Americans sometimes assume they are equipped with everything they 
need — laws, policies and cultural norms — to exercise their right to 
religious freedom. But is that true? What circumstances need to exist 
for religious freedom to be possible? What conditions must already be in
 place if Americans are to exercise their right to believe and act in 
accordance with their religious identities?

Corey D. B. Walker, a religious studies scholar at the University of Richmond, recently raised these questions at a <a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/2020/02/13/lifting-every-voice-in-religious-freedom/" target="_blank">course</a> exploring African-American perspectives about religious freedom. Drawing on the work of Enlightenment philosopher Immanuel Kant,
 Walker asked students to consider the “conditions of possibility” for 
religious freedom. So, what are the conditions necessary for enabling 
religious freedom in the first place?

Consider the Trump administration’s <a href="https://www.christianpost.com/news/trump-announces-school-prayer-guidance-9-agencies-draft-religious-freedom-rules.html" target="_blank">proposed changes</a>
 to rules in nine federal agencies. The changes are complex and differ 
somewhat across agencies, but one common theme is the elimination of 
certain religious liberty protections for social service beneficiaries. 
These rules were implemented pursuant to an executive order signed by President Obama in 2010 (<a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2010-11-22/pdf/2010-29579.pdf" target="_blank">Executive Order 13559</a>).
 With this order, President Obama embraced recommendations made by his 
inaugural Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships,
 which was comprised of both progressive and conservative religious and 
community leaders. The order states in part:

If a beneficiary or prospective beneficiary of a social 
service program supported by federal financial assistance objects to the
 religious character of an organization that provides services under the
 program, that organization shall, within a reasonable time after the 
date of the objection, refer the beneficiary to an alternative provider.

In other words, a religiously affiliated group — like a Christian, 
Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist or Sikh ministry or aid society — can 
receive a federal grant or contract to provide a social service such as 
emergency shelter, food supplement or job training programs, addiction 
treatment services and more. If a religiously affiliated group does so, 
then the group must refer beneficiaries (those who receive the service) 
to other groups if the beneficiary objects to the religious affiliation 
or character of the service provider.

Furthermore, the rules require social service providers to notify 
beneficiaries that they can request such a referral. The task force that
 made these recommendations asserted that beneficiaries cannot be 
expected to know about these protections — social service providers are 
responsible for informing them.

The Trump administration would eliminate the alternative provider 
requirement. It would also no longer obligate social service providers 
to notify beneficiaries that they could request an alternative provider.
 Beneficiaries could still seek a referral to such a provider, but they 
would not be told about that option. If beneficiaries do request a 
referral, providers would still have to make reasonable efforts to make 
one, and the provider would have to tell the government or awarding 
entity if they were unsuccessful.

Do the proposed rules create the “conditions of possibility” for 
religious freedom? The Trump administration argues the rules would put 
religious social service providers on a level playing field with 
non-religious providers, thereby promoting one possible condition for 
freedom: equality. The administration contends that the alternative 
provider requirement and beneficiary notice are discriminatory for 
placing special obligations on religious social service providers. They 
say those rules are in tension with recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions.
 Others assert that these requirements are consistent with the 
Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses in the First Amendment.
 And the Supreme Court cases that the Trump administration cites involve
 governmental policies that refuse to allow religious bodies to compete 
for state funding or religious individuals to run for certain public 
offices, not reasonable conditions that apply to government grants 
religious bodies do receive.

In either case, the Trump administration’s proposed rules would 
eliminate another condition for freedom: knowledge. If social service 
beneficiaries are not notified about these religious liberty 
protections, they may not know that they can request a different 
religious or non-religious provider. Our judicial system has long 
acknowledged the link between knowledge of rights and the ability to 
exercise those rights. Anyone who has watched a crime show knows that 
the police need to read suspects their <a href="https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/the-miranda-warning-is-born-47-years-ago-today" target="_blank">Miranda rights</a>, for example.

The Trump administration should not eliminate the alternative 
referral requirement and beneficiary notice if they want to safeguard 
the conditions that make religious freedom possible. Even if one accepts
 their claim that the alternative provider and beneficiary notice 
requirements present a possibly unconstitutional burden on religious 
social service providers — a claim vigorously disputed by some 
church-state lawyers, including Melissa Rogers — the 
administration could maintain these religious liberty protections for 
beneficiaries in other ways. The administration could require both religious
 and non-religious social service providers to make referrals to 
alternative providers and notify beneficiaries about religious liberty 
protections for them. Or governmental bodies, not providers, could 
notify beneficiaries of existing protections. (As Melissa Rogers notes, 
“[t]he only indefensible approach would be to end such religious freedom
 requirements”).

Too often those in power present religious freedom as a zero-sum 
game. In this case, the Trump administration argues that the government 
can extend religious liberty protections to social service providers or 
beneficiaries, but not both. But the administration can maintain 
protections for both and thereby affirm conditions that both 
conservatives and progressives argue are necessary for religious freedom
 to exist at all.

A British Council <a href="https://www.britishcouncil.us/sites/default/files/usukreligionbeliefreport_1.pdf" target="_blank">survey</a>
 released to the public earlier this year found that 89 percent of 
people in the United States agree that freedom of religion or belief is a
 fundamental right. As Americans, we should urge the government to do 
everything it can to create the conditions that make it possible for 
Americans of all religions and none to exercise that fundamental right.

I am grateful to Melissa Rogers, former executive director of the
 White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships 
(2013-2017, for sharing her comments on the proposed rule changes by 
the Trump administration. Her insightful feedback inspired this column.

Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum. His email address is: <a href="mailto:bmarcus@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">bmarcus@freedomforum.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576172282950.jpeg" alt="Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Americans sometimes assume they are equipped with everything they 
need — laws, policies and cultural norms — to exercise their right to 
religious freedom. But is that true? What circumstances need to exist 
for religious freedom to be possible? What conditions must already be in
 place if Americans are to exercise their right to believe and act in 
accordance with their religious identities?Corey D. B. Walker, a religious studies scholar at the University of Richmond, recently raised these questions at a <a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/2020/02/13/lifting-every-voice-in-religious-freedom/" target="_blank">course</a> exploring African-American perspectives about religious freedom. Drawing on the work of Enlightenment philosopher Immanuel Kant,
 Walker asked students to consider the “conditions of possibility” for 
religious freedom. So, what are the conditions necessary for enabling 
religious freedom in the first place?Consider the Trump administration’s <a href="https://www.christianpost.com/news/trump-announces-school-prayer-guidance-9-agencies-draft-religious-freedom-rules.html" target="_blank">proposed changes</a>
 to rules in nine federal agencies. The changes are complex and differ 
somewhat across agencies, but one common theme is the elimination of 
certain religious liberty protections for social service beneficiaries. 
These rules were implemented pursuant to an executive order signed by President Obama in 2010 (<a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2010-11-22/pdf/2010-29579.pdf" target="_blank">Executive Order 13559</a>).
 With this order, President Obama embraced recommendations made by his 
inaugural Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships,
 which was comprised of both progressive and conservative religious and 
community leaders. The order states in part:If a beneficiary or prospective beneficiary of a social 
service program supported by federal financial assistance objects to the
 religious character of an organization that provides services under the
 program, that organization shall, within a reasonable time after the 
date of the objection, refer the beneficiary to an alternative provider.In other words, a religiously affiliated group — like a Christian, 
Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist or Sikh ministry or aid society — can 
receive a federal grant or contract to provide a social service such as 
emergency shelter, food supplement or job training programs, addiction 
treatment services and more. If a religiously affiliated group does so, 
then the group must refer beneficiaries (those who receive the service) 
to other groups if the beneficiary objects to the religious affiliation 
or character of the service provider.Furthermore, the rules require social service providers to notify 
beneficiaries that they can request such a referral. The task force that
 made these recommendations asserted that beneficiaries cannot be 
expected to know about these protections — social service providers are 
responsible for informing them.The Trump administration would eliminate the alternative provider 
requirement. It would also no longer obligate social service providers 
to notify beneficiaries that they could request an alternative provider.
 Beneficiaries could still seek a referral to such a provider, but they 
would not be told about that option. If beneficiaries do request a 
referral, providers would still have to make reasonable efforts to make 
one, and the provider would have to tell the government or awarding 
entity if they were unsuccessful.Do the proposed rules create the “conditions of possibility” for 
religious freedom? The Trump administration argues the rules would put 
religious social service providers on a level playing field with 
non-religious providers, thereby promoting one possible condition for 
freedom: equality. The administration contends that the alternative 
provider requirement and beneficiary notice are discriminatory for 
placing special obligations on religious social service providers. They 
say those rules are in tension with recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions.
 Others assert that these requirements are consistent with the 
Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses in the First Amendment.
 And the Supreme Court cases that the Trump administration cites involve
 governmental policies that refuse to allow religious bodies to compete 
for state funding or religious individuals to run for certain public 
offices, not reasonable conditions that apply to government grants 
religious bodies do receive.In either case, the Trump administration’s proposed rules would 
eliminate another condition for freedom: knowledge. If social service 
beneficiaries are not notified about these religious liberty 
protections, they may not know that they can request a different 
religious or non-religious provider. Our judicial system has long 
acknowledged the link between knowledge of rights and the ability to 
exercise those rights. Anyone who has watched a crime show knows that 
the police need to read suspects their <a href="https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/the-miranda-warning-is-born-47-years-ago-today" target="_blank">Miranda rights</a>, for example.The Trump administration should not eliminate the alternative 
referral requirement and beneficiary notice if they want to safeguard 
the conditions that make religious freedom possible. Even if one accepts
 their claim that the alternative provider and beneficiary notice 
requirements present a possibly unconstitutional burden on religious 
social service providers — a claim vigorously disputed by some 
church-state lawyers, including Melissa Rogers — the 
administration could maintain these religious liberty protections for 
beneficiaries in other ways. The administration could require both religious
 and non-religious social service providers to make referrals to 
alternative providers and notify beneficiaries about religious liberty 
protections for them. Or governmental bodies, not providers, could 
notify beneficiaries of existing protections. (As Melissa Rogers notes, 
“[t]he only indefensible approach would be to end such religious freedom
 requirements”).Too often those in power present religious freedom as a zero-sum 
game. In this case, the Trump administration argues that the government 
can extend religious liberty protections to social service providers or 
beneficiaries, but not both. But the administration can maintain 
protections for both and thereby affirm conditions that both 
conservatives and progressives argue are necessary for religious freedom
 to exist at all.A British Council <a href="https://www.britishcouncil.us/sites/default/files/usukreligionbeliefreport_1.pdf" target="_blank">survey</a>
 released to the public earlier this year found that 89 percent of 
people in the United States agree that freedom of religion or belief is a
 fundamental right. As Americans, we should urge the government to do 
everything it can to create the conditions that make it possible for 
Americans of all religions and none to exercise that fundamental right.I am grateful to Melissa Rogers, former executive director of the
 White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships 
(2013-2017, for sharing her comments on the proposed rule changes by 
the Trump administration. Her insightful feedback inspired this column.Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum. His email address is: <a href="mailto:bmarcus@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">bmarcus@freedomforum.org</a>.

FIRST FIVE: Conditions of possibility for religious freedom

At 5 p.m. Sunday, April 5,&nbsp; at the Hays High School gym, there will be a Battle of the Badges charity basketball game for Mitch Berans — policemen vs firefighters.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5df2c548c2f9fe096b7d54dd">Berens — a 25-year veteran of the Hays Police Department — was diagnosed with cancer late last year.</a>

Admission is free and donations will be accepted. 

A 50/50 raffle will be offered. There will also be a raffle for items including a Traeger grill, a garage door installation and a Yeti cooler and tumbler at halftime.&nbsp;Raffle tickets will be $10 and can be purchased in advance.

Food vendors will be onsite with 10 percent of the proceeds going to Berens.

Orders are also being taken for T-shirts, which will cost $15.

The event is sponsored by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/YVTChays/">Your Voice Through Cancer</a>, a nonprofit cancer support group. For more information, call 785-639-3690.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583438282696.jpeg" alt="Sgt. Mitch Berens is a 25-year veteran with Hays Police Department. Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Mitch Berens is a 25-year veteran with Hays Police Department. Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>At 5 p.m. Sunday, April 5,&nbsp; at the Hays High School gym, there will be a Battle of the Badges charity basketball game for Mitch Berans — policemen vs firefighters.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5df2c548c2f9fe096b7d54dd">Berens — a 25-year veteran of the Hays Police Department — was diagnosed with cancer late last year.</a>Admission is free and donations will be accepted. A 50/50 raffle will be offered. There will also be a raffle for items including a Traeger grill, a garage door installation and a Yeti cooler and tumbler at halftime.&nbsp;Raffle tickets will be $10 and can be purchased in advance.Food vendors will be onsite with 10 percent of the proceeds going to Berens.Orders are also being taken for T-shirts, which will cost $15.The event is sponsored by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/YVTChays/">Your Voice Through Cancer</a>, a nonprofit cancer support group. For more information, call 785-639-3690.

Police vs. firefighter basketball game will benefit officer battling cancer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Fort Hays State women’s basketball
team couldn’t overcome a slow start at the beginning of the game and at the beginning
of the third quarter and lost 59-48 to No. 15 Central Missouri in Saturday’s MIAA
Tournament semifinal at Municipal Auditorium.

The Jennies (26-4) opened with an 11-2 run over the
first five and-a-half minutes of the game. The Tigers (23-7) scored the next seven to pull within
two but would never get the lead. UCM scored the final five points for a 16-9
lead at the quarter break.

The Tigers held the Jennies to five points in the second
quarter but could only score eight themselves and trailed 21-17 at the half.

UCM took control with a 12-2 run to open the third quarter
and led by as many as 16 before a 7-0 run by the Tigers brought them back
within nine early in the fourth. 

The Tigers got as close as six after a Jaden Hobbs three with
a little over a minute to play. They then nearly forced a turnover near mid-court but
the Jennies were awarded a timeout on a loose ball then got a three-pointer
from conference Player of the Year Megan Skaggs late in the shot clock with 31
seconds to play to push the lead to nine and seal the win.

The Tigers shot only 32-percent including 5-of-23 from beyond
the arc and 7-of-13 from the free throw line. They did force Central Missouri
into 20 turnovers but scored only eight points off turnovers for the game.

Jaden Hobbs was the only Tiger to reach double-figures with
14 points. Belle Barbieri scored eight while grabbing a game-high 12 rebounds.

UCM, who is No. 1 in this week's NCAA II Central Region rankings, was led by Morgan Flemming's 20 points. Nija Collier added 15.

The Tigers, who were ranked sixth in this week’s NCAA II
Central Regional rankings, will find out Sunday night if they are selected for
next week’s NCAA II Tournament.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Fort Hays State women’s basketball
team couldn’t overcome a slow start at the beginning of the game and at the beginning
of the third quarter and lost 59-48 to No. 15 Central Missouri in Saturday’s MIAA
Tournament semifinal at Municipal Auditorium.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/772372276&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe>


<iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/772372243&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe>


<iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/772372294&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe></div>The Jennies (26-4) opened with an 11-2 run over the
first five and-a-half minutes of the game. The Tigers (23-7) scored the next seven to pull within
two but would never get the lead. UCM scored the final five points for a 16-9
lead at the quarter break.The Tigers held the Jennies to five points in the second
quarter but could only score eight themselves and trailed 21-17 at the half.UCM took control with a 12-2 run to open the third quarter
and led by as many as 16 before a 7-0 run by the Tigers brought them back
within nine early in the fourth. The Tigers got as close as six after a Jaden Hobbs three with
a little over a minute to play. They then nearly forced a turnover near mid-court but
the Jennies were awarded a timeout on a loose ball then got a three-pointer
from conference Player of the Year Megan Skaggs late in the shot clock with 31
seconds to play to push the lead to nine and seal the win.The Tigers shot only 32-percent including 5-of-23 from beyond
the arc and 7-of-13 from the free throw line. They did force Central Missouri
into 20 turnovers but scored only eight points off turnovers for the game.Jaden Hobbs was the only Tiger to reach double-figures with
14 points. Belle Barbieri scored eight while grabbing a game-high 12 rebounds.UCM, who is No. 1 in this week's NCAA II Central Region rankings, was led by Morgan Flemming's 20 points. Nija Collier added 15.The Tigers, who were ranked sixth in this week’s NCAA II
Central Regional rankings, will find out Sunday night if they are selected for
next week’s NCAA II Tournament.

Tiger women fall to Jennies in MIAA Tournament semifinals

PHILLIPS COUNTY — Three people were injured in an accident just after noon Saturday in Phillips County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Ram driven by Wade Cecil Fitzgerald Haskett, 32, Agra, was westbound on U.S. 36 at the 183&nbsp; Junction on the east edge of Phillipsburg.

The Dodge turned in front of a&nbsp; 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by&nbsp; Steven Edward Sherrick, 52, Abilene. The Jeep struck the Dodge on the passenger side.

EMS transported Sherrick and passengers in the Jeep Tristan Taylor, 11,&nbsp;Taylor, and Twila Taylor, 5, both of Phillipsburg, to the Phillips County Hospital.&nbsp; Haskett and a 78-year-old passenger in the Dodge were not injured. All five were properly restrained at the time of the accicdent, according to the KHP.

PHILLIPS COUNTY — Three people were injured in an accident just after noon Saturday in Phillips County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Ram driven by Wade Cecil Fitzgerald Haskett, 32, Agra, was westbound on U.S. 36 at the 183&nbsp; Junction on the east edge of Phillipsburg.The Dodge turned in front of a&nbsp; 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by&nbsp; Steven Edward Sherrick, 52, Abilene. The Jeep struck the Dodge on the passenger side.EMS transported Sherrick and passengers in the Jeep Tristan Taylor, 11,&nbsp;Taylor, and Twila Taylor, 5, both of Phillipsburg, to the Phillips County Hospital.&nbsp; Haskett and a 78-year-old passenger in the Dodge were not injured. All five were properly restrained at the time of the accicdent, according to the KHP.

Kansas man, 2 children hospitalized after Phillips Co. crash

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e5e9b2cde88be052e537987">For event details visit the announcement page on Hays Post.</a>

<div><iframe title="FHSU choirs to perform this week" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/azuh7-d5adfe?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e5e9b2cde88be052e537987">For event details visit the announcement page on Hays Post.</a>

🎤Post Podcast: FHSU choirs to perform this week

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays United Methodist Church is finishing a remodel of its gym into a worship center.

The church plans to kick off a new contemporary service in the remodeled space on Easter Sunday.

The church at 305 W. Seventh was built in 1910, and the congregation met in the basement, which was the subject of this recent remodel, the Rev. Michael Rose said.

After the church's sanctuary was built in the 1940s, the space was converted into a gym.

The latest renovation included installing carpet in the room so the space could be used as a worship center. 

"We are really reclaiming the history with this new service," Rose said.

Instead of pews, parishioners will sit at round tables. These tables will be mobile so the space can be opened back up for other activities.

The space can hold about 100 people with the tables set up and about 200 people if the space is open. There is also a wheelchair lift available, so the worship center is handicap accessible.

The alter and pulpit will be on the floor to be closer to the people. The band will be on the stage.

The church still plans to have to traditional worship services every Sunday. The contemporary service in the remodeled worship center will be at 5 p.m. Sundays.

Matt Dumler, youth director and certified lay speaker, said he hoped the new service will accommodate young families, people who have traveled over the weekend and sports families.&nbsp;

Dumler said all are welcome at the services, and there is no need to dress up.

The service will start with a worship set, including music.

"The message is only going to be about 10 to 15 minutes, taking the scripture, breaking it down, pulling out some context to it, giving some direction to it," said Dumler, who will be helping lead the services. "Then we are going to turn it over into a time of discussion within the service."

The idea for the format came from what services looked like when the church started, Dumler said.

"We wanted to give some of that power back to the congregation," he said, "and allow them to pull in and dig into the Scripture.

"Our hope is that not only can they build community inside the service but outside of it as well and that they can learn to use the scriptures and break down the Scriptures so they can take that and extend it into their everyday life."

The church will provide children's activities so parents can focus on discussion.

The gym was used for storage for a long time, but Dumler said the congregation is excited to bring the space back to life.

Troy Miller, director of Congregational and Community Care and lay speaker, will also lead worship. Shawn Henderson, bell choir director, will lead the worship band.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583340554505.jpeg" alt="Matt Dumler, youth director and lay speaker, will help lead a new contemporary worship service at 5 p.m. Sundays at the United Methodist Church in church's remodeled worship center." />
 <figcaption>Matt Dumler, youth director and lay speaker, will help lead a new contemporary worship service at 5 p.m. Sundays at the United Methodist Church in church's remodeled worship center.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays United Methodist Church is finishing a remodel of its gym into a worship center.The church plans to kick off a new contemporary service in the remodeled space on Easter Sunday.The church at 305 W. Seventh was built in 1910, and the congregation met in the basement, which was the subject of this recent remodel, the Rev. Michael Rose said.After the church's sanctuary was built in the 1940s, the space was converted into a gym.The latest renovation included installing carpet in the room so the space could be used as a worship center. "We are really reclaiming the history with this new service," Rose said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583340591077.jpeg" alt="The church's former gym was remodeled to accommodate a new&nbsp; contemporary Sunday night worship service.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The church's former gym was remodeled to accommodate a new&nbsp; contemporary Sunday night worship service.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Instead of pews, parishioners will sit at round tables. These tables will be mobile so the space can be opened back up for other activities.The space can hold about 100 people with the tables set up and about 200 people if the space is open. There is also a wheelchair lift available, so the worship center is handicap accessible.The alter and pulpit will be on the floor to be closer to the people. The band will be on the stage.The church still plans to have to traditional worship services every Sunday. The contemporary service in the remodeled worship center will be at 5 p.m. Sundays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583340625930.jpeg" alt="The United Methodist Church gym before the remodel. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The United Methodist Church gym before the remodel. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Matt Dumler, youth director and certified lay speaker, said he hoped the new service will accommodate young families, people who have traveled over the weekend and sports families.&nbsp;Dumler said all are welcome at the services, and there is no need to dress up.The service will start with a worship set, including music."The message is only going to be about 10 to 15 minutes, taking the scripture, breaking it down, pulling out some context to it, giving some direction to it," said Dumler, who will be helping lead the services. "Then we are going to turn it over into a time of discussion within the service."The idea for the format came from what services looked like when the church started, Dumler said."We wanted to give some of that power back to the congregation," he said, "and allow them to pull in and dig into the Scripture."Our hope is that not only can they build community inside the service but outside of it as well and that they can learn to use the scriptures and break down the Scriptures so they can take that and extend it into their everyday life."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583340491445.jpeg" alt="The new worship service will include a worship band playing on the stage and the pulpit being moved to the worship center floor to be closer to the people." />
 <figcaption>The new worship service will include a worship band playing on the stage and the pulpit being moved to the worship center floor to be closer to the people.</figcaption>
 </figure>The church will provide children's activities so parents can focus on discussion.The gym was used for storage for a long time, but Dumler said the congregation is excited to bring the space back to life.Troy Miller, director of Congregational and Community Care and lay speaker, will also lead worship. Shawn Henderson, bell choir director, will lead the worship band.

Hays Methodist remodels gym, sets new services

The Logan Intergenerational Family Education Center recently announced a contribution of $200,000 toward its local fundraising drive. Kenneth "Kenny" and Dena Vehige, Hays, finalized their generous contribution this month. 

The Vehiges, who were both raised in Logan, have been strong supporters of the USD 326 school district for many years with their yearly donation of interest accrued from a sizable CD established locally. They requested that the CD remain in place to continue the yearly donation, but then showed their support for the upcoming LIFE project with their considerable contribution. 

“We are willing for our contribution to be public because we feel this is important.&nbsp; We hope this encourages others who love and support Logan to give to this project,” Kenny Vehige said.

The LIFE Center Volunteers hope that this generous donation helps kickstart the group’s local fundraising.&nbsp; 

“Our community came through with some initial donations to hire our grant writer and some fundraising help,” said Brien Stockman, LIFE Project Volunteer. That first informal round of fundraising succeeded in raising more than $100,000 to go toward the project.&nbsp; 

He continued, “We now need people to help us get moving with our major fundraising drive. This amazing show of support from the Vehige’s will hopefully be the jump start we need to reach our local fundraising goal of $1.25 million.&nbsp; You’ll be hearing a lot more about it in the next few weeks.” 

The LIFE Center project was awarded a matching grant of $7.5 million by Dane G. Hansen Foundation last year. The remaining funds are hoped to be raised through local fundraising, grants, and corporate sponsors.&nbsp; 

“Every donation shows potential donors and foundations that our community supports this project. That local buy-in and support is what will help us convince the other major foundations to follow through and support this project with the remaining funds we need.”&nbsp; Stockman said.&nbsp;

The LIFE Center project is a unique conceptual idea that will integrate several community facilities into one structure. The basic elements of this facility would include a new 36-bed&nbsp; nursing home facility based on the smallhouse design concept (much like the “Green House Project”, a new Pre-K through fourth-grade elementary school, a new accommodating gymnasium with associated locker room complex (which would also serve as a community storm shelter, a weight room and wellness facility, a community room, and a gathering place which will be open and available to the public. 

“The purpose of connecting these facilities and placing it all near the ABC Daycare is to create a true intergenerational experience that supports the very youngest to the eldest members of our community and encourages interaction,” said Max Lowry, Logan Community Development Foundation President and LIFE Project volunteer.

To learn more, make a contribution, or see plans please visit the new LIFE Center Website at <a href="http://www.loganlifecenter.com">www.loganlifecenter.com</a>. The volunteers have requested that sizable contributions be made by check to avoid the credit card fees associated with online contributions. You can send checks made out to LCDF-LIFE to LIFE Center Project ℅ LCDF, P.O. Box 203, Logan, KS 67646, or call Max Lowry, President of Logan Community Development Foundation, Inc, (LCDF) at (785) 689-8333 to schedule a pickup.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583359178369.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LIFEThe Logan Intergenerational Family Education Center recently announced a contribution of $200,000 toward its local fundraising drive. Kenneth "Kenny" and Dena Vehige, Hays, finalized their generous contribution this month. The Vehiges, who were both raised in Logan, have been strong supporters of the USD 326 school district for many years with their yearly donation of interest accrued from a sizable CD established locally. They requested that the CD remain in place to continue the yearly donation, but then showed their support for the upcoming LIFE project with their considerable contribution. “We are willing for our contribution to be public because we feel this is important.&nbsp; We hope this encourages others who love and support Logan to give to this project,” Kenny Vehige said.The LIFE Center Volunteers hope that this generous donation helps kickstart the group’s local fundraising.&nbsp; “Our community came through with some initial donations to hire our grant writer and some fundraising help,” said Brien Stockman, LIFE Project Volunteer. That first informal round of fundraising succeeded in raising more than $100,000 to go toward the project.&nbsp; He continued, “We now need people to help us get moving with our major fundraising drive. This amazing show of support from the Vehige’s will hopefully be the jump start we need to reach our local fundraising goal of $1.25 million.&nbsp; You’ll be hearing a lot more about it in the next few weeks.” The LIFE Center project was awarded a matching grant of $7.5 million by Dane G. Hansen Foundation last year. The remaining funds are hoped to be raised through local fundraising, grants, and corporate sponsors.&nbsp; “Every donation shows potential donors and foundations that our community supports this project. That local buy-in and support is what will help us convince the other major foundations to follow through and support this project with the remaining funds we need.”&nbsp; Stockman said.&nbsp;The LIFE Center project is a unique conceptual idea that will integrate several community facilities into one structure. The basic elements of this facility would include a new 36-bed&nbsp; nursing home facility based on the smallhouse design concept (much like the “Green House Project”, a new Pre-K through fourth-grade elementary school, a new accommodating gymnasium with associated locker room complex (which would also serve as a community storm shelter, a weight room and wellness facility, a community room, and a gathering place which will be open and available to the public. “The purpose of connecting these facilities and placing it all near the ABC Daycare is to create a true intergenerational experience that supports the very youngest to the eldest members of our community and encourages interaction,” said Max Lowry, Logan Community Development Foundation President and LIFE Project volunteer.To learn more, make a contribution, or see plans please visit the new LIFE Center Website at <a href="http://www.loganlifecenter.com">www.loganlifecenter.com</a>. The volunteers have requested that sizable contributions be made by check to avoid the credit card fees associated with online contributions. You can send checks made out to LCDF-LIFE to LIFE Center Project ℅ LCDF, P.O. Box 203, Logan, KS 67646, or call Max Lowry, President of Logan Community Development Foundation, Inc, (LCDF) at (785) 689-8333 to schedule a pickup.

Hays couple's donation will help fund new Logan LIFE Center

The Kansas State Extension Master Gardeners will offer a free lawn mowing clinic for anyone age 10 or older.

Lawnmower maintenance, safety and lawn care will be addressed at 1 p.m. March 24 at the K-State Ag Research Center in Hays. There will be a rain day of March 27.

Pre-registration is required at the Ellis County Extension office by March 17 by calling (785) 628-9430.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583355219649.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas State Extension Master Gardeners will offer a free lawn mowing clinic for anyone age 10 or older.Lawnmower maintenance, safety and lawn care will be addressed at 1 p.m. March 24 at the K-State Ag Research Center in Hays. There will be a rain day of March 27.Pre-registration is required at the Ellis County Extension office by March 17 by calling (785) 628-9430.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583166068248.jpeg" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>

Master Gardeners will offer lawn mowing clinic

Preliminary estimates reported by the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/LR%20Jan2020%20SA%20Rate%20Chart%20file.pdf">seasonally adjusted unemployment rate</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;3.1&nbsp;percent in January. This was unchanged&nbsp;from 3.1&nbsp;percent in December and a decrease from 3.3&nbsp;percent in January 2019.


			“The
 Kansas labor market showed improvement in 2019, with Kansas employers 
adding 7,300 jobs and the unemployment rate falling to 3.2 percent,” 
said Secretary Delía García. “This
 momentum has continued with the January 2020 job estimates increasing 
by 2,900 and the unemployment rate remaining low at 3.1 percent.”

The Ellis County jobless rate rose from 2 percent in December to 2.3 percent in January. While nearly all northwest Kansas counties have unemployment rates below 3 percent, several saw slight increases, as well. Trego County reported the most significant increase, from 2.6 percent to 3.3 percent.

Decatur, Rooks, Rush and Graham counties all had January jobless rates above 3 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 2,900 from December. <a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/LR%20Jan2020%20SA%20PrivateEmpl%20Chart%20file.pdf">Private sector jobs</a>, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 1,700&nbsp;from the previous month, while government gained 1,200 jobs.


			“The
 annual process of revising job estimates is now complete, showing 
Kansas gained 7,300 jobs in 2019, a growth rate of 0.5 percent,”&nbsp;said Senior Labor Economist, Tyler Tenbrink. “Healthcare and social assistance and manufacturing were the two industries that gained the most jobs last year.”

Since January&nbsp;2019,&nbsp;Kansas gained 9,900&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/LR%20Jan2020%20Seasonally%20Adj%20PR%20Packet.pdf">seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs</a>. This change is due to 7,200 additional&nbsp;private sector jobs and 2,700 additional government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583508866639.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/LR%20Jan2020%20SA%20Rate%20Chart%20file.pdf">seasonally adjusted unemployment rate</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;3.1&nbsp;percent in January. This was unchanged&nbsp;from 3.1&nbsp;percent in December and a decrease from 3.3&nbsp;percent in January 2019.
			“The
 Kansas labor market showed improvement in 2019, with Kansas employers 
adding 7,300 jobs and the unemployment rate falling to 3.2 percent,” 
said Secretary Delía García. “This
 momentum has continued with the January 2020 job estimates increasing 
by 2,900 and the unemployment rate remaining low at 3.1 percent.”The Ellis County jobless rate rose from 2 percent in December to 2.3 percent in January. While nearly all northwest Kansas counties have unemployment rates below 3 percent, several saw slight increases, as well. Trego County reported the most significant increase, from 2.6 percent to 3.3 percent.Decatur, Rooks, Rush and Graham counties all had January jobless rates above 3 percent.
			Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 2,900 from December. <a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/LR%20Jan2020%20SA%20PrivateEmpl%20Chart%20file.pdf">Private sector jobs</a>, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 1,700&nbsp;from the previous month, while government gained 1,200 jobs.
			“The
 annual process of revising job estimates is now complete, showing 
Kansas gained 7,300 jobs in 2019, a growth rate of 0.5 percent,”&nbsp;said Senior Labor Economist, Tyler Tenbrink. “Healthcare and social assistance and manufacturing were the two industries that gained the most jobs last year.”
			Since January&nbsp;2019,&nbsp;Kansas gained 9,900&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/LR%20Jan2020%20Seasonally%20Adj%20PR%20Packet.pdf">seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs</a>. This change is due to 7,200 additional&nbsp;private sector jobs and 2,700 additional government jobs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583508897796.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Jobless rate ticks up slightly in several NW Kan. counties

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583522144789.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

One of the most important programs I give is a hazardous occupation course for teenagers. Agriculture is a family-based business, and children are around dangerous situations from a very young age. One way to make a situation less dangerous is education, learning what the dangers may be and how to avoid putting yourself in a position that has a greater likelihood of getting hurt.

&nbsp;On April 2nd from 6-8:30 pm and also April 4th from 8 am-5pm, Cottonwood Extension District in Great Bend will hold its annual Tractor Safety class for youth ages 13-18. This class is required for teens ages 14-16 that are planning to work on a farm other than their immediate relatives. It is encouraged for any youth that are going to be working around the farm or large machinery to also complete a tractor safety course. Farm accidents are the cause of 120,000 injuries a year and children are at a high danger when working on a farm or ranch. The 2-day course will cover the various risks that are on a farm as well as give young people the information they need to be safe when working. Cost is 15.00 and that covers the book, snacks and lunch on Saturday. Call the Extension office at 620-793-1910 to register for the class. Registration is due by March 30th.

If you would like any more information about this opportunity for learning, please contact the Extension office for more information by calling 620-793-1910 or email me at <a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>.&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 aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<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>One of the most important programs I give is a hazardous occupation course for teenagers. Agriculture is a family-based business, and children are around dangerous situations from a very young age. One way to make a situation less dangerous is education, learning what the dangers may be and how to avoid putting yourself in a position that has a greater likelihood of getting hurt.&nbsp;On April 2nd from 6-8:30 pm and also April 4th from 8 am-5pm, Cottonwood Extension District in Great Bend will hold its annual Tractor Safety class for youth ages 13-18. This class is required for teens ages 14-16 that are planning to work on a farm other than their immediate relatives. It is encouraged for any youth that are going to be working around the farm or large machinery to also complete a tractor safety course. Farm accidents are the cause of 120,000 injuries a year and children are at a high danger when working on a farm or ranch. The 2-day course will cover the various risks that are on a farm as well as give young people the information they need to be safe when working. Cost is 15.00 and that covers the book, snacks and lunch on Saturday. Call the Extension office at 620-793-1910 to register for the class. Registration is due by March 30th.If you would like any more information about this opportunity for learning, please contact the Extension office for more information by calling 620-793-1910 or email me at <a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>.&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 aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Tractor safety class for teens set for next month

The Hays High Plains Barbershop Chapter is looking forward to its 52nd annual show — "Sing Sing Sing 2020" — to be presented April 4 at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State campus. 

There will be two shows, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Joining the chorus on stage for this 52nd annual show will be the headline quartet of the Barbershop Society's 2009 International Champions “CROSSROADS." It will also include local quartets Prairie Timber, Uncalled Four, and The Fort Hays Singers. Full Chord Press Boys Choir will perform the evening show.&nbsp;

“We are all very excited about this year’s show, since this is our 52nd year of presenting the very finest of barbershop music to the patrons of the Central States District," said Vance Chartier, show co-chair. "We are also delighted to have our chapter coach, Dr. Terry Crull, the Director of Choral Activities at Ft. Hays State University, emcee our event this year."


The chorus always looks forward to singing with the headliners and local quartets at this event because it helps further the chapter’s primary goal of fostering the growth of community singing and help provide scholarships to young people who love to sing. The success of this show annually also helps provide thousands of dollars to various schools, singing groups, and other organizations that help people with special needs. 
The chapter membership is currently in the process of selling advertising in the show program to support this important event. Nearly 2,000 people attend the show each year, and the advertisers make this event possible.  The chapter is thankful for the community support.


Tickets for the show may be purchased for $13.00 in Advanced at the following locations:
 • Walgreens, 2701 Vine, 2600 Vine St., Hays • Cerv’s 2701 Vine, 2722 Hall &amp; 1601 Main, Hays • Body Shoppe Salon, 117 E. 8th St. Hays • Student Service Center, Memorial Union, FHSU Campus • Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine, Hays • Klema Hometown Market, 51 S. Fossil, Russell • Encore Antiques &amp; Collectibles, 590 S. Fossil, Russell • First State Bank, 206 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Ness City • Rich’s Home Town Food Center 1106 Washington, Ellis

Also online at: <a href="https://singsingsing2020.eventbrite.com">https://singsingsing2020.eventbrite.com</a>.

See us online at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers/">www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583248041618.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays High Plains Barbershop Chapter is looking forward to its 52nd annual show — "Sing Sing Sing 2020" — to be presented April 4 at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State campus. There will be two shows, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Joining the chorus on stage for this 52nd annual show will be the headline quartet of the Barbershop Society's 2009 International Champions “CROSSROADS." It will also include local quartets Prairie Timber, Uncalled Four, and The Fort Hays Singers. Full Chord Press Boys Choir will perform the evening show.&nbsp;“We are all very excited about this year’s show, since this is our 52nd year of presenting the very finest of barbershop music to the patrons of the Central States District," said Vance Chartier, show co-chair. "We are also delighted to have our chapter coach, Dr. Terry Crull, the Director of Choral Activities at Ft. Hays State University, emcee our event this year."
The chorus always looks forward to singing with the headliners and local quartets at this event because it helps further the chapter’s primary goal of fostering the growth of community singing and help provide scholarships to young people who love to sing. The success of this show annually also helps provide thousands of dollars to various schools, singing groups, and other organizations that help people with special needs. 
The chapter membership is currently in the process of selling advertising in the show program to support this important event. Nearly 2,000 people attend the show each year, and the advertisers make this event possible. The chapter is thankful for the community support.
Tickets for the show may be purchased for $13.00 in Advanced at the following locations:
 • Walgreens, 2701 Vine, 2600 Vine St., Hays • Cerv’s 2701 Vine, 2722 Hall &amp; 1601 Main, Hays • Body Shoppe Salon, 117 E. 8th St. Hays • Student Service Center, Memorial Union, FHSU Campus • Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine, Hays • Klema Hometown Market, 51 S. Fossil, Russell • Encore Antiques &amp; Collectibles, 590 S. Fossil, Russell • First State Bank, 206 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Ness City • Rich’s Home Town Food Center 1106 Washington, Ellis
Also online at: <a href="https://singsingsing2020.eventbrite.com">https://singsingsing2020.eventbrite.com</a>.See us online at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers/">www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers/</a>

High Plains Barbershop Chorus set for 52nd annual performance

<a href="https://www.growhays.com/">To find out more about Grow Hays and their upcoming events, visit growhays.com</a>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays to promote entrepreneurship with upcoming events" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/n7f4a-d59fe0?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a><a href="https://www.growhays.com/">To find out more about Grow Hays and their upcoming events, visit growhays.com</a>

🎤Post Podcast: Grow Hays to promote entrepreneurship with upcoming events

The Plainville Police Department is investigating a stolen vehicle out Plainville. 

The vehicle is a four-door, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, Dark Blue in color and, at the time of the theft, it was bearing KS Plate 519JJG. 

The vehicle had a KU tag on the front that was starting to fade and was taken during the early morning hours of March 2. 

Keys were in vehicle at the time of the theft along with owner’s wallet containing drivers license and&nbsp;debit card.

The suspect used the owners debit card at the Hays Walmart at 3:42 a.m. March 2. 

The card was then used at a convenience store in Salina later that morning. The suspect left in an unknown direction of travel from Salina.

The suspect is described as a white female, mid 20s to early 30s with long blonde hair. 

As of 4 p.m. Thursday, the suspect had not been identified. 

Anyone with information on the suspect or vehicle shown above is asked to contact the Plainville Police Department.

Rooks County Sheriff's OfficeThe Plainville Police Department is investigating a stolen vehicle out Plainville. The vehicle is a four-door, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, Dark Blue in color and, at the time of the theft, it was bearing KS Plate 519JJG. The vehicle had a KU tag on the front that was starting to fade and was taken during the early morning hours of March 2. Keys were in vehicle at the time of the theft along with owner’s wallet containing drivers license and&nbsp;debit card.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRooksCountySheriffs%2Fposts%2F2790660924360114&width=500" width="500" height="603" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>The suspect used the owners debit card at the Hays Walmart at 3:42 a.m. March 2. The card was then used at a convenience store in Salina later that morning. The suspect left in an unknown direction of travel from Salina.The suspect is described as a white female, mid 20s to early 30s with long blonde hair. As of 4 p.m. Thursday, the suspect had not been identified. Anyone with information on the suspect or vehicle shown above is asked to contact the Plainville Police Department.

Plainville PD searching for vehicle, credit card theft suspect

On Friday at approximately 3:00 AM, Rooks County Sheriff's Office assistance was requested by the Hays Police Department for a vehicle pursuit that began in Hays.

The pursuit was northbound on Highway 183 at high rates of speeds, in excess of 100 mph. As the pursuit approached Plainville, spike strips were set up by the Rooks County Sheriff's Department but were unsuccessful.

Rooks County Sheriff's deputies took lead of the pursuit through Plainville and Stockton, still at high rates of speeds. The pursuit continued northbound on Highway 183 through Glade.

A Phillips County Sheriff's deputy was successful in deploying spike strips, prior to Glade.

The pursuit continued through Phillipsburg and ended approximately 10 miles north of Phillipsburg. 

The two suspects fled on foot. At this point, a perimeter was set up and a man hunt was conducted.

At approximately 6:45 AM, the two suspects were located and arrested a short distance from the vehicle.

Pictured below is the suspects' vehicle, which was reported stolen out of Colorado.

Due to this not being Rooks County's primary investigation, the suspects' names will not be released at this time.

The following agencies were involved with this pursuit; Hays Police Department, Ellis County Sheriff's Office, Rooks County Sheriff's Office, Plainville Police Department, Phillips County Sheriff's Office, Norton County Sheriff's Office, and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Corrected to reflect accurate date of incident.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fplsoks%2Fvideos%2F2397596883864720%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="420" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>ROOKS CO. SHERIFF'S OFFICE On Friday at approximately 3:00 AM, Rooks County Sheriff's Office assistance was requested by the Hays Police Department for a vehicle pursuit that began in Hays.The pursuit was northbound on Highway 183 at high rates of speeds, in excess of 100 mph. As the pursuit approached Plainville, spike strips were set up by the Rooks County Sheriff's Department but were unsuccessful.Rooks County Sheriff's deputies took lead of the pursuit through Plainville and Stockton, still at high rates of speeds. The pursuit continued northbound on Highway 183 through Glade.A Phillips County Sheriff's deputy was successful in deploying spike strips, prior to Glade.The pursuit continued through Phillipsburg and ended approximately 10 miles north of Phillipsburg. The two suspects fled on foot. At this point, a perimeter was set up and a man hunt was conducted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583495741650.jpeg" alt="Male suspect apprehended on foot north of Phillipsburg" />
 <figcaption>Male suspect apprehended on foot north of Phillipsburg</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583495781919.jpeg" alt="Female suspect apprehended on foot north of Phillipsburg" />
 <figcaption>Female suspect apprehended on foot north of Phillipsburg</figcaption>
 </figure>At approximately 6:45 AM, the two suspects were located and arrested a short distance from the vehicle.Pictured below is the suspects' vehicle, which was reported stolen out of Colorado.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583502931413.jpeg" alt="Reported stolen out of Colorado" />
 <figcaption>Reported stolen out of Colorado</figcaption>
 </figure>Due to this not being Rooks County's primary investigation, the suspects' names will not be released at this time.The following agencies were involved with this pursuit; Hays Police Department, Ellis County Sheriff's Office, Rooks County Sheriff's Office, Plainville Police Department, Phillips County Sheriff's Office, Norton County Sheriff's Office, and the Kansas Highway Patrol.Corrected to reflect accurate date of incident.

🎥 Phillips County chase, arrests began with Hays vehicle pursuit

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140720976.jpeg">Hays Post and Eagle Radio are seeking nominations for Teacher of the Month for 2019-20!Through April, Hays Post will solicit nominations from through the area from parents, students and colleagues. Nominate your favorite educator by sending the following information to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(119, 119, 119);">admin@hayspost.com</a>.• Your name and telephone number (will not be published).• Teacher’s name• Teacher’s school• Tell us why you are nominating this teacher<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140720976.jpeg">

Submit your nomination for Hays Post’s Teacher of the Month honor

UPDATE AT 7:07 A.M. - Both suspects have been located and are in custody, according to the Phillips County Sheriff's Department.

PHILLIPS COUNTY - The Phillips County Sheriff's Department is searching for two suspects, according to a social media post, in the area of Highway 183 and Fox Road. The pair eluded officers this morning and are on foot in the area.

Many officers from area law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search for a male and female subject. Citizens in the area are asked to secure their homes and vehicles and dial 911 if they see or hear anything suspicious.

Do not approach the suspects. They are to be considered armed and dangerous. Dial 911 if you see them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583495741650.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Male suspect sought in Phillips County" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Male suspect sought in Phillips County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583495781919.jpeg" alt="Female suspect sought in Phillips County" />
 <figcaption>Female suspect sought in Phillips County</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE AT 7:07 A.M. - Both suspects have been located and are in custody, according to the Phillips County Sheriff's Department.PHILLIPS COUNTY - The Phillips County Sheriff's Department is searching for two suspects, according to a social media post, in the area of Highway 183 and Fox Road. The pair eluded officers this morning and are on foot in the area.Many officers from area law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search for a male and female subject. Citizens in the area are asked to secure their homes and vehicles and dial 911 if they see or hear anything suspicious.Do not approach the suspects. They are to be considered armed and dangerous. Dial 911 if you see them.NEWS RELEASE

UPDATE: APPREHENDED - Fleeing suspects sought in Phillips County

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on March 6, 2020 in the area of Highway 183 and Hall St. between 41st St. and 33rd St. and the area from Willow St. to Vine St. between 33rd St. and 27th 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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583494575399.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CITY OF HAYSThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on March 6, 2020 in the area of Highway 183 and Hall St. between 41st St. and 33rd St. and the area from Willow St. to Vine St. between 33rd St. and 27th 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.&nbsp;

Annual fire hydrant flushing begins 

BY CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays Arts Center is hosting four artists with shows celebrated by opening receptions from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the HAC.

The main HAC gallery is hosting a joint exhibition by Shannon Trevethan of Russell and Nicole Thibodeau of Hays titled Montage: The Femme Fatale Speaks through April 16.

Hays artist Cal Mahin's Moments in Time collage will be in the Founders Gallery through April 3.

Matt Miller, Hays artist, will have an open studio Cloudfarm and Others Works in Progress in the HAC Annex through mid-April.

Trevethan and&nbsp;Thibodeau have been showing in exhibitions together for about 10 years.

Trevethan, 42, has a bachelor of arts in fine arts oil painting and is currently the director of the Deines Cultural Center in Russell.

Both artists are primarily oil painters, but decided to experiment with collage, assemblage and found objects for this exhibit.

"I think I have a sort of fascination with a personal attachment to objects," Trevethan said. "I think about when people hold on to things for so long and they treat them as precious items long beyond their usefulness. The things they discard is at the opposite end of that."

Trevethan spoke on the female themes in the show.&nbsp;

"I think the femme fatale is a archetype, but no one really fits if you try to apply that to a specific person," she said. 

"Nobody is just one thing. So when you think about the objects that we are working with, we are taking things that are one thing and turning it into something else. It has this multifaceted quality to it similar to how people are."

Trevethan said she hopes the show will expand visitors' perceptions of what art can be.&nbsp;

"I think people tend to have a narrow view of what art is," she said. "It tends to be a very serious thing. ...

"I hope if I incorporate a little bit of humor and vivid colors and these unusual objects that it will give people the feeling if they want to try to make something that they are not bound to traditional materials either and just about anything they do working with their hands can become art."

Thibodeau in her artist statement for the show said, "Femme Fatatle is about trying something new. The show has allowed us to have voices outside the world of plein air painting. Exploration and experimentation have always been at the forefront of what inspires us."

Thibodeau describes the found objects in her art as "puzzle pieces" used to form conversations with works of art.

Thibodeau said there is rebelliousness in both the materials used to make the art and the art pieces themselves.

"The choice of using found objects is an environmental choice," she said. "That could be seen as what would a woman might say to the patriarchy. She would say, 'Hey patriarchy, let's try to repurpose things or use things we have been discarding.' "

Thibodeau, 39, has a bachelor of arts from Bethany College and a master's degrees in painting and English from FHSU. She is a youth services coordinator at the Hays Public Library.&nbsp;

"I would hope in addition to coming to the celebration of [the show] that people could take away a reminder of their own place within the world and the impact of consumerism," she said, "and think about how they can be more conscious in what they do with their trash and what they choose to purchase."

Mahin is exhibiting wet-on-wet and touch-glue collage.&nbsp;

"It'll be a story,"Mahin said of his artwork on display. "You'll have to be involved in it and the title may give you a little clue."

Mahin makes his own paper as well as alterting paper. He also has a studio of collected and found objects that are incorporated into his artwork.

"I like to manipulate and with collage and found objects I can move it all around and see it in many different aspects of the composition and then I can finally put it together," he said. "And I don't know if they are ever done."

Although Mahin's theme is capturing moments in time, he said his artwork can also change over time.

"It can change because certain papers fade in the light. So 10 years from now part of it might be almost faded away and those that remain dominant are in the work," he said. "It is kind of alive. It changes, which I find interesting."

Mahin, 77, was an art educator for 46 years at Colby High School and Colby Community College. He has lived in Hays for 10 years and runs the Em N Me Antiques with his wife. He has a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska-Kearny and master's degree from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Mahin said it was hard for him to break away from works that looked like demonstrations after so many years being an educator.

"I think sometimes retirees don't want to do what they did all of their lives and they move on," he said. "I wanted to be able to do and make art."

Miller will be having an open studio at the HAC Annex, 1010 Main through mid-April.&nbsp;

Miller, a plein air painter, will be working on multiple larger pieces he says he has not been able to finish in his regular studio space.&nbsp;

"I am always trying to come up with ways to explain my artwork," he said. "I look at what I do painting wise as the same thing the wind turbines do. They are pulling this invisible energy from the wind, from the air, from nothing and creating power, creating something else."

The windfarm is also a reference to the digital cloud where we store our images, images that a plein air painter may work from in the winter and when the weather is unfavorable.

The open studio is a way to farm his cloud for new ideas and images to paint.

Miller compared plein air painting to hunting.

"There is the element of the chase. You're chasing the light, especially early mornings and sunsets — that magic hour that artists refer to where the light is intense."

Miller said he feels most at home when he is outside painting.

"It brings you back to nature and down to earth and lets you take it all in, slows you down. I like that element of it," he said. "It seems like we are moving so fast these days, all of us."

Miller is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a BFA in painting. He also has a degree in art history from the University of Kansas.

Local band Miles on End will be playing in the annex tonight for the opening reception.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583445610377.jpeg" alt="An oil painting by Matt Miller that will be on display in the Hays Arts Center annex during Open Studio: Cloudfarm and Other Works in Progress through mid-April." />
 <figcaption>An oil painting by Matt Miller that will be on display in the Hays Arts Center annex during Open Studio: Cloudfarm and Other Works in Progress through mid-April.</figcaption>
 </figure>BY CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Arts Center is hosting four artists with shows celebrated by opening receptions from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the HAC.The main HAC gallery is hosting a joint exhibition by Shannon Trevethan of Russell and Nicole Thibodeau of Hays titled Montage: The Femme Fatale Speaks through April 16.Hays artist Cal Mahin's Moments in Time collage will be in the Founders Gallery through April 3.Matt Miller, Hays artist, will have an open studio Cloudfarm and Others Works in Progress in the HAC Annex through mid-April.<h2>Shannon Trevethan</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583443410996.jpeg" alt="Fragmented Memory by Shannon Trevethan" />
 <figcaption>Fragmented Memory by Shannon Trevethan</figcaption>
 </figure>Trevethan and&nbsp;Thibodeau have been showing in exhibitions together for about 10 years.Trevethan, 42, has a bachelor of arts in fine arts oil painting and is currently the director of the Deines Cultural Center in Russell.Both artists are primarily oil painters, but decided to experiment with collage, assemblage and found objects for this exhibit."I think I have a sort of fascination with a personal attachment to objects," Trevethan said. "I think about when people hold on to things for so long and they treat them as precious items long beyond their usefulness. The things they discard is at the opposite end of that."Trevethan spoke on the female themes in the show.&nbsp;"I think the femme fatale is a archetype, but no one really fits if you try to apply that to a specific person," she said. "Nobody is just one thing. So when you think about the objects that we are working with, we are taking things that are one thing and turning it into something else. It has this multifaceted quality to it similar to how people are."Trevethan said she hopes the show will expand visitors' perceptions of what art can be.&nbsp;"I think people tend to have a narrow view of what art is," she said. "It tends to be a very serious thing. ..."I hope if I incorporate a little bit of humor and vivid colors and these unusual objects that it will give people the feeling if they want to try to make something that they are not bound to traditional materials either and just about anything they do working with their hands can become art."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583443435081.jpeg" alt="Cat House by Shannon Trevethan" />
 <figcaption>Cat House by Shannon Trevethan</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Nicole Thibodeau</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583443458043.jpeg" alt="An assemblage by Nicole Thibodeau" />
 <figcaption>An assemblage by Nicole Thibodeau</figcaption>
 </figure>Thibodeau in her artist statement for the show said, "Femme Fatatle is about trying something new. The show has allowed us to have voices outside the world of plein air painting. Exploration and experimentation have always been at the forefront of what inspires us."Thibodeau describes the found objects in her art as "puzzle pieces" used to form conversations with works of art.Thibodeau said there is rebelliousness in both the materials used to make the art and the art pieces themselves."The choice of using found objects is an environmental choice," she said. "That could be seen as what would a woman might say to the patriarchy. She would say, 'Hey patriarchy, let's try to repurpose things or use things we have been discarding.' "Thibodeau, 39, has a bachelor of arts from Bethany College and a master's degrees in painting and English from FHSU. She is a youth services coordinator at the Hays Public Library.&nbsp;"I would hope in addition to coming to the celebration of [the show] that people could take away a reminder of their own place within the world and the impact of consumerism," she said, "and think about how they can be more conscious in what they do with their trash and what they choose to purchase."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583443488147.jpeg" alt="Hare, Hair around the Moon By Nicole Thibodeau" />
 <figcaption>Hare, Hair around the Moon By Nicole Thibodeau</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Cal Mahin</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583443527433.jpeg" alt="Melvin Kay had Really Long Red Hair in collage by Cal Mahin" />
 <figcaption>Melvin Kay had Really Long Red Hair in collage by Cal Mahin</figcaption>
 </figure>Mahin is exhibiting wet-on-wet and touch-glue collage.&nbsp;"It'll be a story,"Mahin said of his artwork on display. "You'll have to be involved in it and the title may give you a little clue."Mahin makes his own paper as well as alterting paper. He also has a studio of collected and found objects that are incorporated into his artwork."I like to manipulate and with collage and found objects I can move it all around and see it in many different aspects of the composition and then I can finally put it together," he said. "And I don't know if they are ever done."Although Mahin's theme is capturing moments in time, he said his artwork can also change over time."It can change because certain papers fade in the light. So 10 years from now part of it might be almost faded away and those that remain dominant are in the work," he said. "It is kind of alive. It changes, which I find interesting."Mahin, 77, was an art educator for 46 years at Colby High School and Colby Community College. He has lived in Hays for 10 years and runs the Em N Me Antiques with his wife. He has a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska-Kearny and master's degree from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Mahin said it was hard for him to break away from works that looked like demonstrations after so many years being an educator."I think sometimes retirees don't want to do what they did all of their lives and they move on," he said. "I wanted to be able to do and make art."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583445444036.jpeg" alt="Lavinia Hopped Out of the Shower and Ran Right into Midas! Oh, My! by artist Cal Mahin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lavinia Hopped Out of the Shower and Ran Right into Midas! Oh, My! by artist Cal Mahin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Matthew Miller</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583445585820.jpeg" alt="Sinkhole Blues by Matthew Miller. Miller said he began incorporating crash test dummies in his work after being in a series of car accidents." />
 <figcaption>Sinkhole Blues by Matthew Miller. Miller said he began incorporating crash test dummies in his work after being in a series of car accidents.</figcaption>
 </figure>Miller will be having an open studio at the HAC Annex, 1010 Main through mid-April.&nbsp;Miller, a plein air painter, will be working on multiple larger pieces he says he has not been able to finish in his regular studio space.&nbsp;"I am always trying to come up with ways to explain my artwork," he said. "I look at what I do painting wise as the same thing the wind turbines do. They are pulling this invisible energy from the wind, from the air, from nothing and creating power, creating something else."The windfarm is also a reference to the digital cloud where we store our images, images that a plein air painter may work from in the winter and when the weather is unfavorable.The open studio is a way to farm his cloud for new ideas and images to paint.Miller compared plein air painting to hunting."There is the element of the chase. You're chasing the light, especially early mornings and sunsets — that magic hour that artists refer to where the light is intense."Miller said he feels most at home when he is outside painting."It brings you back to nature and down to earth and lets you take it all in, slows you down. I like that element of it," he said. "It seems like we are moving so fast these days, all of us."Miller is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a BFA in painting. He also has a degree in art history from the University of Kansas.Local band Miles on End will be playing in the annex tonight for the opening reception.

HAC hosts four artists in oil, collage, assemblage

The trial for a Hays woman accused of aiding and abetting a felony murder is set to proceed in Ellis County District Court after pre-trial motions were heard Thursday afternoon.

A 12 member jury will hear the case against&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/30/hays-woman-charged-in-connection-with-homicide/">Kylie Jo Waldschmidt,25, who was charged with aiding and abetting felony first-degree murder with the alternative charge of aggravated assault or aggravated battery related to the shooting death&nbsp;of 26-year-old Diego Gallaway on Feb. 27, 2019, in Hays.</a>

Waldschmidt was also charged with interference with a law enforcement officer.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe trial for a Hays woman accused of aiding and abetting a felony murder is set to proceed in Ellis County District Court after pre-trial motions were heard Thursday afternoon.A 12 member jury will hear the case against&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/30/hays-woman-charged-in-connection-with-homicide/">Kylie Jo Waldschmidt,25, who was charged with aiding and abetting felony first-degree murder with the alternative charge of aggravated assault or aggravated battery related to the shooting death&nbsp;of 26-year-old Diego Gallaway on Feb. 27, 2019, in Hays.</a>Waldschmidt was also charged with interference with a law enforcement officer.During the pre-trial hearing, Waldschmidt's attorney, Joe Shepack said he has no plans to introduce an alibi defense and will offer no motions to suppress evidence.He also said Waldschmidt has not yet determined if she will testify during the trial.Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees said that 13 subpoenas had been issued and served already, and the process was nearly complete.Two other people in the case have already been sentenced.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/11/07/ellis-man-sentenced-to-24-years-for-fatal-shooting-in-hays/">Ryan Paul Thompson was sentenced to serve 272 months in prison for his role in the shooting in November 2019.</a>Out of a jury pool of 40 persons, 12 jurors and two alternates will be selected for the trial that is set to begin at 9 a.m. on March 23.