to prowl more during daylight right now, a predator’s favorite time to hunt is still after dark. Keeping the grass and weeds mowed and trees pruned around pens will help also, as removing any cover predators can use to sneak close to a barn, chicken house or yard will help deter their presence. Sadly, there’s not a lot that can be done in town to deter predators aside from keeping cats, dogs and chickens within a fenced yard or enclosure of some sort.&nbsp;Playing a radio and keeping a couple lights lit in the barn where sheep and goats spend the night will sound like human activity to a predator and can help deter their presence. The most effective predator prevention is probably a good watch dog, even if it’s small.&nbsp; Dogs of any size make predators nervous, and even though any coyote, bobcat or raccoon worth its salt can easily overpower most small dogs especially if they catch them out in the open, a noisy little mutt relentlessly yapping away at them as they slink around the barn or sheep pen might at least make them question their plan, and will likely alert you in the process. Unfortunately, a yappy little dog will probably not work well in town, as it will probably keep you in hot water with the rest of the neighborhood.Yup, its spring time in the Kansas outdoors again, and all the critters and predators have families to feed and might “Encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t” as they follow their God-given instincts to protect and feed their young. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not condoning that, after all, I’m a coyote trapper. But I am saying that understanding why it happens helps me look at it from a slightly different perspective. …. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com. &nbsp;

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Springtime wildlife sightings

Join the Hays Area Interagency Coordinating Council in celebrating the Week of the Young Child April 10-16, 2021. The Week of the Young Child® is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world's largest early childhood education association.&nbsp;

This national organization first established the Week of the Young Child™ in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years lay the foundation for children's success in school and later life. The purpose of the Week of the Young Child® is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.

I would personally like to thank all those who work with young children and all our families of young children. This is such an important profession and is a more difficult job than it looks from the outside. These professionals are planning a fun-filled week for the young children and their families and the community. You can learn more about the activities being planned in Hays at: <a href="https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child">https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child</a>

	As a community member you can be involved too! First, support all families of young children. If it has been a few years since you have had youngsters in your house, think back about how tiring just one day of the week was. These parents, grandparents and guardians are working 24/7 to make life just a little better for their little ones. Offer your help in some small way if you can.&nbsp;

Second, support our educators in this field. They leave the job each day tired and worn out but they come back the next day because they love children. If you know of a young adult who does an excellent job working with this age group, encourage them to consider a career in Early Childhood Education. It is a profession that won’t make their pocketbook rich but it will make their life rich! We need the best of the best working in this profession to give children a step up in life.&nbsp;

Third, everyone can improve the life of a child in some way. If you have the financial means, donate to organizations who can help those families in need.&nbsp;

My hope would be that a child has someone in their life who will read to them every day. I still believe books are the path to the future. Would you step up and see if you can help make that happen?&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Join the Hays Area Interagency Coordinating Council in celebrating the Week of the Young Child April 10-16, 2021. The Week of the Young Child® is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world's largest early childhood education association.&nbsp;This national organization first established the Week of the Young Child™ in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years lay the foundation for children's success in school and later life. The purpose of the Week of the Young Child® is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.	I would personally like to thank all those who work with young children and all our families of young children. This is such an important profession and is a more difficult job than it looks from the outside. These professionals are planning a fun-filled week for the young children and their families and the community. You can learn more about the activities being planned in Hays at: <a href="https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child">https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child</a>	As a community member you can be involved too! First, support all families of young children. If it has been a few years since you have had youngsters in your house, think back about how tiring just one day of the week was. These parents, grandparents and guardians are working 24/7 to make life just a little better for their little ones. Offer your help in some small way if you can.&nbsp;Second, support our educators in this field. They leave the job each day tired and worn out but they come back the next day because they love children. If you know of a young adult who does an excellent job working with this age group, encourage them to consider a career in Early Childhood Education. It is a profession that won’t make their pocketbook rich but it will make their life rich! We need the best of the best working in this profession to give children a step up in life.&nbsp;Third, everyone can improve the life of a child in some way. If you have the financial means, donate to organizations who can help those families in need.&nbsp;My hope would be that a child has someone in their life who will read to them every day. I still believe books are the path to the future. Would you step up and see if you can help make that happen?&nbsp;Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: The Week of the Young Child

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just one new case of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Monday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

As of Wednesday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, both active cases.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,727 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618425046509.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just one new case of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Monday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Wednesday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, both active cases.Since reporting began, there have been 3,727 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Just one new virus case in Ellis Co. since Monday

In a phone survey completed in March, 68 percent of respondents said they would support a Hays USD 489 bond issue.

Rick Nobles, president of ExcellenceK12, the company that performed the survey for the district, gave a report on the survey to Hays school board Monday.

Although not all the questions in the survey were specifically geared toward a bond issue, Superintendent Ron Wilson said this is the first step in what could be another bond attempt.

The district has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years, and two bond issues have failed in the last five years.

Wilson asked the board, "Right now, I would say based on the information that you're seeing, is there a next step? Right now, I would say overall people feel pretty good about our district and what we're doing."

"What it says to me is that the patrons are happy with the district, but I do see some appetite among patrons to improve facilities," he said.

Wilson suggested the board have representatives of its architectural firm, DLR, present&nbsp;options on moving forward with a possible bond issue at the board's next meeting, which will be April 26.

Mike Walker, board president, said he wanted to move forward with bond talks, but slowly.

He said the board has yet to decide if it will even move forward with a bond proposal.

Three hundred people were called from a randomized list of both cell and landline phone numbers the survey company purchased of people who live in the district. All respondents also had to be registered voters. They were asked to give ratings of A-F on various aspects of the district.

Those letter grades were averaged with an A being a 5 and a F being a 1.

The district received high scores for student safety, quality education, and preparation of students for college, vocational training or employment.

Nobles said 4.31 was a very high score for quality of education and was comparable of what he has seen in surveys of Johnson County school districts.

The district's overall grade was a 3.98, which was a little bit higher than average, he said.

A 3.55 value for the tax dollars spent is the highest score Nobles said he has seen in five years.

Eighty-eight people people surveyed said facilities was an area that needed to be improved.

Ninety-eight percent of survey respondents said they would likely vote if the district put forth a bond in 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600983641036.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIn a phone survey completed in March, 68 percent of respondents said they would support a Hays USD 489 bond issue.Rick Nobles, president of ExcellenceK12, the company that performed the survey for the district, gave a report on the survey to Hays school board Monday.Although not all the questions in the survey were specifically geared toward a bond issue, Superintendent Ron Wilson said this is the first step in what could be another bond attempt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618329852532.png" alt="USD 489 bond survey" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond survey</figcaption>
 </figure>The district has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years, and two bond issues have failed in the last five years.Wilson asked the board, "Right now, I would say based on the information that you're seeing, is there a next step? Right now, I would say overall people feel pretty good about our district and what we're doing."Nobles said he agreed with Wilson."What it says to me is that the patrons are happy with the district, but I do see some appetite among patrons to improve facilities," he said.Wilson suggested the board have representatives of its architectural firm, DLR, present&nbsp;options on moving forward with a possible bond issue at the board's next meeting, which will be April 26.Mike Walker, board president, said he wanted to move forward with bond talks, but slowly.He said the board has yet to decide if it will even move forward with a bond proposal.Three hundred people were called from a randomized list of both cell and landline phone numbers the survey company purchased of people who live in the district. All respondents also had to be registered voters. They were asked to give ratings of A-F on various aspects of the district.Those letter grades were averaged with an A being a 5 and a F being a 1.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618329251213.png" alt="USD 489 survey grades" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 survey grades</figcaption>
 </figure>The district received high scores for student safety, quality education, and preparation of students for college, vocational training or employment.Nobles said 4.31 was a very high score for quality of education and was comparable of what he has seen in surveys of Johnson County school districts.The district's overall grade was a 3.98, which was a little bit higher than average, he said.A 3.55 value for the tax dollars spent is the highest score Nobles said he has seen in five years.Eighty-eight people people surveyed said facilities was an area that needed to be improved.Ninety-eight percent of survey respondents said they would likely vote if the district put forth a bond in 2021.

Bond support high in USD 489 survey, but board moving ahead slowly

The Hays school board is facing a natural gas bill more than three times normal thanks to a mid-February cold snap that sent gas prices soaring.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, told the Hays school board Monday the district bill for February is $88,674.

In the last few years, the average bill for both February and March has been between $37,000 to $40,000. For that two-month period this year, the bill is $110,000, which is higher than the district has paid on average on an annual basis for the last three years.

Hipp discussed several payment options with the school board.&nbsp;

The gas company, Symmetry Energy Solutions, has offered to give customers a 5 percent discount if the bill is paid in full now.

The district could also pay over the next six months at a low interest rate through Symmetry.

The third option is to pay the statutory minimum for gas, which is $4.57 per unit, and then hire an attorney representing other schools through a coalition with Kansas Association of School Boards to negotiate for a settlement for less than the $88,000 owed.

The same attorney is also negotiating for Kansas hospitals and some other industries, Hipp said.

The cost to hire the attorney is $900. If the the attorney is unable to negotiate a settlement, the district would still have to pay the full bill, but would have missed out on the 5 percent discount&nbsp;Symmetry is offering for paying now.

Hipp and Bill Jeter, board attorney, both recommended the school board join the school board association's coalition in attempts to come to a settlement with&nbsp;Symmetry.

The district delayed a final decision until it receives more information from the school board association.

Scott Summers, technology director, gave a report on proposed upgrades to the Hays High School and Hays Middle School security camera systems.

The low bid on the project was from Nex-Tech for&nbsp;$149,426 for both schools.

Summers said some areas of the high school are not covered, and some areas could be covered better both inside and outside the building.

A two-way camera system at the entrance to the high school will allow the district to see visitors before they are buzzed into the school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618347408846.jpg" alt="Hays USD 489 owes $88,674 for its February gas bill after a cold snap across the Midwest sent natural gas prices soaring." />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 owes $88,674 for its February gas bill after a cold snap across the Midwest sent natural gas prices soaring.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board is facing a natural gas bill more than three times normal thanks to a mid-February cold snap that sent gas prices soaring.Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, told the Hays school board Monday the district bill for February is $88,674.In the last few years, the average bill for both February and March has been between $37,000 to $40,000. For that two-month period this year, the bill is $110,000, which is higher than the district has paid on average on an annual basis for the last three years.Hipp discussed several payment options with the school board.&nbsp;The gas company, Symmetry Energy Solutions, has offered to give customers a 5 percent discount if the bill is paid in full now.The district could also pay over the next six months at a low interest rate through Symmetry.The third option is to pay the statutory minimum for gas, which is $4.57 per unit, and then hire an attorney representing other schools through a coalition with Kansas Association of School Boards to negotiate for a settlement for less than the $88,000 owed.The same attorney is also negotiating for Kansas hospitals and some other industries, Hipp said.The cost to hire the attorney is $900. If the the attorney is unable to negotiate a settlement, the district would still have to pay the full bill, but would have missed out on the 5 percent discount&nbsp;Symmetry is offering for paying now.Hipp and Bill Jeter, board attorney, both recommended the school board join the school board association's coalition in attempts to come to a settlement with&nbsp;Symmetry.The district delayed a final decision until it receives more information from the school board association.<h2>Security cameras at HHS, HMS</h2>Scott Summers, technology director, gave a report on proposed upgrades to the Hays High School and Hays Middle School security camera systems.The low bid on the project was from Nex-Tech for&nbsp;$149,426 for both schools.Summers said some areas of the high school are not covered, and some areas could be covered better both inside and outside the building.A two-way camera system at the entrance to the high school will allow the district to see visitors before they are buzzed into the school.The new cameras will provide clearer pictures. Summers noted the current pictures are so blurry that it is almost impossible to identify a student unless staff knows what they are wearing that day.At HMS cameras will be added in gym, cafeteria and library. Summers said some of the cameras at HMS are at least 20 years old.Summers said the video from the cameras is typically stored for 30 days. However, district staff can bookmark a time code in order to keep that video for longer if it is needed.Cable for the new cameras has already been installed at the high school as part of another project. Installation of the camera cables at HMS is included in the Nex-Tech bid.The board also heard a report on the district technology audit and a report from Summers on replacing computers for staff at Rockwell, as well as the maintenance, transportation and technology departments.This would include 81 computers. Summers said he is waiting to receive bids on the new computers.<h2>Summer school&nbsp;</h2>The district is planning a summer reading program for K-2 students. A middle school summer program will focus on students who staff deem have academic deficits going into the summer. Summer school at HHS will focus on credit recovery, as it has in the past.The district will be using some federal COVID relief funds for these projects. Parents who have students who may qualify for the programs will be notified soon.

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