By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Severe thunderstorms with high wind gusts and large hail traveled across much of the state Wednesday.

The front moved from northwest Kansas in late afternoon and continued east into the Kansas City area after 11 p.m.

Soft-ball sized hail was reported near Prairie View in Phillips County with two-inch sized hail falling at Cedar Bluff in Trego County, according to the National Weather Service.

Great Bend picked up two inches of rain in an hour.

Wind gusts of 64 miles an hour were recorded in Bunker Hill and 95 miles an hour in Salina, where a semi-truck was overturned on Interstate 135.

The front temporarily cooled down the temperature in Hays as it moved through, dropping 0.76 inches of rain, according to the K-State Agricultural Center south of town.&nbsp;

Wednesday's high temperature was 103 degrees, but not hot enough for a record. The all-time high for July 31 in Hays is 111 degrees, set in 1935.

July's rain total in Hays was 2.88 inches. The average for the month is 3.33 inches.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/04559e6f-8449-4038-97dd-8c5fdb5320b7">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for temperatures slightly below the century mark.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709655062151.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSevere thunderstorms with high wind gusts and large hail traveled across much of the state Wednesday.The front moved from northwest Kansas in late afternoon and continued east into the Kansas City area after 11 p.m.Soft-ball sized hail was reported near Prairie View in Phillips County with two-inch sized hail falling at Cedar Bluff in Trego County, according to the National Weather Service.Great Bend picked up two inches of rain in an hour.Wind gusts of 64 miles an hour were recorded in Bunker Hill and 95 miles an hour in Salina, where a semi-truck was overturned on Interstate 135.The front temporarily cooled down the temperature in Hays as it moved through, dropping 0.76 inches of rain, according to the K-State Agricultural Center south of town.&nbsp;Wednesday's high temperature was 103 degrees, but not hot enough for a record. The all-time high for July 31 in Hays is 111 degrees, set in 1935.July's rain total in Hays was 2.88 inches. The average for the month is 3.33 inches.&nbsp;The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/04559e6f-8449-4038-97dd-8c5fdb5320b7">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for temperatures slightly below the century mark.&nbsp;

Hail and high wind accompany Wednesday evening rainfall across region

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The spectacle of thousands of rubber ducks racing down the lazy river and sprinting and splashing the cardboard boat races will be featured at the ninth-annual Hays Duck Derby Wednesday at the Hays Aquatic Park.

Hosted by Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Ellis County, this year's Duck Derby aims to promote the nonprofit's efforts in matching kids with mentors.

"It's a fun community event. A lot of people attend especially to watch those boat races and cheer on the different teams, all to support Big Brothers Big Sisters,"&nbsp;said Jenny Bates, director of the Ellis County group.

Set for 5:30 to 7 p.m., ducks are divided into two heats, with the top 500 ducks from each heat to compete in the championship race for a grand prize of $10,000.

The owners of the next nine ducks to cross the finish line after the first-place winner will also receive prizes such as a $300 Walmart gift card, a PKGO Hibachi Grill, an iRobot Roomba, two round-trip airline tickets or an iPad.

Rubber ducks are available for "adoption" until 5:50 p.m., just before the race begins at 6 p.m. Ducks can be purchased for $5 each, $25 for six ducks, $50 for a dozen, and $100 for 25 ducks.

Bates said even though the Duck Derby is an annual event, seeing more than 5,000 ducks float down the lazy river is still a spectacle.

"This is our ninth year doing it, but dumping those ducks down the slide and watching them go around is amazing," Bates said.

A Duck Dash will be conducted for kids 17 years old and younger, featuring brightly colored ducks sold for $3 each. Children get to keep their ducks after the race and prizes will be awarded to the top 35 winners of the race.

The first-place prize is a four-hour inflatable rental from Grand True Value Rental, followed by a 2025 season pass to Hays Aquatic Park, a year's worth of weekly Happy Meals from McDonald's, JBL earbuds from Nex-Tech Wireless and numerous gift cards from local businesses.

You can find more information on the Duck Derby and buy your ducks <a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/duckderby/Donate/Tickets">here</a>. Ducks can also be purchased at Eagle Media, 2300 Hall.

The Forward Ever Always Cardboard Regatta-Race for a Cause will showcase businesses and organizations constructing boats that will sink or float on their way to the finish line.

"The teams get pretty spirited and into it. We give out a best-in-show award, a spirit award and a Titanic award because there are usually two or three boats that barely make it off the site," she said.

Entry into the boat race is $500, and only 18 spots are available. There will be three races in the lap pool, with up to six businesses competing in each race.

Boats can be painted and decorated, but only cardboard and duct tape may be used in their construction. Boat entries are accepted until Aug. 7.

Teams will receive four free meal tickets to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheLocalFoodTruck1/">The Local Food Truck</a>, which will be on site. The team with the fastest overall time will earn naming rights for the 2025 Cardboard Regatta. Prizes will be awarded to the fastest team in each heat.

You can download an entry form and find more information on the cardboard regatta <a href="https://assets.speakcdn.com/assets/2893/boat_race_letter_&amp;_info_2024.pdf">here</a>. The full list of participants so far is below:

Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters pairs youth facing adversity with caring adult mentors in one-to-one relationships to inspire self-confidence, improve academic performance and create dreams for the future.

Bates said the nonprofit organization is always seeking mentors and volunteers to spend time with one of the more than 40 kids enrolled and waiting to be paired.

The organization has 150 matches and serves Ellis County, Russell County, Rooks County, Trego County and Rush County.

"The Duck Derby is to raise funds to help continue the program in serving the kids in our community who are in need of a positive mentorship," she said.

Former director Nancy Jeter introduced the idea of the Duck Derby to Hays, hosting the first event in 2016 after her retirement in 2015.

The event is sponsored by Paul-Wertenberger Construction, Insurance Planning, Midwestern Pipeworks,&nbsp;John O. Farmer,&nbsp;New Connections Mental Health,&nbsp;Commercial Sign and Eagle Media.

Bates said all prizes have been donated by local businesses, making it possible for Big Brothers Big Sisters to continue supporting the community.

"When you adopt those ducks, it's 100% going back to Big Brothers Big Sisters and to support the program," she said.

You can find more information on the Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters <a href="https://www.kansasbigs.org/northwest-hays">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KSBBBS">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722279548041.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe spectacle of thousands of rubber ducks racing down the lazy river and sprinting and splashing the cardboard boat races will be featured at the ninth-annual Hays Duck Derby Wednesday at the Hays Aquatic Park.Hosted by Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Ellis County, this year's Duck Derby aims to promote the nonprofit's efforts in matching kids with mentors."It's a fun community event. A lot of people attend especially to watch those boat races and cheer on the different teams, all to support Big Brothers Big Sisters,"&nbsp;said Jenny Bates, director of the Ellis County group.Set for 5:30 to 7 p.m., ducks are divided into two heats, with the top 500 ducks from each heat to compete in the championship race for a grand prize of $10,000.The owners of the next nine ducks to cross the finish line after the first-place winner will also receive prizes such as a $300 Walmart gift card, a PKGO Hibachi Grill, an iRobot Roomba, two round-trip airline tickets or an iPad.Rubber ducks are available for "adoption" until 5:50 p.m., just before the race begins at 6 p.m. Ducks can be purchased for $5 each, $25 for six ducks, $50 for a dozen, and $100 for 25 ducks.Bates said even though the Duck Derby is an annual event, seeing more than 5,000 ducks float down the lazy river is still a spectacle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722451152234.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722451175435.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"This is our ninth year doing it, but dumping those ducks down the slide and watching them go around is amazing," Bates said.A Duck Dash will be conducted for kids 17 years old and younger, featuring brightly colored ducks sold for $3 each. Children get to keep their ducks after the race and prizes will be awarded to the top 35 winners of the race.The first-place prize is a four-hour inflatable rental from Grand True Value Rental, followed by a 2025 season pass to Hays Aquatic Park, a year's worth of weekly Happy Meals from McDonald's, JBL earbuds from Nex-Tech Wireless and numerous gift cards from local businesses.You can find more information on the Duck Derby and buy your ducks <a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/duckderby/Donate/Tickets">here</a>. Ducks can also be purchased at Eagle Media, 2300 Hall.The Forward Ever Always Cardboard Regatta-Race for a Cause will showcase businesses and organizations constructing boats that will sink or float on their way to the finish line."The teams get pretty spirited and into it. We give out a best-in-show award, a spirit award and a Titanic award because there are usually two or three boats that barely make it off the site," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722451384390.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722451416393.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722451438377.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722451466694.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Entry into the boat race is $500, and only 18 spots are available. There will be three races in the lap pool, with up to six businesses competing in each race.Boats can be painted and decorated, but only cardboard and duct tape may be used in their construction. Boat entries are accepted until Aug. 7.Teams will receive four free meal tickets to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheLocalFoodTruck1/">The Local Food Truck</a>, which will be on site. The team with the fastest overall time will earn naming rights for the 2025 Cardboard Regatta. Prizes will be awarded to the fastest team in each heat.You can download an entry form and find more information on the cardboard regatta <a href="https://assets.speakcdn.com/assets/2893/boat_race_letter_&amp;_info_2024.pdf">here</a>. The full list of participants so far is below:<ol>
 <li>Werth Wealth Management</li><li>Hays Police Department – sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Hays </li><li>High Plains Farm Credit </li><li>Cloud Storage </li><li>Adams Brown </li><li>Happy's Auto </li><li>Astra Bank </li><li>High Plains Baptist Church </li><li>EnerSys </li><li>Youth Action Council – Heartland Community Foundation </li><li>Hays Fire Department – sponsored by Thirsty's </li><li>Bethesda Place – sponsored by Cornerstone Orthodontics </li>
 </ol>Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters pairs youth facing adversity with caring adult mentors in one-to-one relationships to inspire self-confidence, improve academic performance and create dreams for the future.Bates said the nonprofit organization is always seeking mentors and volunteers to spend time with one of the more than 40 kids enrolled and waiting to be paired.The organization has 150 matches and serves Ellis County, Russell County, Rooks County, Trego County and Rush County."The Duck Derby is to raise funds to help continue the program in serving the kids in our community who are in need of a positive mentorship," she said.Former director Nancy Jeter introduced the idea of the Duck Derby to Hays, hosting the first event in 2016 after her retirement in 2015.The event is sponsored by Paul-Wertenberger Construction, Insurance Planning, Midwestern Pipeworks,&nbsp;John O. Farmer,&nbsp;New Connections Mental Health,&nbsp;Commercial Sign and Eagle Media.Bates said all prizes have been donated by local businesses, making it possible for Big Brothers Big Sisters to continue supporting the community."When you adopt those ducks, it's 100% going back to Big Brothers Big Sisters and to support the program," she said.You can find more information on the Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters <a href="https://www.kansasbigs.org/northwest-hays">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KSBBBS">Facebook</a>.

9th-annual Hays Duck Derby, Cardboard Regatta fundraiser on Wednesday

CHICAGO (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;suggested&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;had misled voters about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-election-black-asian-multiracial-b57f251022d549e38b3c17946347f025">her race</a>&nbsp;as the former president appeared before the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago Wednesday in an interview that quickly turned hostile.

The Republican former president wrongly claimed that Harris,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-vice-president-f86d6be83bf83fe9b823ae7e21f94796">the first Black woman and Asian American to serve as vice president</a>, had in the past only promoted her Indian heritage.

“I didn’t know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black and now she wants to be known as Black. So, I don’t know, is she Indian or is she Black?” Trump said while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-black-journalists-convention-nabj-c84311a4e3bec3fe3052236151597d81">addressing the group's annual convention</a>.

Harris is the daughter of a Jamaican father and an Indian mother, both immigrants to the U.S. As an undergraduate, Harris attended Howard University, one of the nation’s most prominent historically Black colleges and universities, where she also pledged the historically Black sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. As a U.S. senator, Harris was a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, supporting her colleagues’ legislation to strengthen voting rights and reforming policing.

Trump has leveled a wide range of criticism at Harris since she replaced President Joe Biden atop the likely Democratic ticket last week. Throughout his political career, the former president has repeatedly questioned the backgrounds of opponents who are racial minorities.

Michael Tyler, the communications director for Harris' campaign, said in a statement that “the hostility Donald Trump showed on stage today is the same hostility he has shown throughout his life, throughout his term in office, and throughout his campaign for president as he seeks to regain power.”

“Trump lobbed personal attacks and insults at Black journalists the same way he did throughout his presidency — while he failed Black families and left the entire country digging out of the ditch he left us in," Tyler said. "Donald Trump has already proven he cannot unite America, so he attempts to divide us.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked during her briefing with reporters on Wednesday about Trump's remarks and responded with disbelief, initially murmuring, “Wow.”

Jean-Pierre, who is Black, called what Trump said “repulsive” and said, “It’s insulting and no one has any right to tell someone who they are how they identify.”

Trump has repeatedly attacked his opponents and critics on the basis of race. He rose to prominence in Republican politics by propagating false theories that President Barack Obama, the nation’s first Black president, was not born in the United States. “Birtherism,” as it became known, was just the start of Trump’s history of questioning the credentials and qualifications of Black politicians.

During this year’s Republican primary, he once referred to former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, the daughter of Indian immigrants, as “Nimbra.”

Trump's appearance Wednesday at the annual gathering of Black journalists immediately became heated, with the former president sparring with interviewer Rachel Scott of ABC News and accusing her of giving him a “very rude introduction” with a tough first question about his past criticism of Black people and Black journalists, his attack on Black prosecutors who have pursued cases against him and the dinner he had at his Florida club with a white supremacist.

“I think it’s disgraceful," Trump said. "I came here in good spirit. I love the Black population of this country. I’ve done so much for the Black population of this country."

Trump continued his attacks on Scott's network, ABC News, which he has been arguing should not host the next presidential debate, despite his earlier agreement with the Biden campaign. He also several times described her tone and questions as “nasty,” a word he used in the past when describing women, including Hillary Clinton and Meghan the Duchess of Sussex.

The Republican also repeated his false claim that immigrants in the country illegally are “taking Black jobs.” When pushed by Scott on what constituted a “Black job,” Trump responded by saying "a Black job is anybody that has a job," drawing groans from the room.

At one point, he said, "I have been the best president for the Black population since Abraham Lincoln.”

The audience responded with a mix of boos and some applause.

Scott asked Trump about his pledge to pardon people convicted for their roles in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol and specifically whether he would pardon those who assaulted police officers.

Trump said, “Oh, absolutely I would,” and said, “If they’re innocent, I would pardon them.”

Scott pointed out they have been convicted and therefore are not innocent.

“Well, they were convicted by a very, very tough system,” he said.

At one point, when he was defending his supporters who entered the Capitol on Jan. 6, he said, “Nothing is perfect in life.”

He compared the 2021 insurrection to the protests in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-protests-us-news-arrests-minnesota-burglary-bb2404f9b13c8b53b94c73f818f6a0b7">Minneapolis and other cities in 2020</a>&nbsp;following the death of George Floyd by Minneapolis police and to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-netanyahu-gaza-war-congress-joint-session-9a7885972989b2397b49e5b971ffe0e0">more recent protests at the Capitol last week</a>&nbsp;by demonstrators opposed to the war in Gaza. Trump falsely claiming that no one was arrested in those other demonstrations and that only his supporters were targeted.

As Trump made the comparison, a man in the back of the room shouted out: “Sir, have you no shame?”

The former president’s invitation to address the organization sparked an intense internal debate among NABJ that spilled online. Organizations for journalists of color typically invite presidential candidates to speak at their summer gatherings in election years.

As he campaigns for the White House a third time, Trump has sought to appear outside his traditional strongholds of support and his campaign has touted his efforts to try to win over Black Americans, who have been Democrats’ most committed voting bloc.

His campaign has emphasized his messages on the economy and immigration as part of his appeal, but some of his outreach has played on racial stereotypes, including the suggestion that African Americans would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-black-conservative-south-carolina-primary-aa1155c31bfc3b397a32b33eff04ada8">empathize with the criminal charges he has faced</a>&nbsp;and his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-sneakers-sneaker-con-philadelphia-4de093eda6f8d1c68baf8fe8095f777b">promotion of branded sneakers</a>.

Trump and NABJ also have a tense history over his treatment of Black women journalists. In 2018, NABJ condemned Trump for repeatedly using words such as “stupid,” “loser” and “nasty” to describe Black women journalists.

The vice president is not scheduled to appear at the convention, but NABJ said in a statement posted on X that it was in conversation with her campaign to have her appear either virtually or in person for a conversation in September.

Trump posted on his social media network that he was told he could not do the event virtually.

“She declined, and I am getting ready to land in Chicago in order to be there,” Trump wrote. “Now I am told that she is doing the Event on ZOOM. WHAT’S GOING ON HERE?”

Trump later Wednesday is scheduled to hold a campaign rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania at 6 p.m. EDT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722460473060.png" alt="Image from CSPAN video" />
 <figcaption>Image from CSPAN video</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;suggested&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;had misled voters about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-election-black-asian-multiracial-b57f251022d549e38b3c17946347f025">her race</a>&nbsp;as the former president appeared before the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago Wednesday in an interview that quickly turned hostile.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump on Vice President Kamala Harris: &quot;She was Indian all the way and then all of a sudden she made a turn and she went, she became a Black person. I think somebody should look into that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/RpEuRq6p5m">pic.twitter.com/RpEuRq6p5m</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1818717916285509891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Republican former president wrongly claimed that Harris,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-vice-president-f86d6be83bf83fe9b823ae7e21f94796">the first Black woman and Asian American to serve as vice president</a>, had in the past only promoted her Indian heritage.“I didn’t know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black and now she wants to be known as Black. So, I don’t know, is she Indian or is she Black?” Trump said while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-black-journalists-convention-nabj-c84311a4e3bec3fe3052236151597d81">addressing the group's annual convention</a>.Harris is the daughter of a Jamaican father and an Indian mother, both immigrants to the U.S. As an undergraduate, Harris attended Howard University, one of the nation’s most prominent historically Black colleges and universities, where she also pledged the historically Black sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. As a U.S. senator, Harris was a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, supporting her colleagues’ legislation to strengthen voting rights and reforming policing.Trump has leveled a wide range of criticism at Harris since she replaced President Joe Biden atop the likely Democratic ticket last week. Throughout his political career, the former president has repeatedly questioned the backgrounds of opponents who are racial minorities.Michael Tyler, the communications director for Harris' campaign, said in a statement that “the hostility Donald Trump showed on stage today is the same hostility he has shown throughout his life, throughout his term in office, and throughout his campaign for president as he seeks to regain power.”“Trump lobbed personal attacks and insults at Black journalists the same way he did throughout his presidency — while he failed Black families and left the entire country digging out of the ditch he left us in," Tyler said. "Donald Trump has already proven he cannot unite America, so he attempts to divide us.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked during her briefing with reporters on Wednesday about Trump's remarks and responded with disbelief, initially murmuring, “Wow.”Jean-Pierre, who is Black, called what Trump said “repulsive” and said, “It’s insulting and no one has any right to tell someone who they are how they identify.”Trump has repeatedly attacked his opponents and critics on the basis of race. He rose to prominence in Republican politics by propagating false theories that President Barack Obama, the nation’s first Black president, was not born in the United States. “Birtherism,” as it became known, was just the start of Trump’s history of questioning the credentials and qualifications of Black politicians.During this year’s Republican primary, he once referred to former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, the daughter of Indian immigrants, as “Nimbra.”Trump's appearance Wednesday at the annual gathering of Black journalists immediately became heated, with the former president sparring with interviewer Rachel Scott of ABC News and accusing her of giving him a “very rude introduction” with a tough first question about his past criticism of Black people and Black journalists, his attack on Black prosecutors who have pursued cases against him and the dinner he had at his Florida club with a white supremacist.“I think it’s disgraceful," Trump said. "I came here in good spirit. I love the Black population of this country. I’ve done so much for the Black population of this country."Trump continued his attacks on Scott's network, ABC News, which he has been arguing should not host the next presidential debate, despite his earlier agreement with the Biden campaign. He also several times described her tone and questions as “nasty,” a word he used in the past when describing women, including Hillary Clinton and Meghan the Duchess of Sussex.The Republican also repeated his false claim that immigrants in the country illegally are “taking Black jobs.” When pushed by Scott on what constituted a “Black job,” Trump responded by saying "a Black job is anybody that has a job," drawing groans from the room.At one point, he said, "I have been the best president for the Black population since Abraham Lincoln.”The audience responded with a mix of boos and some applause.Scott asked Trump about his pledge to pardon people convicted for their roles in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol and specifically whether he would pardon those who assaulted police officers.Trump said, “Oh, absolutely I would,” and said, “If they’re innocent, I would pardon them.”Scott pointed out they have been convicted and therefore are not innocent.“Well, they were convicted by a very, very tough system,” he said.At one point, when he was defending his supporters who entered the Capitol on Jan. 6, he said, “Nothing is perfect in life.”He compared the 2021 insurrection to the protests in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-protests-us-news-arrests-minnesota-burglary-bb2404f9b13c8b53b94c73f818f6a0b7">Minneapolis and other cities in 2020</a>&nbsp;following the death of George Floyd by Minneapolis police and to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-netanyahu-gaza-war-congress-joint-session-9a7885972989b2397b49e5b971ffe0e0">more recent protests at the Capitol last week</a>&nbsp;by demonstrators opposed to the war in Gaza. Trump falsely claiming that no one was arrested in those other demonstrations and that only his supporters were targeted.As Trump made the comparison, a man in the back of the room shouted out: “Sir, have you no shame?”The former president’s invitation to address the organization sparked an intense internal debate among NABJ that spilled online. Organizations for journalists of color typically invite presidential candidates to speak at their summer gatherings in election years.As he campaigns for the White House a third time, Trump has sought to appear outside his traditional strongholds of support and his campaign has touted his efforts to try to win over Black Americans, who have been Democrats’ most committed voting bloc.His campaign has emphasized his messages on the economy and immigration as part of his appeal, but some of his outreach has played on racial stereotypes, including the suggestion that African Americans would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-black-conservative-south-carolina-primary-aa1155c31bfc3b397a32b33eff04ada8">empathize with the criminal charges he has faced</a>&nbsp;and his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-sneakers-sneaker-con-philadelphia-4de093eda6f8d1c68baf8fe8095f777b">promotion of branded sneakers</a>.Trump and NABJ also have a tense history over his treatment of Black women journalists. In 2018, NABJ condemned Trump for repeatedly using words such as “stupid,” “loser” and “nasty” to describe Black women journalists.The vice president is not scheduled to appear at the convention, but NABJ said in a statement posted on X that it was in conversation with her campaign to have her appear either virtually or in person for a conversation in September.Trump posted on his social media network that he was told he could not do the event virtually.“She declined, and I am getting ready to land in Chicago in order to be there,” Trump wrote. “Now I am told that she is doing the Event on ZOOM. WHAT’S GOING ON HERE?”Trump later Wednesday is scheduled to hold a campaign rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania at 6 p.m. EDT.

🎥Trump answers whether Kamala Harris is a DEI hire

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - It was a hot and steamy day at Missouri Western State University as the Chiefs returned to practice after a day off on Tuesday.

Temperatures were up near the 100's and there were a handful of players that left practice with injuries, luckily none heat related.

Head Coach Andy Reid says the work to keep players on the field in the heat starts before practice making sure guys are staying hydrated

"We don't have very many of the hydration issues, which is a positive, our trainers do a nice job of that," Reid tells reporter's post-practice. "And then during practice we water break them, so we'll go a certain number of plays, then you'll see the people run the water in and give them a quick shot, and then hop back out."

During training camp fans and coaches have had their eyes on one receiver looking to make an impact in his second year in the league.

After spending last season on the injury list, Nikko Remigio has been making big plays in the offense and on special teams

Remigio says the mentality he takes to get through camp is to just be resilient.

"And that's really been kind of the moral of my entire journey is just staying resilient and continuing to punch," Remigio explains. "I've always been an underdog at every single level of football that I've played at, so being in this position is nothing new to me, so just making sure that I'm still fighting and being the best version of myself every single day."

Head Coach Andy Reid says he's been impressed with the development of Remigio.

"He's getting better every rep he gets, so that's a positive thing for us," Reid says.

Remigio also worked during the offseason with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Special Teams Coach Dave Toub has been especially impressed with him on punt and kick return.

The Chiefs return to practice Thursday at 9:15 a.m.

The Chiefs lost a handful of players during Wednesday's practice but did see the return of one player from the physically unable to perform list.

Justin Reid, Justin Watson, and Nazeeh Johnson were all still absent from practicing, though they were all present on the practice fields, as they continue to recover from injuries.

Head Coach Andy Reid reports that tight end Izaiah Gathings left practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury. Wide receiver Kadarius Toney, offensive lineman Chukwuebuka Godrick, and offensive lineman McKade Mettauer all left with ankle injuries.

Middle linebacker Nick Bolton went down during 11-on-11 drills, Reid reports Bolton left practice with an elbow injury.

In positive news, Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson was back in a helmet and pads on Wednesday after passing a physical and being removed from the PUP list.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722450445178.jpeg" alt="Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and receivers Hollywood Brown and Rashee Rice during practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and receivers Hollywood Brown and Rashee Rice during practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. - It was a hot and steamy day at Missouri Western State University as the Chiefs returned to practice after a day off on Tuesday.Temperatures were up near the 100's and there were a handful of players that left practice with injuries, luckily none heat related.Head Coach Andy Reid says the work to keep players on the field in the heat starts before practice making sure guys are staying hydrated"We don't have very many of the hydration issues, which is a positive, our trainers do a nice job of that," Reid tells reporter's post-practice. "And then during practice we water break them, so we'll go a certain number of plays, then you'll see the people run the water in and give them a quick shot, and then hop back out."During training camp fans and coaches have had their eyes on one receiver looking to make an impact in his second year in the league.After spending last season on the injury list, Nikko Remigio has been making big plays in the offense and on special teamsRemigio says the mentality he takes to get through camp is to just be resilient."And that's really been kind of the moral of my entire journey is just staying resilient and continuing to punch," Remigio explains. "I've always been an underdog at every single level of football that I've played at, so being in this position is nothing new to me, so just making sure that I'm still fighting and being the best version of myself every single day."Head Coach Andy Reid says he's been impressed with the development of Remigio."He's getting better every rep he gets, so that's a positive thing for us," Reid says.Remigio also worked during the offseason with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Special Teams Coach Dave Toub has been especially impressed with him on punt and kick return.The Chiefs return to practice Thursday at 9:15 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722450485536.jpeg" alt="Chiefs fans brave high temperatures to watch Chiefs Training Camp Wednesday in St. Joseph, Mo. (Alexis Starks photo)" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs fans brave high temperatures to watch Chiefs Training Camp Wednesday in St. Joseph, Mo. (Alexis Starks photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Injury ReportThe Chiefs lost a handful of players during Wednesday's practice but did see the return of one player from the physically unable to perform list.Justin Reid, Justin Watson, and Nazeeh Johnson were all still absent from practicing, though they were all present on the practice fields, as they continue to recover from injuries.Head Coach Andy Reid reports that tight end Izaiah Gathings left practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury. Wide receiver Kadarius Toney, offensive lineman Chukwuebuka Godrick, and offensive lineman McKade Mettauer all left with ankle injuries.Middle linebacker Nick Bolton went down during 11-on-11 drills, Reid reports Bolton left practice with an elbow injury.In positive news, Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson was back in a helmet and pads on Wednesday after passing a physical and being removed from the PUP list.

🏈 Chiefs push through heat as they return to practice Wednesday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A Hays man has been sentenced to prison for his role in multiple thefts and burglaries.

District Judge Glenn Braun sentenced Ashton R. Herrman, 20, of Hays Tuesday in Ellis County District Court to 16 months in prison on charges of felony theft and vehicle burglary, according to court records.

Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson said all of the charges were related to property crimes. Some of the crimes involved theft of firearms from vehicles, and others involved tools.

Per a plea agreement, Herrman pleaded guilty to the theft and vehicle burglary charges, and three other charges of burglary and five charges of theft were dropped.

Anderson said some of the property stolen was recovered. In addition, Herrman was ordered to pay $5,200 in restitution.&nbsp;

However, Anderson said he was unsure of how Herrman would be able to pay that restitution from prison.

Herrman's probation on a 2021 case was also revoked, and he was ordered to serve 48 months in prison on those charges.

In the 2021 Ellis County case, he pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted aggravated burglary, two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of conspiracy to commit burglary, two counts of conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, four counts of contributing to a child's misconduct and two counts interference with a law enforcement officer.

Anderson said there is a pending case with a co-defendant— Jeffery Dolly-Steele.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637718477690.png" alt="Herrman photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Herrman photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Hays man has been sentenced to prison for his role in multiple thefts and burglaries.District Judge Glenn Braun sentenced Ashton R. Herrman, 20, of Hays Tuesday in Ellis County District Court to 16 months in prison on charges of felony theft and vehicle burglary, according to court records.Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson said all of the charges were related to property crimes. Some of the crimes involved theft of firearms from vehicles, and others involved tools.Per a plea agreement, Herrman pleaded guilty to the theft and vehicle burglary charges, and three other charges of burglary and five charges of theft were dropped.Anderson said some of the property stolen was recovered. In addition, Herrman was ordered to pay $5,200 in restitution.&nbsp;However, Anderson said he was unsure of how Herrman would be able to pay that restitution from prison.Herrman's probation on a 2021 case was also revoked, and he was ordered to serve 48 months in prison on those charges.In the 2021 Ellis County case, he pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted aggravated burglary, two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of conspiracy to commit burglary, two counts of conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, four counts of contributing to a child's misconduct and two counts interference with a law enforcement officer.Anderson said there is a pending case with a co-defendant— Jeffery Dolly-Steele.

Hays man sentenced to prison on burglary, theft charges

It's August, a month filled with end-of-summer activities and back-to-school anticipation.

Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, has some of the featured events coming up.

For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's August, a month filled with end-of-summer activities and back-to-school anticipation.Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, has some of the featured events coming up.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/axdkFj73ipo" title="cvb aug 2024" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722369957326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx</a>.

🎥 CVB: August calendar filled with summer, back-to-school events in Hays

More proposed expansion of business north of Interstate 70 in Hays will be brought to the Hays City Commission during Thursday's work session.

 JTL Leasing (Lewis Auto Group) has purchased two tracts near the intersection of East 41st Street and Sherman Avenue. 

Lewis plans to utilize the existing building at 655 E. 41st St., formerly&nbsp; Vernie’s Toys 4 Trux, for a mechanic/service shop and to build a structure in the vacant lot across the street to the west. 

The properties are just outside the current city limits.

Requests have been submitted for annexation into the city and for rezoning of the two tracts from general commercial to light industrial.

The properties have water and sewer available at each site. The Home Depot Addition was built in 2003 to serve future development in the area. 

"Allowing this zoning change would increase chances for redevelopment north of 41st Street," Jared Kuckleman, Hays management analyst, said Tuesday.

Following a July 15 public hearing where there was no opposition, the Hays Area Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the zoning change.

Commissioners will also further discuss the draft 2025 budget.&nbsp;

Hays' total assessed valuation is up 4.2%, while the total mill levy remains at 25.

 Public hearings will be Sept. 12 for the budget and to exceed the revenue neutral rate.

The complete Aug. 1 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08012024-1494">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722371848019.png" alt="City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMore proposed expansion of business north of Interstate 70 in Hays will be brought to the Hays City Commission during Thursday's work session. JTL Leasing (Lewis Auto Group) has purchased two tracts near the intersection of East 41st Street and Sherman Avenue. Lewis plans to utilize the existing building at 655 E. 41st St., formerly&nbsp; Vernie’s Toys 4 Trux, for a mechanic/service shop and to build a structure in the vacant lot across the street to the west. The properties are just outside the current city limits.Requests have been submitted for annexation into the city and for rezoning of the two tracts from general commercial to light industrial.The properties have water and sewer available at each site. The Home Depot Addition was built in 2003 to serve future development in the area. "Allowing this zoning change would increase chances for redevelopment north of 41st Street," Jared Kuckleman, Hays management analyst, said Tuesday.Following a July 15 public hearing where there was no opposition, the Hays Area Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the zoning change.Commissioners will also further discuss the draft 2025 budget.&nbsp;Hays' total assessed valuation is up 4.2%, while the total mill levy remains at 25. Public hearings will be Sept. 12 for the budget and to exceed the revenue neutral rate.The complete Aug. 1 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08012024-1494">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays auto dealer plans for redevelopment, growth north of I-70

Another summer day, another heat advisory.

Ellis County and areas to the west are in a heat advisory 1-8 p.m. today issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City. Counties east of Hays are again in an excessive heat warning.

Tuesday's high in Hays reached 103 degrees as recorded at the K-State Agricultural Research Center

The record high for July 30 in Hays is 116 degrees in 1934.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bacf3193-226b-4036-8958-a1682d950229">weather forecast</a> calls for one more day with a high temperature exceeding 100 degrees, then slightly cooler the next two days with a chance of thunderstorms Wednesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722438189364.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAnother summer day, another heat advisory.Ellis County and areas to the west are in a heat advisory 1-8 p.m. today issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City. Counties east of Hays are again in an excessive heat warning.Tuesday's high in Hays reached 103 degrees as recorded at the K-State Agricultural Research CenterThe record high for July 30 in Hays is 116 degrees in 1934.The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bacf3193-226b-4036-8958-a1682d950229">weather forecast</a> calls for one more day with a high temperature exceeding 100 degrees, then slightly cooler the next two days with a chance of thunderstorms Wednesday night.

Heat wave continues for Ellis County, area; chance of thunderstorms tonight

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement continue their investigation of a vehicle crash into two homes in Riley County.

According to an updated statement from the Riley County Police Department, just before 1a.m. Saturday, a vehicle traveled through two houses  1100 Block of Yuma and came to rest inside the second home and ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually extracted from under the vehicle.

He was taken to the hospital for treatment. &nbsp;

The vehicle occupants exited the vehicle. EMS was dispatched for the vehicle occupants with one being transported to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The other occupant of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

Police continue to work to gather all of the facts.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Saturday in Riley County.

A driver lost control of a vehicle in the 1100 Block of Yuma, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The vehicle struck a house and continued into another house where it&nbsp; ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually&nbsp;extracted from under the vehicle.

EMS transported the victim to Via Christi for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries. He was later transferred to Stormont-Vail for advanced treatment, according to the RCPD.&nbsp;&nbsp;Before he was transported the injured man was stable and was able to communicate with officers, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Police had no additional information early Monday.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement continue their investigation of a vehicle crash into two homes in Riley County.According to an updated statement from the Riley County Police Department, just before 1a.m. Saturday, a vehicle traveled through two houses 1100 Block of Yuma and came to rest inside the second home and ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually extracted from under the vehicle.He was taken to the hospital for treatment. &nbsp;The vehicle occupants exited the vehicle. EMS was dispatched for the vehicle occupants with one being transported to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The other occupant of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Police continue to work to gather all of the facts.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.-------------RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Saturday in Riley County.A driver lost control of a vehicle in the 1100 Block of Yuma, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The vehicle struck a house and continued into another house where it&nbsp; ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually&nbsp;extracted from under the vehicle.EMS transported the victim to Via Christi for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries. He was later transferred to Stormont-Vail for advanced treatment, according to the RCPD.&nbsp;&nbsp;Before he was transported the injured man was stable and was able to communicate with officers, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Police had no additional information early Monday.

Police: 1 died after vehicle ran over man asleep in his bed at Kansas home

Roy “Bob” Stricker went home to be
with His Lord on July 29, 2024, at Azria Health Woodhaven in Great Bend,
Kansas. Bob was born in Russell County at the family farm south of Russell on
March 30, 1932, to Gottfried and Amalia “Mollie” (Niedenthal) Stricker. He was
the eighth of fourteen children. 

Bob attended Russell High School and
graduated in 1950. He then attended Brown-Mackie School in Salina, Kansas. He
returned home to help his dad farm in Winona, in Western Kansas, until he was
drafted in June 1955, during the Korean War. Bob proudly served in the U.S.
Army and was deployed to Korea from November 1955, to April 1957. He continued
to serve in the Army Reserve until his discharge in 1963.

Bob married Marilyn Rugan on November
23, 1963, in Ellinwood. Bob worked for the United States Postal Service in
Great Bend from 1958, until 1988. His favorite hobbies were baseball, bowling,
fishing, hunting, and cheering for his Pittsburgh Steelers every Sunday during
football season. He never missed a hunting season out on the family
farm/homestead with his family and friends. Bob’s greatest love was fishing,
and he treasured all the time he spent out on the lake. Every year, he’d
celebrate his success by hosting a huge fish fry every fall for family and
friends. Bob loved his Lord and was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church where
he sang in the church choir from 1981, until June 2019. Bob was also a member
of the VFW Post #3111 in Great Bend. 

Bob
is survived by his two children; Scott (Susie) Stricker of Superior, Colorado
and Amy (Victor) Fuentes of La Salle, Colorado; granddaughters: Briana (Mace) Gallup
and their children Mace, Addisyn and Marrek; Laura Stricker and Erin Stricker.
Grandsons: Grant Skarohlid; Brian (Josefina) Skarohlid and their children A’Jay
and Juniper, Wes Skarohlid and his daughter, April; two brothers:
Elmer Stricker of Cedar Hill, TX; Tom (Judy) Stricker of Hill City, KS and
three sisters: Elsena Bender of Great Bend, KS; Mary Jane Doonan of Scottsdale,
AZ; and Kathryn Booth of Tulsa, OK. He was preceded in death by his parents;
brothers, Harvey Stricker, Gottfried “Fritz” Stricker Jr., Glen Stricker, Dean
Stricker and an infant brother, Henry Hubert Stricker; sisters, Rozella Van
Reenan, Helena “Helen” Michaelis and Lenetta Springer. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722429170141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Roy “Bob” Stricker went home to be
with His Lord on July 29, 2024, at Azria Health Woodhaven in Great Bend,
Kansas. Bob was born in Russell County at the family farm south of Russell on
March 30, 1932, to Gottfried and Amalia “Mollie” (Niedenthal) Stricker. He was
the eighth of fourteen children. Bob attended Russell High School and
graduated in 1950. He then attended Brown-Mackie School in Salina, Kansas. He
returned home to help his dad farm in Winona, in Western Kansas, until he was
drafted in June 1955, during the Korean War. Bob proudly served in the U.S.
Army and was deployed to Korea from November 1955, to April 1957. He continued
to serve in the Army Reserve until his discharge in 1963.Bob married Marilyn Rugan on November
23, 1963, in Ellinwood. Bob worked for the United States Postal Service in
Great Bend from 1958, until 1988. His favorite hobbies were baseball, bowling,
fishing, hunting, and cheering for his Pittsburgh Steelers every Sunday during
football season. He never missed a hunting season out on the family
farm/homestead with his family and friends. Bob’s greatest love was fishing,
and he treasured all the time he spent out on the lake. Every year, he’d
celebrate his success by hosting a huge fish fry every fall for family and
friends. Bob loved his Lord and was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church where
he sang in the church choir from 1981, until June 2019. Bob was also a member
of the VFW Post #3111 in Great Bend. Bob
is survived by his two children; Scott (Susie) Stricker of Superior, Colorado
and Amy (Victor) Fuentes of La Salle, Colorado; granddaughters: Briana (Mace) Gallup
and their children Mace, Addisyn and Marrek; Laura Stricker and Erin Stricker.
Grandsons: Grant Skarohlid; Brian (Josefina) Skarohlid and their children A’Jay
and Juniper, Wes Skarohlid and his daughter, April; two brothers:
Elmer Stricker of Cedar Hill, TX; Tom (Judy) Stricker of Hill City, KS and
three sisters: Elsena Bender of Great Bend, KS; Mary Jane Doonan of Scottsdale,
AZ; and Kathryn Booth of Tulsa, OK. He was preceded in death by his parents;
brothers, Harvey Stricker, Gottfried “Fritz” Stricker Jr., Glen Stricker, Dean
Stricker and an infant brother, Henry Hubert Stricker; sisters, Rozella Van
Reenan, Helena “Helen” Michaelis and Lenetta Springer.

Roy 'Bob' Stricker, age 92

Shelley Scheck, 53, a Hays native, has been a child care provider for 20 years.

Scheck worked in banking before she was a child care provider.

When the family decided to move to Hays, her children were entering kindergarten and third grade. She didn't have anywhere for the kids to be after school, so she decided to provide in-home child care so she could care for her children.

Scheck followed in her mother's footsteps. She had a child care and cared for Shelley and her husband's children when they worked.

"Day care is the first stop before we start preschool, so their minds are like little sponges," she said. "We are the first people to start teaching them about manners, sharing, and being nice to their friends.&nbsp;

"We're the first stop for kids when they leave the comfort of their parents' house. We're the first place they go before school, so we need to make that a positive experience for them and make them feel comfortable."

Four people nominated Scheck for the Child Care Champion award for July, praising her big heart and patience.

Andrea Kuhn said, "Shelley is amazing with my daughter. She has so much patience, and her house is always spotless! She has the biggest heart and cares about all the kids she watches."

Andrea Scheck said, "The kids don't want to leave and absolutely love their time there. She has the cleanest environment, and you know your kids are in the best hands."

Corinne Karlin said, "Shelley is amazing with the kids.  She is patient,  kind and caring. She teaches them important things they need to do and keeps them in a great routine."

Jacob Karlin said, "She is absolutely amazing with the kids!"

Scheck's child care focuses on age-based learning, including learning shapes, colors and manners.

"They are so creative. Seeing the things they come up with is amazing," she said.

"It's getting to know each and every child," she said. "They all have different personalities. ... They can tell you what we do from the minute they walk in the door to the minute they walk home."

She engages the children in making keepsakes for their parents for holidays, including Mother's Day, Father's Day and Christmas.

"I like to create keepsakes with pictures or the kids' handprints— something that will be meaningful," she said.

For Father's Day, the kids used paint to put their hand prints on gloves. She took pictures of the kids with the letters M-O-M and put them into a three-picture frame. The kids have imprinted coffee mugs and planted flowers in pots the children decorated with their fingerprints.

"The kids are so proud of them, they can't keep it a secret," she said.

Scheck said she has become close to many of the families whose children she has cared for.&nbsp;

"There are some families that I was close with that I am still friends with now," she said. "It's always hard when they age out and they go to start school because you get close to them and you get attached to them. It's hard because you feel like you are losing a child."

Some of the children she has cared for are now graduating from high school and in college. She has also had the opportunity to care for her grandchildren.

It's time she regrets not being able to spend with her son and daughter when they were small.

Scheck said child care has changed in the last 20 years as a business.

People used to call her a babysitter.&nbsp;

"They thought we were at home, drinking tea with our feet up and eating bonbons," she said.

She added, "It's not all sunshine and roses, but it has its benefits."

"When a little kid comes to you and gives you a hug or says they love you or just wants to come and sit with you for a little bit, that just makes it worth it."

Regulations have become stricter. She started her business as a registered child care home, which required her to only pay a $5 fee and have no annual inspection.

Today, she is licensed. She must have 16 hours of continuing education credits annually, be CPR and first aid certified and have her home subject to a surprise inspection annually.

She said she knows the regulations are there to protect children.

"I feel like my house is more childproof than half by child care parents," she said.

She would tell new child care providers that they needed to have thick skin. When she first opened her child care, she had a child struggling to sleep, and the parent was angry with her.

It ended up that the child was not sleeping well because he had an ear infection.

"I always say if you have a problem, come to me because your child is the main focus of my business, so we need to keep the lines of communication open," she said.&nbsp;

Scheck said she always thought she would work as a provider only until her children were older, but she stayed in the industry.

&nbsp;"I love it. I love being at home. I love the things that we do. I love kids. I waited my whole life to be a mom, and it seemed like my kids grew up overnight."

Now, as an empty-nester, she said being a child care provider fulfills that need to nurture others.

"I still have someone to take care of," she said. "It's just been a really good fit for us."

She also said since the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County started its efforts to create more child care slots in Hays, she has seen a decrease in demand for her services.

She used to have a continuous waiting list. She has an opening for a 2-year-old or older who will be available in August, but she hasn't received any calls to fill it.

If you are interested in enrolling a child with Scheck, you can reach her at 785-639-1757.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722371609236.jpeg" alt="Shelley Scheck, July Child Care Champion." />
 <figcaption>Shelley Scheck, July Child Care Champion.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostShelley Scheck, 53, a Hays native, has been a child care provider for 20 years.Scheck worked in banking before she was a child care provider.When the family decided to move to Hays, her children were entering kindergarten and third grade. She didn't have anywhere for the kids to be after school, so she decided to provide in-home child care so she could care for her children.Scheck followed in her mother's footsteps. She had a child care and cared for Shelley and her husband's children when they worked."Day care is the first stop before we start preschool, so their minds are like little sponges," she said. "We are the first people to start teaching them about manners, sharing, and being nice to their friends.&nbsp;"We're the first stop for kids when they leave the comfort of their parents' house. We're the first place they go before school, so we need to make that a positive experience for them and make them feel comfortable."Four people nominated Scheck for the Child Care Champion award for July, praising her big heart and patience.Andrea Kuhn said, "Shelley is amazing with my daughter. She has so much patience, and her house is always spotless! She has the biggest heart and cares about all the kids she watches."Andrea Scheck said, "The kids don't want to leave and absolutely love their time there. She has the cleanest environment, and you know your kids are in the best hands."Corinne Karlin said, "Shelley is amazing with the kids. She is patient, kind and caring. She teaches them important things they need to do and keeps them in a great routine."Jacob Karlin said, "She is absolutely amazing with the kids!"Scheck's child care focuses on age-based learning, including learning shapes, colors and manners."They are so creative. Seeing the things they come up with is amazing," she said.Scheck said the kids absorb everything."It's getting to know each and every child," she said. "They all have different personalities. ... They can tell you what we do from the minute they walk in the door to the minute they walk home."She engages the children in making keepsakes for their parents for holidays, including Mother's Day, Father's Day and Christmas."I like to create keepsakes with pictures or the kids' handprints— something that will be meaningful," she said.For Father's Day, the kids used paint to put their hand prints on gloves. She took pictures of the kids with the letters M-O-M and put them into a three-picture frame. The kids have imprinted coffee mugs and planted flowers in pots the children decorated with their fingerprints."The kids are so proud of them, they can't keep it a secret," she said.Scheck said she has become close to many of the families whose children she has cared for.&nbsp;"There are some families that I was close with that I am still friends with now," she said. "It's always hard when they age out and they go to start school because you get close to them and you get attached to them. It's hard because you feel like you are losing a child."Some of the children she has cared for are now graduating from high school and in college. She has also had the opportunity to care for her grandchildren.It's time she regrets not being able to spend with her son and daughter when they were small.Scheck said child care has changed in the last 20 years as a business.People used to call her a babysitter.&nbsp;"They thought we were at home, drinking tea with our feet up and eating bonbons," she said.She added, "It's not all sunshine and roses, but it has its benefits.""When a little kid comes to you and gives you a hug or says they love you or just wants to come and sit with you for a little bit, that just makes it worth it."Regulations have become stricter. She started her business as a registered child care home, which required her to only pay a $5 fee and have no annual inspection.Today, she is licensed. She must have 16 hours of continuing education credits annually, be CPR and first aid certified and have her home subject to a surprise inspection annually.She said she knows the regulations are there to protect children."I feel like my house is more childproof than half by child care parents," she said.She would tell new child care providers that they needed to have thick skin. When she first opened her child care, she had a child struggling to sleep, and the parent was angry with her.It ended up that the child was not sleeping well because he had an ear infection."I always say if you have a problem, come to me because your child is the main focus of my business, so we need to keep the lines of communication open," she said.&nbsp;Scheck said she always thought she would work as a provider only until her children were older, but she stayed in the industry.&nbsp;"I love it. I love being at home. I love the things that we do. I love kids. I waited my whole life to be a mom, and it seemed like my kids grew up overnight."Now, as an empty-nester, she said being a child care provider fulfills that need to nurture others."I still have someone to take care of," she said. "It's just been a really good fit for us."She also said since the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County started its efforts to create more child care slots in Hays, she has seen a decrease in demand for her services.She used to have a continuous waiting list. She has an opening for a 2-year-old or older who will be available in August, but she hasn't received any calls to fill it.If you are interested in enrolling a child with Scheck, you can reach her at 785-639-1757.

Child Care Champion: Profession can be tough but hugs, love are worth it

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

WICHITA – Nolan Wilson allowed just two hits in six shutout innings
and the Hays Larks bats came alive late, as they took down the Lonestar Baseball
Club 9-0 Tuesday at the NBC World Series in Wichita at Eck Stadium.

With the win the Larks (31-8) finished 3-0 in pool play and
earned a first-round bye in bracket play. They will return to action on Thursday
in the quarterfinals.

After both teams were sat down in order in the first inning,
the Larks broke through on the scoreboard first scoring two runs in the top of
the second inning.

Will Carpenter doubled home a run putting Hays up 1-0 and
then Tabor Stokes followed with an RBI double of his own for a 2-0 Larks lead
through an inning and a half.

Stokes then singled home a run in the fourth inning as Hays
extended their lead to 3-0. Two innings later he added his second RBI single
giving Hays the 4-0 lead.

The Larks then blew the game open for good in the ninth
inning when the sent 10 men to the plate and scored five runs for a 9-0 lead.

Garrett Gruell got the scoring started with an RBI single
with the bases loaded. Thomas Lyssy followed with a two-run ground rule double
making it 7-0 Hays.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostWICHITA – Nolan Wilson allowed just two hits in six shutout innings
and the Hays Larks bats came alive late, as they took down the Lonestar Baseball
Club 9-0 Tuesday at the NBC World Series in Wichita at Eck Stadium.<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/1885137048&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/frank-leo-postgame-interview-hays-larks-07-30-24" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interview Hays Larks 07- 30-24" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interview Hays Larks 07- 30-24</a></div></div>With the win the Larks (31-8) finished 3-0 in pool play and
earned a first-round bye in bracket play. They will return to action on Thursday
in the quarterfinals.After both teams were sat down in order in the first inning,
the Larks broke through on the scoreboard first scoring two runs in the top of
the second inning.Will Carpenter doubled home a run putting Hays up 1-0 and
then Tabor Stokes followed with an RBI double of his own for a 2-0 Larks lead
through an inning and a half.Stokes then singled home a run in the fourth inning as Hays
extended their lead to 3-0. Two innings later he added his second RBI single
giving Hays the 4-0 lead.The Larks then blew the game open for good in the ninth
inning when the sent 10 men to the plate and scored five runs for a 9-0 lead.Garrett Gruell got the scoring started with an RBI single
with the bases loaded. Thomas Lyssy followed with a two-run ground rule double
making it 7-0 Hays.Two batters later Will Carpenter doubled in two more putting
Hays up 9-0.For the second time in the tournament the Larks pitching
staff combined on a shutout.Starter Nolen Wilson (8-0) scattered just two hits over six
shutout innings. He finished with eight strikeouts.Carpenter doubled three times and was three-for-four with
three RBIs. Tabor Stokes was three-for-four with a double and three RBIs.As winners of pool D the Larks will get Wednesday off and a
bye in the first round of bracket play.Their Thursday quarterfinal opponent has not yet been determined.