Thomas More Prep-Marian had an early release today and will be released early Friday at 12:30 p.m. due to illness.

Cafeteria workers are ill, and there are not enough workers available to prepare lunch for students.&nbsp;

The Holy Family Elementary School office also said the school has been dealing with widespread illness, and custodians have been working after school to disinfect classrooms.

Holy Family is not scheduled to have an early release on Friday.

The Center for Health Improvement posted a reminder for members to stay home if they are sick. They also asked members to wipe down equipment and use hand sanitizer.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/13d91040-a39b-4478-b187-38c5ff0ebbf3">HaysMed issued visitor restrictions last week due to increasing cases of influenza. Visitors who are feeling unwell or are younger than the age of 12 have been asked to refrain from visiting.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738871854895.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThomas More Prep-Marian had an early release today and will be released early Friday at 12:30 p.m. due to illness.Cafeteria workers are ill, and there are not enough workers available to prepare lunch for students.&nbsp;The Holy Family Elementary School office also said the school has been dealing with widespread illness, and custodians have been working after school to disinfect classrooms.Holy Family is not scheduled to have an early release on Friday.The Center for Health Improvement posted a reminder for members to stay home if they are sick. They also asked members to wipe down equipment and use hand sanitizer.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/13d91040-a39b-4478-b187-38c5ff0ebbf3">HaysMed issued visitor restrictions last week due to increasing cases of influenza. Visitors who are feeling unwell or are younger than the age of 12 have been asked to refrain from visiting.</a>

TMP sets early release due to illness

Northeastern State (13-7, 7-4 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (13-7, 6-5 MIAA) Thursday, February 5 • 7:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Game Sponsor:&nbsp;Redeem Designs National Anthem:&nbsp;New Beginnings Preschool Promotions:&nbsp;Retro Night – T-Shirt Giveaway (while supplies last, begins before women's game), $1 Popcorn and Large Drinks / FHSU twirler Yaritza Vega at halftime

Fort Hays State looks to snap a three-game skid on Thursday night when it hosts Northeastern State. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. It will be the only meeting of the regular season between FHSU and NSU. Both teams are 13-7 overall on the season. NSU is 7-4 in MIAA play, while FHSU is 6-5.

The race for second place in the MIAA standings right now involves eight teams all within a game and a half. Northeastern State and Pittsburg State are currently tied for second at 7-4. Fort Hays State is among three teams sitting just a game back at 6-5.

The Tigers are looking to snap their longest losing skid since the 2020-21 season when they fell four times in a row. FHSU never lost more than two games in a row the three seasons prior to the current 2024-25 season. The Tigers are hoping their home floor will be the remedy where they are 10-1 this season after four-straight games on the road.

Northeastern State enters on a two-game win streak after sweeping home contests against Pittsburg State and Missouri Southern last week. The RiverHawks are 4-4 in true road games so far this season, but all four of the wins have been by four points or less.

Fort Hays State is looking to shake off its lowest scoring total in a game since 1949 after a 41-31 setback at Central Missouri this past Saturday. Even though the Tigers are the best defensive team in NCAA Division II, allowing just 59.4 points per game, they have lost a pair of games this year when holding the opposition inside of 50 points. FHSU has scored at least 60 points in 10 of its 11 home games this season, which includes seven times of 70 or more.

Northeastern State has one of the higher scoring offenses in the MIAA at 81.1 points per game. The RiverHawks were held inside of 70 just four times this season with 66 as their season low in points occurring three times all in losses. The RiverHawks allow an average of 76.1 points per game. Trey Phipps leads the RiverHawks and MIAA in scoring at 21.8 points per game.

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;continues to lead the Tigers at 14.6 points and 4.2 assists per game. Shaun Riley&nbsp;is the top rebounder at 6.7 per game, while adding 10 points per game. Kyle Grill&nbsp;has scored at least 20 points in two of the last four games and ranks second on the team in scoring at 12.5 points per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738840269380.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNortheastern State (13-7, 7-4 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (13-7, 6-5 MIAA) Thursday, February 5 • 7:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Game Sponsor:&nbsp;Redeem Designs National Anthem:&nbsp;New Beginnings Preschool Promotions:&nbsp;Retro Night – T-Shirt Giveaway (while supplies last, begins before women's game), $1 Popcorn and Large Drinks / FHSU twirler Yaritza Vega at halftimeFort Hays State looks to snap a three-game skid on Thursday night when it hosts Northeastern State. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. It will be the only meeting of the regular season between FHSU and NSU. Both teams are 13-7 overall on the season. NSU is 7-4 in MIAA play, while FHSU is 6-5.The race for second place in the MIAA standings right now involves eight teams all within a game and a half. Northeastern State and Pittsburg State are currently tied for second at 7-4. Fort Hays State is among three teams sitting just a game back at 6-5.The Tigers are looking to snap their longest losing skid since the 2020-21 season when they fell four times in a row. FHSU never lost more than two games in a row the three seasons prior to the current 2024-25 season. The Tigers are hoping their home floor will be the remedy where they are 10-1 this season after four-straight games on the road.Northeastern State enters on a two-game win streak after sweeping home contests against Pittsburg State and Missouri Southern last week. The RiverHawks are 4-4 in true road games so far this season, but all four of the wins have been by four points or less.Fort Hays State is looking to shake off its lowest scoring total in a game since 1949 after a 41-31 setback at Central Missouri this past Saturday. Even though the Tigers are the best defensive team in NCAA Division II, allowing just 59.4 points per game, they have lost a pair of games this year when holding the opposition inside of 50 points. FHSU has scored at least 60 points in 10 of its 11 home games this season, which includes seven times of 70 or more.Northeastern State has one of the higher scoring offenses in the MIAA at 81.1 points per game. The RiverHawks were held inside of 70 just four times this season with 66 as their season low in points occurring three times all in losses. The RiverHawks allow an average of 76.1 points per game. Trey Phipps leads the RiverHawks and MIAA in scoring at 21.8 points per game.Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;continues to lead the Tigers at 14.6 points and 4.2 assists per game. Shaun Riley&nbsp;is the top rebounder at 6.7 per game, while adding 10 points per game. Kyle Grill&nbsp;has scored at least 20 points in two of the last four games and ranks second on the team in scoring at 12.5 points per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀🎧 LISTEN: Tigers host Northeastern State Thursday

GREAT BEND&nbsp; – The Heartland Center for Spirituality, known as a retreat-conference center for people of all faiths and a ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, is observing 40 years of serving others. 

The first of its anniversary celebrations is a gathering open to the public at its Dominican Chapel of the Plains, 3600 Broadway, Great Bend, on Sunday, February 16 at 1 p.m.

Bishop John B. Brungardt will offer prayer and a blessing for the Heartland Spirituality Center.

Accomplished mezzo-soprano Hayley Shoemaker will share a range of spiritual selections and a French operatic piece. Shoemaker is a voice professor at Fort Hays State University who offers public performances regularly and recently reprised the role of Carmen at the 2024 Eutiner Festspiele in Eutin, Germany.

“We are blessed to be experiencing a renewal at Heartland. We are excited about what is to come and new opportunities opening to the public -near and far - this year,” says Ann Axman, co-director Heartland. “We will touch on a few upcoming events including a Lenten Retreat during the kick-off occasion but the full rundown and explanation of what’s ahead in 2025 will be revealed soon, so stay tuned for that.”

Keith Funk, another co-director of Heartland says, “Our vision is to build bridges between different faiths in the community, which is the same belief of our sponsors, the Dominican Sisters of Peace, who promote interfaith collaboration and welcome associates from a variety of faith traditions. Everyone here is very excited for what is ahead in 2025.”

Tours of the Heartland Spirituality Center will be available after the February 16 event and refreshments will be offered.

The Heartland Center for Spirituality provides overnight accommodations, meeting space for individuals, church organizations and non-profits who are interested in spiritual enrichment, education programs, staff development, conferences, and retreats.

To find out more about the Center go here please go here. To view the current calendar of events for Heartland Spirituality Center please see this.

About the Dominican Sisters of Peace

Dominican Sisters of Peace, members of the Order of Preachers, are vowed Catholic women who preach the Gospel of Christ through lives of service and peace-making. The Dominican Sisters of Peace are present in 22 states and Nigeria. The Sisters serve God’s people in many ways, including education, health care, spirituality, pastoral care, prison ministry, the arts, and care of creation. There are more than 300 Sisters and more than 300 lay women and men associated with the congregation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738859480799.jpeg" alt="Heartland Center for Spirituality, Great Bend. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Heartland Center for Spirituality, Great Bend. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND&nbsp; – The Heartland Center for Spirituality, known as a retreat-conference center for people of all faiths and a ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, is observing 40 years of serving others. The first of its anniversary celebrations is a gathering open to the public at its Dominican Chapel of the Plains, 3600 Broadway, Great Bend, on Sunday, February 16 at 1 p.m.Bishop John B. Brungardt will offer prayer and a blessing for the Heartland Spirituality Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738859588426.jpeg" alt="Hayley Shoemaker, FHSU professor. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hayley Shoemaker, FHSU professor. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Accomplished mezzo-soprano Hayley Shoemaker will share a range of spiritual selections and a French operatic piece. Shoemaker is a voice professor at Fort Hays State University who offers public performances regularly and recently reprised the role of Carmen at the 2024 Eutiner Festspiele in Eutin, Germany.“We are blessed to be experiencing a renewal at Heartland. We are excited about what is to come and new opportunities opening to the public -near and far - this year,” says Ann Axman, co-director Heartland. “We will touch on a few upcoming events including a Lenten Retreat during the kick-off occasion but the full rundown and explanation of what’s ahead in 2025 will be revealed soon, so stay tuned for that.”Keith Funk, another co-director of Heartland says, “Our vision is to build bridges between different faiths in the community, which is the same belief of our sponsors, the Dominican Sisters of Peace, who promote interfaith collaboration and welcome associates from a variety of faith traditions. Everyone here is very excited for what is ahead in 2025.”Tours of the Heartland Spirituality Center will be available after the February 16 event and refreshments will be offered.The Heartland Center for Spirituality provides overnight accommodations, meeting space for individuals, church organizations and non-profits who are interested in spiritual enrichment, education programs, staff development, conferences, and retreats.To find out more about the Center go here please go here. To view the current calendar of events for Heartland Spirituality Center please see this.About the Dominican Sisters of Peace Dominican Sisters of Peace, members of the Order of Preachers, are vowed Catholic women who preach the Gospel of Christ through lives of service and peace-making. The Dominican Sisters of Peace are present in 22 states and Nigeria. The Sisters serve God’s people in many ways, including education, health care, spirituality, pastoral care, prison ministry, the arts, and care of creation. There are more than 300 Sisters and more than 300 lay women and men associated with the congregation.

Heartland Center for Spirituality holds 40th anniversary celebration kick-off Feb. 16

#8/#17 Fort Hays State (18-2, 9-2 MIAA) vs. Northeastern State (10-10, 6-5 MIAA) Thursday, February 6, 2025 • 5:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

Game Sponsor:&nbsp;Redeem Designs National Anthem:&nbsp;New Beginnings Preschool Promotions:&nbsp;Retro t-shirt giveaway before the game, retro concession prices ($1 popcorn and $1 soft drinks), Plainville Drum Line at women's halftime, FHSU Feature Twirler Yaritza Vega at men's halftime

The eighth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team plays at home for the first time in nearly three weeks on Thursday (Feb. 4) when the Tigers host Northeastern State. The opening tip in the MIAA battle is set for 5:30 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

Fort Hays State heads into the weekend 18-2 on the year and 9-2 in MIAA play, while the RiverHawks are 10-10 overall and 6-5 in league action. The Tigers need two wins to reach the 20 win plateau for a 14th-straight season. FHSU has the longest active streak in Division II (Drury second with 11) and the sixth-longest streak in all NCAA women's basketball. The next longest active streak of 20-plus win seasons in the MIAA is three (MWSU, MSSU).

Tiger nation has helped provide the Tigers with the best home court advantage in Division II. Fort Hays State leads DII in attendance this season, averaging 1,785 fans per home contest. That total would rank in the top 100 in Division I and is more than 272 DI programs.

Fort Hays State continues to rank among the nation's best in scoring margin, outscoring opponents by an average of 18.7 points per game. Sixteen of FHSU's 18 wins have been double-figure victories, including 10 victories by 20 or more points, while both of the Tigers' losses have been by just one point.

The Tigers picked up the 1,000th victory in program history on Saturday, becoming the 12th current Division II program to reach that milestone.

Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;leads the Tigers with 19 double-digit scoring performances this season, including doing so in each of the last 13 games. Three other Tigers have scored at least 10 points more than 10 times this season, including 18 such games from Katie DeGarmo, 15 from Talexa Weeter&nbsp;and 11 from Kate Dilsaver.

DeGarmo became the school record holder in career rebounds last week, bringing her five-year total to 1,121 boards. She is second in team history with 2,051 career points, second in career field goals with 762 and fifth in steals with 215.

Hollenbeck now ranks fifth in program history with 1,728 points. She is second in blocks with 204, fourth in field goals with 653 and is tied for 10th in steals with 181.

Brooke Loewe&nbsp;leads the MIAA and ranks third in Division II with an average of 7.2 assists per game. The junior is on pace to break the program's single season assist average record of 6.0 assists per contest (Jaden Hobbs, 2020-21). Loewe has recorded 10 or more assists four times this season, while all other athletes in the MIAA have combined for just seven such performances. Her 137 assists are already sixth-most in a single season in team history.

Fort Hays State leads the all-time series, 20-4, including a perfect 10-0 record in Hays. The Tigers have won each of the last three meetings and 19 of the last 20 contests. Fort Hays State is 1-0 against Northeastern State during the Talia Kahrs&nbsp;era. The Tigers are 18-3 against the Jennies in regular season MIAA contests.

Northeastern State is 10-10 on the year, including wins in three of the last four. The RiverHawks are just 2-5 on the road this season. NSU averages 68.3 points per contest, ninth-best in the MIAA. The RiverHawks get to the free-throw line nearly 26 times per game, second-most in Division II. They rank third in the league with 9.5 steals per night. Alex Hill leads the team with 14.7 points per contest, 10th-best in the conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576068080103.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics#8/#17 Fort Hays State (18-2, 9-2 MIAA) vs. Northeastern State (10-10, 6-5 MIAA) Thursday, February 6, 2025 • 5:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Game Sponsor:&nbsp;Redeem Designs National Anthem:&nbsp;New Beginnings Preschool Promotions:&nbsp;Retro t-shirt giveaway before the game, retro concession prices ($1 popcorn and $1 soft drinks), Plainville Drum Line at women's halftime, FHSU Feature Twirler Yaritza Vega at men's halftimeThe eighth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team plays at home for the first time in nearly three weeks on Thursday (Feb. 4) when the Tigers host Northeastern State. The opening tip in the MIAA battle is set for 5:30 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.Fort Hays State heads into the weekend 18-2 on the year and 9-2 in MIAA play, while the RiverHawks are 10-10 overall and 6-5 in league action. The Tigers need two wins to reach the 20 win plateau for a 14th-straight season. FHSU has the longest active streak in Division II (Drury second with 11) and the sixth-longest streak in all NCAA women's basketball. The next longest active streak of 20-plus win seasons in the MIAA is three (MWSU, MSSU).Tiger nation has helped provide the Tigers with the best home court advantage in Division II. Fort Hays State leads DII in attendance this season, averaging 1,785 fans per home contest. That total would rank in the top 100 in Division I and is more than 272 DI programs.Fort Hays State continues to rank among the nation's best in scoring margin, outscoring opponents by an average of 18.7 points per game. Sixteen of FHSU's 18 wins have been double-figure victories, including 10 victories by 20 or more points, while both of the Tigers' losses have been by just one point.The Tigers picked up the 1,000th victory in program history on Saturday, becoming the 12th current Division II program to reach that milestone.Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;leads the Tigers with 19 double-digit scoring performances this season, including doing so in each of the last 13 games. Three other Tigers have scored at least 10 points more than 10 times this season, including 18 such games from Katie DeGarmo, 15 from Talexa Weeter&nbsp;and 11 from Kate Dilsaver.DeGarmo became the school record holder in career rebounds last week, bringing her five-year total to 1,121 boards. She is second in team history with 2,051 career points, second in career field goals with 762 and fifth in steals with 215.Hollenbeck now ranks fifth in program history with 1,728 points. She is second in blocks with 204, fourth in field goals with 653 and is tied for 10th in steals with 181.Brooke Loewe&nbsp;leads the MIAA and ranks third in Division II with an average of 7.2 assists per game. The junior is on pace to break the program's single season assist average record of 6.0 assists per contest (Jaden Hobbs, 2020-21). Loewe has recorded 10 or more assists four times this season, while all other athletes in the MIAA have combined for just seven such performances. Her 137 assists are already sixth-most in a single season in team history.Fort Hays State leads the all-time series, 20-4, including a perfect 10-0 record in Hays. The Tigers have won each of the last three meetings and 19 of the last 20 contests. Fort Hays State is 1-0 against Northeastern State during the Talia Kahrs&nbsp;era. The Tigers are 18-3 against the Jennies in regular season MIAA contests.Northeastern State is 10-10 on the year, including wins in three of the last four. The RiverHawks are just 2-5 on the road this season. NSU averages 68.3 points per contest, ninth-best in the MIAA. The RiverHawks get to the free-throw line nearly 26 times per game, second-most in Division II. They rank third in the league with 9.5 steals per night. Alex Hill leads the team with 14.7 points per contest, 10th-best in the conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀🎧 LISTEN: #8 Tiger women back home to battle RiverHawks Thursday

Thursday, February 6
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB vs. Northeastern State, 5:05pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WMBKB at Salina-Sacred Heart, 5:40pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pm

Friday, February 7
 KKQY: Plainville
MWBKB at Norton, 5:15pm
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Dodge City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Smith Center, 5:40pm

Saturday, February 8
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Kansas State, 11:30am
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith, 1:35pm

Sunday, February 9
 KKQY: Super Bowl LIX,
1pm

Thursday, February 6
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB vs. Northeastern State, 5:05pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WMBKB at Salina-Sacred Heart, 5:40pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pmFriday, February 7
 KKQY: Plainville
MWBKB at Norton, 5:15pm
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Dodge City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Smith Center, 5:40pmSaturday, February 8
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Kansas State, 11:30am
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith, 1:35pmSunday, February 9
 KKQY: Super Bowl LIX,
1pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

Marilyn,
beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away
peacefully on February 3, 2025 at the age of 77.&nbsp; A woman of warmth, wisdom, and an adventurous
spirit, she touched countless lives through her kindness, passion for
education, and love for her family.&nbsp; Marilyn was born on April 30, 1947,
in Colby, Kansas to Willard Treu &amp; Betty (Liester) Treu &amp; was raised on
the farmstead in northeast Sheridan County.&nbsp;
After high school graduation from Sheridan County High School in 1965,
Marilyn continued her education at Fort Hays State University where she graduated
with her education degree in 1969.&nbsp; While
attending college, Marilyn married her high school sweetheart, James Rynard
Rogers on June 18, 1966.&nbsp; Jim &amp;
Marilyn started their married life following college in Quinter, Kansas where
Marilyn taught first grade for four years.&nbsp;
Once returning to their hometown of Hoxie, Marilyn started teaching
Kindergarten at Hoxie Grade School.

Marilyn
dedicated her life to learning and teaching. As a devoted elementary teacher
and catholic youth education director, she believed in the power of knowledge
and inspired many along the way. Her students and colleagues will remember her
for her unwavering dedication and gentle encouragement.&nbsp; After leaving her elementary teaching career,
Marilyn dedicated many years to the family business, Sunflower Chemical.&nbsp; To this day she still talked about her
memories of the guys from Sunflower.&nbsp;
During many of those same years, she dedicated many hours to the youth
of St Frances Cabrini as the director of religious education.&nbsp; Marilyn spent countless hours of her spare
time devoting her talents to the community through NEC theater productions, her
gift of piano playing, &amp; as one of the founding board members of the
Sheridan County Amusement Company.&nbsp; 

Outside of her
career, Marilyn loved being a mother above all else.&nbsp; One of Marilyn’s favorite places to spend
with her children Brent &amp; Brooke was the Hoxie city pool on hot summer
days.&nbsp; Even when her own children outgrew
the pool, Marilyn continued enjoying days at the pool with her grandchildren
and loved more than anything family days at Shelley’s pool in the country.&nbsp; Her most cherished memories with family by
her side were in the Maui sunshine celebrating many Christmas holidays &amp;
family weddings.&nbsp;&nbsp; Above all, Marilyn
adored her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her
life.&nbsp; She was their biggest cheerleader,
their storyteller, and their source of endless love. When she first became a
grandmother there was already a Grandma Rogers, so she chose the name
“Mere-Mere” as it means mother in French so for the past twenty-two years, she
became Mere-Mere to those closest to her.&nbsp;
She also shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Bella, who was by
her side always.&nbsp; 

Marilyn found
joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She had a deep love for gardening,
tending to her flowers with the same care and patience she showed to those
around her. Birdwatching brought her a sense of peace, and she cherished every
moment spent by the ocean, where the waves and salty breeze always made her
feel at home.&nbsp; A true adventurer at heart, she loved to travel, embracing
new cultures and experiences with enthusiasm. Her appreciation for
Spanish-style décor and jewelry reflected her vibrant spirit and appreciation
for beauty in all forms.&nbsp;

Marilyn is
survived by her husband, James R Rogers, daughter Brooke Hill, Aurora,
Colorado, son Brent and wife Jodi Rogers, Hoxie, grandchildren Paiton and
Kinley Rogers &amp; Quinlynn Hill, sisters Shelley Nondorf (Bill) of Hoxie
&amp; Carole Clark (Pete) of Parker, Colorado, and nieces &amp; nephews. She is
now reunited with those who went before her, especially her beloved parents,
Willard &amp; Betty Treu, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and
cherished memories.&nbsp;

A celebration
of her life will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025 at 10:30 am at St Frances
Cabrini Church, Hoxie, Kansas. Visitation will take place on Thursday, February
6 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, with family present
from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm to receive friends. The vigil and rosary service will
follow the visitation at 7:00 pm.&nbsp;
Memorial donations can be made to Sheridan County Community Foundation,
PO Box 445, Hoxie KS 67740, in creation of the Rogers Family Fund with funds
received in Marilyn’s memory to be granted to the Hoxie CYO.

Marilyn,
beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away
peacefully on February 3, 2025 at the age of 77.&nbsp; A woman of warmth, wisdom, and an adventurous
spirit, she touched countless lives through her kindness, passion for
education, and love for her family.&nbsp; Marilyn was born on April 30, 1947,
in Colby, Kansas to Willard Treu &amp; Betty (Liester) Treu &amp; was raised on
the farmstead in northeast Sheridan County.&nbsp;
After high school graduation from Sheridan County High School in 1965,
Marilyn continued her education at Fort Hays State University where she graduated
with her education degree in 1969.&nbsp; While
attending college, Marilyn married her high school sweetheart, James Rynard
Rogers on June 18, 1966.&nbsp; Jim &amp;
Marilyn started their married life following college in Quinter, Kansas where
Marilyn taught first grade for four years.&nbsp;
Once returning to their hometown of Hoxie, Marilyn started teaching
Kindergarten at Hoxie Grade School.Marilyn
dedicated her life to learning and teaching. As a devoted elementary teacher
and catholic youth education director, she believed in the power of knowledge
and inspired many along the way. Her students and colleagues will remember her
for her unwavering dedication and gentle encouragement.&nbsp; After leaving her elementary teaching career,
Marilyn dedicated many years to the family business, Sunflower Chemical.&nbsp; To this day she still talked about her
memories of the guys from Sunflower.&nbsp;
During many of those same years, she dedicated many hours to the youth
of St Frances Cabrini as the director of religious education.&nbsp; Marilyn spent countless hours of her spare
time devoting her talents to the community through NEC theater productions, her
gift of piano playing, &amp; as one of the founding board members of the
Sheridan County Amusement Company.&nbsp; Outside of her
career, Marilyn loved being a mother above all else.&nbsp; One of Marilyn’s favorite places to spend
with her children Brent &amp; Brooke was the Hoxie city pool on hot summer
days.&nbsp; Even when her own children outgrew
the pool, Marilyn continued enjoying days at the pool with her grandchildren
and loved more than anything family days at Shelley’s pool in the country.&nbsp; Her most cherished memories with family by
her side were in the Maui sunshine celebrating many Christmas holidays &amp;
family weddings.&nbsp;&nbsp; Above all, Marilyn
adored her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her
life.&nbsp; She was their biggest cheerleader,
their storyteller, and their source of endless love. When she first became a
grandmother there was already a Grandma Rogers, so she chose the name
“Mere-Mere” as it means mother in French so for the past twenty-two years, she
became Mere-Mere to those closest to her.&nbsp;
She also shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Bella, who was by
her side always.&nbsp; Marilyn found
joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She had a deep love for gardening,
tending to her flowers with the same care and patience she showed to those
around her. Birdwatching brought her a sense of peace, and she cherished every
moment spent by the ocean, where the waves and salty breeze always made her
feel at home.&nbsp; A true adventurer at heart, she loved to travel, embracing
new cultures and experiences with enthusiasm. Her appreciation for
Spanish-style décor and jewelry reflected her vibrant spirit and appreciation
for beauty in all forms.&nbsp;Marilyn is
survived by her husband, James R Rogers, daughter Brooke Hill, Aurora,
Colorado, son Brent and wife Jodi Rogers, Hoxie, grandchildren Paiton and
Kinley Rogers &amp; Quinlynn Hill, sisters Shelley Nondorf (Bill) of Hoxie
&amp; Carole Clark (Pete) of Parker, Colorado, and nieces &amp; nephews. She is
now reunited with those who went before her, especially her beloved parents,
Willard &amp; Betty Treu, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and
cherished memories.&nbsp;A celebration
of her life will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025 at 10:30 am at St Frances
Cabrini Church, Hoxie, Kansas. Visitation will take place on Thursday, February
6 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, with family present
from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm to receive friends. The vigil and rosary service will
follow the visitation at 7:00 pm.&nbsp;
Memorial donations can be made to Sheridan County Community Foundation,
PO Box 445, Hoxie KS 67740, in creation of the Rogers Family Fund with funds
received in Marilyn’s memory to be granted to the Hoxie CYO.

Marilyn Rogers

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis County has many assets, but it's not always the best at telling its own story.

About 30 community members met Tuesday in Hays for a Solutions Summit sponsored by the <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a>.

This was a follow-up to past Strategic Doing community planning sessions that yielded projects such as the Downtown Pavilion, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">Child Care Task Force of Ellis County</a>, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f3b4fdce-d0ec-44f1-b80b-3b92ade8f230">ARC Park</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/feedinghays">Feeding Hays</a> and the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/community-resource-directory">United Way Community Resource Directory</a>.

Betty Johnson served as the facilitator for the meeting, which looked at Ellis County's strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities.

From those discussions, the group identified four action items.

The chief among those was developing a marketing plan for Ellis County.

Sandy Jacobs, Hays mayor, said the city is not good at telling its story. To establish a more complete and consistent message about the city's positive aspects, the city recently hired James Bell as its new public relations manager.

"If we don't tell our story, ... no one else is going to," she said.

Amanda Rupp, Ellis County Historical Society executive director, said other communities have one thing they are known for, but if you asked 10 people what Hays is known for, you'd get 10 answers.

Sarah Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director, said, "People say there is nothing to do here, but if you look at the events calendar, there is always something."

Other goals included the retention of people and wealth in Ellis County; further development of outdoor recreation, including pickleball, disc golf and mountain biking; and expanding family entertainment options.

The group discussed various programs to keep youth engaged in Ellis County.

Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health, said town-to-gown programs have been effective in Manhattan and Lawrence and could be strengthened in Hays.

The group also discussed the importance of internship opportunities for students with local businesses and certification opportunities for high school students seeking to enter trades.

Andy Stanton of Farm Bureau Financial Services said concurrent credit offerings for high school students have been a strength in Hays.

Johnson suggested reverse scholarships to get students back to Ellis County to work after college. Programs exist elsewhere in the state for doctors, vets and lawyers.

However, because of its population size, Ellis County doesn't qualify for state reimbursement for some programs.

Mason Ruder, city commissioner, said Hays and Ellis County participate in rural opportunity zones, which can offer funds to forgive student loan debt or income tax credits. People who qualify must have lived outside of the state&nbsp;for five or more years immediately prior to moving back to Kansas.

Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, said she thinks local residents have a lack of knowledge of the resources that are available in the community.

"Maybe we need to step back and take time to have a little bit of reflection and critique ourselves a little bit," she said.

Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Vistors Bureau, said she thinks Hays has more opportunities to offer activities for youth involvement.

She said the Sunflower Summer program, which allowed Kansas students and their families to visit Kansas attractions for free, was a great way to teach young people about Kansas assets.

"They're building these little Kansas ambassadors who are learning all of this cool stuff and strengthening that will to stay," Dixon said.

She added she supported a focused community pride campaign.

Gove County created a passport program, Johnson said. Local residents visited local attractions to be entered in a prize drawing. Johnson said this program was successful for that county to educate the local population about their own attractions.

A Kansas mountain bike group volunteer said he is interested in starting a mountain bike team in Hays. Sixth- to 12th-grade students would be eligible to compete in five to six events per year.

Keeping money in Ellis County is just as important as keeping young people here, Meitner said.

As the population ages, the three counties covered by the Heartland Foundation will see a tremendous transfer of wealth—$2.7 billion by 2040.

"If they could give 5% of that to their county and 95% to their children, think of what a game-changer that would be," Johnson said. "Kids aren't going to miss 5% or 10% of whatever your estate is, but your community would feel that impact forever."

Rupp said she thought Ellis County was fortunate that most of the items the group wanted to improve were luxuries.

However, Erica Berges, executive director of the United Way, said there is still a significant income gap in Ellis County, with more than 40% of residents living paycheck to paycheck.

Participant Brandy Ridgway said she is organizing a "100 Who Care" campaign in Ellis County. The idea is for 100 people or more to donate $100 to a local cause.&nbsp;

The idea has been used to raise funds in other Kansas communities for various charitable causes.

Ridgway said she is working with a Fort Hays State University Leadership 310 class to organize an information meeting in April.

Imagine Ellis County will form committees to explore further the four opportunities identified at Tuesday's meeting.

Existing Imagine Ellis County committees include transportation, disc golf, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e52e719e-f015-4782-9370-d8720a6755bf">an outdoor stage in a Municipal Park</a>, and committees focused on development in Ellis and Victoria.

If you are interested in learning more about any of the committees or getting involved, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/" target="_blank">https://imagineelliscounty.org/</a>.

At the bottom of the page, you can give your name, phone number and an idea or leave a note, "Hey, I'm interested in learning more about this group!" said Katie Dorzweiler, Heartland Community Foundation board member.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738791293663.jpeg" alt="Solutions Summit facilitator Betty Johnson, left, and Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation, right, lead a group in discussing opportunities for development in Ellis County at a meeting Tuesday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Solutions Summit facilitator Betty Johnson, left, and Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation, right, lead a group in discussing opportunities for development in Ellis County at a meeting Tuesday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis County has many assets, but it's not always the best at telling its own story.About 30 community members met Tuesday in Hays for a Solutions Summit sponsored by the <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a>.This was a follow-up to past Strategic Doing community planning sessions that yielded projects such as the Downtown Pavilion, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">Child Care Task Force of Ellis County</a>, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f3b4fdce-d0ec-44f1-b80b-3b92ade8f230">ARC Park</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/feedinghays">Feeding Hays</a> and the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/community-resource-directory">United Way Community Resource Directory</a>.Betty Johnson served as the facilitator for the meeting, which looked at Ellis County's strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities.From those discussions, the group identified four action items.The chief among those was developing a marketing plan for Ellis County.Sandy Jacobs, Hays mayor, said the city is not good at telling its story. To establish a more complete and consistent message about the city's positive aspects, the city recently hired James Bell as its new public relations manager."If we don't tell our story, ... no one else is going to," she said.Amanda Rupp, Ellis County Historical Society executive director, said other communities have one thing they are known for, but if you asked 10 people what Hays is known for, you'd get 10 answers.Sarah Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director, said, "People say there is nothing to do here, but if you look at the events calendar, there is always something."Other goals included the retention of people and wealth in Ellis County; further development of outdoor recreation, including pickleball, disc golf and mountain biking; and expanding family entertainment options.The group discussed various programs to keep youth engaged in Ellis County.Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health, said town-to-gown programs have been effective in Manhattan and Lawrence and could be strengthened in Hays.The group also discussed the importance of internship opportunities for students with local businesses and certification opportunities for high school students seeking to enter trades.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738791334019.jpeg" alt="A group of about 30 people gathered for a Solutions Summit meeting Tuesday night at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A group of about 30 people gathered for a Solutions Summit meeting Tuesday night at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Andy Stanton of Farm Bureau Financial Services said concurrent credit offerings for high school students have been a strength in Hays.Johnson suggested reverse scholarships to get students back to Ellis County to work after college. Programs exist elsewhere in the state for doctors, vets and lawyers.However, because of its population size, Ellis County doesn't qualify for state reimbursement for some programs.Mason Ruder, city commissioner, said Hays and Ellis County participate in rural opportunity zones, which can offer funds to forgive student loan debt or income tax credits. People who qualify must have lived outside of the state&nbsp;for five or more years immediately prior to moving back to Kansas.Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, said she thinks local residents have a lack of knowledge of the resources that are available in the community."Maybe we need to step back and take time to have a little bit of reflection and critique ourselves a little bit," she said.Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Vistors Bureau, said she thinks Hays has more opportunities to offer activities for youth involvement.She said the Sunflower Summer program, which allowed Kansas students and their families to visit Kansas attractions for free, was a great way to teach young people about Kansas assets."They're building these little Kansas ambassadors who are learning all of this cool stuff and strengthening that will to stay," Dixon said.She added she supported a focused community pride campaign.Gove County created a passport program, Johnson said. Local residents visited local attractions to be entered in a prize drawing. Johnson said this program was successful for that county to educate the local population about their own attractions.A Kansas mountain bike group volunteer said he is interested in starting a mountain bike team in Hays. Sixth- to 12th-grade students would be eligible to compete in five to six events per year.Keeping money in Ellis County is just as important as keeping young people here, Meitner said.As the population ages, the three counties covered by the Heartland Foundation will see a tremendous transfer of wealth—$2.7 billion by 2040."If they could give 5% of that to their county and 95% to their children, think of what a game-changer that would be," Johnson said. "Kids aren't going to miss 5% or 10% of whatever your estate is, but your community would feel that impact forever."Rupp said she thought Ellis County was fortunate that most of the items the group wanted to improve were luxuries.However, Erica Berges, executive director of the United Way, said there is still a significant income gap in Ellis County, with more than 40% of residents living paycheck to paycheck.Participant Brandy Ridgway said she is organizing a "100 Who Care" campaign in Ellis County. The idea is for 100 people or more to donate $100 to a local cause.&nbsp;The idea has been used to raise funds in other Kansas communities for various charitable causes.Ridgway said she is working with a Fort Hays State University Leadership 310 class to organize an information meeting in April.Imagine Ellis County will form committees to explore further the four opportunities identified at Tuesday's meeting.Existing Imagine Ellis County committees include transportation, disc golf, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e52e719e-f015-4782-9370-d8720a6755bf">an outdoor stage in a Municipal Park</a>, and committees focused on development in Ellis and Victoria.If you are interested in learning more about any of the committees or getting involved, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/" target="_blank">https://imagineelliscounty.org/</a>.At the bottom of the page, you can give your name, phone number and an idea or leave a note, "Hey, I'm interested in learning more about this group!" said Katie Dorzweiler, Heartland Community Foundation board member.

Solutions Summit: Ellis County needs to tell its story better

Heartland Community Foundation

We’re kicking off our 9th annual Match Month campaign, and this year, we’re going the&nbsp;Whole Nine Yards!

 Throughout February, Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties are coming together to build a stronger future through local giving. Our goal? Raise $99,000 per county in honor of our 9th year!

And here’s the best part—your donation is TRIPLED thanks to a generous 200% match from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation! That means:

💙 $100 turns into $300 💙 $1,000 becomes $3,000 💙 $5,000 grows to $15,000

Every dollar fuels community projects, grants, and lasting local impact. Let’s make this our best Match Month yet!

Give today and triple your impact:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqasc6nPmaK7KxRXe9zP77uQCSESINlTgLbpi2e1zqDNFxQTdf5Tz-tZ-7O3NMy4PvkSa9pjsL_QTHLw4QQhT6s4kgHyJokird&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate Online Now!</a>

💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqIjDEKOX9c9Dc3idZELM1bVHzQxi5KCf7VG03OegV0CLnP0uqkzkiWlAxsv9iOWzGlcRK-m3iP1TxNkN2ctMxFrawqU-QWd8hzwaZAMn_ypgiPhCfeKf9tGCZeDt32pTxKyux4odkzRsDobv0ouQY5ORuBJmpgxmXzxph5HdNPO4=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate to the Ellis County Legacy Fund</a> &nbsp;💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqQtIdz1LOMbsepiF4cEmbIMnUcVhfMyE84-n7rVb8sWgcOvT_lORWn0GMEqk322MbqpJvvV_3_vMy_NDWNQubE1axWC-Rporv0dSa3Gk4_vsTPsnu9WJQSgYW5WeWB5nOf39WBuH3_4eKlZZ4OpMTBoUrNx7AM36whkJjUlPALnY=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate to the Rooks County Legacy Fund</a> &nbsp;💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqCJlVnu6URjszXpM7ZMdFDcXZM3ManZ0Wz5AiTEyWufUN1bYA2FnlDNfGEB_nwiQwVgu4R2c-dSfMZ6FYmroAXIwb3jzU4Jwtz48-syLf7ctOwlfGZGKFdK7im234i69dAh0AXV5VxSxRkrfcvLNVAbm0Kn-QgHQj50hxmGptBr8=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate to the Trego County Legacy Fund</a>

Learn more here:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqzwnvqBJe2rZSfUFc5yU_98hhuQvRJ_QpweLnBNmW0RaloGS_pEInavv2b-l4Q0MoNhgFln6LuXEoW2YxtFLDItab6sJej0S2F1q4cBqlL6Eb71HUfRKbkznSMrzwS6MU_eJQX3LTguBOCzdW6UnS2RqsfNNogDXu&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">MATCH MONTH: DONATE IN FEBRUARY!</a>

Match Month is more than just a fundraising campaign—it’s an opportunity to strengthen our region by creating a sustainable source of funding for local nonprofits, schools, and community projects. Donations made to the Ellis, Rooks, and Trego County Legacy Funds are endowed, meaning they grow over time, with only a percentage distributed as grants each year.

This ensures that your gift today will continue making a difference for generations to come. In the 2024 fiscal year, HCF awarded over $396,000 in grants. Since 2007, we’ve invested $4.3 million into local causes! These funds support vital initiatives in education, healthcare, community development, and more—fostering lasting impact and a vibrant future for our communities.

Take a look back at an incredible year! Our 2024 annual reports are now available, showcasing the impact we’ve made together. Click below to explore each report and see how your support is strengthening our communities.

<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqzqVBZzTokKqpI3SQGY8C-0nRheySLz2RGrpCw2OrUHph1IRXjOTaF9VZxemR4GF_XWTATYUaxMJPzjF5xuQ0y3O4YEsLRl0Y58FhB5LyN1lwI9Q9sQnyRiFOWWKmytmDYblAoJIu_kqaR4uwLqlWSRjj89HkBn-dq0RnluBmZkn7z15f9Q-HkITxqzJH2eLl&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Ellis County</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqjeEJIvoj8KFQBvPCf6rnO_zgozMrYZSSI-LVGSoJgiJ2CvvDnI89Q8RC7_glGBXRAhr5hzJkessMLWxta72JcpBll8gfOK7RWJzBtW9cbamTiwgUgDAzb1WIm_-vB3bWPlYACgf6bKdeu0ya-DZnzGeHWAnT0i6wpapuuSCd8y3dDhpkBofLX1IXUeGI0fbL&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Rooks County</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOq2Sine_V8i2iseheChdqohLSlujD5_bO6Z3XWHrh974f8gisBZY9QAyvK1lI-Z2NGsKPCkP5zhrhyL6EEW-EcnBevw87Ml1CW5ZvDzIdF6-qVrFeKxVlpdDJANPZBhUVJb8xkJTDs-zPDslRUClfLOhG1_6BghZTG8PLGe1dZfuFyspf3JtiT-ZIZgYhiw6k7&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Trego County</a>

Join Us for Fun Match Month Events

We’re hosting several fun and engaging events throughout February, and we’d love for you to join us:

A new event this year! Join us for a warm bowl of soup, learn about recent community grants, and connect with fellow supporters.

• Feb. 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Stockton Souper Bowl at City Hall Community Room (soups by The Daily Grind) • Feb. 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Hays Souper Bowl at Sternberg Museum (soups by Professor’s) • Feb. 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. WaKeeney Souper Bowl at our new office (110 N. Main St. next to Pfannenstiel Law) featuring locally catered soups and a new office ribbon cutting at 11 a.m.

Casual meet-ups where you can learn more about Match Month, meet other community members, and drop off your donation. Heartland staff will offer free coffee from the menu. Here are the dates and locations:

• Feb. 12, 8:30-10 a.m. Hays at Augustine’s Bakery | Stockton at The Daily Grind | WaKeeney at The Well • Feb. 18, 10-11 a.m. Victoria at Library Bar &amp; Grill | Palco at Palco Grocery &amp; Deli (coffee and donuts provided) • Feb. 19, 8:30-10 a.m. Ellis at Ellis Public Library | Plainville at Papa’s Corner | WaKeeney at The Well

Rally Your Team &amp; Multiply Your Impact!

This year, we’re inviting donors to form teams to maximize their giving power. Whether it's with friends, family, or colleagues, pooling resources means even greater impact. And don’t worry—individual donations are just as meaningful and important! We’ll be celebrating top teams and giving away prizes throughout the month.

Donate by February 20, and you’ll be entered to win $500, thanks to an anonymous donor! Plus, donations of $500 or more earn an additional entry.

There are many ways to give and make a big impact! Along with cash and online donations, you can also donate appreciated stock, retirement assets, grain, or gifts from a donor-advised fund—and every dollar will be tripled thanks to the Hansen Foundation match in February.

Plus, your gift is tax-deductible, so you can support your community while also maximizing your tax benefits.

No matter the amount, every gift counts. Together, we can go the Whole Nine Yards for Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties—helping our communities thrive now and for years to come. 💙

Heartland Community Foundation is growing—just in time for Match Month! To better serve donors, grantees, and community members, we’re thrilled to announce the opening of two new local offices in Trego and Rooks counties. These spaces will provide a welcoming spot to give back, apply for grants, and collaborate on community projects.

📍 WaKeeney: Savannah Downing, Trego County Development Director, will be based at Pfannenstiel Law (110 N. Main St., WaKeeney), with a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. during the Match Month Souper Bowl Pop-Up Lunch!

📍 Plainville: Deanna Hammerschmidt, Rooks County Development Director, will work from&nbsp;202 W. Mill St., Plainville, with a ribbon-cutting event to come.

Both offices will be open 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Meanwhile, HCF’s main office remains in Hays at&nbsp;1200 Main St., Suite 102, Hays, in the Chestnut Building.&nbsp;Stop by and see us!

Thank you for supporting the Heartland Community Foundation and the communities we call home! Your generosity makes a lasting impact, helping to build a stronger, more vibrant future for Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties.&nbsp;

Sarah Meitner, Savannah Downing, and Deanna Hammerschmidt Heartland Community Foundation

Website:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0tD69FTgRTP1eDaJxIvrn4hnKZW1sWBYQroR_Zlv0-tvDNP_H452yXqzM4ipjqVVwOWxYJkaHmZb2P6Gemd0Dh0aicAlMAHYEIy8Ua7TzcBKMY-4C7-3OPpybUb8tpqn6Q==&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a> Email: heartland@gscf.org Phone: 785-621-4090

P.S. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandCF">Facebook @HeartlandCF</a> to stay up to date on all things Match Month!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738690892498.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Heartland Community Foundation We’re kicking off our 9th annual Match Month campaign, and this year, we’re going the&nbsp;Whole Nine Yards! Throughout February, Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties are coming together to build a stronger future through local giving. Our goal? Raise $99,000 per county in honor of our 9th year!And here’s the best part—your donation is TRIPLED thanks to a generous 200% match from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation! That means:💙 $100 turns into $300 💙 $1,000 becomes $3,000 💙 $5,000 grows to $15,000Every dollar fuels community projects, grants, and lasting local impact. Let’s make this our best Match Month yet!Give today and triple your impact:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqasc6nPmaK7KxRXe9zP77uQCSESINlTgLbpi2e1zqDNFxQTdf5Tz-tZ-7O3NMy4PvkSa9pjsL_QTHLw4QQhT6s4kgHyJokird&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate Online Now!</a>💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqIjDEKOX9c9Dc3idZELM1bVHzQxi5KCf7VG03OegV0CLnP0uqkzkiWlAxsv9iOWzGlcRK-m3iP1TxNkN2ctMxFrawqU-QWd8hzwaZAMn_ypgiPhCfeKf9tGCZeDt32pTxKyux4odkzRsDobv0ouQY5ORuBJmpgxmXzxph5HdNPO4=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate to the Ellis County Legacy Fund</a> &nbsp;💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqQtIdz1LOMbsepiF4cEmbIMnUcVhfMyE84-n7rVb8sWgcOvT_lORWn0GMEqk322MbqpJvvV_3_vMy_NDWNQubE1axWC-Rporv0dSa3Gk4_vsTPsnu9WJQSgYW5WeWB5nOf39WBuH3_4eKlZZ4OpMTBoUrNx7AM36whkJjUlPALnY=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate to the Rooks County Legacy Fund</a> &nbsp;💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqCJlVnu6URjszXpM7ZMdFDcXZM3ManZ0Wz5AiTEyWufUN1bYA2FnlDNfGEB_nwiQwVgu4R2c-dSfMZ6FYmroAXIwb3jzU4Jwtz48-syLf7ctOwlfGZGKFdK7im234i69dAh0AXV5VxSxRkrfcvLNVAbm0Kn-QgHQj50hxmGptBr8=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Donate to the Trego County Legacy Fund</a>Learn more here:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqzwnvqBJe2rZSfUFc5yU_98hhuQvRJ_QpweLnBNmW0RaloGS_pEInavv2b-l4Q0MoNhgFln6LuXEoW2YxtFLDItab6sJej0S2F1q4cBqlL6Eb71HUfRKbkznSMrzwS6MU_eJQX3LTguBOCzdW6UnS2RqsfNNogDXu&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">MATCH MONTH: DONATE IN FEBRUARY!</a>Why Match Month MattersMatch Month is more than just a fundraising campaign—it’s an opportunity to strengthen our region by creating a sustainable source of funding for local nonprofits, schools, and community projects. Donations made to the Ellis, Rooks, and Trego County Legacy Funds are endowed, meaning they grow over time, with only a percentage distributed as grants each year.This ensures that your gift today will continue making a difference for generations to come. In the 2024 fiscal year, HCF awarded over $396,000 in grants. Since 2007, we’ve invested $4.3 million into local causes! These funds support vital initiatives in education, healthcare, community development, and more—fostering lasting impact and a vibrant future for our communities.Explore our 2024 Annual ReportsTake a look back at an incredible year! Our 2024 annual reports are now available, showcasing the impact we’ve made together. Click below to explore each report and see how your support is strengthening our communities.<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqzqVBZzTokKqpI3SQGY8C-0nRheySLz2RGrpCw2OrUHph1IRXjOTaF9VZxemR4GF_XWTATYUaxMJPzjF5xuQ0y3O4YEsLRl0Y58FhB5LyN1lwI9Q9sQnyRiFOWWKmytmDYblAoJIu_kqaR4uwLqlWSRjj89HkBn-dq0RnluBmZkn7z15f9Q-HkITxqzJH2eLl&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Ellis County</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqjeEJIvoj8KFQBvPCf6rnO_zgozMrYZSSI-LVGSoJgiJ2CvvDnI89Q8RC7_glGBXRAhr5hzJkessMLWxta72JcpBll8gfOK7RWJzBtW9cbamTiwgUgDAzb1WIm_-vB3bWPlYACgf6bKdeu0ya-DZnzGeHWAnT0i6wpapuuSCd8y3dDhpkBofLX1IXUeGI0fbL&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Rooks County</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOq2Sine_V8i2iseheChdqohLSlujD5_bO6Z3XWHrh974f8gisBZY9QAyvK1lI-Z2NGsKPCkP5zhrhyL6EEW-EcnBevw87Ml1CW5ZvDzIdF6-qVrFeKxVlpdDJANPZBhUVJb8xkJTDs-zPDslRUClfLOhG1_6BghZTG8PLGe1dZfuFyspf3JtiT-ZIZgYhiw6k7&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Trego County</a>Join Us for Fun Match Month EventsWe’re hosting several fun and engaging events throughout February, and we’d love for you to join us:Souper Bowl Pop-Up Lunches:A new event this year! Join us for a warm bowl of soup, learn about recent community grants, and connect with fellow supporters.• Feb. 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Stockton Souper Bowl at City Hall Community Room (soups by The Daily Grind) • Feb. 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Hays Souper Bowl at Sternberg Museum (soups by Professor’s) • Feb. 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. WaKeeney Souper Bowl at our new office (110 N. Main St. next to Pfannenstiel Law) featuring locally catered soups and a new office ribbon cutting at 11 a.m.Coffee Chats:Casual meet-ups where you can learn more about Match Month, meet other community members, and drop off your donation. Heartland staff will offer free coffee from the menu. Here are the dates and locations:• Feb. 12, 8:30-10 a.m. Hays at Augustine’s Bakery | Stockton at The Daily Grind | WaKeeney at The Well • Feb. 18, 10-11 a.m. Victoria at Library Bar &amp; Grill | Palco at Palco Grocery &amp; Deli (coffee and donuts provided) • Feb. 19, 8:30-10 a.m. Ellis at Ellis Public Library | Plainville at Papa’s Corner | WaKeeney at The WellRally Your Team &amp; Multiply Your Impact!This year, we’re inviting donors to form teams to maximize their giving power. Whether it's with friends, family, or colleagues, pooling resources means even greater impact. And don’t worry—individual donations are just as meaningful and important! We’ll be celebrating top teams and giving away prizes throughout the month.How to Get Involved:<ol>
 <li>Gather Your Team – Invite friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors to join you. Choose a group of up to 10 members or go big with a team of 10-20 members.</li><li>Choose a Team Name – Get creative!</li><li>Register Your Team – It’s easy to sign up here:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0opwRK1qnwOqoxjIBUuMQkGg6JsLiarMSc0ZCPD0xktds_S3fHJgM9CDue2dbxy5EauV4wjVftHA52oGFn6DxhG6R7IdIajpxRO2FRc7lGg-4YqAYku70b4=&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">Register Your Team</a>.</li><li>Pool Your Donations – No fundraising required! Each team member contributes what they can, and together, your team’s total is tripled with the match.</li><li>Participate in Match Month Events – Join us at a Souper Bowl Pop-up Lunch or Coffee Chat to connect, celebrate, and build momentum.</li><li>Turn in Donations Together – Submit your team’s total donations at once by February 28 to maximize the match.</li>
 </ol>Give Early to WinDonate by February 20, and you’ll be entered to win $500, thanks to an anonymous donor! Plus, donations of $500 or more earn an additional entry.Ways to DonateThere are many ways to give and make a big impact! Along with cash and online donations, you can also donate appreciated stock, retirement assets, grain, or gifts from a donor-advised fund—and every dollar will be tripled thanks to the Hansen Foundation match in February.Plus, your gift is tax-deductible, so you can support your community while also maximizing your tax benefits.No matter the amount, every gift counts. Together, we can go the Whole Nine Yards for Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties—helping our communities thrive now and for years to come. 💙Exciting News: New Local Offices!Heartland Community Foundation is growing—just in time for Match Month! To better serve donors, grantees, and community members, we’re thrilled to announce the opening of two new local offices in Trego and Rooks counties. These spaces will provide a welcoming spot to give back, apply for grants, and collaborate on community projects.📍 WaKeeney: Savannah Downing, Trego County Development Director, will be based at Pfannenstiel Law (110 N. Main St., WaKeeney), with a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. during the Match Month Souper Bowl Pop-Up Lunch!📍 Plainville: Deanna Hammerschmidt, Rooks County Development Director, will work from&nbsp;202 W. Mill St., Plainville, with a ribbon-cutting event to come.Both offices will be open 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Meanwhile, HCF’s main office remains in Hays at&nbsp;1200 Main St., Suite 102, Hays, in the Chestnut Building.&nbsp;Stop by and see us!Thank you for supporting the Heartland Community Foundation and the communities we call home! Your generosity makes a lasting impact, helping to build a stronger, more vibrant future for Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties.&nbsp;Warmly,Sarah Meitner, Savannah Downing, and Deanna Hammerschmidt Heartland Community FoundationContact Information:Website:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016lSVdM-6qfFH3fUSy7kOT5I62lGfnduqqrqCEZakZ9lPKS6u1X2L0tD69FTgRTP1eDaJxIvrn4hnKZW1sWBYQroR_Zlv0-tvDNP_H452yXqzM4ipjqVVwOWxYJkaHmZb2P6Gemd0Dh0aicAlMAHYEIy8Ua7TzcBKMY-4C7-3OPpybUb8tpqn6Q==&amp;c=dCBxTI18hMyra3PXXtim5-BClFVoL1PrE278-KPgkWw3sV04s0ByWQ==&amp;ch=jS7_upqCU0yoGvU5ZOrryRxyCxlSDxfNM2wZ_UOrwl8laSefvQT2pA==">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a> Email: heartland@gscf.org Phone: 785-621-4090P.S. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandCF">Facebook @HeartlandCF</a> to stay up to date on all things Match Month!

Match Month at Heartland Community Foundation

Sergeant Phillip Gage and Officer Caleb Koehn received a Clinical Save Award, which included a certificate and a coin acknowledging their efforts in assisting a person having a medical crisis, according to a recent post on Facebook from the Hays Police Department.

 Their efforts along with other first responders helped save the individual's life.

"Thank you to our local Ellis County EMS who submitted their names &amp; our department for the award.  Great job Sgt. Gage &amp; Ofc. Koehn keep up the good work," the post said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738705224616.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Sergeant Phillip Gage and Officer Caleb Koehn received a Clinical Save Award, which included a certificate and a coin acknowledging their efforts in assisting a person having a medical crisis, according to a recent post on Facebook from the Hays Police Department. Their efforts along with other first responders helped save the individual's life."Thank you to our local Ellis County EMS who submitted their names &amp; our department for the award. Great job Sgt. Gage &amp; Ofc. Koehn keep up the good work," the post said.

2 Hays officers honored for saving life

On Wednesday, TMP-Marian senior Austin Gilbert signed an institutional letter of commitment to play baseball at Thomas College in Waterville, Maine. 

Gilbert always dreamed of playing baseball at the collegiate level, but it wasn’t until his sophomore year that it became a reality.

“I always wanted to and always told myself I was going
dedicate myself to getting there, but until about sophomore (or) junior year,
It had never really been real.”

He considered other opportunities but said Thomas
College “just clicked.”

“I will get my master's degree in the four years of
schooling instead of six years,” Gilbert said, “So I won't have to go back for
two extra years after college baseball if I decide to attempt to pursue further
in my athletic career.”

You can hear the entire interview with Gilbert below.

Gilbert and the Monarchs are coming off a fourth-place finish at state a year ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738803534304.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post SportsOn Wednesday, TMP-Marian senior Austin Gilbert signed an institutional letter of commitment to play baseball at Thomas College in Waterville, Maine. Gilbert always dreamed of playing baseball at the collegiate level, but it wasn’t until his sophomore year that it became a reality.“I always wanted to and always told myself I was going
dedicate myself to getting there, but until about sophomore (or) junior year,
It had never really been real.”He considered other opportunities but said Thomas
College “just clicked.”“I will get my master's degree in the four years of
schooling instead of six years,” Gilbert said, “So I won't have to go back for
two extra years after college baseball if I decide to attempt to pursue further
in my athletic career.”You can hear the entire interview with Gilbert below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2027001756&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/2-5-25-tmps-austin-gilbert" title="2-5-25 TMP&#x27;s Austin Gilbert" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">2-5-25 TMP&#x27;s Austin Gilbert</a></div></div>Gilbert and the Monarchs are coming off a fourth-place finish at state a year ago.

⚾🎧 TMP’s Austin Gilbert signs with Thomas College

Judy
Matranga, age 75 passed away on January 22, 2025 in San Francisco. Judy was the
beloved, devoted wife of her surviving husband Joseph of 52 years and loving
mother of four children. She leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 11 surviving
siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, and a large community of friends.


Judy is survived by her spouse Joe, and four children: Geoffrey Matranga (Kim),
Carolyn Brady (Shawn), Ben Matranga (Daniela), and Frank Matranga (Heather).
She also leaves 11 cherished grandchildren: Siena, Miles, and Russell Matranga;
Josephine, Charles and Rosalia Brady; Sophia and Daniel Matranga; and, William,
Benjamin and Mary Matranga. 

Judy was born on July 27, 1949 in Hays, Kansas to her late parents, Alfred A.
and Thecla C. Haas. She was 1 of 14 children. Siblings include Nathan Haas
(Barbara), Father Julian Haas, OFM, Cap., the late Norbert Haas (Jane), Alfreda
Schmidt (the late Milton), the late Mary Haas, Thomas Haas (Therese), Lorraine
Berland (Doug), Rich Haas (Leona), Maurice Haas (Debbie), John Haas (Sharon),
Fredd Haas (Linda), Joyce Lang (Tom), and Donna Nathanson. 



Judy grew up in rural Antonino, Kansas. She graduated from Marian High School
in Hays, Kansas in 1967 and attended Fort Hays State University studying
Graphic Arts. In 1972 she entered Volunteers In Service To America
"VISTA" (now known as AmeriCorp), where she met Joe. They were both
stationed in Leon, Iowa, beginning a life long friendship and eventual romance.
Joe and Judy were married on May 19, 1973 in Antonino, Kansas.

 

Upon moving to San Francisco, Judy continued to bring creativity to her public
service career with the City &amp; County of San Francisco's Purchasing and
Police departments, and City College of San Francisco. Her artistic talents
would follow Judy throughout her career. She earned her Bachelor's degree from San
Francisco State University and lived in Sacramento for four years where she
managed Golden Era Handicrafts for the City of Sacramento's Council on Aging.
Returning to the City, her career progressed with the San Francisco Public
Health Department, retiring after 20 years as a Senior Contract Analyst.

 

Judy was very active in public service and always available at St John the
Evangelist school and parish for more than 40 years. Her time included 2 years
as PTG President, chair of numerous auctions, festivals, carnivals,
celebrations, and memorials. She was a Lector and Eucharistic Minister for four
decades, and Co-Parent of the Year in 1999. Judy volunteered at Immaculate
Conception Church for over 2 decades serving at countless Spaghetti Luncheons
and Italian Catholic Federation events. 



The family offers a special thanks to the caregivers and medical staff who
provided hospice care in her final days. Heartfelt appreciation is also
extended to her sister Donna, nephew Alex, and the many visitors who spent
hours comforting her and providing her companionship.

A
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on February 6, 2025 at 11:00 am at Immaculate
Conception Chapel, 3255 Folsom Street in San Francisco.

 

Donations can be made in her name to a charity of your choice.

Memories
and words of comfort may be shared on Judy's tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738790189787.jpeg" alt="Judy Matranga" />
 <figcaption>Judy Matranga</figcaption>
 </figure>Judy
Matranga, age 75 passed away on January 22, 2025 in San Francisco. Judy was the
beloved, devoted wife of her surviving husband Joseph of 52 years and loving
mother of four children. She leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 11 surviving
siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, and a large community of friends.
Judy is survived by her spouse Joe, and four children: Geoffrey Matranga (Kim),
Carolyn Brady (Shawn), Ben Matranga (Daniela), and Frank Matranga (Heather).
She also leaves 11 cherished grandchildren: Siena, Miles, and Russell Matranga;
Josephine, Charles and Rosalia Brady; Sophia and Daniel Matranga; and, William,
Benjamin and Mary Matranga. 

Judy was born on July 27, 1949 in Hays, Kansas to her late parents, Alfred A.
and Thecla C. Haas. She was 1 of 14 children. Siblings include Nathan Haas
(Barbara), Father Julian Haas, OFM, Cap., the late Norbert Haas (Jane), Alfreda
Schmidt (the late Milton), the late Mary Haas, Thomas Haas (Therese), Lorraine
Berland (Doug), Rich Haas (Leona), Maurice Haas (Debbie), John Haas (Sharon),
Fredd Haas (Linda), Joyce Lang (Tom), and Donna Nathanson. 

Judy grew up in rural Antonino, Kansas. She graduated from Marian High School
in Hays, Kansas in 1967 and attended Fort Hays State University studying
Graphic Arts. In 1972 she entered Volunteers In Service To America
"VISTA" (now known as AmeriCorp), where she met Joe. They were both
stationed in Leon, Iowa, beginning a life long friendship and eventual romance.
Joe and Judy were married on May 19, 1973 in Antonino, Kansas. 

Upon moving to San Francisco, Judy continued to bring creativity to her public
service career with the City &amp; County of San Francisco's Purchasing and
Police departments, and City College of San Francisco. Her artistic talents
would follow Judy throughout her career. She earned her Bachelor's degree from San
Francisco State University and lived in Sacramento for four years where she
managed Golden Era Handicrafts for the City of Sacramento's Council on Aging.
Returning to the City, her career progressed with the San Francisco Public
Health Department, retiring after 20 years as a Senior Contract Analyst. 

Judy was very active in public service and always available at St John the
Evangelist school and parish for more than 40 years. Her time included 2 years
as PTG President, chair of numerous auctions, festivals, carnivals,
celebrations, and memorials. She was a Lector and Eucharistic Minister for four
decades, and Co-Parent of the Year in 1999. Judy volunteered at Immaculate
Conception Church for over 2 decades serving at countless Spaghetti Luncheons
and Italian Catholic Federation events. 

The family offers a special thanks to the caregivers and medical staff who
provided hospice care in her final days. Heartfelt appreciation is also
extended to her sister Donna, nephew Alex, and the many visitors who spent
hours comforting her and providing her companionship.A
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on February 6, 2025 at 11:00 am at Immaculate
Conception Chapel, 3255 Folsom Street in San Francisco. 

Donations can be made in her name to a charity of your choice.Memories
and words of comfort may be shared on Judy's tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Judy Matranga

HAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown announced the signing of 30 high school seniors&nbsp; institutional letters of commitment on Wednesday. Brown spoke with the media about the Tigers 2025 signing class which can be heard by clicking on the link below.

The group includes six players from the state of Kansas, five each from Arizona and Florida, three from Texas and Colorado, two from Oklahoma and Missouri and one from Illinois.

The breakdown by position includes one quarterback, two running backs, one fullback, four wide receivers, eight offensive lineman, six defensive lineman, four linebackers, three defensive backs and one kicker.

Noah Beavers, DL, 6-5, 220, Hillsboro, Kan. / Hillsboro HS Hillsboro HS: All-state first team selection in Kansas Class 2A…All-league selection as a defensive end...Recorded 42 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks during senior season.

Antoine Bogus, OL, 6-4, 230, Mustang, Okla. / Mustang HS Mustang HS: All-district second team selection.

Samuel Bryant, LB, 6-1, 215, West Palm Beach, Fla. / Atlantic Community HS Atlantic Community HS: Recorded 88 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception during senior year.

Braylon Coleman, DB, 5-9, 170, Plano, Texas / Plano East HS Plano East HS: All-district selection as a defensive back in Texas 6-6A…Academic all-district performer…Recorded 45 tackles, 12 pass breakups, five tackles for loss, and one interception during senior year.

Justus Derickson, DL, 6-5, 245, Colorado Springs, Colo. / Rampart HS Rampart HS: Two-time all-state and two-time all-conference selection…Conference Player of the Year in baseball…Two-time all-conference first team selection in baseball.

Logan Dodson, FB, 6-0, 220, North Platte, Neb. / Saint Patrick HS Saint Patrick HS: Two-time all-state selection…Three-time all-district selection…Shrine Bowl selection…Selected to Sertoma 8-man all-star game.

Walter Flounory, WR, 5-10, 165, St. Petersburg, Fla. / Boca Ciega HS Boca Ciega HS: Player of the Year in Class 3A…All-PCAC and FACA First Team…Named team's MVP…PCAC All-Star Game selection.

AG Floyd, RB, 6-2, 205, Pensacola, Fla. / Pensacola HS Pensacola HS: Class 3A Panhandle Player of the Year…Rushed for 1,300 yards as a senior, averaging 7.6 yards per carry.

Trey Foster, WR, 6-1, 175, Gilbert, Ariz. / Williams Field HS Williams Field HS: All-region first team selection at wide receiver…Averaged 17.3 yards per catch with 40 receptions for 690 yards and 5 touchdowns in his senior season.

Kody Guy, QB, 6-2, 205, Gilbert, Ariz. / Williams Field HS Williams Field HS: All-region honorable mention selection…Threw for 2,695 yards and 22 touchdowns over his final two seasons…Served as a team captain for two years.

Zyon Harris, OL, 6-0, 280, Belle Glade, Fla. / Treasure Coast HS Treasure Coast HS: Named to TC Palm's Super 11 list of top senior recruits across the Treasure Coast…Spent freshman year at St. Lucie West Centennial High School and then sophomore and junior years at Inlet Grove High School.

Vincent Johnston, OL, 6-3, 285, Palisade, Colo. / Palisade HS Palisade HS: Two-time all-state selection in Colorado…Two-time all-league first team selection…Two-time Lineman MVP in his league…Three-time all-state academic recognition.

Wyatt Kirkpatrick, LB, 6-2, 220, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Hays HS: Two-time all-state first team selection at linebacker…Two-time all-conference first team selection…Hays High School Defensive Player of the Year in 2023…Defensive Player of the Year in Class 5A as a senior…Had 235 tackles for his prep career, along with 22 tackles for loss, four sacks, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions.

Cooper Koster, DL, 6-3, 265, Conway Springs, Kan. / Conway Springs HS Conway Springs HS: Recorded 55 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 2 forced fumbles in his senior season…Helped team to back-to-back state titles as a junior and senior. with back 2 back State Titles his Junior and Senior Season.

Clayton Layden, DL, 6-4, 215, Lone Jack, Mo. / Lone Jack HS Lone Jack HS: Three-time all-district and three-time all-conference selection.

Chris Love, WR, 6-3, 180, Jefferson, Texas / Jefferson HS Jefferson HS: Three-time all-district first team selection…All-state second team selection as a senior…Set school record for receiving touchdowns with 15 as a senior…Two-time all-district selection in basketball.

Samuel Meisner, RB, 5-11, 180, Wray, Colo. / Wray HS Wray HS: Three-time all-state first team selection…Wray High School Athlete of the Year honors…Three-time all-conference selection…Earned Player of the Game honors in the 1A state championship…Finished career with 4,191 rushing yards, 361 receiving yards, 82 touchdowns, 380 tackles, and 43 tackles for loss…State champion and all-state performer in wrestling…Earned academic all-state honors.

Will Morgan, OL, 5-11, 250, Overland Park, Kan. / Blue Valley Southwest HS Blue Valley Southwest HS: All-state first team selection by Sports in Kansas and the KFBCA…Also received all-state honors from Wichita Eagle and KSHSAA…Three-time all-league selection…Selected for the Kansas Shrine Bowl…Served as a team captain…Named team's Most Outstanding Player.

Blake Novotny, OL, 6-4, 280, Owasso, Okla. / Owasso HS Owasso HS: All-district selection and team captain…All-Tulsa World selection.

Will Rodgers, DB, 5-10, 180, Goodyear Ariz. / Desert Edge HS Desert Edge HS: All-region first team selection as a defensive back…All-conference first team selection.

Kole Rogers, K, 5-10, 170, Goodyear, Ariz. / Desert Edge HS Desert Edge HS: Two-time all-region first team selection and earned Specialist of the Year honors.

Nicholas Royal, DL, 6-3, 315, Inlet Grove, Fla. / Inlet Grove HS Inlet Grove HS: Among the Top 63 ranked by ESPN…Led team in sacks…Played in area all-star game…All-district performer in shot put in track and field.

Ethan Shaw, LB, 6-2, 210, Fairfield, Neb. / Sandy Creek HS

Charles Smith, S, 6-1, 200, Chicago, Ill. / Simeon Academy Simeon Academy: All-city second team selection and all-conference selection…Recorded 85 tackles to go along with three sacks, four forced fumbles and five pass breakups as a senior.

Landon Sobota, OL, 6-3, 295, Greenwood, Neb. / Ashland-Greenwood HS Ashland-Greenwood HS: Four-time all-state selection by the Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha World Herald…Four-time all-district and all-area selection…Nebraska Shrine Bowl selection.

Andrew Watts, WR, 5-8, 180, Shawnee, Kan. / Mill Valley HS Mill Valley HS: All-state honorable mention selection by Sports in Kansas, Wichita Eagle, and KSHSAA…Team's Offensive Player of the Year in 2024…Helped team to three-straight state titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023…Two-time all-league selection…Had over 500 receiving yards his senior year.

Brody Weir, DL, 6-4, 250, Wellington, Kan. / Wellington HS Wellington HS: Two-time all-league selection as a defensive end and tight end…All-state first team selection by the KFBCA, Sports in Kansas, Wichita Eagle, and KSHSAA in Class 4A…Defensive Player of the Year Finalist in Class 4A…Sports in Kansas Top 100 Seniors…As a senior, recorded 65 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks.

Hayden Williams, OL, 6-4, 305, Surprise, Ariz. / Youngker HS Youngker HS: Offensive Player of the Year in the Skyline region…Roughrider Offensive Lineman Award.

Ben Winters, OL, 6-2, 285, Kingsville, Mo. / Summit Christian Academy Summit Christian Academy: Three-time all-conference first team selection as an offensive lineman and defensive lineman…Three-time all-district selection, twice as an offensive lineman and once as a defensive lineman…Voted team's offensive and defensive MVP…State qualifier and all-district performer in wrestling.

Layne Yudizky, LB, 6-0, 210, Heath, Texas / Rockwall Heath HS Rockwall-Heath HS: Two-time all-district selection, including first-team honors as a senior and second-team honors as a junior…Served as a team captain during senior year…Recorded 110 tackles, five sacks, and one interception in his prep career.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738788502672.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostHAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown announced the signing of 30 high school seniors&nbsp; institutional letters of commitment on Wednesday. Brown spoke with the media about the Tigers 2025 signing class which can be heard by clicking on the link below.The group includes six players from the state of Kansas, five each from Arizona and Florida, three from Texas and Colorado, two from Oklahoma and Missouri and one from Illinois.The breakdown by position includes one quarterback, two running backs, one fullback, four wide receivers, eight offensive lineman, six defensive lineman, four linebackers, three defensive backs and one kicker.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2026932948&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-brown-signing-day-press-conference-1" title="Chris Brown - Signing Day Press Conference" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown - Signing Day Press Conference</a></div></div>Noah Beavers, DL, 6-5, 220, Hillsboro, Kan. / Hillsboro HS Hillsboro HS: All-state first team selection in Kansas Class 2A…All-league selection as a defensive end...Recorded 42 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks during senior season.Antoine Bogus, OL, 6-4, 230, Mustang, Okla. / Mustang HS Mustang HS: All-district second team selection.Samuel Bryant, LB, 6-1, 215, West Palm Beach, Fla. / Atlantic Community HS Atlantic Community HS: Recorded 88 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception during senior year.Braylon Coleman, DB, 5-9, 170, Plano, Texas / Plano East HS Plano East HS: All-district selection as a defensive back in Texas 6-6A…Academic all-district performer…Recorded 45 tackles, 12 pass breakups, five tackles for loss, and one interception during senior year.Justus Derickson, DL, 6-5, 245, Colorado Springs, Colo. / Rampart HS Rampart HS: Two-time all-state and two-time all-conference selection…Conference Player of the Year in baseball…Two-time all-conference first team selection in baseball.Logan Dodson, FB, 6-0, 220, North Platte, Neb. / Saint Patrick HS Saint Patrick HS: Two-time all-state selection…Three-time all-district selection…Shrine Bowl selection…Selected to Sertoma 8-man all-star game.Walter Flounory, WR, 5-10, 165, St. Petersburg, Fla. / Boca Ciega HS Boca Ciega HS: Player of the Year in Class 3A…All-PCAC and FACA First Team…Named team's MVP…PCAC All-Star Game selection.AG Floyd, RB, 6-2, 205, Pensacola, Fla. / Pensacola HS Pensacola HS: Class 3A Panhandle Player of the Year…Rushed for 1,300 yards as a senior, averaging 7.6 yards per carry.Trey Foster, WR, 6-1, 175, Gilbert, Ariz. / Williams Field HS Williams Field HS: All-region first team selection at wide receiver…Averaged 17.3 yards per catch with 40 receptions for 690 yards and 5 touchdowns in his senior season.Kody Guy, QB, 6-2, 205, Gilbert, Ariz. / Williams Field HS Williams Field HS: All-region honorable mention selection…Threw for 2,695 yards and 22 touchdowns over his final two seasons…Served as a team captain for two years.Zyon Harris, OL, 6-0, 280, Belle Glade, Fla. / Treasure Coast HS Treasure Coast HS: Named to TC Palm's Super 11 list of top senior recruits across the Treasure Coast…Spent freshman year at St. Lucie West Centennial High School and then sophomore and junior years at Inlet Grove High School.Vincent Johnston, OL, 6-3, 285, Palisade, Colo. / Palisade HS Palisade HS: Two-time all-state selection in Colorado…Two-time all-league first team selection…Two-time Lineman MVP in his league…Three-time all-state academic recognition.Wyatt Kirkpatrick, LB, 6-2, 220, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Hays HS: Two-time all-state first team selection at linebacker…Two-time all-conference first team selection…Hays High School Defensive Player of the Year in 2023…Defensive Player of the Year in Class 5A as a senior…Had 235 tackles for his prep career, along with 22 tackles for loss, four sacks, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions.Cooper Koster, DL, 6-3, 265, Conway Springs, Kan. / Conway Springs HS Conway Springs HS: Recorded 55 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 2 forced fumbles in his senior season…Helped team to back-to-back state titles as a junior and senior. with back 2 back State Titles his Junior and Senior Season.Clayton Layden, DL, 6-4, 215, Lone Jack, Mo. / Lone Jack HS Lone Jack HS: Three-time all-district and three-time all-conference selection.Chris Love, WR, 6-3, 180, Jefferson, Texas / Jefferson HS Jefferson HS: Three-time all-district first team selection…All-state second team selection as a senior…Set school record for receiving touchdowns with 15 as a senior…Two-time all-district selection in basketball.Samuel Meisner, RB, 5-11, 180, Wray, Colo. / Wray HS Wray HS: Three-time all-state first team selection…Wray High School Athlete of the Year honors…Three-time all-conference selection…Earned Player of the Game honors in the 1A state championship…Finished career with 4,191 rushing yards, 361 receiving yards, 82 touchdowns, 380 tackles, and 43 tackles for loss…State champion and all-state performer in wrestling…Earned academic all-state honors.Will Morgan, OL, 5-11, 250, Overland Park, Kan. / Blue Valley Southwest HS Blue Valley Southwest HS: All-state first team selection by Sports in Kansas and the KFBCA…Also received all-state honors from Wichita Eagle and KSHSAA…Three-time all-league selection…Selected for the Kansas Shrine Bowl…Served as a team captain…Named team's Most Outstanding Player.Blake Novotny, OL, 6-4, 280, Owasso, Okla. / Owasso HS Owasso HS: All-district selection and team captain…All-Tulsa World selection.Will Rodgers, DB, 5-10, 180, Goodyear Ariz. / Desert Edge HS Desert Edge HS: All-region first team selection as a defensive back…All-conference first team selection.Kole Rogers, K, 5-10, 170, Goodyear, Ariz. / Desert Edge HS Desert Edge HS: Two-time all-region first team selection and earned Specialist of the Year honors.Nicholas Royal, DL, 6-3, 315, Inlet Grove, Fla. / Inlet Grove HS Inlet Grove HS: Among the Top 63 ranked by ESPN…Led team in sacks…Played in area all-star game…All-district performer in shot put in track and field.Ethan Shaw, LB, 6-2, 210, Fairfield, Neb. / Sandy Creek HSCharles Smith, S, 6-1, 200, Chicago, Ill. / Simeon Academy Simeon Academy: All-city second team selection and all-conference selection…Recorded 85 tackles to go along with three sacks, four forced fumbles and five pass breakups as a senior.Landon Sobota, OL, 6-3, 295, Greenwood, Neb. / Ashland-Greenwood HS Ashland-Greenwood HS: Four-time all-state selection by the Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha World Herald…Four-time all-district and all-area selection…Nebraska Shrine Bowl selection.Andrew Watts, WR, 5-8, 180, Shawnee, Kan. / Mill Valley HS Mill Valley HS: All-state honorable mention selection by Sports in Kansas, Wichita Eagle, and KSHSAA…Team's Offensive Player of the Year in 2024…Helped team to three-straight state titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023…Two-time all-league selection…Had over 500 receiving yards his senior year.Brody Weir, DL, 6-4, 250, Wellington, Kan. / Wellington HS Wellington HS: Two-time all-league selection as a defensive end and tight end…All-state first team selection by the KFBCA, Sports in Kansas, Wichita Eagle, and KSHSAA in Class 4A…Defensive Player of the Year Finalist in Class 4A…Sports in Kansas Top 100 Seniors…As a senior, recorded 65 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks.Hayden Williams, OL, 6-4, 305, Surprise, Ariz. / Youngker HS Youngker HS: Offensive Player of the Year in the Skyline region…Roughrider Offensive Lineman Award.Ben Winters, OL, 6-2, 285, Kingsville, Mo. / Summit Christian Academy Summit Christian Academy: Three-time all-conference first team selection as an offensive lineman and defensive lineman…Three-time all-district selection, twice as an offensive lineman and once as a defensive lineman…Voted team's offensive and defensive MVP…State qualifier and all-district performer in wrestling.Layne Yudizky, LB, 6-0, 210, Heath, Texas / Rockwall Heath HS Rockwall-Heath HS: Two-time all-district selection, including first-team honors as a senior and second-team honors as a junior…Served as a team captain during senior year…Recorded 110 tackles, five sacks, and one interception in his prep career.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎧 Brown meets with media on signing day

Get ready for a night of high-energy music and entertainment! Tickets are (almost) sold out but some are still available for the highly anticipated United Way Dueling Pianos event, happening on Saturday, February 8 at the Unrein Family Building, Ellis County Fairgrounds, Hays. 

Due to the popularity of the event, it has been moved to the Unrein Family Building for more space. Don’t miss your chance to experience a one-of-a-kind interactive performance that will have you singing, clapping, and dancing all night long!

This electrifying show features two talented pianists going head-to-head in a musical showdown, taking audience requests and delivering an unforgettable night of fun. Whether you love classic rock, pop hits, or timeless piano ballads, this event is sure to have something for everyone. Tickets also include dinner catered by Thirsty’s. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738778640016.png" alt="United Way of Ellis County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>United Way of Ellis County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Ellis CountyGet ready for a night of high-energy music and entertainment! Tickets are (almost) sold out but some are still available for the highly anticipated United Way Dueling Pianos event, happening on Saturday, February 8 at the Unrein Family Building, Ellis County Fairgrounds, Hays. Due to the popularity of the event, it has been moved to the Unrein Family Building for more space. Don’t miss your chance to experience a one-of-a-kind interactive performance that will have you singing, clapping, and dancing all night long!This electrifying show features two talented pianists going head-to-head in a musical showdown, taking audience requests and delivering an unforgettable night of fun. Whether you love classic rock, pop hits, or timeless piano ballads, this event is sure to have something for everyone. Tickets also include dinner catered by Thirsty’s. Tickets can be purchased at <a href="https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/2308">https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/2308</a>Seats are selling fast, so secure your tickets today and be part of the excitement! $50 each or reserve your table of 12. Tickets will also be available at the door after 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and do not include dinner. Cash Bar available. 21 and over only.Gather your friends, bring your best song requests, and get ready for a night of nonstop music and laughter.For more information, visit <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">www.liveunited.us</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/774342064825486/?rdid=CmXttKt1wUsiap6L&amp;share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F15cjs5YBoV%2F#">https://www.facebook.com/share/15cjs5YBoV/</a> or stop into the United Way office at 1200 Main St. Suite 102.