OSBORNE — A group of Civil War veterans in Berks and Lancaster Counties in Pennsylvania began in 1870 to
form a colony in which to begin a new life for themselves and their families in the American
West. That new life took root in Osborne.


Under the leadership of Colonel William L. Bear and Captain Henry D. Markley a scouting
party of 39 men and boys and one woman was sent to Kansas in April 1871 to locate a site for
the colony. On May 1, they established the town of Osborne City and soon secured their
community for the county seat.


The following September they were joined by the remainder of the colony, more than 200
individuals. Over the next 150 years, the town faced countless challenges – grasshopper plagues,
drought, floods, ceaseless wind, wars, pandemics, the Depression, the Dust Bowl, and
fluctuations in ag prices.

The story of the Pennsylvania Colony is a lesson in how to confront adverse conditions and lost
illusions to come together to solve a myriad of problems both great and small.


Osborne is still going strong in 2021 after 150 years! An epic celebration over Memorial Day
Weekend will honor the town’s legacy and look forward to a bright future. The weekend’s
events will include the “Bringing It Home to Oz Draggin’ Main Reunion Bash,” a parade,
“Prairie Market,” live music, dancing, and a wide variety of other entertainment and activities for
folks of all ages, and of course, food and fun. The celebration begins downtown at 5 p.m. on
Friday, May 28th.


A full schedule of events can be viewed at the following Facebook Pages: Remembering in
Osborne, Osborne 150th Anniversary Celebration, and Bringing it Home to Oz.

Be sure during your stay to talk to local historians, including colony descendant Von
Rothenberger, whose extensive research has brought Osborne’s early history to life. Be sure to
visit the Osborne County Genealogical and Historical Society in the historic 1912 Carnegie
Research Library to purchase books on local history, like A Soldiers’ Colony: How Pennsylvania
Veterans Found a Home and Forged a County in 1871 “Sunny Kansas.” It and other
Sesquicentennial memorabilia will be available at the Carnegie throughout the weekend. And
look for the window displays downtown that will tell more of Osborne’s rich history.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620054159576.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOSBORNE — A group of Civil War veterans in Berks and Lancaster Counties in Pennsylvania began in 1870 to
form a colony in which to begin a new life for themselves and their families in the American
West. That new life took root in Osborne.
Under the leadership of Colonel William L. Bear and Captain Henry D. Markley a scouting
party of 39 men and boys and one woman was sent to Kansas in April 1871 to locate a site for
the colony. On May 1, they established the town of Osborne City and soon secured their
community for the county seat.
The following September they were joined by the remainder of the colony, more than 200
individuals. Over the next 150 years, the town faced countless challenges – grasshopper plagues,
drought, floods, ceaseless wind, wars, pandemics, the Depression, the Dust Bowl, and
fluctuations in ag prices.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620054200427.jpeg" alt="Penn St. well &amp; windmill 1878 photo by Moulton Kleckner" />
 <figcaption>Penn St. well &amp; windmill 1878 photo by Moulton Kleckner</figcaption>
 </figure>The story of the Pennsylvania Colony is a lesson in how to confront adverse conditions and lost
illusions to come together to solve a myriad of problems both great and small.
Osborne is still going strong in 2021 after 150 years! An epic celebration over Memorial Day
Weekend will honor the town’s legacy and look forward to a bright future. The weekend’s
events will include the “Bringing It Home to Oz Draggin’ Main Reunion Bash,” a parade,
“Prairie Market,” live music, dancing, and a wide variety of other entertainment and activities for
folks of all ages, and of course, food and fun. The celebration begins downtown at 5 p.m. on
Friday, May 28th.
A full schedule of events can be viewed at the following Facebook Pages: Remembering in
Osborne, Osborne 150th Anniversary Celebration, and Bringing it Home to Oz.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620054220842.jpeg" alt="Downtown Osborne, south side of East Penn Street, looking west 1878" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Osborne, south side of East Penn Street, looking west 1878</figcaption>
 </figure>Be sure during your stay to talk to local historians, including colony descendant Von
Rothenberger, whose extensive research has brought Osborne’s early history to life. Be sure to
visit the Osborne County Genealogical and Historical Society in the historic 1912 Carnegie
Research Library to purchase books on local history, like A Soldiers’ Colony: How Pennsylvania
Veterans Found a Home and Forged a County in 1871 “Sunny Kansas.” It and other
Sesquicentennial memorabilia will be available at the Carnegie throughout the weekend. And
look for the window displays downtown that will tell more of Osborne’s rich history.

Community of Osborne set to celebrate 150 years

Mulch can add more to your garden than just an aesthetic appearance. It can help retain ground moisture, and curb weed growth.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GsUbmW4pHA4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mulch can add more to your garden than just an aesthetic appearance. It can help retain ground moisture, and curb weed growth.

🎥 Green & Growing 2021: Mulching

A need for more social workers in Fort Hays State University’s service area led to the addition of a master of social work online program a year ago.

Like with any first-year program, FHSU was optimistic but maintained realistic expectations of how many students would enroll for the 2020-21 school year. The maximum number of spots for the first year was 52, and applications far exceeded that number.&nbsp;

“We thought it would be a popular program,” Davis said. “We were concerned about filling our first class, but we have had to put people on a waiting list. The response has been tremendous.”

The program – the only fully online MSW in the state – offers two different pathways. The standard master’s program spans four semesters, a summer term, and field practicum experience.&nbsp;The Advanced Standing Program is available to students with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a Council of Social Work Education accredited social work program. This program can be completed in one calendar year of academic coursework and two semesters of field practicum experience.&nbsp;

Next month, the Advanced Standing Program will celebrate its first graduating class of 28. That inaugural cohort of 26 was on campus this semester to take part in clinical Intensives, a unique comprehensive exam in which the students participate in numerous hands-on practices.

The week-long clinical intensives model includes practicing professional and personal development where students display skills in assessing patients, family intervention, and theory intervention. The program includes activities where FHSU faculty film the students, then give them feedback.

“One of the things I tell students is that our program is not just clinical education but clinical training,” Davis said.

While the MSW curriculum is entirely online, FHSU’s goal is to maintain&nbsp;a strong, hands-on clinical training emphasis. The program features synchronous Zoom meetings where students can interact with instructors and weekly video updates to ensure that students feel connected.

“We want to educate good clinical social workers and build communities of practice,” said Dr. Tim Davis, chair of the Department of Social Work. “Therefore, we are making sure that we are training people with real-world experiences.”

Davis said the department plans to give ongoing support to alumni at no cost after graduation by providing group supervision for clinical licensure and ongoing professional development activities.

“It is important to us that our graduates continue developing their skills and seek advanced clinical licensure when necessary to better serve our communities,” he said.&nbsp;

In addition to the standard requirement of 16 to 24 hours a week of clinical practicums, students complete several short clinical rotations at health clinics, mental health clinics, or other clinical sites at the start of the clinical practicum period.&nbsp;A lot of those will work in underserved areas of many kinds when they graduate.&nbsp;

“We are underserved out here in rural Kansas,” Davis said. “However, underserved can also mean urban settings that might have problems attracting social workers to their area.”

Most of the current students are from Kansas, but this year’s class also represented numerous other states, including bordering states Colorado, Oklahoma, and Missouri, as well as Georgia, Illinois, and Indiana.&nbsp;

FHSU has increased its full-time faculty to eight, including seven who are primarily dedicated to the MSW program. With the addition of two more faculty members, the number of students next year can increase to a total of 85 full-time students.

“The MSW program at FHSU provides high quality and affordable solution to the demand for clinical social workers in Kansas,” Davis said. “There is an acute, unmet need for social workers at the master’s and clinical level across Kansas, and particularly in the FHSU service area. This will improve access to health and mental health care for residents in the underserved rural areas of the state.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620072189559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsA need for more social workers in Fort Hays State University’s service area led to the addition of a master of social work online program a year ago.Like with any first-year program, FHSU was optimistic but maintained realistic expectations of how many students would enroll for the 2020-21 school year. The maximum number of spots for the first year was 52, and applications far exceeded that number.&nbsp;“We thought it would be a popular program,” Davis said. “We were concerned about filling our first class, but we have had to put people on a waiting list. The response has been tremendous.”The program – the only fully online MSW in the state – offers two different pathways. The standard master’s program spans four semesters, a summer term, and field practicum experience.&nbsp;The Advanced Standing Program is available to students with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a Council of Social Work Education accredited social work program. This program can be completed in one calendar year of academic coursework and two semesters of field practicum experience.&nbsp;Next month, the Advanced Standing Program will celebrate its first graduating class of 28. That inaugural cohort of 26 was on campus this semester to take part in clinical Intensives, a unique comprehensive exam in which the students participate in numerous hands-on practices.The week-long clinical intensives model includes practicing professional and personal development where students display skills in assessing patients, family intervention, and theory intervention. The program includes activities where FHSU faculty film the students, then give them feedback.“One of the things I tell students is that our program is not just clinical education but clinical training,” Davis said.While the MSW curriculum is entirely online, FHSU’s goal is to maintain&nbsp;a strong, hands-on clinical training emphasis. The program features synchronous Zoom meetings where students can interact with instructors and weekly video updates to ensure that students feel connected.“We want to educate good clinical social workers and build communities of practice,” said Dr. Tim Davis, chair of the Department of Social Work. “Therefore, we are making sure that we are training people with real-world experiences.”Davis said the department plans to give ongoing support to alumni at no cost after graduation by providing group supervision for clinical licensure and ongoing professional development activities.“It is important to us that our graduates continue developing their skills and seek advanced clinical licensure when necessary to better serve our communities,” he said.&nbsp;In addition to the standard requirement of 16 to 24 hours a week of clinical practicums, students complete several short clinical rotations at health clinics, mental health clinics, or other clinical sites at the start of the clinical practicum period.&nbsp;A lot of those will work in underserved areas of many kinds when they graduate.&nbsp;“We are underserved out here in rural Kansas,” Davis said. “However, underserved can also mean urban settings that might have problems attracting social workers to their area.”Most of the current students are from Kansas, but this year’s class also represented numerous other states, including bordering states Colorado, Oklahoma, and Missouri, as well as Georgia, Illinois, and Indiana.&nbsp;FHSU has increased its full-time faculty to eight, including seven who are primarily dedicated to the MSW program. With the addition of two more faculty members, the number of students next year can increase to a total of 85 full-time students.“The MSW program at FHSU provides high quality and affordable solution to the demand for clinical social workers in Kansas,” Davis said. “There is an acute, unmet need for social workers at the master’s and clinical level across Kansas, and particularly in the FHSU service area. This will improve access to health and mental health care for residents in the underserved rural areas of the state.”

FHSU to graduate first class of master of social work students

Three-day weather outlook

Veronica Bieker and Isabella Bollig were recognized for receiving their State FFA Degrees at the Northwest District Banquet on April 29.

 These ladies spent countless hours perfecting their applications, not to mention the hundreds of hours spent working on their SAE projects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620157122316.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Veronica Bieker and Isabella Bollig were recognized for receiving their State FFA Degrees at the Northwest District Banquet on April 29. These ladies spent countless hours perfecting their applications, not to mention the hundreds of hours spent working on their SAE projects.— Submitted

Two EHS students earn state FFA degrees

Anyone who’s ever received a vaccination will verify that needle size matters. And that is true with&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas State University veterinarians Bob Larson and Brad White took up this topic on a recent Beef&nbsp;Cattle&nbsp;Institute&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2021/04/23/brazil-production-system-mineral-selection-plans-calving-timing-needle-size/" target="_blank">Cattle&nbsp;Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Many animal health products given to&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;to prevent or treat diseases are injected with a syringe and needle,” Larson said. “Selecting the correct size of needle to deliver injections under the skin or into the muscle is important to ensure that the products perform as intended and meet Beef Quality Assurance guidelines.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to needle selection for cows, he recommends using a 16- or 18-gauge needle. The gauge refers to the diameter of the needle. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“An 18-gauge needle is actually smaller than a 16 and in calves we may go even smaller and use a 20-gauge needle,” Larson said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

White added that the chosen needle size relates to the thickness of the animal’s skin. He said, “Needle size also depends on the viscosity of the product that I’m giving.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Another factor is the needle length. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Larson said the recommended length of the needle is guided by the type of injection given, which is either under the skin or into the muscle. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“With an under the skin injection the needle length should be 5/8- or 3/4-inch needle, and with an intramuscular injection the length is closer to 1 1/2-inch needle,” Larson said. He added that with calves the recommended length would be closer an inch.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lastly the veterinarians discussed the recommended frequency for changing needles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“One needle per cow is ideal but depending on the situation you could give up to 10 injections with one needle,” Larson said. He added that it is important to make sure the needle is sharp and clean to keep from causing trauma or contamination. &nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on this topic Larson and White advised producers to review the information on the beef quality assurance website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bqa.org/" target="_blank">bqa.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone who’s ever received a vaccination will verify that needle size matters. And that is true with&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas State University veterinarians Bob Larson and Brad White took up this topic on a recent Beef&nbsp;Cattle&nbsp;Institute&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2021/04/23/brazil-production-system-mineral-selection-plans-calving-timing-needle-size/" target="_blank">Cattle&nbsp;Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many animal health products given to&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;to prevent or treat diseases are injected with a syringe and needle,” Larson said. “Selecting the correct size of needle to deliver injections under the skin or into the muscle is important to ensure that the products perform as intended and meet Beef Quality Assurance guidelines.”&nbsp;&nbsp;When it comes to needle selection for cows, he recommends using a 16- or 18-gauge needle. The gauge refers to the diameter of the needle. &nbsp;&nbsp;“An 18-gauge needle is actually smaller than a 16 and in calves we may go even smaller and use a 20-gauge needle,” Larson said. &nbsp;&nbsp;White added that the chosen needle size relates to the thickness of the animal’s skin. He said, “Needle size also depends on the viscosity of the product that I’m giving.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Another factor is the needle length. &nbsp;&nbsp;Larson said the recommended length of the needle is guided by the type of injection given, which is either under the skin or into the muscle. &nbsp;&nbsp;“With an under the skin injection the needle length should be 5/8- or 3/4-inch needle, and with an intramuscular injection the length is closer to 1 1/2-inch needle,” Larson said. He added that with calves the recommended length would be closer an inch.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lastly the veterinarians discussed the recommended frequency for changing needles.&nbsp;&nbsp;“One needle per cow is ideal but depending on the situation you could give up to 10 injections with one needle,” Larson said. He added that it is important to make sure the needle is sharp and clean to keep from causing trauma or contamination. &nbsp;&nbsp;For more information on this topic Larson and White advised producers to review the information on the beef quality assurance website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bqa.org/" target="_blank">bqa.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Needle size matters for cattle vaccinations

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;In honor of the more than 5,000 lives lost due to COVID-19, and the families they left behind, Governor Laura Kelly has directed that flags be lowered to half-staff throughout the state effective immediately to sundown Sunday.

“It is with great sadness that I order flags to half-staff to honor the lives and memories of 5,000 Kansans who have died from COVID-19,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“We cannot become numb to the significance of this number. That’s 5,000 mothers and fathers, daughters and sons, loved ones and neighbors who we’ve lost to virus-related deaths. The best way we can honor their memories is by getting vaccinated and continuing to practice the proper health protocol we know protects our communities from the threat of COVID-19.” &nbsp;

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;In honor of the more than 5,000 lives lost due to COVID-19, and the families they left behind, Governor Laura Kelly has directed that flags be lowered to half-staff throughout the state effective immediately to sundown Sunday.“It is with great sadness that I order flags to half-staff to honor the lives and memories of 5,000 Kansans who have died from COVID-19,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“We cannot become numb to the significance of this number. That’s 5,000 mothers and fathers, daughters and sons, loved ones and neighbors who we’ve lost to virus-related deaths. The best way we can honor their memories is by getting vaccinated and continuing to practice the proper health protocol we know protects our communities from the threat of COVID-19.” &nbsp;

Kelly orders flags at half-staff to honor COVID victims

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday.

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

As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, both in the active phase.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,739 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 71 coronavirus-related deaths — the last of which was reported on March 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620411718750.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: May 7, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qjhuj-102e0a1-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, both in the active phase.Since reporting began, there have been 3,739 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 71 coronavirus-related deaths — the last of which was reported on March 10.

🎙 KDHE: Two new virus cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for a chance of severe thunderstorms Saturday afternoon and early Saturday evening.

The storms could produce hail in excess of 2 inches, accompanied by wind gusts of 60 mph or higher. Heavy rainfall is also expected, with the possibility of isolated tornadoes. Storms are most likely east of U.S. 83.

There is a 20 percent chance of storms in Hays Saturday afternoon, increasing to 40 percent Saturday evening.

While the skies will clear Saturday, the chance of rain returns Sunday night and into Tuesday.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620404413082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for a chance of severe thunderstorms Saturday afternoon and early Saturday evening.The storms could produce hail in excess of 2 inches, accompanied by wind gusts of 60 mph or higher. Heavy rainfall is also expected, with the possibility of isolated tornadoes. Storms are most likely east of U.S. 83.There is a 20 percent chance of storms in Hays Saturday afternoon, increasing to 40 percent Saturday evening.While the skies will clear Saturday, the chance of rain returns Sunday night and into Tuesday.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

NWS: Storm could bring large hail, high winds, heavy rain

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="FHSU Foundation celebrates successful Giving Day" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bxbir-102e0e8-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: FHSU Foundation celebrates successful Giving Day

Faculty and students alike are grateful to be able to hold this year’s completion ceremony for the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) and the Academy of Mathematics and Science (AMS) in person after last year’s seniors were honored on video because of the pandemic.

The 2021 ceremony to honor the 11th graduating class of the program is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 8. To ensure sufficient room for social distancing, the ceremony will be held in the spacious Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall instead of its traditional location in the Memorial Union Ballroom.&nbsp;

KAMS is Kansas’ premier early college residential program designed to provide a STEM-focused academic experience for gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors. AMS is an early college program open to international and out-of-state domestic students, offering an unparalleled academic experience for gifted and talented high school students from around the country – and the world.&nbsp;

After returning home last March when the coronavirus forced FHSU to move to remote operations for the remainder of the semester, Angie Acred from Leavenworth was more than ready to return to campus in August for her senior year.

She is on the pre-med track and plans to major in biology when she continues her education at the University of Kansas in the fall.&nbsp;

However, Acred said, “she will never forget her time at Fort Hays State.”

Acred had no problem adjusting to making new friends her first year in KAMS. Her mother is a major in the U.S. Army, and Angie has lived in six different states and has moved eight different times in her lifetime.

“This second year at KAMS is the first time since fourth grade that I’ve attended the same school for two consecutive years,” she said. “Going to different schools is all I’ve ever known.”&nbsp;

It didn’t take Acred long to learn how much she liked her new school.

“The research experience for undergrads here at Fort Hays State will be so beneficial for me,” she said. “Here, we learned so much from everyone. There were a lot of networking opportunities, and we were able to communicate with professionals in our field of study. At KAMS, you are offered so many more opportunities than a traditional high school setting.”

She added that she “really liked having the smaller class sizes at FHSU. I had almost 300 people in my class at Leavenworth, and I didn’t know a lot of my classmates.”

Saturday’s ceremony will recognize 31 graduating seniors. Twenty of those will attend Saturday’s completion ceremony, including one international student in AMS. The other 11 international students from South Korea and China were not able to return to FHSU for their senior year because of COVID travel restrictions, and they will finish their classwork virtually. This year’s KAMS class comes from all four corners of the state, including rural, suburban, and urban areas.

Student speakers for the ceremony are selected based on academic success achieved during their time in the program, along with involvement in clubs/activities, research, and community service. This year’s speakers will be Leo Harzman from Downs and Aum Patel from Salina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620401276006.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFaculty and students alike are grateful to be able to hold this year’s completion ceremony for the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) and the Academy of Mathematics and Science (AMS) in person after last year’s seniors were honored on video because of the pandemic.The 2021 ceremony to honor the 11th graduating class of the program is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 8. To ensure sufficient room for social distancing, the ceremony will be held in the spacious Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall instead of its traditional location in the Memorial Union Ballroom.&nbsp;KAMS is Kansas’ premier early college residential program designed to provide a STEM-focused academic experience for gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors. AMS is an early college program open to international and out-of-state domestic students, offering an unparalleled academic experience for gifted and talented high school students from around the country – and the world.&nbsp;After returning home last March when the coronavirus forced FHSU to move to remote operations for the remainder of the semester, Angie Acred from Leavenworth was more than ready to return to campus in August for her senior year.She is on the pre-med track and plans to major in biology when she continues her education at the University of Kansas in the fall.&nbsp;However, Acred said, “she will never forget her time at Fort Hays State.”Acred had no problem adjusting to making new friends her first year in KAMS. Her mother is a major in the U.S. Army, and Angie has lived in six different states and has moved eight different times in her lifetime.“This second year at KAMS is the first time since fourth grade that I’ve attended the same school for two consecutive years,” she said. “Going to different schools is all I’ve ever known.”&nbsp;It didn’t take Acred long to learn how much she liked her new school.“The research experience for undergrads here at Fort Hays State will be so beneficial for me,” she said. “Here, we learned so much from everyone. There were a lot of networking opportunities, and we were able to communicate with professionals in our field of study. At KAMS, you are offered so many more opportunities than a traditional high school setting.”She added that she “really liked having the smaller class sizes at FHSU. I had almost 300 people in my class at Leavenworth, and I didn’t know a lot of my classmates.”Saturday’s ceremony will recognize 31 graduating seniors. Twenty of those will attend Saturday’s completion ceremony, including one international student in AMS. The other 11 international students from South Korea and China were not able to return to FHSU for their senior year because of COVID travel restrictions, and they will finish their classwork virtually. This year’s KAMS class comes from all four corners of the state, including rural, suburban, and urban areas.Student speakers for the ceremony are selected based on academic success achieved during their time in the program, along with involvement in clubs/activities, research, and community service. This year’s speakers will be Leo Harzman from Downs and Aum Patel from Salina.

KAMS/AMS completion ceremony set for Saturday at FHSU

Twenty-five faculty members have earned tenure, promotion or both at Fort Hays State University for the next academic year.

Their achievements were celebrated via Zoom on May 4 and an in-person reception will be held in the fall.&nbsp;

"The profound dedication of our faculty to develop high quality programs and unique experiences empower student success and drives our university forward. It is my sincere pleasure to celebrate the promotion and tenure of these outstanding faculty members, in recognition of their achievements in teaching, scholarship, and service,” said Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Congratulations to all of our newly tenured and promoted faculty!”

Faculty to be promoted are listed with their new academic rank.

Dr. Gary Andersen, associate professor of advanced education programs

Dr. Reade Dowda, associate professor of advanced education programs

Dr. Elliot Isom, associate professor of advanced education programs

Dr. Jung Hee Lee, associate professor of social work

Dr. Rose Helens-Hart, associate professor of applied business studies

Mr. Randall Jordan, associate professor of applied technology&nbsp;

Dr. Kevin Splichal, associate professor of advanced education programs&nbsp;

Dr. Shane Schartz, associate professor of informatics

Dr. Karen Thal, associate professor of applied business studies

Dr. Brett Whitaker, associate professor of leadership studies

Dr. Whitney Whitaker, associate professor of psychology&nbsp;

Dr. Claudia Carvalho, lecturer of biological sciences

Dr. Douglas Drabkin, professor of philosophy

Dr. Kaley Klaus, assistant professor of leadership studies

Ms. Denise Orth, professor of allied health

Dr. Joseph Perniciaro, professor of music and theatre

Dr. Jonathan Sumrall, associate professor of geosciences

Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice

Ms. Jennifer Wagner, professor of allied health

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620398558160.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsTwenty-five faculty members have earned tenure, promotion or both at Fort Hays State University for the next academic year.Their achievements were celebrated via Zoom on May 4 and an in-person reception will be held in the fall.&nbsp;"The profound dedication of our faculty to develop high quality programs and unique experiences empower student success and drives our university forward. It is my sincere pleasure to celebrate the promotion and tenure of these outstanding faculty members, in recognition of their achievements in teaching, scholarship, and service,” said Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Congratulations to all of our newly tenured and promoted faculty!”Faculty to be promoted are listed with their new academic rank.<h2>Tenured and promoted</h2>Dr. Gary Andersen, associate professor of advanced education programsDr. Reade Dowda, associate professor of advanced education programsDr. Elliot Isom, associate professor of advanced education programsDr. Jung Hee Lee, associate professor of social workDr. Rose Helens-Hart, associate professor of applied business studiesMr. Randall Jordan, associate professor of applied technology&nbsp;Dr. Kevin Splichal, associate professor of advanced education programs&nbsp;Dr. Shane Schartz, associate professor of informaticsDr. Karen Thal, associate professor of applied business studiesDr. Brett Whitaker, associate professor of leadership studiesDr. Whitney Whitaker, associate professor of psychology&nbsp;<h2>Tenured</h2>Dr. Robert Lloyd, ManagementDr. Ginger Loggins, InformaticsDr. Sarbari Mitra, Mathematics<h2>Promoted</h2>Dr. Claudia Carvalho, lecturer of biological sciencesDr. Douglas Drabkin, professor of philosophyMs. Robyn Hartman, librarian IIDr. Kaley Klaus, assistant professor of leadership studiesMs. Denise Orth, professor of allied healthDr. Joseph Perniciaro, professor of music and theatreDr. Kent Rohleder, lecturer of physicsDr. Jonathan Sumrall, associate professor of geosciencesDr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justiceMs. Jennifer Wagner, professor of allied healthMs. Kathleen Ward, professor of nursing

Promotions, grants of tenure announced by Fort Hays State

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants Friday in the area from Elm St. to Vine St. between 7th St. and 21st St., from Vine St. to Indian Trail between 22nd St. and 27th St., and from Indian Trail to Canterbury Dr. between 27th St. and 33rd St. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. 

Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. 

Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617405329309.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants Friday in the area from Elm St. to Vine St. between 7th St. and 21st St., from Vine St. to Indian Trail between 22nd St. and 27th St., and from Indian Trail to Canterbury Dr. between 27th St. and 33rd St. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.

Hydrant testing continues by Hays Fire Department

BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Tasty pies and classic cars. That sounds like a recipe for a fun weekend. Today, we’ll learn about a rural community which combines those things for a big community festival every year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sandy Kruse is the mayor of Gypsum, Kansas. She is also a key volunteer with the annual event now known as the Gypsum Pie Festival and Car Show.&nbsp;

Sandy was born in Salina. In 1961, she and her husband moved to Gypsum where she’s lived ever since. Sandy is now semi-retired from her position as a registered nurse at Tammy Walker Cancer Center in Salina. She was also elected Mayor of Gypsum in 2017.&nbsp;

Several years ago, Sandy and her family had a big Memorial Day picnic. They invited friends to bring their classic cars. It was so much fun that this has become an annual event, put on by a committee of volunteers from the community.&nbsp;

Some years ago, Sandy and her husband had visited the annual meatloaf festival in Paxico. “If people come out for meatloaf, surely they would come out for pie,” her husband said. It was decided that Gypsum could host a pie festival to go with a classic car show.&nbsp;

On Sunday, May 30, 2021, the annual pie festival and car show will take place in Gypsum. “We encourage area churches and nonprofit organizations to sell pies,” Sandy said. Community organizations support their activities by selling homemade pies, by the slice or by the pie. Craft vendors will be there as well.&nbsp;

The committee has ordered 155 fruit pies and 30 cream pies to be sold at the city auditorium, in addition to the pies sold by other groups. Flavors include apple, cherry, rhubarb, strawberry, strawberry rhubarb, gooseberry, peach, blueberry, bumbleberry (which is mixed fruit), pecan and many more. Cream pies include chocolate, lemon, coconut cream, peanut butter, and other flavors. Is your mouth watering yet? This year, the city is even selling ice cream to go with the pie.&nbsp;

The event’s proceeds are used for community beautification. “One year we bought planters downtown, another year we bought a sound system for the city, and we’ve helped pay for the new ‘Welcome to Gypsum’ sign,” Sandy said.&nbsp;

The car show consists mostly of hot rods and classic cars. Some cars are highly customized. “I have a 1951 shoebox Ford,” Sandy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Entries are $20. “We’ve had as many as 200 cars,” Sandy said. Instead of trophies, the winning car entries win – what else? – a pie.&nbsp;

Gypsum is located on Highway 4. The highway will be temporarily closed so the show can take place on Main Street in town&nbsp;

In addition to the annual festival, Sandy is proud of the progress which has been made in the community. “My biggest priority as mayor is to have the levee certified, which is a requirement of FEMA,” she said. “We have a number of young families that have opened businesses here, such as Exit 14 restaurant, K-4 Garage, McKim Service, and the newest, a body shop named Augies Rod and Custom,” she said.&nbsp;

“He lives in Gypsum and works as a fireman in Salina,” Sandy said. He did body work on Sandy’s car and now has opened his own shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Community groups are also working on senior housing and summer youth programs. As a memorial project, families have purchased benches that are found throughout the town.&nbsp;

“We are making Gypsum more welcoming,” Sandy said. “We invite people to join us.&nbsp;&nbsp;We expect more than a thousand people (for the festival).” Visitors have come from as far away as Indiana and California. That’s impressive for a rural community like Gypsum, population 405 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GypsumPieFestivalAndCarShow">Gypsum pie festival and car show on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;

Tasty pies and classic cars. That sounds like a wonderful combination, and that is what we will find in Gypsum on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. We commend Sandy Kruse and all the volunteers who are making a difference by putting on such a fun event in Gypsum. With that, please pass the pie.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620219791007.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentTasty pies and classic cars. That sounds like a recipe for a fun weekend. Today, we’ll learn about a rural community which combines those things for a big community festival every year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sandy Kruse is the mayor of Gypsum, Kansas. She is also a key volunteer with the annual event now known as the Gypsum Pie Festival and Car Show.&nbsp;Sandy was born in Salina. In 1961, she and her husband moved to Gypsum where she’s lived ever since. Sandy is now semi-retired from her position as a registered nurse at Tammy Walker Cancer Center in Salina. She was also elected Mayor of Gypsum in 2017.&nbsp;Several years ago, Sandy and her family had a big Memorial Day picnic. They invited friends to bring their classic cars. It was so much fun that this has become an annual event, put on by a committee of volunteers from the community.&nbsp;Some years ago, Sandy and her husband had visited the annual meatloaf festival in Paxico. “If people come out for meatloaf, surely they would come out for pie,” her husband said. It was decided that Gypsum could host a pie festival to go with a classic car show.&nbsp;On Sunday, May 30, 2021, the annual pie festival and car show will take place in Gypsum. “We encourage area churches and nonprofit organizations to sell pies,” Sandy said. Community organizations support their activities by selling homemade pies, by the slice or by the pie. Craft vendors will be there as well.&nbsp;The committee has ordered 155 fruit pies and 30 cream pies to be sold at the city auditorium, in addition to the pies sold by other groups. Flavors include apple, cherry, rhubarb, strawberry, strawberry rhubarb, gooseberry, peach, blueberry, bumbleberry (which is mixed fruit), pecan and many more. Cream pies include chocolate, lemon, coconut cream, peanut butter, and other flavors. Is your mouth watering yet? This year, the city is even selling ice cream to go with the pie.&nbsp;The event’s proceeds are used for community beautification. “One year we bought planters downtown, another year we bought a sound system for the city, and we’ve helped pay for the new ‘Welcome to Gypsum’ sign,” Sandy said.&nbsp;The car show consists mostly of hot rods and classic cars. Some cars are highly customized. “I have a 1951 shoebox Ford,” Sandy said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Entries are $20. “We’ve had as many as 200 cars,” Sandy said. Instead of trophies, the winning car entries win – what else? – a pie.&nbsp;Gypsum is located on Highway 4. The highway will be temporarily closed so the show can take place on Main Street in town&nbsp;In addition to the annual festival, Sandy is proud of the progress which has been made in the community. “My biggest priority as mayor is to have the levee certified, which is a requirement of FEMA,” she said. “We have a number of young families that have opened businesses here, such as Exit 14 restaurant, K-4 Garage, McKim Service, and the newest, a body shop named Augies Rod and Custom,” she said.&nbsp;“He lives in Gypsum and works as a fireman in Salina,” Sandy said. He did body work on Sandy’s car and now has opened his own shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Community groups are also working on senior housing and summer youth programs. As a memorial project, families have purchased benches that are found throughout the town.&nbsp;“We are making Gypsum more welcoming,” Sandy said. “We invite people to join us.&nbsp;&nbsp;We expect more than a thousand people (for the festival).” Visitors have come from as far away as Indiana and California. That’s impressive for a rural community like Gypsum, population 405 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GypsumPieFestivalAndCarShow">Gypsum pie festival and car show on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;Tasty pies and classic cars. That sounds like a wonderful combination, and that is what we will find in Gypsum on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. We commend Sandy Kruse and all the volunteers who are making a difference by putting on such a fun event in Gypsum. With that, please pass the pie.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Sandy Kruse, Gypsum Pie Festival and Car Show 

LENORA — Nex-Tech recently announced that the Foundation for Rural Service Youth Tour Scholarship recipients are Livia Schultz, Matthew Bollig and Shelby Alexander.

Each year, Nex-Tech, through its association with FRS, selects and sponsors students to attend a free Youth Tour trip to Washington in June. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the tour in 2020, and this year, the tour was again cancelled amidst safety concerns surrounding the ongoing pandemic and government and tourist locations in Washington being closed indefinitely.

To recognize the selected students for their achievements in lieu of a trip, Nex-Tech’s Board of Directors decided to award a $1,500 scholarship to be used for post-secondary education.

Livia Schultz, a junior at Wheatland High School, is the daughter of Daniel and Joan Schultz of rural Grainfield. Livia’s college plans are undecided.

Matthew Bollig, a junior at Hays High School, is the son of Mark and Dominica Bollig of Hays. Matthew’s college plans are undecided.

Shelby Alexander, a junior at Hays High School, is the daughter of Todd Alexander, Hays, and Mendi Anschutz, Hays. Shelby plans to attend Kansas State University’s School of Business to obtain a marketing degree.

“While it is disappointing that the Youth Tour was cancelled two years in a row, we are excited to provide Livia, Matthew, and Shelby with a scholarship award to assist with their post-secondary education,” said Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO/General Manager.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601562391147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLENORA — Nex-Tech recently announced that the Foundation for Rural Service Youth Tour Scholarship recipients are Livia Schultz, Matthew Bollig and Shelby Alexander.Each year, Nex-Tech, through its association with FRS, selects and sponsors students to attend a free Youth Tour trip to Washington in June. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the tour in 2020, and this year, the tour was again cancelled amidst safety concerns surrounding the ongoing pandemic and government and tourist locations in Washington being closed indefinitely.To recognize the selected students for their achievements in lieu of a trip, Nex-Tech’s Board of Directors decided to award a $1,500 scholarship to be used for post-secondary education.MEET OUR SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620321871135.jpeg" alt="Livia Schultz" />
 <figcaption>Livia Schultz</figcaption>
 </figure>Livia Schultz, a junior at Wheatland High School, is the daughter of Daniel and Joan Schultz of rural Grainfield. Livia’s college plans are undecided.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620321785584.jpeg" alt="Matthew Bollig" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Bollig</figcaption>
 </figure>Matthew Bollig, a junior at Hays High School, is the son of Mark and Dominica Bollig of Hays. Matthew’s college plans are undecided.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620321833195.jpeg" alt="Shelby Alexander" />
 <figcaption>Shelby Alexander</figcaption>
 </figure>Shelby Alexander, a junior at Hays High School, is the daughter of Todd Alexander, Hays, and Mendi Anschutz, Hays. Shelby plans to attend Kansas State University’s School of Business to obtain a marketing degree.“While it is disappointing that the Youth Tour was cancelled two years in a row, we are excited to provide Livia, Matthew, and Shelby with a scholarship award to assist with their post-secondary education,” said Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO/General Manager.

Hays High students awarded Foundation for Rural Service scholarships

The Chamber in Hays' Legislative Coffee scheduled for Saturday has been postponed due to legislators still being at the capital. 

 A future date will be scheduled soon.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615737324471.jpeg" alt="Area legislators during the March 13 Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee" />
 <figcaption>Area legislators during the March 13 Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Chamber in Hays' Legislative Coffee scheduled for Saturday has been postponed due to legislators still being at the capital. A future date will be scheduled soon.&nbsp;

Saturday's Legislative Coffee postponed; legislators still in Topeka

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Thanks to savings from low bids on two other projects financed with the city's share of the Ellis County sales tax, a fifth alternate has been added to the installation of artificial turf in the infields at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

Jeff Boyle, Hays parks director, presented the project proposal and recommended low bid to city commissioners Thursday night.

Mid-America&nbsp;Sports Construction, Lee's Summit, Missouri, had the low bid of $1.5 million for&nbsp;turfing all eight infields, plus four alternates.

"Good company," said Boyle. "They're the ones that did the Hays Larks field and also the Hays High School baseball field."

The Hays Recreation Commission will put $700,000 toward the project and city commission capital reserves will kick in another $927,000.

The Bickle-Schmidt alternates are&nbsp;expanded repairs to the transition zones, expansion of the infields on fields 5, 6, and 8 to&nbsp;allow more tournament play, additional rubber infield supplies, and the removal of the&nbsp;existing red infield dirt.

The infield dirt will be stockpiled for Glassman Park and Aubel-Bickle Park "where we need it very badly," Boyle said. "We think it's a no-brainer to spend $13,000 to have it removed and used to bring those two infields to the correct level. The estimated material cost is $45,000-$50,000."

Commissioner Shaun Musil proposed that alternate #5 - turfing of the 16 bullpens - also be added to the project at a cost of $264,000.

"I know it's a lot of money," Musil said. "I know we've done three or four projects where we've had quite a bit of savings. To me, you spend over a million and a half, and to skimp on the bullpens, I think it's a mistake."&nbsp;

Musil also asked the recreation commission if they would be able to "help a little bit more."

Superintendent Roger Bixenman, who was in the audience, said he had already talked to his board members and they were supportive.&nbsp;

Although considered important, the bullpens were not included in the recommendation because of budget constraints, according to Toby Dougherty, city manager. After reviewing the savings on two other recent projects, commissioners agreed it should be included.

The difference is about $43,000 more than initially projected.

"We made a commitment to do something that was going to economically impact our community" said Mayor Sandy Jacobs. "Being able to bring more tournaments in, I certainly think it's important we consider this."&nbsp;

Boyle said he had talked with the company about using a different turf type with less thatch for the bullpens.&nbsp;

"They said they do it all the time. ... I got an email back that it would cost about $200,000. So I think we can work through this with them and even get that price down farther. ... I think there's other savings in the base bid.

"I do think this is doing it the right way. Dodge City has some horror stories that they relayed to us. Great Bend said there was no way they were not turfing their bullpens because of the problem with mud getting onto their turf."

"I think if we're going to do this, we should do it right the first time," said Mason Ruder, vice-mayor. "We don't want to have to keep going back and piecing it together for the next 20 years."

"Everything that we're doing out there, we're going to have one of the best things in all of Kansas," Musil said.

The sports complex will soon also have new scoreboards and shade shelters.

Commissioners will vote on the bid next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620352731256.jpeg" alt="Samples of artificial turf which will be installed in the infields of the eight&nbsp; baseball/softball fields at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Samples of artificial turf which will be installed in the infields of the eight&nbsp; baseball/softball fields at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThanks to savings from low bids on two other projects financed with the city's share of the Ellis County sales tax, a fifth alternate has been added to the installation of artificial turf in the infields at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.Jeff Boyle, Hays parks director, presented the project proposal and recommended low bid to city commissioners Thursday night.Mid-America&nbsp;Sports Construction, Lee's Summit, Missouri, had the low bid of $1.5 million for&nbsp;turfing all eight infields, plus four alternates."Good company," said Boyle. "They're the ones that did the Hays Larks field and also the Hays High School baseball field."The Hays Recreation Commission will put $700,000 toward the project and city commission capital reserves will kick in another $927,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620355133349.jpeg" alt="Infield expansions are expected to bring in more tournaments for athletes 13 and younger. Infields 1-4 and 7 will remain the same size.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Infield expansions are expected to bring in more tournaments for athletes 13 and younger. Infields 1-4 and 7 will remain the same size.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Bickle-Schmidt alternates are&nbsp;expanded repairs to the transition zones, expansion of the infields on fields 5, 6, and 8 to&nbsp;allow more tournament play, additional rubber infield supplies, and the removal of the&nbsp;existing red infield dirt.The infield dirt will be stockpiled for Glassman Park and Aubel-Bickle Park "where we need it very badly," Boyle said. "We think it's a no-brainer to spend $13,000 to have it removed and used to bring those two infields to the correct level. The estimated material cost is $45,000-$50,000."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620354608767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioner Shaun Musil proposed that alternate #5 - turfing of the 16 bullpens - also be added to the project at a cost of $264,000."I know it's a lot of money," Musil said. "I know we've done three or four projects where we've had quite a bit of savings. To me, you spend over a million and a half, and to skimp on the bullpens, I think it's a mistake."&nbsp;Musil also asked the recreation commission if they would be able to "help a little bit more."Superintendent Roger Bixenman, who was in the audience, said he had already talked to his board members and they were supportive.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pDY9K3a539c"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Although considered important, the bullpens were not included in the recommendation because of budget constraints, according to Toby Dougherty, city manager. After reviewing the savings on two other recent projects, commissioners agreed it should be included.The difference is about $43,000 more than initially projected."We made a commitment to do something that was going to economically impact our community" said Mayor Sandy Jacobs. "Being able to bring more tournaments in, I certainly think it's important we consider this."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620360776315.jpeg" alt="Jeff Boyle, Hays director of parks" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Boyle, Hays director of parks</figcaption>
 </figure>Boyle said he had talked with the company about using a different turf type with less thatch for the bullpens.&nbsp;"They said they do it all the time. ... I got an email back that it would cost about $200,000. So I think we can work through this with them and even get that price down farther. ... I think there's other savings in the base bid."I do think this is doing it the right way. Dodge City has some horror stories that they relayed to us. Great Bend said there was no way they were not turfing their bullpens because of the problem with mud getting onto their turf.""I think if we're going to do this, we should do it right the first time," said Mason Ruder, vice-mayor. "We don't want to have to keep going back and piecing it together for the next 20 years.""Everything that we're doing out there, we're going to have one of the best things in all of Kansas," Musil said.The sports complex will soon also have new scoreboards and shade shelters.Commissioners will vote on the bid next week.

🎥 $1.7M artificial turf to be installed at sports complex; new scoreboards, shade structures underway

🎥 Ellis County National Day Of Prayer 2021

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Thomas More Prep-Marian Pop Singers will present their annual showcase titled "Kaleidoscope" Saturday and Sunday.

"Our theme this year is 'Kaleidoscope: Change of Perspective,'" Alex Rome, director, said. "The last year has been a big perspective changer, so we are trying to bring a positive light out of all the horrificness in the last little while."

The group will be performing a song called "You will be Found" from the musical "Dear Evan Hansen."

In addition, there will be a variety of soloists performing songs, including "With You" from the musical "Ghost," "Folsom Prison Blues," and "Copacabana."

Jensen Brull, sophomore, and&nbsp;Madelyn Seiler, junior, will sing a duet "Sarah Brown Eyes" from the musical "Ragtime."

The students said they were unsure at the beginning of the school year if they would be able to host the annual showcase because of the pandemic.

"This is our first year with our new director, Alex Rome," Brull said. "She was an assistant director last year. I feel she's done a really good job of taking hold of the group, and we've really come together and bonded a lot working through COVID this year."&nbsp;

Seiler said this year has been special because all of the trials that the group has been through.&nbsp;

"To be able to perform has been a great blessing to all of us, and we've all been there for each other throughout the whole thing," she said.

The showcase will feature 20 vocalists and a four-piece live band.

A pre-show dessert bar will open at 6 p.m. Saturday in the TMP dining hall with the show starting at 7 p.m. in the school's Dreiling Theater.

Sunday's dessert bar opens at 1 p.m. with the show starting at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and can be ordered by calling Kathy at 785-650-4371.

&nbsp;Money raised benefits the Pop Singers to pay for supplies, music and travel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620316137816.jpeg" alt="A Thomas More Prep-Marian singer during Showcase practice on Wednesday night.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A Thomas More Prep-Marian singer during Showcase practice on Wednesday night.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Thomas More Prep-Marian Pop Singers will present their annual showcase titled "Kaleidoscope" Saturday and Sunday."Our theme this year is 'Kaleidoscope: Change of Perspective,'" Alex Rome, director, said. "The last year has been a big perspective changer, so we are trying to bring a positive light out of all the horrificness in the last little while."The group will be performing a song called "You will be Found" from the musical "Dear Evan Hansen."In addition, there will be a variety of soloists performing songs, including "With You" from the musical "Ghost," "Folsom Prison Blues," and "Copacabana."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620316442815.jpeg" alt="TMP Pop Singer practicing for the&nbsp;"Kaleidoscope"&nbsp; Showcase on Saturday and Sunday." />
 <figcaption>TMP Pop Singer practicing for the&nbsp;"Kaleidoscope"&nbsp; Showcase on Saturday and Sunday.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jensen Brull, sophomore, and&nbsp;Madelyn Seiler, junior, will sing a duet "Sarah Brown Eyes" from the musical "Ragtime."The students said they were unsure at the beginning of the school year if they would be able to host the annual showcase because of the pandemic."This is our first year with our new director, Alex Rome," Brull said. "She was an assistant director last year. I feel she's done a really good job of taking hold of the group, and we've really come together and bonded a lot working through COVID this year."&nbsp;Seiler said this year has been special because all of the trials that the group has been through.&nbsp;"To be able to perform has been a great blessing to all of us, and we've all been there for each other throughout the whole thing," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620316792050.jpeg" alt="One of 20 vocalists who will perform in the TMP-Marian Pop Singers Showcase "Kaleidoscope: Change of Perspective" on Saturday and Sunday." />
 <figcaption>One of 20 vocalists who will perform in the TMP-Marian Pop Singers Showcase "Kaleidoscope: Change of Perspective" on Saturday and Sunday.</figcaption>
 </figure>The showcase will feature 20 vocalists and a four-piece live band.A pre-show dessert bar will open at 6 p.m. Saturday in the TMP dining hall with the show starting at 7 p.m. in the school's Dreiling Theater.Sunday's dessert bar opens at 1 p.m. with the show starting at 2 p.m.Tickets are $10 and can be ordered by calling Kathy at 785-650-4371.&nbsp;Money raised benefits the Pop Singers to pay for supplies, music and travel.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620329373744.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

TMP Pop Singers to perform 'Kaleidoscope' showcase Saturday, Sunday

The Ellis High School commencement will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Ellis HS Jr./Sr. High School football field.

The Ellis High School commencement will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Ellis HS Jr./Sr. High School football field.<figure>
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Ellis High School graduation Saturday; graduates announced

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Thursday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Kenworth semi driven by Keith T. Balka, 57, Centennial, CO., was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of Walker Avenue.

The semi left the roadway, traveled into the median and struck&nbsp; a bridge rail and the embankment.

EMS transported&nbsp;Balka to Hays Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Thursday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Kenworth semi driven by Keith T. Balka, 57, Centennial, CO., was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of Walker Avenue.The semi left the roadway, traveled into the median and struck&nbsp; a bridge rail and the embankment.EMS transported&nbsp;Balka to Hays Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

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