SALINA —Just after 9a.m. Monday, Salina 9-1-1 received calls from Salina South High School staff advising a possible person with a firearm was at South High School, 730 E Magnolia, according to a media release from police.

The school immediately locked down, and the SHS School Resource Officer, who was already on scene began a coordinated response. Numerous Officers and Detectives from the Salina Police Department responded, as did law enforcement officials from the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Highway Patrol. The first Officers arrived at 9:15 AM and immediately began searching the school.

Simultaneously, officers began interviewing witnesses, staff, and reviewing surveillance video from the school. While on scene, Officers were made aware of a post by a student which showed the student with a gun, there were no threats attached to the picture.

 It was determined the post was made on April 3rd, 2025, and the photo was not taken at the school as is being reported on social media. This post was then shared with other students in a chat group. A student using a restroom on this date then heard a sound which they thought could possibly be a gun being “racked” and reported it to staff believing it was the student who made the post. 

It was determined from surveillance video, the student who made the post had not been in the restroom. The student who was observed leaving the restroom at the time was located and checked. This student indicated the sound was from him crushing a water bottle. The post made by the student is being investigated.

The investigation determined there was no firearm present or active threats.

The building clearing was completed at 10:12a.m. , and the school was released to the School Administration.

The Salina Police Department noted that parents responded and congregated in the parking lots, remaining calm and supportive. The staff and students secured themselves in the classrooms in which they were located, controlling their environments and allowing law enforcement to move swiftly to clear the enormous structure unobstructed. We applaud the staff, students, and parents for their conduct.

SALINA —On Monday morning, South High School administration,&nbsp; 730 E Magnolia Road, Salina, received a report of a gun in the building, according to a media release from USD 305. 

The school immediately went into lockdown and alerted law enforcement. Salina Police, Saline County Sheriff's office, Kansas Highway Patrol and Saline County Fire and rescue responded and searched the building. They determined that the school is secure and that there was no weapon and that no shots were fired.

The police turned the building back over to administration. The South High School administration will determine any adjustments to the schedule that are needed.&nbsp; The school day will resume as usual.

"We appreciate the quick response from the Salina Police Department and first responders. They have determined that there was no danger," according to USD 305.

SALINA— Law enforcement are on the scene of an incident at South High School,&nbsp;730 E Magnolia Road, Salina.&nbsp; There are unconfirmed reports the incident involved a gun. The school was on lock down status 

“Police were alerted and are on site at this time and are in charge of the situation. Students and staff remain locked in classrooms," according to a message sent to parents.

USD 305 is expected to release more information as it becomes available.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police have not released details on their investigation.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745853925661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA —Just after 9a.m. Monday, Salina 9-1-1 received calls from Salina South High School staff advising a possible person with a firearm was at South High School, 730 E Magnolia, according to a media release from police.The school immediately locked down, and the SHS School Resource Officer, who was already on scene began a coordinated response. Numerous Officers and Detectives from the Salina Police Department responded, as did law enforcement officials from the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Highway Patrol. The first Officers arrived at 9:15 AM and immediately began searching the school.Simultaneously, officers began interviewing witnesses, staff, and reviewing surveillance video from the school. While on scene, Officers were made aware of a post by a student which showed the student with a gun, there were no threats attached to the picture. It was determined the post was made on April 3rd, 2025, and the photo was not taken at the school as is being reported on social media. This post was then shared with other students in a chat group. A student using a restroom on this date then heard a sound which they thought could possibly be a gun being “racked” and reported it to staff believing it was the student who made the post. It was determined from surveillance video, the student who made the post had not been in the restroom. The student who was observed leaving the restroom at the time was located and checked. This student indicated the sound was from him crushing a water bottle. The post made by the student is being investigated.The investigation determined there was no firearm present or active threats.The building clearing was completed at 10:12a.m. , and the school was released to the School Administration.The Salina Police Department noted that parents responded and congregated in the parking lots, remaining calm and supportive. The staff and students secured themselves in the classrooms in which they were located, controlling their environments and allowing law enforcement to move swiftly to clear the enormous structure unobstructed. We applaud the staff, students, and parents for their conduct.----------SALINA —On Monday morning, South High School administration,&nbsp; 730 E Magnolia Road, Salina, received a report of a gun in the building, according to a media release from USD 305. The school immediately went into lockdown and alerted law enforcement. Salina Police, Saline County Sheriff's office, Kansas Highway Patrol and Saline County Fire and rescue responded and searched the building. They determined that the school is secure and that there was no weapon and that no shots were fired.The police turned the building back over to administration. The South High School administration will determine any adjustments to the schedule that are needed.&nbsp; The school day will resume as usual."We appreciate the quick response from the Salina Police Department and first responders. They have determined that there was no danger," according to USD 305.----------SALINA— Law enforcement are on the scene of an incident at South High School,&nbsp;730 E Magnolia Road, Salina.&nbsp; There are unconfirmed reports the incident involved a gun. The school was on lock down status “Police were alerted and are on site at this time and are in charge of the situation. Students and staff remain locked in classrooms," according to a message sent to parents.USD 305 is expected to release more information as it becomes available.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police have not released details on their investigation.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Police update details on investigation at high school in Salina

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matt-sedensky">MATT SEDENSKY</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — Michael Montgomery used to check the balance on his retirement account once a week and smile. But lately, not wanting to get upset and question if he could retire in a few years, there was only one solution.

“I’m not looking,” says the 66-year-old professor from Huntington Woods, Michigan.

As the White House simultaneously&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-timeline-trade-war-trump-canada-mexico-china-a9d714eea677488ef9397547d838dbd0">injects turmoil into financial markets with its trade war</a>&nbsp;and dismisses fears of a downturn, retired and near-retired Americans are anxiously looking on, worried about outliving their savings or having to put off entries on their bucket lists.

Keeping logged off his account has made Montgomery’s days less worrisome. He and his wife adjusted their portfolio after Election Day, including moving more money into bonds. But he’s not sure what more he can do if the entire world economy can be affected by Washington’s decisions.

“I hope like hell I don’t lose all my retirement savings,” he says. “But where else could you put the money that these people could not disorder? They can’t get into your mattress but that’s about it.”

Many experts warned U.S. stocks were overpriced and due for a correction even before President Donald Trump reclaimed the Oval Office. But a historic blanket of tariffs have injected new uncertainty into the market.

Though&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/market-rates-trump-tariffs-cd30ed61467eee2dc778006fa49924ee">stocks rallied this week</a>, the S&amp;P 500 is down 10% from an all-time high reached in February. Losses in the Nasdaq and among small-cap stocks are steeper. Even&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasurys-bond-market-yield-tariff-46b4818710f01b8cc93fd002081167b0">bonds</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dollar-trump-tariffs-trade-safe-haven-china-c108fd36a3122f85872ad34ba5f5d977">the U.S. dollar</a>&nbsp;have been volatile. Many economists are warning of a possible recession.

It has 71-year-old Jeanne Oats Estridge feeling so “paranoid” she called her financial planner with an idea.

“How about we put it all in cash?” Oats Estridge asked.

“I just don’t advise it,” she heard back.

Oats Estridge, who lives in Dayton, Ohio, retired from a job in software engineering and now writes books, including her latest, on four octogenarian women kidnapped by sex-trafficking aliens. Her account is down more than $40,000 and she gets angry thinking about how some in Washington have reacted to the market volatility, including Trump’s recent market assessment that it was “a great time to buy.”

“Where am I supposed to come up with the money to buy? My underwear drawer?” Oats Estridge asks.

Earlier this month, the Cboe Volatility Index, considered&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cboe.com/us/indices/dashboard/VIX/" target="_blank">a “fear gauge” of investor pessimism</a>, reached its highest level in five years. The index, known as VIX, has since retreated but is still in territory reflecting fearful investors. Another measure of market sentiment, the Cboe S&amp;P 500 Left Tail Volatility Index, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cboe.com/us/indices/dashboard/LTV/" target="_blank">tracks investor worry about so-called “black swan” events</a>&nbsp;such as the 2008 housing crash that spurred the Great Recession, likewise has backed off from highs but remains elevated.

Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114308258545250117" target="_blank">urged people to “be cool”</a>&nbsp;in assessing the impact of tariffs on their investments. Asked about his own savings earlier this month, he chuckled and replied:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwKczP3nhaY" target="_blank">“I haven’t checked my 401(k).”</a>

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, meantime, brushed off the possibility that some might need to delay retiring, saying people&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAsB3uCtEys" target="_blank">“don’t look at the day-to-day fluctuations of what’s happening.”</a>

That seeming nonchalance isn’t sitting well with some older investors.

Peter Rost, 72, retired from his software development job last year and planned to start tapping his retirement savings to supplement Social Security. But he doesn’t want to bake in his losses.

“I’m looking to take $2,000 and meanwhile the account drops by $30,000,” he says.

He’s been through serious downturns before, but those were different.

“I had the time to be patient and let it work its way back,” says Rost, who lives in New Hartford, Connecticut, “but now I’m retired and I need money from that account.”

At his age, he says, there’s one goal: “Make sure I don’t run out of money before I die.”

Americans’ retirement savings totaled about $44 trillion at the end of 2024, according to the Investment Company Institute. The composition of those savings has shifted increasingly toward stocks in the last couple decades as the 401(k) has become employers’ typical offering.

Among fund giant Vanguard’s nearly 5 million accounts, for example, the average investor puts three-quarters of their savings in stocks. Even older investors are still heavily steeped in equities: People 55 to 64 have 64% in stocks at Vanguard; those 65 and older have 49% in stocks.

With that exposure, financial advisers are getting an influx of calls amid the recent market uncertainty.

Tj Binkowski, who runs Narrow Road Financial Planning in Clarksville, Tennessee, says some clients find themselves obsessively checking their accounts and feel the emotional strain of worrying about their money. A downturn, he says, hits an older investor much differently.

“When you’re retired, paper losses aren’t just on paper anymore,” says Binkowski. “You’re locking them in every month that you take money out.”

Paul Duesterhaus, a 68-year-old retiree from Quincy, Illinois, is passing up an IRA withdrawal this year to avoid selling at a low. Instead, the retired manager at an air compressor manufacturing company will put off buying a new car as planned and cut back on things like eating out.

Still, he can’t help but feel bigger impacts of a trade war are ahead.

“I think there’s going to be longer lasting effects that are going to affect every American,” he says.

That angst is more common among older adults than younger people. An April poll by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/immigration-remains-one-of-trumps-strongest-issues/" target="_blank">The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research</a>&nbsp;found just under half of U.S. adults ages 45 and older said their retirement savings are a “major” source of stress for them right now, compared to about one-third of younger people. Older Americans were also more likely to say they’re stressed about the stock market.

For now, many older investors are taking the advice of many experts, to fine-tune investments if necessary but avoid dramatic moves. But it can be hard advice to swallow.

“The more things go up and down, the more nervous you get,” says Steve Turner, a 74-year-old from Chesterfield, Missouri, who runs a small public relations business. He now finds himself anxious when he goes to log on to his retirement account, wondering, “Gee, do I want to press the button?”

“You worry that things may work themselves out in the long run, but you don’t have as long,” says Turner. “You’re not 30, you’re not 40, you’re not 50, you’re not even 60.”

Matt Sedensky can be reached at&nbsp;msedensky@ap.org&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/sedensky." target="_blank">https://x.com/sedensky.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962507580.png" alt="File photo Specialist Patrick King, left, works at his post on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (AP Photo/Richard Drew)" />
 <figcaption>File photo Specialist Patrick King, left, works at his post on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (AP Photo/Richard Drew)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matt-sedensky">MATT SEDENSKY</a>NEW YORK (AP) — Michael Montgomery used to check the balance on his retirement account once a week and smile. But lately, not wanting to get upset and question if he could retire in a few years, there was only one solution.“I’m not looking,” says the 66-year-old professor from Huntington Woods, Michigan.As the White House simultaneously&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-timeline-trade-war-trump-canada-mexico-china-a9d714eea677488ef9397547d838dbd0">injects turmoil into financial markets with its trade war</a>&nbsp;and dismisses fears of a downturn, retired and near-retired Americans are anxiously looking on, worried about outliving their savings or having to put off entries on their bucket lists.Keeping logged off his account has made Montgomery’s days less worrisome. He and his wife adjusted their portfolio after Election Day, including moving more money into bonds. But he’s not sure what more he can do if the entire world economy can be affected by Washington’s decisions.“I hope like hell I don’t lose all my retirement savings,” he says. “But where else could you put the money that these people could not disorder? They can’t get into your mattress but that’s about it.”Many experts warned U.S. stocks were overpriced and due for a correction even before President Donald Trump reclaimed the Oval Office. But a historic blanket of tariffs have injected new uncertainty into the market.Though&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/market-rates-trump-tariffs-cd30ed61467eee2dc778006fa49924ee">stocks rallied this week</a>, the S&amp;P 500 is down 10% from an all-time high reached in February. Losses in the Nasdaq and among small-cap stocks are steeper. Even&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasurys-bond-market-yield-tariff-46b4818710f01b8cc93fd002081167b0">bonds</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dollar-trump-tariffs-trade-safe-haven-china-c108fd36a3122f85872ad34ba5f5d977">the U.S. dollar</a>&nbsp;have been volatile. Many economists are warning of a possible recession.It has 71-year-old Jeanne Oats Estridge feeling so “paranoid” she called her financial planner with an idea.“How about we put it all in cash?” Oats Estridge asked.“I just don’t advise it,” she heard back.Oats Estridge, who lives in Dayton, Ohio, retired from a job in software engineering and now writes books, including her latest, on four octogenarian women kidnapped by sex-trafficking aliens. Her account is down more than $40,000 and she gets angry thinking about how some in Washington have reacted to the market volatility, including Trump’s recent market assessment that it was “a great time to buy.”“Where am I supposed to come up with the money to buy? My underwear drawer?” Oats Estridge asks.Earlier this month, the Cboe Volatility Index, considered&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cboe.com/us/indices/dashboard/VIX/" target="_blank">a “fear gauge” of investor pessimism</a>, reached its highest level in five years. The index, known as VIX, has since retreated but is still in territory reflecting fearful investors. Another measure of market sentiment, the Cboe S&amp;P 500 Left Tail Volatility Index, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cboe.com/us/indices/dashboard/LTV/" target="_blank">tracks investor worry about so-called “black swan” events</a>&nbsp;such as the 2008 housing crash that spurred the Great Recession, likewise has backed off from highs but remains elevated.Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114308258545250117" target="_blank">urged people to “be cool”</a>&nbsp;in assessing the impact of tariffs on their investments. Asked about his own savings earlier this month, he chuckled and replied:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwKczP3nhaY" target="_blank">“I haven’t checked my 401(k).”</a>Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, meantime, brushed off the possibility that some might need to delay retiring, saying people&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAsB3uCtEys" target="_blank">“don’t look at the day-to-day fluctuations of what’s happening.”</a>That seeming nonchalance isn’t sitting well with some older investors.Peter Rost, 72, retired from his software development job last year and planned to start tapping his retirement savings to supplement Social Security. But he doesn’t want to bake in his losses.“I’m looking to take $2,000 and meanwhile the account drops by $30,000,” he says.He’s been through serious downturns before, but those were different.“I had the time to be patient and let it work its way back,” says Rost, who lives in New Hartford, Connecticut, “but now I’m retired and I need money from that account.”At his age, he says, there’s one goal: “Make sure I don’t run out of money before I die.”Americans’ retirement savings totaled about $44 trillion at the end of 2024, according to the Investment Company Institute. The composition of those savings has shifted increasingly toward stocks in the last couple decades as the 401(k) has become employers’ typical offering.Among fund giant Vanguard’s nearly 5 million accounts, for example, the average investor puts three-quarters of their savings in stocks. Even older investors are still heavily steeped in equities: People 55 to 64 have 64% in stocks at Vanguard; those 65 and older have 49% in stocks.With that exposure, financial advisers are getting an influx of calls amid the recent market uncertainty.Tj Binkowski, who runs Narrow Road Financial Planning in Clarksville, Tennessee, says some clients find themselves obsessively checking their accounts and feel the emotional strain of worrying about their money. A downturn, he says, hits an older investor much differently.“When you’re retired, paper losses aren’t just on paper anymore,” says Binkowski. “You’re locking them in every month that you take money out.”Paul Duesterhaus, a 68-year-old retiree from Quincy, Illinois, is passing up an IRA withdrawal this year to avoid selling at a low. Instead, the retired manager at an air compressor manufacturing company will put off buying a new car as planned and cut back on things like eating out.Still, he can’t help but feel bigger impacts of a trade war are ahead.“I think there’s going to be longer lasting effects that are going to affect every American,” he says.That angst is more common among older adults than younger people. An April poll by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/immigration-remains-one-of-trumps-strongest-issues/" target="_blank">The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research</a>&nbsp;found just under half of U.S. adults ages 45 and older said their retirement savings are a “major” source of stress for them right now, compared to about one-third of younger people. Older Americans were also more likely to say they’re stressed about the stock market.For now, many older investors are taking the advice of many experts, to fine-tune investments if necessary but avoid dramatic moves. But it can be hard advice to swallow.“The more things go up and down, the more nervous you get,” says Steve Turner, a 74-year-old from Chesterfield, Missouri, who runs a small public relations business. He now finds himself anxious when he goes to log on to his retirement account, wondering, “Gee, do I want to press the button?”“You worry that things may work themselves out in the long run, but you don’t have as long,” says Turner. “You’re not 30, you’re not 40, you’re not 50, you’re not even 60.”___Matt Sedensky can be reached at&nbsp;msedensky@ap.org&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/sedensky." target="_blank">https://x.com/sedensky.</a>

Market turmoil has many afraid to check retirement savings

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

For decades, Lincoln Elementary in Hays was not just a school, but it was a place for family.

The school celebrated its 100th anniversary Saturday as former and current staff, and students reflected on a century of education. Kerri Lacy, principal of Lincoln Elementary, has spent 10 years at the school and will retire at the end of the school year.

"Lincoln has been here since the very beginning... we are a nice little family school in the middle of town," she said.

Lacy said the community is losing a special place as the school prepares to close permanently on May 21. The school is closing as other schools in the district undergo renovation and expansion as part of bond projects.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3bd7510a-797a-40e5-bc36-b81a6e848d8d">The school is under contract to a developer, who plans to renovate the school into apartments.</a>

 Just before its closure, attendees had the chance to view memorabilia and reunite with former teachers from years past.

Four retired faculty and staff members took a final walk through the school and its classrooms, reflecting on their years at Lincoln Elementary.

"I feel like it was the best job I've ever had. I loved going to work every day," Ross said.

Ross said they are still recognized by former students who now have children of their own. Weber said that although the building will soon close, Lincoln has made a lasting impact on the community over its 100-year history.

"It left its mark because there were four or five generations of parents who would send their kids here, then their kids would send their kids here. We were doing something right," Weber said.

The group of retirees observed changes in the school’s history, such as technology in classrooms, the implementation of maternity leave and an increase in student respect over the years.

They said the building itself remained largely unchanged during their time there, though Lincoln did undergo additions in 1951, 1955 and 2021.

The four retired around the same time in 2015 and 2016, and have stayed in touch since, meeting occasionally for coffee and dinner.

"We kind of joke that when Lincoln gets fixed into apartments, we're all going to get one," Ross said.&nbsp;

Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration included a wall of fame at its entrance, where former faculty and staff signed before viewing memorabilia from their time at the school.

Inside the school’s gym, attendees found old collections, including yearbooks and newspaper articles that highlighted big moments from Lincoln’s history.&nbsp;

In 2006, Emma Kolb was honored for 33 years of teaching, followed by 22 additional years of volunteering after her retirement. In 2016, Lincoln Elementary received $100,000 for a new playground through a Reading for Education program drawing.

Lacy said with so many retired instructors in attendance, the celebration went beyond the gym as teacher groups gathered for additional time together outside the school.

"It's a time to get together, reminisce, see old friends, laugh, cry and all that good stuff," she said.

Lacy said Lincoln had the largest Hispanic population among the district’s elementary schools and takes pride in the diverse cultures students experience. She said the school’s atmosphere was always family-oriented.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790032442.jpeg" alt="A banner outside of Lincoln Elementary in Hays for its centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A banner outside of Lincoln Elementary in Hays for its centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFor decades, Lincoln Elementary in Hays was not just a school, but it was a place for family.The school celebrated its 100th anniversary Saturday as former and current staff, and students reflected on a century of education. Kerri Lacy, principal of Lincoln Elementary, has spent 10 years at the school and will retire at the end of the school year."Lincoln has been here since the very beginning... we are a nice little family school in the middle of town," she said.Lacy said the community is losing a special place as the school prepares to close permanently on May 21. The school is closing as other schools in the district undergo renovation and expansion as part of bond projects.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3bd7510a-797a-40e5-bc36-b81a6e848d8d">The school is under contract to a developer, who plans to renovate the school into apartments.</a> Just before its closure, attendees had the chance to view memorabilia and reunite with former teachers from years past.Four retired faculty and staff members took a final walk through the school and its classrooms, reflecting on their years at Lincoln Elementary.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745780852184.jpeg" alt="(Left to right) Former physical education teacher Patty Weber, from 1998 to 2015, former paraeducator Linda Hammerschmidt, 1986 to 2015, former administrator Assistant Debbie Ross, 1990 to 2016 and former&nbsp;fourth grade teacher Mary Ann Coyne, from 1986 to 2016. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>(Left to right) Former physical education teacher Patty Weber, from 1998 to 2015, former paraeducator Linda Hammerschmidt, 1986 to 2015, former administrator Assistant Debbie Ross, 1990 to 2016 and former&nbsp;fourth grade teacher Mary Ann Coyne, from 1986 to 2016. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"I feel like it was the best job I've ever had. I loved going to work every day," Ross said.Ross said they are still recognized by former students who now have children of their own. Weber said that although the building will soon close, Lincoln has made a lasting impact on the community over its 100-year history."It left its mark because there were four or five generations of parents who would send their kids here, then their kids would send their kids here. We were doing something right," Weber said.The group of retirees observed changes in the school’s history, such as technology in classrooms, the implementation of maternity leave and an increase in student respect over the years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790109341.jpeg" alt="A Lincoln Elementary School classroom in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A Lincoln Elementary School classroom in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790131241.jpeg" alt="A Lincoln Elementary School classroom in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A Lincoln Elementary School classroom in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790163424.jpeg" alt="Instruments in the Lincoln Elementary School music classroom. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Instruments in the Lincoln Elementary School music classroom. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790195241.jpeg" alt="The Lincoln Elementary School library in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Lincoln Elementary School library in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>They said the building itself remained largely unchanged during their time there, though Lincoln did undergo additions in 1951, 1955 and 2021.The four retired around the same time in 2015 and 2016, and have stayed in touch since, meeting occasionally for coffee and dinner."We kind of joke that when Lincoln gets fixed into apartments, we're all going to get one," Ross said.&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration included a wall of fame at its entrance, where former faculty and staff signed before viewing memorabilia from their time at the school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790223527.jpeg" alt="Names of former faculty and staff on the wall of fame at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Names of former faculty and staff on the wall of fame at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790285613.jpeg" alt="Names of former faculty and staff on the wall of fame at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Names of former faculty and staff on the wall of fame at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790370959.jpeg" alt="School equipment such as a projectors and cameras on display at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>School equipment such as a projectors and cameras on display at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790342412.jpeg" alt="Newspaper articles and awards on display at&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Newspaper articles and awards on display at&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Inside the school’s gym, attendees found old collections, including yearbooks and newspaper articles that highlighted big moments from Lincoln’s history.&nbsp;In 2006, Emma Kolb was honored for 33 years of teaching, followed by 22 additional years of volunteering after her retirement. In 2016, Lincoln Elementary received $100,000 for a new playground through a Reading for Education program drawing.Lacy said with so many retired instructors in attendance, the celebration went beyond the gym as teacher groups gathered for additional time together outside the school."It's a time to get together, reminisce, see old friends, laugh, cry and all that good stuff," she said.Lacy said Lincoln had the largest Hispanic population among the district’s elementary schools and takes pride in the diverse cultures students experience. She said the school’s atmosphere was always family-oriented.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790460275.jpeg" alt="Past plaques of faculty and staff on display at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Past plaques of faculty and staff on display at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790573292.jpeg" alt="Attendees looking through a rack of shirts from throughout the years at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Attendees looking through a rack of shirts from throughout the years at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745809443894.jpeg" alt="A former teacher looking through an old year book at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A former teacher looking through an old year book at Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790607760.jpeg" alt="Attendees looking through picture books and yearbooks at&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Attendees looking through picture books and yearbooks at&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745790433629.jpeg" alt="Former faculty and staff catching up at&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Former faculty and staff catching up at&nbsp;Lincoln Elementary’s centennial celebration. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745809557662.jpeg" alt="The Lincoln Elementary School building in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Lincoln Elementary School building in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Lincoln Elementary in Hays celebrates 100 years before closing

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/houthis">Yemen’s Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;on Monday alleged a U.S. airstrike hit a prison holding African migrants, killing at least 68 people and wounding 47 others. The U.S. military had no immediate comment.

The strike in Yemen's Saada governorate, a stronghold for the Houthis, is the latest incident in the country's decadelong war&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ethiopia-saudi-arabia-yemen-migrants-hrw-c6958c2593573c0c8fc64794a60f777c">to kill African migrants from Ethiopia and other nations</a>&nbsp;who risk crossing the nation for a chance to work in neighboring Saudi Arabia.

It also likely will renew questions from activists about the American campaign, known as “Operation Rough Rider,” which has been targeting the rebels as the Trump administration negotiates with their main benefactor, Iran, over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-nuclear-talks-oman-f2e4ecf49c62c11a0240153d7f900d0d">Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program</a>.

The U.S. military's Central Command, in a statement early Monday before news of the alleged strike broke, sought to defend its policy of offering no specific details of its extensive airstrike campaign. The strikes have drawn controversy in America over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-signal-chat-houthis-attack-8dbf9dd6c711796438a5c1c84831c40b">use of the unclassified Signal messaging app</a>&nbsp;to post sensitive details about the attacks.

“To preserve operational security, we have intentionally limited disclosing details of our ongoing or future operations,” Central Command said. “We are very deliberate in our operational approach, but will not reveal specifics about what we’ve done or what we will do.”

It did not immediately respond to questions from The Associated Press about the alleged strike in Saada.

Graphic footage shows aftermath of explosion

Graphic footage aired by the Houthis' al-Masirah satellite news channel showed what appeared to be dead bodies and others wounded at the site. The Houthi-run Interior Ministry said some 115 migrants had been detained at the site.

The rebels' Civil Defense organization said at least 68 people had been killed and 47 others wounded in the attack.

Footage from the site analyzed by the AP suggested some kind of explosion took place there, with its cement walls seemingly peppered by debris fragments and the wounds suffered by those there.

A woman's voice, soft in the footage, can be heard repeating the start of a prayer in Arabic: “In the name of God.” An occasional gunshot rang out as medics sought to help those wounded.

African migrants caught in middle of Yemen's war

Ethiopians and other African migrants for years have landed in Yemen, braving the war-torn nation to try and reach Saudi Arabia for work. The Houthi rebels allegedly make tens of thousands of dollars a week smuggling migrants over the border.

Migrants from Ethiopia have found themselves detained, abused and even killed in Saudi Arabia and Yemen during the war. An Oct. 3, 2022, letter to the kingdom from the U.N. said its investigators “received concerning allegations of cross-border artillery shelling and small arms fire allegedly by Saudi security forces, causing the deaths of up to 430 and injuring 650 migrants.”

Saudi Arabia has denied killing migrants.

Monday's alleged strike recalled&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-middle-east-sanaa-dubai-cfad87600e2c93ab9af22dc80ba27875">a similar strike by a Saudi-led coalition battling the Houthis back in 2022</a>&nbsp;on the same compound, which caused a collapse killing 66 detainees and wounding 113 others, a United Nations report later said. The Houthis shot dead 16 detainees who fled after the strike and wounded another 50, the U.N. said. The Saudi-led coalition sought to justify the strike by saying the Houthis built and launched drones there, but the U.N. said it was known to be a detention facility.

“The coalition should have avoided any attack on that facility,” the U.N. report added.

That 2022 attack was one of the deadliest single attacks in the yearslong war between the coalition and the Houthi rebels and came after the Houthis struck inside the UAE twice with missiles and drones,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dubai-united-arab-emirates-abu-dhabi-yemen-8bdefdf900ce46a6fd6c7bc685bf838a">killing three in a strike near Abu Dhabi's international airport</a>.

US military says over 800 strikes conducted in campaign so far

Meanwhile, U.S. airstrikes overnight targeting Yemen's capital killed at least eight people, the Houthis said. The American military acknowledged carrying out over 800 individual strikes in their monthlong campaign.

The overnight statement from Central Command also said “Operation Rough Rider” had “killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous Houthi leaders,” including those associated with its missile and drone program. It did not identify any of those officials.

“Iran undoubtedly continues to provide support to the Houthis,” the statement said. “The Houthis can only continue to attack our forces with the backing of the Iranian regime.”

"We will continue to ratchet up the pressure until the objective is met, which remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region," it added.

The U.S. is targeting the Houthis because of the group’s attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route, and on Israel. The Houthis are also the last militant group in Iran’s self-described “Axis of Resistance” that is capable of regularly attacking Israel.

The U.S. is conducting strikes on Yemen from its two aircraft carriers in the region — the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea and the USS Carl Vinson in the Arabian Sea.

On April 18,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-us-airstrikes-563f61bbd96e1f2de68373fdf76c8811">an American strike on the Ras Isa fuel port</a>&nbsp;killed at least 74 people and wounded 171 others in the deadliest-known attack of the American campaign. Central Command on Monday offered an explanation for why it hit the port.

“U.S. strikes destroyed the ability of Ras Isa Port to accept fuel, which will begin to impact Houthi ability to not only conduct operations, but also to generate millions of dollars in revenue for their terror activities,” it said.

Meanwhile, the Houthis have increasingly sought to control the flow of information from the territory they hold to the outside world. It issued a notice Sunday that all those holding Starlink satellite internet receivers should “quickly hand over” the devices to authorities.

“A field campaign will be implemented in coordination with the security authorities to arrest anyone who sells, trades, uses, operates, installs or possesses these prohibited terminals,” the Houthis warned.

Starlink terminals have been crucial for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/spacex-ukraine-starlink-russia-air-force-fde93d9a69d7dbd1326022ecfdbc53c2">Ukraine in fighting Russia’s full-scale invasion</a>&nbsp;and receivers also have been smuggled into Iran amid unrest there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745834468939.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/houthis">Yemen’s Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;on Monday alleged a U.S. airstrike hit a prison holding African migrants, killing at least 68 people and wounding 47 others. The U.S. military had no immediate comment.The strike in Yemen's Saada governorate, a stronghold for the Houthis, is the latest incident in the country's decadelong war&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ethiopia-saudi-arabia-yemen-migrants-hrw-c6958c2593573c0c8fc64794a60f777c">to kill African migrants from Ethiopia and other nations</a>&nbsp;who risk crossing the nation for a chance to work in neighboring Saudi Arabia.It also likely will renew questions from activists about the American campaign, known as “Operation Rough Rider,” which has been targeting the rebels as the Trump administration negotiates with their main benefactor, Iran, over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-nuclear-talks-oman-f2e4ecf49c62c11a0240153d7f900d0d">Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program</a>.The U.S. military's Central Command, in a statement early Monday before news of the alleged strike broke, sought to defend its policy of offering no specific details of its extensive airstrike campaign. The strikes have drawn controversy in America over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-signal-chat-houthis-attack-8dbf9dd6c711796438a5c1c84831c40b">use of the unclassified Signal messaging app</a>&nbsp;to post sensitive details about the attacks.“To preserve operational security, we have intentionally limited disclosing details of our ongoing or future operations,” Central Command said. “We are very deliberate in our operational approach, but will not reveal specifics about what we’ve done or what we will do.”It did not immediately respond to questions from The Associated Press about the alleged strike in Saada.<h2>Graphic footage shows aftermath of explosion</h2>Graphic footage aired by the Houthis' al-Masirah satellite news channel showed what appeared to be dead bodies and others wounded at the site. The Houthi-run Interior Ministry said some 115 migrants had been detained at the site.The rebels' Civil Defense organization said at least 68 people had been killed and 47 others wounded in the attack.Footage from the site analyzed by the AP suggested some kind of explosion took place there, with its cement walls seemingly peppered by debris fragments and the wounds suffered by those there.A woman's voice, soft in the footage, can be heard repeating the start of a prayer in Arabic: “In the name of God.” An occasional gunshot rang out as medics sought to help those wounded.<h2>African migrants caught in middle of Yemen's war</h2>Ethiopians and other African migrants for years have landed in Yemen, braving the war-torn nation to try and reach Saudi Arabia for work. The Houthi rebels allegedly make tens of thousands of dollars a week smuggling migrants over the border.Migrants from Ethiopia have found themselves detained, abused and even killed in Saudi Arabia and Yemen during the war. An Oct. 3, 2022, letter to the kingdom from the U.N. said its investigators “received concerning allegations of cross-border artillery shelling and small arms fire allegedly by Saudi security forces, causing the deaths of up to 430 and injuring 650 migrants.”Saudi Arabia has denied killing migrants.Monday's alleged strike recalled&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-middle-east-sanaa-dubai-cfad87600e2c93ab9af22dc80ba27875">a similar strike by a Saudi-led coalition battling the Houthis back in 2022</a>&nbsp;on the same compound, which caused a collapse killing 66 detainees and wounding 113 others, a United Nations report later said. The Houthis shot dead 16 detainees who fled after the strike and wounded another 50, the U.N. said. The Saudi-led coalition sought to justify the strike by saying the Houthis built and launched drones there, but the U.N. said it was known to be a detention facility.“The coalition should have avoided any attack on that facility,” the U.N. report added.That 2022 attack was one of the deadliest single attacks in the yearslong war between the coalition and the Houthi rebels and came after the Houthis struck inside the UAE twice with missiles and drones,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dubai-united-arab-emirates-abu-dhabi-yemen-8bdefdf900ce46a6fd6c7bc685bf838a">killing three in a strike near Abu Dhabi's international airport</a>.<h2>US military says over 800 strikes conducted in campaign so far</h2>Meanwhile, U.S. airstrikes overnight targeting Yemen's capital killed at least eight people, the Houthis said. The American military acknowledged carrying out over 800 individual strikes in their monthlong campaign.The overnight statement from Central Command also said “Operation Rough Rider” had “killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous Houthi leaders,” including those associated with its missile and drone program. It did not identify any of those officials.“Iran undoubtedly continues to provide support to the Houthis,” the statement said. “The Houthis can only continue to attack our forces with the backing of the Iranian regime.”"We will continue to ratchet up the pressure until the objective is met, which remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region," it added.The U.S. is targeting the Houthis because of the group’s attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route, and on Israel. The Houthis are also the last militant group in Iran’s self-described “Axis of Resistance” that is capable of regularly attacking Israel.<h2>US discusses deadly port strike</h2>The U.S. is conducting strikes on Yemen from its two aircraft carriers in the region — the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea and the USS Carl Vinson in the Arabian Sea.On April 18,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-us-airstrikes-563f61bbd96e1f2de68373fdf76c8811">an American strike on the Ras Isa fuel port</a>&nbsp;killed at least 74 people and wounded 171 others in the deadliest-known attack of the American campaign. Central Command on Monday offered an explanation for why it hit the port.“U.S. strikes destroyed the ability of Ras Isa Port to accept fuel, which will begin to impact Houthi ability to not only conduct operations, but also to generate millions of dollars in revenue for their terror activities,” it said.Meanwhile, the Houthis have increasingly sought to control the flow of information from the territory they hold to the outside world. It issued a notice Sunday that all those holding Starlink satellite internet receivers should “quickly hand over” the devices to authorities.“A field campaign will be implemented in coordination with the security authorities to arrest anyone who sells, trades, uses, operates, installs or possesses these prohibited terminals,” the Houthis warned.Starlink terminals have been crucial for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/spacex-ukraine-starlink-russia-air-force-fde93d9a69d7dbd1326022ecfdbc53c2">Ukraine in fighting Russia’s full-scale invasion</a>&nbsp;and receivers also have been smuggled into Iran amid unrest there.

Houthi rebels say alleged US airstrike hit Yemen prison, dozens killed

SUN Bucks program provides eligible families with $120 per school-aged child for summer groceries

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — An estimated 138,776 Kansas school-age children could have received free summer meals last year — their families just didn’t submit the application.

Of the estimated 148,000 children eligible for SUN Bucks pending application, according to the Kansas Department for Children and Families, there were applications submitted for 9,961 children. The program, also known as the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer program, gives families a $120 summer grocery card per eligible school-age child.

While most eligible children did not receive the SUN Bucks, 117,263 children automatically received them, according to DCF. The number of families who automatically received benefits were not counted into the 148,000 potential applications. Children in a household that had already submitted paperwork to receive free or reduced-price school lunches or applied for monthly food assistance programs, for example, were auto-enrolled. Families auto-enrolled for this summer received a letter in January.

The majority of states that offer SUN Bucks auto-enroll children in Medicaid. Kansas does not.

Haley Kottler, campaign director for food access at Kansas Appleseed, says DCF can’t auto-enroll children on Medicaid because of capacity issues with its internal system.

After&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/usda-grocery-ebt-21-million-children-summer-2024-what-to-know/" target="_blank">federal funding was approved</a>, families had from<a href="https://www.propel.app/summer-ebt/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Aug. 12, 2024</a>, to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.gov/Home/Quick-Links/News-Room/Weekly-News/Student-Health-and-Nutrition/PID/6197/mcat/6219/acat/2/ArtDateMonth/9-2024" target="_blank">Oct. 15, 2024</a>, to apply. This year, families have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/sunbucks.aspx" target="_blank">from Jan. 27 to Aug. 29</a>&nbsp;to apply — enlarging the window from two to seven months.

Kottler identified the small timespan as a reason for the low number of applications. The original application deadline was Sept. 11, 2024, and Kottler fought to change it. But she said that even with the extended window, applications didn’t increase.

“It made it really challenging, because a lot of families just didn’t know they were able to utilize this benefit,” Kottler said.

Erin LaRow, a spokeswoman for DCF, said her department spread the word via social media campaigns, messaging within the DCF phone system and self-service portal, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/SUNBucks.aspx" target="_blank">dedicated webpage</a>&nbsp;and a statewide news release.

The department also shared a fact sheet, both in English and Spanish, with the Kansas State Department of Education.

David Rubel, a New York City-based education consultant, looked at 12 states’ potential number of applications vs applications submitted. He found the percentage of applications submitted in every state was less than 20%.

North Carolina had the highest results, with 19.3% of applications submitted, followed by Missouri, with 18.3%. He said the comparatively robust numbers are because of communication about the SUN Bucks program from school districts.

“It’s all about the school districts getting the word out to their families. And why I emphasize the school districts is because they’re the only ones who have the current contact information for the families,” Rubel said.

Amber Wheeler, the superintendent of Humboldt School District — which has 33% of students approved for free and reduced-price lunches — said it has posted a DCF infographic on their social media accounts.

Robin Button, the food and service director for Fort Scott School District — with 56.7% of students approved for free and reduced-price lunches — said it plans on posting the infographic and mentioning the program at its town hall.

In the wake of President Donald Trump’s promise to deport more people — and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/irs-share-taxpayer-info-ice-immigrants-rcna200250" target="_blank">use of federal documents to identify them</a>&nbsp;— immigrant families are wary of submitting more documentation. While the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/sunbucks.aspx" target="_blank">Kansas DCF website</a>&nbsp;states that receiving SUN Bucks would not affect a family’s immigration status, fear remains.

“There’s a chilling effect when it comes to programs like this,” Kottler said. “It’s absolutely causing them fear and to not apply.”

Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk have been pushing spending cuts — a crusade that has trickled down to state-level officials.

At the Kansas State Board of Education’s April meeting, a motion failed to allow KSDE Child and Wellness services to enter an agreement with the Kansas Association of Broadcasters to run public service announcements about summer meal programs. This means that stations associated with KAB won’t air promotional materials about the KSDE’s Sun Meals program, which is separate from the SUN Bucks program.

In the 2025-2026 Kansas legislative session, Republicans attempted to insert a provision in the budget that would ban the use of SUN Bucks on candy or soda. Democratic Governor Laura Kelly vetoed the provision — and while the Senate overturned her veto, the House did not — ultimately upholding her veto.

LaRow with DCF said the department has received 1,294 SUN Bucks applications as of April 11.

Corrections: An earlier version of this story miscalculated the number of children who didn’t receive the SUN Bucks benefit, misstated a decision by the Kansas State Board of Education at its April meeting, and didn’t specify that KSDE’s Sun Meals program is separate from the SUN Bucks program.

Application is open now through Aug. 29, 2025.

Families who did not receive a letter from the Kansas Department for Children and Families in January&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/sunbucks.aspx" target="_blank">can check their eligibility</a>.

Families should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal" target="_blank">apply through the DCF Self-service portal</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738161277873.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>SUN Bucks program provides eligible families with $120 per school-aged child for summer groceries</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — An estimated 138,776 Kansas school-age children could have received free summer meals last year — their families just didn’t submit the application.Of the estimated 148,000 children eligible for SUN Bucks pending application, according to the Kansas Department for Children and Families, there were applications submitted for 9,961 children. The program, also known as the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer program, gives families a $120 summer grocery card per eligible school-age child.While most eligible children did not receive the SUN Bucks, 117,263 children automatically received them, according to DCF. The number of families who automatically received benefits were not counted into the 148,000 potential applications. Children in a household that had already submitted paperwork to receive free or reduced-price school lunches or applied for monthly food assistance programs, for example, were auto-enrolled. Families auto-enrolled for this summer received a letter in January.The majority of states that offer SUN Bucks auto-enroll children in Medicaid. Kansas does not.Haley Kottler, campaign director for food access at Kansas Appleseed, says DCF can’t auto-enroll children on Medicaid because of capacity issues with its internal system.<h2>Why were applications so low?&nbsp;</h2>After&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/usda-grocery-ebt-21-million-children-summer-2024-what-to-know/" target="_blank">federal funding was approved</a>, families had from<a href="https://www.propel.app/summer-ebt/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Aug. 12, 2024</a>, to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.gov/Home/Quick-Links/News-Room/Weekly-News/Student-Health-and-Nutrition/PID/6197/mcat/6219/acat/2/ArtDateMonth/9-2024" target="_blank">Oct. 15, 2024</a>, to apply. This year, families have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/sunbucks.aspx" target="_blank">from Jan. 27 to Aug. 29</a>&nbsp;to apply — enlarging the window from two to seven months.Kottler identified the small timespan as a reason for the low number of applications. The original application deadline was Sept. 11, 2024, and Kottler fought to change it. But she said that even with the extended window, applications didn’t increase.“It made it really challenging, because a lot of families just didn’t know they were able to utilize this benefit,” Kottler said.Erin LaRow, a spokeswoman for DCF, said her department spread the word via social media campaigns, messaging within the DCF phone system and self-service portal, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/SUNBucks.aspx" target="_blank">dedicated webpage</a>&nbsp;and a statewide news release.The department also shared a fact sheet, both in English and Spanish, with the Kansas State Department of Education.David Rubel, a New York City-based education consultant, looked at 12 states’ potential number of applications vs applications submitted. He found the percentage of applications submitted in every state was less than 20%.North Carolina had the highest results, with 19.3% of applications submitted, followed by Missouri, with 18.3%. He said the comparatively robust numbers are because of communication about the SUN Bucks program from school districts.“It’s all about the school districts getting the word out to their families. And why I emphasize the school districts is because they’re the only ones who have the current contact information for the families,” Rubel said.Amber Wheeler, the superintendent of Humboldt School District — which has 33% of students approved for free and reduced-price lunches — said it has posted a DCF infographic on their social media accounts.Robin Button, the food and service director for Fort Scott School District — with 56.7% of students approved for free and reduced-price lunches — said it plans on posting the infographic and mentioning the program at its town hall.<h2>‘Chilling effect’ of recent politics</h2>In the wake of President Donald Trump’s promise to deport more people — and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/irs-share-taxpayer-info-ice-immigrants-rcna200250" target="_blank">use of federal documents to identify them</a>&nbsp;— immigrant families are wary of submitting more documentation. While the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/sunbucks.aspx" target="_blank">Kansas DCF website</a>&nbsp;states that receiving SUN Bucks would not affect a family’s immigration status, fear remains.“There’s a chilling effect when it comes to programs like this,” Kottler said. “It’s absolutely causing them fear and to not apply.”Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk have been pushing spending cuts — a crusade that has trickled down to state-level officials.At the Kansas State Board of Education’s April meeting, a motion failed to allow KSDE Child and Wellness services to enter an agreement with the Kansas Association of Broadcasters to run public service announcements about summer meal programs. This means that stations associated with KAB won’t air promotional materials about the KSDE’s Sun Meals program, which is separate from the SUN Bucks program.In the 2025-2026 Kansas legislative session, Republicans attempted to insert a provision in the budget that would ban the use of SUN Bucks on candy or soda. Democratic Governor Laura Kelly vetoed the provision — and while the Senate overturned her veto, the House did not — ultimately upholding her veto.LaRow with DCF said the department has received 1,294 SUN Bucks applications as of April 11.Corrections: An earlier version of this story miscalculated the number of children who didn’t receive the SUN Bucks benefit, misstated a decision by the Kansas State Board of Education at its April meeting, and didn’t specify that KSDE’s Sun Meals program is separate from the SUN Bucks program.How to apply for SUN BucksApplication is open now through Aug. 29, 2025.Families who did not receive a letter from the Kansas Department for Children and Families in January&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/sunbucks.aspx" target="_blank">can check their eligibility</a>.Families should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal" target="_blank">apply through the DCF Self-service portal</a>.

Correction: More than 138,000 Kansas children miss out on free summer meals despite eligibility

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;is putting his “touches” on the White House with new flagpoles, new artwork, an overhaul of the Oval Office decor and possibly covering up the lawn in the Rose Garden.

Trump, a former real estate developer and hotelier, said Wednesday that he’s adding two “beautiful” flagpoles to the grounds to fly the American flag in about a week.

The Republican president recently hung new artworks featuring himself, including a rendering of him with his fist raised after last year’s attempted assassination in Pennsylvania. He has redecorated the Oval Office by adding portraits of all of his predecessors, a wall-mounted copy of the Declaration of Independence that is shielded by dark drapes and many golden accents.

Trump has also talked about paving over the lawn in the Kennedy-era Rose Garden.

He even remarked on the grass on Wednesday, telling reporters he recalled a recent event where “the grass was very wet and it was very hard for people to stand on the grass. They got their shoes all ruined.”

All families granted the privilege of living in the White House try to find ways to leave their mark on the property, and Trump isn’t any different.

Near the end of his first term, he and first lady Melania Trump unveiled a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/melania-trump-announce-tennis-pavilion-86b3b05efd0b9ebebdbe1ba1528a8857">refurbished tennis court and a new pavilion</a>&nbsp;on the south grounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-d07cd34727164a96876ff29247eaa089">Michelle Obama’s vegetable garden</a>&nbsp;is still producing.

But Trump is a “real estate developer at heart” and is always looking to improve the White House, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday.

Earlier Wednesday, Trump took an impromptu stroll outside toward the Pennsylvania Avenue fence with head groundskeeper Dale Haney and other staff members. Asked what he was doing, Trump said he was scoping out a location for a flagpole.

He told reporters afterward that he’s installing two “beautiful” flagpoles on the grounds because “they’ve needed flagpoles for 200 years.” He said the poles would be “paid for by Trump” and could be installed as soon as next week.

The American and POW/MIA flags fly on the roof of the White House every day. Trump had them&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/honoring-the-memory-of-his-holiness-pope-francis/" target="_blank">lowered on Monday after Pope Francis’ death</a>.

Trump pledged in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transcript-inauguration-inaugural-address-3d911cbb2ffc9b903d9fff2088948318">inaugural address</a>&nbsp;to preside over a “golden age of America.” But he appears to have ushered it first into an Oval Office he has redecorated by adding golden accents to the fireplace, doorway arches, walls and other areas of the room. It hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“I really must say the Oval Office has never looked better,” Paul Atkins, the new Securities and Exchange Commission chairman, said Tuesday after his ceremonial swearing-in there. “One could really describe it as glistening, and I’ve heard stories about it. It’s true. It’s the touch of a confident president, leading with optimism towards an American golden age.”

Every president adjusts the office decor to their liking, often with new furniture, rugs, draperies and other items. Some hire decorators. Former President Joe Biden had one of his brothers handle it.

Trump seems to have directed the process himself.

“I’ve done some ‘Trump touches’ to the Oval Office,” he told the championship&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vance-trophy-fumble-ohio-state-trump-7b4bbdfca8ce6a20fd6e8724a24d329b">Ohio State football team</a>&nbsp;when he invited them for a tour after he hosted the players and coaches last week. “It’s a little nicer than it used to be, I think.”

Earlier this month, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1910764795382349948" target="_blank">hung a portrait</a>&nbsp;depicting a moment after last summer’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-vp-vance-rubio-7c7ba6b99b5f38d2d840ed95b2fdc3e5">assassination attempt</a>, thereby bumping the official portrait of former President Barack Obama to another wall in the foyer.

The new painting was donated by Andrew Pollock, who lost his daughter Meadow in the 2018 mass shooting at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-state-parkland-second-shooting-ee27d6801ac107fd0323dc729d86bc6a">Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School</a>&nbsp;in Parkland, Florida.

Another image of Trump now hangs on the ground floor between the official portraits of former first ladies Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton.

Revealed in a social media post by first-year Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/JimmyPatronis" target="_blank">Jimmy Patronis</a>, a Florida Republican, the image of Trump features the red, white and blue of an American flag superimposed over the president’s headshot on a black background.

The White House on Wednesday confirmed that the image is real.

Trump also wants to pave over the lawn in the famous Rose Garden, which was created during the administration of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jfk-assassination-files-release-trump-3e8f31e18468d96b53210572e0992c07">John F. Kennedy</a>&nbsp;after he was inspired by gardens he saw during a 1961 state visit to France.

Presidents have long used the space for everything from big announcements to Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremonies.

He shared his plan with Fox News Channel host Laura Ingraham as he showed her the Oval Office while taping an interview in March. The Rose Garden is just outside and Trump complained about the lawn always being “soaking wet” and inconveniencing “the women with the high heels.”

“The grass just, it doesn’t work,” Trump told Ingraham, adding that it would be covered with “gorgeous stone.”

Ingraham asked if the roses would stay. Trump said they would.

“It’s a rose garden. All of this stays,” he said, explaining that only the lawn would be affected. “I think it’s going to be beautiful. I think it’s going to be more beautiful.”

Paving over the lawn would mark the second makeover of the space under Trump.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745501461556.png" alt="President Trump on White House North Lawn determining where to install a flag pole.-image from CSPAN video" />
 <figcaption>President Trump on White House North Lawn determining where to install a flag pole.-image from CSPAN video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;is putting his “touches” on the White House with new flagpoles, new artwork, an overhaul of the Oval Office decor and possibly covering up the lawn in the Rose Garden.Trump, a former real estate developer and hotelier, said Wednesday that he’s adding two “beautiful” flagpoles to the grounds to fly the American flag in about a week.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This portrait of <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> just went up in the White House today! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Awesome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Awesome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MAGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MAGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/8lfP1HAzhZ">pic.twitter.com/8lfP1HAzhZ</a>&mdash; Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) <a href="https://twitter.com/JimmyPatronis/status/1914496818102088047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> shows <a href="https://twitter.com/glennbeck?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@glennbeck</a> his latest addition in the White House 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ib426C0sC0">pic.twitter.com/ib426C0sC0</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1915135844991541642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Republican president recently hung new artworks featuring himself, including a rendering of him with his fist raised after last year’s attempted assassination in Pennsylvania. He has redecorated the Oval Office by adding portraits of all of his predecessors, a wall-mounted copy of the Declaration of Independence that is shielded by dark drapes and many golden accents.Trump has also talked about paving over the lawn in the Kennedy-era Rose Garden.He even remarked on the grass on Wednesday, telling reporters he recalled a recent event where “the grass was very wet and it was very hard for people to stand on the grass. They got their shoes all ruined.”All families granted the privilege of living in the White House try to find ways to leave their mark on the property, and Trump isn’t any different.Near the end of his first term, he and first lady Melania Trump unveiled a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/melania-trump-announce-tennis-pavilion-86b3b05efd0b9ebebdbe1ba1528a8857">refurbished tennis court and a new pavilion</a>&nbsp;on the south grounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-d07cd34727164a96876ff29247eaa089">Michelle Obama’s vegetable garden</a>&nbsp;is still producing.But Trump is a “real estate developer at heart” and is always looking to improve the White House, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday.<h2>New flag poles</h2><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump on White House North Lawn determining where to install a flag pole. <a href="https://t.co/bzJ1rlNITP">pic.twitter.com/bzJ1rlNITP</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1915065011866677341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Earlier Wednesday, Trump took an impromptu stroll outside toward the Pennsylvania Avenue fence with head groundskeeper Dale Haney and other staff members. Asked what he was doing, Trump said he was scoping out a location for a flagpole.He told reporters afterward that he’s installing two “beautiful” flagpoles on the grounds because “they’ve needed flagpoles for 200 years.” He said the poles would be “paid for by Trump” and could be installed as soon as next week.The American and POW/MIA flags fly on the roof of the White House every day. Trump had them&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/honoring-the-memory-of-his-holiness-pope-francis/" target="_blank">lowered on Monday after Pope Francis’ death</a>.<h2>Oval Office overhaul</h2>Trump pledged in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transcript-inauguration-inaugural-address-3d911cbb2ffc9b903d9fff2088948318">inaugural address</a>&nbsp;to preside over a “golden age of America.” But he appears to have ushered it first into an Oval Office he has redecorated by adding golden accents to the fireplace, doorway arches, walls and other areas of the room. It hasn’t gone unnoticed.“I really must say the Oval Office has never looked better,” Paul Atkins, the new Securities and Exchange Commission chairman, said Tuesday after his ceremonial swearing-in there. “One could really describe it as glistening, and I’ve heard stories about it. It’s true. It’s the touch of a confident president, leading with optimism towards an American golden age.”Every president adjusts the office decor to their liking, often with new furniture, rugs, draperies and other items. Some hire decorators. Former President Joe Biden had one of his brothers handle it.Trump seems to have directed the process himself.“I’ve done some ‘Trump touches’ to the Oval Office,” he told the championship&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vance-trophy-fumble-ohio-state-trump-7b4bbdfca8ce6a20fd6e8724a24d329b">Ohio State football team</a>&nbsp;when he invited them for a tour after he hosted the players and coaches last week. “It’s a little nicer than it used to be, I think.”<h2>New Trump art</h2>Earlier this month, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1910764795382349948" target="_blank">hung a portrait</a>&nbsp;depicting a moment after last summer’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-vp-vance-rubio-7c7ba6b99b5f38d2d840ed95b2fdc3e5">assassination attempt</a>, thereby bumping the official portrait of former President Barack Obama to another wall in the foyer.The new painting was donated by Andrew Pollock, who lost his daughter Meadow in the 2018 mass shooting at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-state-parkland-second-shooting-ee27d6801ac107fd0323dc729d86bc6a">Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School</a>&nbsp;in Parkland, Florida.Another image of Trump now hangs on the ground floor between the official portraits of former first ladies Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton.Revealed in a social media post by first-year Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/JimmyPatronis" target="_blank">Jimmy Patronis</a>, a Florida Republican, the image of Trump features the red, white and blue of an American flag superimposed over the president’s headshot on a black background.The White House on Wednesday confirmed that the image is real.<h2>Rose Garden</h2>Trump also wants to pave over the lawn in the famous Rose Garden, which was created during the administration of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jfk-assassination-files-release-trump-3e8f31e18468d96b53210572e0992c07">John F. Kennedy</a>&nbsp;after he was inspired by gardens he saw during a 1961 state visit to France.Presidents have long used the space for everything from big announcements to Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremonies.He shared his plan with Fox News Channel host Laura Ingraham as he showed her the Oval Office while taping an interview in March. The Rose Garden is just outside and Trump complained about the lawn always being “soaking wet” and inconveniencing “the women with the high heels.”“The grass just, it doesn’t work,” Trump told Ingraham, adding that it would be covered with “gorgeous stone.”Ingraham asked if the roses would stay. Trump said they would.“It’s a rose garden. All of this stays,” he said, explaining that only the lawn would be affected. “I think it’s going to be beautiful. I think it’s going to be more beautiful.”Paving over the lawn would mark the second makeover of the space under Trump.

Trump is putting his ‘touches’ on the White House with flagpoles, art and more

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays who gives an update on local retail development on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=24xbd-188f429-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays who gives an update on local retail development on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays update on retail development

By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post

Tens of thousands from many states and foreign countries visit Fort Hays State University’s Sternberg Museum of Natural History each year.

They come to see the dinosaurs, reptiles, fossils and to soak up some history.

Last week, some visitors from Colorado and California came to Sternberg for a different reason: to record music under the sea.

Recording sessions were conducted on three nights in the museum’s undersea diorama, where music reverberated in the dark, enclosed space with rounded walls.

Jeff Berkley, a singer/songwriter who is also a music producer, heard about Sternberg while listening to National Public Radio shortly before coming through town on one of his many treks&nbsp;across Interstate 70 for a music gig in 2023.

So, Berkley decided to visit the museum when he pulled into Hays. He was astonished by the acoustics when he suddenly felt the urge to sing in the undersea diorama’s cave-like enclosure that represents the Western Interior Seaway that covered much of Kansas 66 million to 80 million years ago.

“The reverb in there, I was blown away,” Berkley said. “I just thought in that moment I would love to bring some amazing artists to Hays and record them in there.”

Berkley emailed Sternberg Director Reese Barrick soon after his visit.

Barrick gave the green light, and Berkley contacted three groups of recording artists who all immediately said “yes” to what would become known as the Paleoverb Project.

“I thought it was a weird request but really awesome,” Barrick said. “It is a cool space, but I didn’t know how they were going to make it work.”

Barrick, who played the trumpet in high school, also marveled at the acoustics.

“The way the room is shaped and covered up, the walls bounce everything back and forth. It’s really cool,” Barrick said. “It does reverberate some. It’s not crystal clear. It’s sort of unique in that way.”

The original plan was to have one group record on Sunday, another on Monday, and then the final one on Tuesday. However, as the artists congregated in the recording space, they all joined in on some songs each night, with Berkley serving as the sound engineer with his portable studio equipment.

“There’s no headphones, no overdubbing, no tuning software,” Berkley said. “You just go into this weird room and kick (tail) and be really good. That’s why I chose them.”

Berkley and two of the three groups are from San Diego. Veronica May and Hanna Doreen Brown, both from Fort Collins, Colorado, recorded on Sunday.

The duo Stucky Leigh, composed of Will Stucky and Lauren Leigh, was in the spotlight Monday. Tuesday evening, it was Marlo J. Smith and Joshua McCleskey, joined by bandmate Sean Cox Briar, from the group Please ask for Paul.

“They all have amazing melodies and harmonies and songs,” Berkley said. “That’s why I chose them.”

There was no hesitation in agreeing to become part of the project.

“Jeff is this lovely, sweet, weird figure where we live, but also has quite a list of accomplishments,” McCleskey said. “We love and respect him. It didn’t take much arm-twisting.”

“It just sounded weird and fun and beautiful,” he added. “When we found out who was getting involved, it just kept getting bigger and bigger. Just so much excitement.”

The three groups bring an eclectic blend of an indie-alt sound, with some folk thrown in. Each artist was amazed by what they encountered in that special space with a surreal atmosphere.

“The reverb in there, you throw your voice and it just stays,” May said.

“What they learned was how long the reverb would last,” Berkley said.

Performing in a dimly lit space with an otherworldly vibe was special.

“I feel like that was the best part of the magic,” Brown said. “It was so fun to sing.”

The recording artists all agreed they did not choose music for their path; music chose them. One artist’s mother is a concert pianist; another was inspired to pursue a life in the arts by watching a performance of “A Christmas Carol” when she was young. Another had a teacher who recognized her musical potential, while yet another took piano lessons.

“It’s been my only path,” Briar said.

“Creativity is my biggest asset in this life,” he said. “It was never about getting rich or famous. It was just making music. There’s never been another option for me.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745611529478.jpeg" alt="The life-sized Tylosaurus in the undersea exhibit at Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays appears to be enjoying the music from recording artists in town last week. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The life-sized Tylosaurus in the undersea exhibit at Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays appears to be enjoying the music from recording artists in town last week. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745612972219.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays PostTens of thousands from many states and foreign countries visit Fort Hays State University’s Sternberg Museum of Natural History each year.They come to see the dinosaurs, reptiles, fossils and to soak up some history.Last week, some visitors from Colorado and California came to Sternberg for a different reason: to record music under the sea.Recording sessions were conducted on three nights in the museum’s undersea diorama, where music reverberated in the dark, enclosed space with rounded walls.Jeff Berkley, a singer/songwriter who is also a music producer, heard about Sternberg while listening to National Public Radio shortly before coming through town on one of his many treks&nbsp;across Interstate 70 for a music gig in 2023.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745611615909.jpeg" alt="Surrounded by historical exhibits, Producer Jeff Berkley sets up the sound board prior to a recording session last week at Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Surrounded by historical exhibits, Producer Jeff Berkley sets up the sound board prior to a recording session last week at Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>So, Berkley decided to visit the museum when he pulled into Hays. He was astonished by the acoustics when he suddenly felt the urge to sing in the undersea diorama’s cave-like enclosure that represents the Western Interior Seaway that covered much of Kansas 66 million to 80 million years ago.“The reverb in there, I was blown away,” Berkley said. “I just thought in that moment I would love to bring some amazing artists to Hays and record them in there.”Berkley emailed Sternberg Director Reese Barrick soon after his visit.Barrick gave the green light, and Berkley contacted three groups of recording artists who all immediately said “yes” to what would become known as the Paleoverb Project.“I thought it was a weird request but really awesome,” Barrick said. “It is a cool space, but I didn’t know how they were going to make it work.”Barrick, who played the trumpet in high school, also marveled at the acoustics.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745611757222.jpeg" alt="A skeleton of the world-famous Xiphactinus and the huge lizard-like Tylosaurus draw thousands of visitors to Sternberg Museum each year, including recording artists. Photo courtesy of Sternberg Museum" />
 <figcaption>A skeleton of the world-famous Xiphactinus and the huge lizard-like Tylosaurus draw thousands of visitors to Sternberg Museum each year, including recording artists. Photo courtesy of Sternberg Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>“The way the room is shaped and covered up, the walls bounce everything back and forth. It’s really cool,” Barrick said. “It does reverberate some. It’s not crystal clear. It’s sort of unique in that way.”The original plan was to have one group record on Sunday, another on Monday, and then the final one on Tuesday. However, as the artists congregated in the recording space, they all joined in on some songs each night, with Berkley serving as the sound engineer with his portable studio equipment.“There’s no headphones, no overdubbing, no tuning software,” Berkley said. “You just go into this weird room and kick (tail) and be really good. That’s why I chose them.”Berkley and two of the three groups are from San Diego. Veronica May and Hanna Doreen Brown, both from Fort Collins, Colorado, recorded on Sunday.The duo Stucky Leigh, composed of Will Stucky and Lauren Leigh, was in the spotlight Monday. Tuesday evening, it was Marlo J. Smith and Joshua McCleskey, joined by bandmate Sean Cox Briar, from the group Please ask for Paul.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745611822438.png" alt="Three groups of performing artists doing recording sessions at Sternberg Museum last week also enjoyed a stay at a local Air B&amp;B. They were from left: Hanna Doreen Brown, Veronica May, Lauren Leigh, Marlo J. Smith, Sean Cox Briar, Joshua&nbsp;McCleskey and Will Stucky. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Three groups of performing artists doing recording sessions at Sternberg Museum last week also enjoyed a stay at a local Air B&amp;B. They were from left: Hanna Doreen Brown, Veronica May, Lauren Leigh, Marlo J. Smith, Sean Cox Briar, Joshua&nbsp;McCleskey and Will Stucky. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“They all have amazing melodies and harmonies and songs,” Berkley said. “That’s why I chose them.”There was no hesitation in agreeing to become part of the project.“Jeff is this lovely, sweet, weird figure where we live, but also has quite a list of accomplishments,” McCleskey said. “We love and respect him. It didn’t take much arm-twisting.”“It just sounded weird and fun and beautiful,” he added. “When we found out who was getting involved, it just kept getting bigger and bigger. Just so much excitement.”The three groups bring an eclectic blend of an indie-alt sound, with some folk thrown in. Each artist was amazed by what they encountered in that special space with a surreal atmosphere.“The reverb in there, you throw your voice and it just stays,” May said.“What they learned was how long the reverb would last,” Berkley said.Performing in a dimly lit space with an otherworldly vibe was special.“I feel like that was the best part of the magic,” Brown said. “It was so fun to sing.”The recording artists all agreed they did not choose music for their path; music chose them. One artist’s mother is a concert pianist; another was inspired to pursue a life in the arts by watching a performance of “A Christmas Carol” when she was young. Another had a teacher who recognized her musical potential, while yet another took piano lessons.Different paths, same destination.“It’s been my only path,” Briar said.McCleskey knows nothing else.“Creativity is my biggest asset in this life,” he said. “It was never about getting rich or famous. It was just making music. There’s never been another option for me.”“I was raised around musicians,” Leigh said. “I tried my best to not do it.”“I had to have it in my life,” she added. “I’m much happier for it.”Smith knew she wanted to make music her life. She became a music therapist in a hospice setting.“I knew I wanted to make a living making music,” Smith said. “I couldn’t imagine living my days without having music in my life every day.”Each group has tour dates throughout the country. In addition to a Paleoverb Project album, each artist will have their recorded songs featured on their own albums.With their albums, Stucky and Leigh collaborate in turning thoughts into songs.“Our process feels more like tossing wet noodles against the wall and whoever has the perfectly-cooked noodle, we move on from there,” Stucky said.The artists moved on to their next gigs on Wednesday. It was Hays one day, performing in New Mexico or Wyoming the next.“What I feel lucky about is being surrounded by people like I’m surrounded with right now,” Stucky said. “That has pulled me into being courageous and wanting to share, create.”Barrick said that while the museum will get some exposure from the project, that was not the guiding force for him.“I don’t know if it has to help the museum,” Barrick said. “It’s just a cool form of art that our building can add to creative performers. … We’ll get some good advertising out of it, but it’s more about helping people do something that’s cool and creative.”