Mary Lue Deines, age 87, passed away on July 2, 2025, at
Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, KS.

She was born on April 29, 1938, in Aleppo, KS, to Joseph and
Anna (Engelbrecht) Opat. Mary graduated from Trego Community High School with
the Class of 1956. On October 20, 1958, she married the love of her life,
LaVerne “Vernie” Deines, in Collyer, KS. Together, they shared 57 wonderful
years of marriage until Vernie’s passing on November 28, 2015.

Mary’s working life began at the Kent Café in WaKeeney.
After marrying Vernie, the two became a familiar and trusted pair in the
service station world — owning and operating Vernie’s Service Station in
WaKeeney before their work led them to Dodge City, Garden City, Salina, and
Ellis. Wherever they went, Mary and Vernie worked side by side doing what they
loved: caring for vehicles and serving customers with honesty and heart. They
eventually returned to WaKeeney, continuing their shared passion for keeping cars
clean and customers happy. Later in life, both took great pride in serving
their community as custodians for USD 208.

Though Mary and Vernie were not blessed with children of
their own, they poured their love into their many nieces and nephews, building
lifelong bonds filled with laughter and care. Their home and hearts were also
filled with love for their dogs, classic cars, and spirited bingo nights —
simple joys that brought them genuine happiness.

Mary is survived by her brother, Eugene Opat of WaKeeney,
along with many nieces and nephews who loved and cherished her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vernie;
her parents, Joseph and Anna Opat; her brother, Jim Opat; and sisters, Betty
Fry, Dorothy Mong, and Barbara Opat.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025,
at 10:00 a.m. at WaKeeney City Cemetery, located at South 13th St. and South
Ave., WaKeeney, KS 67672.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
TCLMH Long-Term Care and sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St.,
WaKeeney, KS 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751992152161.jpeg" alt="Mary Lue Deines" />
 <figcaption>Mary Lue Deines</figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Lue Deines, age 87, passed away on July 2, 2025, at
Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, KS.She was born on April 29, 1938, in Aleppo, KS, to Joseph and
Anna (Engelbrecht) Opat. Mary graduated from Trego Community High School with
the Class of 1956. On October 20, 1958, she married the love of her life,
LaVerne “Vernie” Deines, in Collyer, KS. Together, they shared 57 wonderful
years of marriage until Vernie’s passing on November 28, 2015.Mary’s working life began at the Kent Café in WaKeeney.
After marrying Vernie, the two became a familiar and trusted pair in the
service station world — owning and operating Vernie’s Service Station in
WaKeeney before their work led them to Dodge City, Garden City, Salina, and
Ellis. Wherever they went, Mary and Vernie worked side by side doing what they
loved: caring for vehicles and serving customers with honesty and heart. They
eventually returned to WaKeeney, continuing their shared passion for keeping cars
clean and customers happy. Later in life, both took great pride in serving
their community as custodians for USD 208.Though Mary and Vernie were not blessed with children of
their own, they poured their love into their many nieces and nephews, building
lifelong bonds filled with laughter and care. Their home and hearts were also
filled with love for their dogs, classic cars, and spirited bingo nights —
simple joys that brought them genuine happiness.Mary is survived by her brother, Eugene Opat of WaKeeney,
along with many nieces and nephews who loved and cherished her deeply.She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vernie;
her parents, Joseph and Anna Opat; her brother, Jim Opat; and sisters, Betty
Fry, Dorothy Mong, and Barbara Opat.A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025,
at 10:00 a.m. at WaKeeney City Cemetery, located at South 13th St. and South
Ave., WaKeeney, KS 67672.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
TCLMH Long-Term Care and sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St.,
WaKeeney, KS 67672.To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

Mary Lue Deines

Shirley (Underwood) Smith, 88, of Hays, Kansas, passed away
on May 14, 2025, at HaysMed, Hays, Kansas. She was born on October 11, 1936, in
Bird City, Cheyenne County, Kansas, the daughter of Irvin and Dorothy
(McTaggart) Underwood. A lifelong Kansan and beloved educator, Shirley will be
remembered for her warm smile, dedicated work ethic, sense of humor and caring
heart.

Shirley grew up in Bird
City, where she graduated from Bird City Rural High School in 1955. After high
school, she pursued her passion for teaching at Fort Hays State University,
where she earned her teaching degree and later completed a master’s degree.
Education was very important to Shirley, and she carried a love of learning
throughout her life.

After completing her
education, Shirley embarked on a 34-year teaching career in the Hays, Kansas,
school system. Throughout her tenure, she inspired countless students with her
enthusiasm for learning and her nurturing guidance. Colleagues remember her as
a dedicated educator who touched many lives and was highly respected in the
community.

On June 7, 1959,
Shirley married her sweetheart, Ralph J. Smith, Jr., in Bird City, Kansas. They
shared 40 happy years together, cherishing family gatherings, community events,
and quiet moments at home, until Ralph’s passing on May 4, 1999. Shirley treasured
her family and took great pride in the accomplishments of her nieces and
nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; her parents, Irvin
and Dorothy Underwood; and her brothers, Wallace and Warren Underwood.

Shirley is survived by
her nieces and nephews, Tammy (Underwood) Zimbelman of Emporia, Kansas; Brad
(Susan) Underwood of Champaign, Illinois; Kim (Roseanna) Underwood of Bird
City, Kansas; Shari (Underwood) Potts of Pensacola, Florida; and TJ (Darla) Underwood
of Florida; Sister-in-law, Jan Underwood of McPherson, Kansas; Great nieces and
nephews, Kale (Robbie Reed) Zimbelman of Wichita, Kansas; Lee (Cami) Zimbelman
of Emporia, Kansas; Tyler Underwood of Champaign, Illinois; Katie Underwood of
Jacksonville Beach, Florida; Ashley Underwood of Chicago, Illinois; and Julian
Sams of Pensacola, Florida; Great-great nieces and nephews: Derek, Julia, and
Andrew Zimbelman of Emporia, Kansas; She is also survived by her brother,
Wallace Underwood’s, son Jerry (Pat) McCaslin and family: Jill (Jeff) Samuelson
and Marc McCaslin; grandchildren, Colton Samuelson and Abbie Samuelson,
(children of Jill), and Isabella and Isaac McCaslin (children of Marc); and
great-granddaughter, Isla Samuelson (daughter of Colton), all of Liberty,
Missouri; Special friend: Lois Lutz of Hays, Kansas as well as a host of
extended family and friends.

In accordance with her
final wishes, Shirley’s body was cremated. Memorial services will be 11:00
Friday, July 11, 2025 at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock’s Chapel
2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601, followed by inurnment in Hays.

In lieu of flowers, the
family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Fort Hays State
University Athletic Scholarship Fund in Shirley’s memory.

Shirley Jean
(Underwood) Smith will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of
dedication to education, love of family, and warm kindness will live on in the
hearts of her family, friends, and former students.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747571895378.jpeg" alt="Shirley J. Smith" />
 <figcaption>Shirley J. Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>Shirley (Underwood) Smith, 88, of Hays, Kansas, passed away
on May 14, 2025, at HaysMed, Hays, Kansas. She was born on October 11, 1936, in
Bird City, Cheyenne County, Kansas, the daughter of Irvin and Dorothy
(McTaggart) Underwood. A lifelong Kansan and beloved educator, Shirley will be
remembered for her warm smile, dedicated work ethic, sense of humor and caring
heart.Shirley grew up in Bird
City, where she graduated from Bird City Rural High School in 1955. After high
school, she pursued her passion for teaching at Fort Hays State University,
where she earned her teaching degree and later completed a master’s degree.
Education was very important to Shirley, and she carried a love of learning
throughout her life.After completing her
education, Shirley embarked on a 34-year teaching career in the Hays, Kansas,
school system. Throughout her tenure, she inspired countless students with her
enthusiasm for learning and her nurturing guidance. Colleagues remember her as
a dedicated educator who touched many lives and was highly respected in the
community.On June 7, 1959,
Shirley married her sweetheart, Ralph J. Smith, Jr., in Bird City, Kansas. They
shared 40 happy years together, cherishing family gatherings, community events,
and quiet moments at home, until Ralph’s passing on May 4, 1999. Shirley treasured
her family and took great pride in the accomplishments of her nieces and
nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; her parents, Irvin
and Dorothy Underwood; and her brothers, Wallace and Warren Underwood.Shirley is survived by
her nieces and nephews, Tammy (Underwood) Zimbelman of Emporia, Kansas; Brad
(Susan) Underwood of Champaign, Illinois; Kim (Roseanna) Underwood of Bird
City, Kansas; Shari (Underwood) Potts of Pensacola, Florida; and TJ (Darla) Underwood
of Florida; Sister-in-law, Jan Underwood of McPherson, Kansas; Great nieces and
nephews, Kale (Robbie Reed) Zimbelman of Wichita, Kansas; Lee (Cami) Zimbelman
of Emporia, Kansas; Tyler Underwood of Champaign, Illinois; Katie Underwood of
Jacksonville Beach, Florida; Ashley Underwood of Chicago, Illinois; and Julian
Sams of Pensacola, Florida; Great-great nieces and nephews: Derek, Julia, and
Andrew Zimbelman of Emporia, Kansas; She is also survived by her brother,
Wallace Underwood’s, son Jerry (Pat) McCaslin and family: Jill (Jeff) Samuelson
and Marc McCaslin; grandchildren, Colton Samuelson and Abbie Samuelson,
(children of Jill), and Isabella and Isaac McCaslin (children of Marc); and
great-granddaughter, Isla Samuelson (daughter of Colton), all of Liberty,
Missouri; Special friend: Lois Lutz of Hays, Kansas as well as a host of
extended family and friends.In accordance with her
final wishes, Shirley’s body was cremated. Memorial services will be 11:00
Friday, July 11, 2025 at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock’s Chapel
2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601, followed by inurnment in Hays.In lieu of flowers, the
family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Fort Hays State
University Athletic Scholarship Fund in Shirley’s memory.Shirley Jean
(Underwood) Smith will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of
dedication to education, love of family, and warm kindness will live on in the
hearts of her family, friends, and former students.

Shirley J. Smith

Lucy Vontrice
Kennedy, born on October 13, 1926, in Garfield, Arkansas, passed away
peacefully, at the age of 98, at Homestead Assisted Living of Russell, Kansas on
July 4, 2025. She was the beloved middle daughter of John Seaburn and Sarah
Elizabeth (O'Neil) Clark. Proud of her Cherokee heritage, Lucy was known for
her distinctive black hair and her deep connection to her Native American
roots. 

Lucy’s early
years were spent in the hills of Arkansas until her family relocated to
Webster, Kansas, when her mother married “Daddy Homer” Doughty. Lucy began 7th
grade in Webster, a time she fondly remembered as one of the happiest periods
of her life. It was here that she learned to crochet from a teacher at the
Webster school, a skill she cherished and practiced until her 90s when it
became too difficult. She was known for using vibrant and exotic colors in her crochet
work.

In 1944, Lucy
married Fred Schoeller in Hill City, Kansas. Together they welcomed one son,
Michael Homer Schoeller, before eventually parting ways. Lucy later married
Kenneth 'Bud' Clarence Kennedy on February 22, 1966 at St. Thomas
Catholic Church in Stockton, Kansas, and the couple made their home in
Plainville, Kansas. Kenneth preceded her in death on February 29, 1988. Lucy
found companionship once again with W.K. "Kenny" Bjornstad, with whom
she shared 16 joyful years until his death in 2004. Their time together was
filled with adventures, including driving flag cars for Schult Mobile Home and
fishing at Webster Lake and other ponds. Through this relationship she became a 'bonus' grandma for the entire Bjornstad clan. She later rekindled a
relationship with her high school friend, Alva 'Alvie' Winters of Hill City.

A dedicated and
hardworking woman, Lucy pursued various roles throughout her career. She
graduated from Logan High School in 1959 and furthered her education with a
Nancy Taylor secretarial certificate from Manhattan, Kansas, in 1960. She
completed a general secretarial course at Brown-Mackie School of Business in
Salina in 1961 and was certified as a typist and stenographer by the U.S. Civil
Service Commission. Lucy also earned her nurse’s aide certification in 1968.
Her career included roles as a waitress, cook, CNA and owner of the East-Side
Cafe in Logan, Kansas. She later worked at the Midway Cafe in Stockton, where
her delicious meals and warm hospitality left a lasting impression on those she
served. She was known for her homemade pies, banana bread, and Christmas
fruitcake.

Lucy was a
member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Daughters of Isabella, and the VFW
Auxiliary in Plainville. She also served as a foster grandparent for Plainville
Elementary classes from 2004 to 2009. She greatly cherished her time spent with
the children at USD #270. 

Lucy is
survived by her daughter-in-law, Karla Schoeller, Halstead, KS; three
grandchildren, Phillip, Valery and Sarah; three step-children, Sharon Inks,
Karol Shaw and David Kennedy; step-grandchildren; a niece and nephews and her 'bonus' family, and many friends. Lucy will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was
preceded in death by her husband, Bud, son, Michael Homer Schoeller; sisters,
Shirley Patricia Iman, Jimmie Eugenia Carswell; step-son, Ken Kennedy; and two
nephews. 

A Memorial Service
will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at Plumer-Overlease Funeral
Home 320 SW 2nd Plainville, KS 67663. Burial will follow at Sacred
Heart Catholic Cemetery in Plainville. Visitation will be held from Noon until
2:00 PM prior to the service at the Funeral Home. 

Lucy will be
remembered for her strength, resilience, and the love she shared with those
around her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and the
importance of cherishing every moment.

In lieu of
flowers or memorials, the family kindly asks that you consider volunteering
your time to work with children or spreading kindness to friends and neighbors
with homemade baked goods, as Lucy often did and would have continued to do.

Online
condolences may be sent to www.plumeroverlease.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751892850895.jpeg" alt="Lucy Vontrice Kennedy" />
 <figcaption>Lucy Vontrice Kennedy</figcaption>
 </figure>Lucy Vontrice
Kennedy, born on October 13, 1926, in Garfield, Arkansas, passed away
peacefully, at the age of 98, at Homestead Assisted Living of Russell, Kansas on
July 4, 2025. She was the beloved middle daughter of John Seaburn and Sarah
Elizabeth (O'Neil) Clark. Proud of her Cherokee heritage, Lucy was known for
her distinctive black hair and her deep connection to her Native American
roots. Lucy’s early
years were spent in the hills of Arkansas until her family relocated to
Webster, Kansas, when her mother married “Daddy Homer” Doughty. Lucy began 7th
grade in Webster, a time she fondly remembered as one of the happiest periods
of her life. It was here that she learned to crochet from a teacher at the
Webster school, a skill she cherished and practiced until her 90s when it
became too difficult. She was known for using vibrant and exotic colors in her crochet
work.In 1944, Lucy
married Fred Schoeller in Hill City, Kansas. Together they welcomed one son,
Michael Homer Schoeller, before eventually parting ways. Lucy later married
Kenneth 'Bud' Clarence Kennedy on February 22, 1966 at St. Thomas
Catholic Church in Stockton, Kansas, and the couple made their home in
Plainville, Kansas. Kenneth preceded her in death on February 29, 1988. Lucy
found companionship once again with W.K. "Kenny" Bjornstad, with whom
she shared 16 joyful years until his death in 2004. Their time together was
filled with adventures, including driving flag cars for Schult Mobile Home and
fishing at Webster Lake and other ponds. Through this relationship she became a 'bonus' grandma for the entire Bjornstad clan. She later rekindled a
relationship with her high school friend, Alva 'Alvie' Winters of Hill City.A dedicated and
hardworking woman, Lucy pursued various roles throughout her career. She
graduated from Logan High School in 1959 and furthered her education with a
Nancy Taylor secretarial certificate from Manhattan, Kansas, in 1960. She
completed a general secretarial course at Brown-Mackie School of Business in
Salina in 1961 and was certified as a typist and stenographer by the U.S. Civil
Service Commission. Lucy also earned her nurse’s aide certification in 1968.
Her career included roles as a waitress, cook, CNA and owner of the East-Side
Cafe in Logan, Kansas. She later worked at the Midway Cafe in Stockton, where
her delicious meals and warm hospitality left a lasting impression on those she
served. She was known for her homemade pies, banana bread, and Christmas
fruitcake.Lucy was a
member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Daughters of Isabella, and the VFW
Auxiliary in Plainville. She also served as a foster grandparent for Plainville
Elementary classes from 2004 to 2009. She greatly cherished her time spent with
the children at USD #270. Lucy is
survived by her daughter-in-law, Karla Schoeller, Halstead, KS; three
grandchildren, Phillip, Valery and Sarah; three step-children, Sharon Inks,
Karol Shaw and David Kennedy; step-grandchildren; a niece and nephews and her 'bonus' family, and many friends. Lucy will be deeply missed by all who knew her.She was
preceded in death by her husband, Bud, son, Michael Homer Schoeller; sisters,
Shirley Patricia Iman, Jimmie Eugenia Carswell; step-son, Ken Kennedy; and two
nephews. A Memorial Service
will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at Plumer-Overlease Funeral
Home 320 SW 2nd Plainville, KS 67663. Burial will follow at Sacred
Heart Catholic Cemetery in Plainville. Visitation will be held from Noon until
2:00 PM prior to the service at the Funeral Home. Lucy will be
remembered for her strength, resilience, and the love she shared with those
around her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and the
importance of cherishing every moment.In lieu of
flowers or memorials, the family kindly asks that you consider volunteering
your time to work with children or spreading kindness to friends and neighbors
with homemade baked goods, as Lucy often did and would have continued to do.Online
condolences may be sent to www.plumeroverlease.com

Lucy Vontrice Kennedy

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly said Thursday that she and her husband of more than 40 years were granted a divorce.

She decided to speak publicly about the amicable end of her marriage because of inquiries about the status of her relationship with retired physician Ted Daughety.

Kelly, 75, said the pair remained on friendly terms before and after the divorce was finalized in October. They were married in 1983 and have two adult daughters.

“Throughout my time in public office, I’ve always guarded my family’s privacy. It’s been my policy to keep my personal life separate from my public one to the extent possible,” Kelly said.

She said it had “come to my attention that my marital status has become a topic of some speculation, so I will share that Ted and I divorced in October of 2024.”

“It was amicable and mutual, and we both continue to share in the lives of our family,” the governor said.

The Democratic governor’s brief statement was the first official confirmation of a split. The governor resides at the Topeka residence for Kansas governors known as Cedar Crest. Her family home in the Potwin neighborhood of central Topeka has been sold.

In a statement, Daughety said that “Laura and I made this decision together, based on what worked best for us and for our family.”

Kelly was elected to the Kansas Senate to represent a Topeka-area district in 2005 and remained in that job for nearly 15 years. She was elected governor in 2018 and reelected in 2022.

Daughety was a pulmonary and sleep disorder specialist who practiced medicine for decades in Kansas.

Divorce among sitting U.S. governors hasn’t been common, but Democrat John Carlin ended two marriages while serving as governor of Kansas.

Carlin took office in 1979 and received a divorce from Ramona Hawkinson in 1980. Carlin and his second wife, Karen Bigsby Hurley, were divorced in 1985 during his second term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751579549104.png" alt=" Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said she and former Topeka physician Ted Daughety, shown together during Kelly's inauguration ceremony in 2023, have been granted a divorce. They were married in 1983 and moved to Topeka in the late 1980s. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said she and former Topeka physician Ted Daughety, shown together during Kelly's inauguration ceremony in 2023, have been granted a divorce. They were married in 1983 and moved to Topeka in the late 1980s. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly said Thursday that she and her husband of more than 40 years were granted a divorce.She decided to speak publicly about the amicable end of her marriage because of inquiries about the status of her relationship with retired physician Ted Daughety.Kelly, 75, said the pair remained on friendly terms before and after the divorce was finalized in October. They were married in 1983 and have two adult daughters.“Throughout my time in public office, I’ve always guarded my family’s privacy. It’s been my policy to keep my personal life separate from my public one to the extent possible,” Kelly said.She said it had “come to my attention that my marital status has become a topic of some speculation, so I will share that Ted and I divorced in October of 2024.”“It was amicable and mutual, and we both continue to share in the lives of our family,” the governor said.The Democratic governor’s brief statement was the first official confirmation of a split. The governor resides at the Topeka residence for Kansas governors known as Cedar Crest. Her family home in the Potwin neighborhood of central Topeka has been sold.In a statement, Daughety said that “Laura and I made this decision together, based on what worked best for us and for our family.”Kelly was elected to the Kansas Senate to represent a Topeka-area district in 2005 and remained in that job for nearly 15 years. She was elected governor in 2018 and reelected in 2022.Daughety was a pulmonary and sleep disorder specialist who practiced medicine for decades in Kansas.Divorce among sitting U.S. governors hasn’t been common, but Democrat John Carlin ended two marriages while serving as governor of Kansas.Carlin took office in 1979 and received a divorce from Ramona Hawkinson in 1980. Carlin and his second wife, Karen Bigsby Hurley, were divorced in 1985 during his second term.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly confirms divorce from spouse of more than 40 years

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported three new cases of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 83 cases in 11 counties.

According to the Associated Press, Kentucky has its first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-vaccine-mmr-covid-exemptions-87cbfe44d8599b68408861f9b62421ed">measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;of 2025, as the U.S. case count sits just short of a 30-year high.

There have been 1,267 confirmed measles cases this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">Texas</a>&nbsp;confirmed three more measles cases this week tied to a major outbreak that raged through the late winter and spring.

There are three other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mexico-canada-ontario-0956a30c043b030ae79bc9f67c6ce89c">large outbreaks</a>&nbsp;in North America. The longest, in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/Documents/M/24/measles-ontario-epi-summary.pdf?rev=3d8451977cd34084a8b494a6a11b4f1a&amp;sc_lang=en&amp;hash=48D1A6D0D037B39BD421AAF060204EE0">2,212 cases</a>&nbsp;from mid-October through June 24. The province logged its first death June 5 in a baby who got congenital measles but also had other preexisting conditions.

Another outbreak in Alberta, Canada, has sickened&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alberta.ca/measles">1,169 as of Wednesday</a>. And the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-measles-vaccines-misinformation-mmr-mennonites-misinformation-ea6158b9a4d513b20f33cbc09034e5c2">Mexican state of Chihuahua</a>&nbsp;had 2,810 measles cases and eight deaths as of Wednesday, according to data from the state health ministry.

Other U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-kansas-ohio-mmr-vaccination-new-mexico-texas-569474272df9baaad1f6d73462ebe92a">states with active outbreaks</a>&nbsp;— which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3">Kansas</a>, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Utah.

In the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">two elementary school-aged children</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">epicenter in West Texas</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">adult in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;have died of measles this year. All were unvaccinated.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-vaccines-autism-measles-obesity-food-dye-f26089856550e978d28fd25b653d8103">preventable through vaccines</a>&nbsp;and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.

Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?

Measles cases also have been reported this year in Alaska, Arkansas, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.

Health officials declared earlier outbreaks in Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania over after six weeks of no new cases. Tennessee’s outbreak also appears to be over.

Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. The CDC said in May that more than twice as many measles have come from outside of the U.S. compared to May of last year. Most of those are in unvaccinated Americans returning home. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.

What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine?

The best way to avoid measles is to get the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html">measles, mumps and rubella</a>&nbsp;vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.

Getting another MMR shot as an adult is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said.

People who have documentation that they had measles are immune and those born before 1957 generally don’t need the shots because so many children got measles back then that they have “presumptive immunity."

Measles has a harder time spreading through communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — due to “herd immunity.” But childhood vaccination rates have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">declined nationwide</a>&nbsp;since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.

Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.

The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.

Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html">dangerous complications</a>&nbsp;such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.

There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741908251964.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported three new cases of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 83 cases in 11 counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751488873961.png" alt="KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the Associated Press, Kentucky has its first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-vaccine-mmr-covid-exemptions-87cbfe44d8599b68408861f9b62421ed">measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;of 2025, as the U.S. case count sits just short of a 30-year high.There have been 1,267 confirmed measles cases this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">Texas</a>&nbsp;confirmed three more measles cases this week tied to a major outbreak that raged through the late winter and spring.There are three other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mexico-canada-ontario-0956a30c043b030ae79bc9f67c6ce89c">large outbreaks</a>&nbsp;in North America. The longest, in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/Documents/M/24/measles-ontario-epi-summary.pdf?rev=3d8451977cd34084a8b494a6a11b4f1a&amp;sc_lang=en&amp;hash=48D1A6D0D037B39BD421AAF060204EE0">2,212 cases</a>&nbsp;from mid-October through June 24. The province logged its first death June 5 in a baby who got congenital measles but also had other preexisting conditions.Another outbreak in Alberta, Canada, has sickened&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alberta.ca/measles">1,169 as of Wednesday</a>. And the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-measles-vaccines-misinformation-mmr-mennonites-misinformation-ea6158b9a4d513b20f33cbc09034e5c2">Mexican state of Chihuahua</a>&nbsp;had 2,810 measles cases and eight deaths as of Wednesday, according to data from the state health ministry.Other U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-kansas-ohio-mmr-vaccination-new-mexico-texas-569474272df9baaad1f6d73462ebe92a">states with active outbreaks</a>&nbsp;— which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3">Kansas</a>, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Utah.In the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">two elementary school-aged children</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">epicenter in West Texas</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">adult in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;have died of measles this year. All were unvaccinated.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-vaccines-autism-measles-obesity-food-dye-f26089856550e978d28fd25b653d8103">preventable through vaccines</a>&nbsp;and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.<h2>Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?</h2>Measles cases also have been reported this year in Alaska, Arkansas, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.Health officials declared earlier outbreaks in Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania over after six weeks of no new cases. Tennessee’s outbreak also appears to be over.Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. The CDC said in May that more than twice as many measles have come from outside of the U.S. compared to May of last year. Most of those are in unvaccinated Americans returning home. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.<h2>What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine?</h2>The best way to avoid measles is to get the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html">measles, mumps and rubella</a>&nbsp;vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.Getting another MMR shot as an adult is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said.People who have documentation that they had measles are immune and those born before 1957 generally don’t need the shots because so many children got measles back then that they have “presumptive immunity."Measles has a harder time spreading through communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — due to “herd immunity.” But childhood vaccination rates have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">declined nationwide</a>&nbsp;since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.<h2>What are the symptoms of measles?</h2>Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html">dangerous complications</a>&nbsp;such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.<h2>How can you treat measles?</h2>There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.___

KDHE reports more measles cases in Kansas

NEW YORK (AP) — In a case seen as a challenge to American free-speech principles, Paramount has agreed to pay $16 million to settle a&nbsp;<a href="https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/former-president-donald-trump-files-lawsuit-against-cbs-in-amarillo-federal-court">lawsuit</a>&nbsp;by President Donald Trump over the editing of CBS' “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-trump-cbs-interview-edit-024c435a19fd37eee7a090ece76d925c">60 Minutes” interview</a>&nbsp;with then-Vice President Kamala Harris in October.

Paramount, which owns CBS, said the money will go to Trump’s future presidential library, not to the Republican president himself. It said the settlement did not involve an apology.

Trump’s lawyer said Trump had suffered “mental anguish” over the editing of the interview by CBS News, while Paramount and CBS rejected his contention that it was edited to enhance how Harris, the Democratic nominee for president in 2024, sounded. They had called Trump's case “completely without merit” and tried to have it dismissed, even while involved in settlement negotiations.

The case was widely discussed and was being seen as a referendum on how far organizations would go to curry favor with Trump. Paramount is simultaneously seeking approval from his administration for its proposed merger with Skydance Media.

A spokesman for Trump's legal team said that with the settlement, Trump “delivers another win for the American people.”

Paramount agreed that ‘60 Minutes’ transcripts will be released

In early February, “60 Minutes” released a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cbs-60-minutes-harris-interview-ac36372dd700c9d233eee78773473f49">full, unedited transcript</a>&nbsp;of the Harris interview.

Under the settlement reached with help of a mediator, Paramount agreed that “60 Minutes” will release transcripts of future interviews of presidential candidates, “subject to redactions as required for legal and national security concerns,” CBS News cited the statement as saying.

Trump, who did not agree to be interviewed by “60 Minutes” during the campaign, protested editing where Harris is seen giving two different answers to a question by the show’s Bill Whitaker in separate clips aired on “60 Minutes” and “Face the Nation” earlier in the day. CBS said each reply came within Harris’ long-winded answer to Whitaker, but was edited to be more succinct.

“This settlement is a cowardly capitulation by the corporate leaders of Paramount, and a fundamental betrayal of ‘60 Minutes’ and CBS News,” said Rome Hartman, a producer of the Harris interview for the show. “The story that was the subject of this lawsuit was edited by the book and in accordance with CBS News standards.”

Correspondents had worried of a settlement with ‘wrongdoing’ implications

In a letter to Paramount's leadership in early May, “60 Minutes” correspondents said they were troubled by reports that Paramount might settle the case “in a way that acknowledges some sort of wrongdoing on our part."

The correspondents, in the letter obtained by The Associated Press, said that “if our parent company caves in to his pressure and lies, it will leave a shameful stain and undermine the First Amendment.” It was signed by Whitaker, Lesley Stahl, Scott Pelley, Anderson Cooper, Sharyn Alfonsi, Jon Wertheim and Cecilia Vega.

Trump's lawyer, Edward Andrew Paltzik, said the interview caused confusion and “mental anguish," misleading voters and causing them to pay less attention to Trump and his Truth Social online platform.

Paramount and controlling shareholder Shari Redstone were seeking the settlement with Trump. CBS News President and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cbs-news-60-minutes-lawsuit-d43effebb7b3b76c31d38908bd31460e">CEO Wendy McMahon</a>&nbsp;and “60 Minutes” executive producer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/60-minutes-cbs-producer-quits-4c7729507684fa516391a7022d27586b">Bill Owens</a>, who both opposed a settlement, resigned in recent weeks.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://freedom.press/">Freedom of the Press Foundation</a>, a media advocacy group that says it is a Paramount shareholder, has said that it would file a lawsuit in protest if a settlement was reached.

In December, ABC News&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abc-trump-lawsuit-defamation-stephanopoulos-04aea8663310af39ae2a85f4c1a56d68">settled a defamation lawsuit</a>&nbsp;by Trump over statements made by anchor George Stephanopoulos, agreeing to pay $15 million toward Trump’s presidential library rather than engage in a public fight. Meta&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-meta-settlement-zuckerberg-capitol-riot-9939e52679364080c983e0cab739b805">reportedly paid $25 million</a>&nbsp;to settle Trump’s lawsuit against the company over its decision to suspend his social media accounts following the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747061767917.jpeg" alt="File photo (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)" />
 <figcaption>File photo (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — In a case seen as a challenge to American free-speech principles, Paramount has agreed to pay $16 million to settle a&nbsp;<a href="https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/former-president-donald-trump-files-lawsuit-against-cbs-in-amarillo-federal-court">lawsuit</a>&nbsp;by President Donald Trump over the editing of CBS' “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-trump-cbs-interview-edit-024c435a19fd37eee7a090ece76d925c">60 Minutes” interview</a>&nbsp;with then-Vice President Kamala Harris in October.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨BREAKING: Paramount, CBS’s parent company, agrees to a $16 million settlement in President Trump’s lawsuit over the edited 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. <a href="https://t.co/aPrHJ3PVqp">pic.twitter.com/aPrHJ3PVqp</a>&mdash; Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/bennyjohnson/status/1940265863111979091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Paramount, which owns CBS, said the money will go to Trump’s future presidential library, not to the Republican president himself. It said the settlement did not involve an apology.Trump’s lawyer said Trump had suffered “mental anguish” over the editing of the interview by CBS News, while Paramount and CBS rejected his contention that it was edited to enhance how Harris, the Democratic nominee for president in 2024, sounded. They had called Trump's case “completely without merit” and tried to have it dismissed, even while involved in settlement negotiations.The case was widely discussed and was being seen as a referendum on how far organizations would go to curry favor with Trump. Paramount is simultaneously seeking approval from his administration for its proposed merger with Skydance Media.A spokesman for Trump's legal team said that with the settlement, Trump “delivers another win for the American people.”<h2>Paramount agreed that ‘60 Minutes’ transcripts will be released</h2>In early February, “60 Minutes” released a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cbs-60-minutes-harris-interview-ac36372dd700c9d233eee78773473f49">full, unedited transcript</a>&nbsp;of the Harris interview.Under the settlement reached with help of a mediator, Paramount agreed that “60 Minutes” will release transcripts of future interviews of presidential candidates, “subject to redactions as required for legal and national security concerns,” CBS News cited the statement as saying.Trump, who did not agree to be interviewed by “60 Minutes” during the campaign, protested editing where Harris is seen giving two different answers to a question by the show’s Bill Whitaker in separate clips aired on “60 Minutes” and “Face the Nation” earlier in the day. CBS said each reply came within Harris’ long-winded answer to Whitaker, but was edited to be more succinct.“This settlement is a cowardly capitulation by the corporate leaders of Paramount, and a fundamental betrayal of ‘60 Minutes’ and CBS News,” said Rome Hartman, a producer of the Harris interview for the show. “The story that was the subject of this lawsuit was edited by the book and in accordance with CBS News standards.”<h2>Correspondents had worried of a settlement with ‘wrongdoing’ implications</h2>In a letter to Paramount's leadership in early May, “60 Minutes” correspondents said they were troubled by reports that Paramount might settle the case “in a way that acknowledges some sort of wrongdoing on our part."The correspondents, in the letter obtained by The Associated Press, said that “if our parent company caves in to his pressure and lies, it will leave a shameful stain and undermine the First Amendment.” It was signed by Whitaker, Lesley Stahl, Scott Pelley, Anderson Cooper, Sharyn Alfonsi, Jon Wertheim and Cecilia Vega.Trump's lawyer, Edward Andrew Paltzik, said the interview caused confusion and “mental anguish," misleading voters and causing them to pay less attention to Trump and his Truth Social online platform.Paramount and controlling shareholder Shari Redstone were seeking the settlement with Trump. CBS News President and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cbs-news-60-minutes-lawsuit-d43effebb7b3b76c31d38908bd31460e">CEO Wendy McMahon</a>&nbsp;and “60 Minutes” executive producer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/60-minutes-cbs-producer-quits-4c7729507684fa516391a7022d27586b">Bill Owens</a>, who both opposed a settlement, resigned in recent weeks.The&nbsp;<a href="https://freedom.press/">Freedom of the Press Foundation</a>, a media advocacy group that says it is a Paramount shareholder, has said that it would file a lawsuit in protest if a settlement was reached.In December, ABC News&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abc-trump-lawsuit-defamation-stephanopoulos-04aea8663310af39ae2a85f4c1a56d68">settled a defamation lawsuit</a>&nbsp;by Trump over statements made by anchor George Stephanopoulos, agreeing to pay $15 million toward Trump’s presidential library rather than engage in a public fight. Meta&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-meta-settlement-zuckerberg-capitol-riot-9939e52679364080c983e0cab739b805">reportedly paid $25 million</a>&nbsp;to settle Trump’s lawsuit against the company over its decision to suspend his social media accounts following the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

🎥Paramount to pay Trump $16 million to settle '60 Minutes' lawsuit

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

What began as a casual visit turned into a new beginning for two regulars who are now the new owners of the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in Hays.

Matt and Tiffany Mayo marked the grand reopening of The Paisley Pear, 1100 Main St., with a Friday ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber in Hays.

"We just want to continue supporting the Hays community, the locals, travelers and people who like to come in. For anybody that has not been here, we welcome you to come because we always love seeing faces," Matt said.

Matt is a former FedEx driver, and Tiffany is a longtime financial adviser. They purchased the business to begin a new chapter and preserve a place they had grown to love as customers.

"I'm excited to be off the road and be able to interact with a lot more people than I used to," Matt said.

The couple kept the establishment's original charm while expanding its offerings to include bourbon tastings, comedy and open mic nights, and heartier menu options like pasta.

The menu also features blackened lemon herb salmon, bierocks, an extensive wine selection, and monthly food and drink specials.

The building also includes a semi-private back room that can host small gatherings of 20 to 25 people, such as bridal showers, baby showers and other special celebrations.

Former owners Shaun and Heather Musil listed The Paisley Pear for sale in April 2024. Matt and Tiffany purchased it that October.

"Shaun was very forthcoming and helpful," Matt said. "He's been very good to work with, and I appreciate everything he's done."

Shaun and Heather announced their decision to sell the Paisley Pear to prioritize time with loved ones.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/223bd7bf-8dea-4547-ae5c-bd7da96b547f">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays' original wine bar The Paisley Pear up for sale</a>

The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays.

You can follow the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thePaisleyPear">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and visit their website&nbsp;<a href="https://paisleypear.net/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0Yyy7sLH091DPxWw_n5nDmkRMfU8xNnGzsVPgp8ZMFwIvebLjlAuwa61o_aem_AfmQLKtB-j65K_4yC10SCjc6BPDT5J4mhempbdXCuwrlYHWPOFToxi5TX68ZRrK7lkXlSHHzPjrGrFhZlOI0bEAT">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751052620064.jpeg" alt="Matt and Tiffany Mayo cutting a ribbon outside the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market, joined by attendees during a ceremony hosted by the Chamber in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Matt and Tiffany Mayo cutting a ribbon outside the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market, joined by attendees during a ceremony hosted by the Chamber in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostWhat began as a casual visit turned into a new beginning for two regulars who are now the new owners of the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in Hays.Matt and Tiffany Mayo marked the grand reopening of The Paisley Pear, 1100 Main St., with a Friday ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber in Hays."We just want to continue supporting the Hays community, the locals, travelers and people who like to come in. For anybody that has not been here, we welcome you to come because we always love seeing faces," Matt said.Matt is a former FedEx driver, and Tiffany is a longtime financial adviser. They purchased the business to begin a new chapter and preserve a place they had grown to love as customers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751052675150.jpeg" alt="Matt and Tiffany Mayo at the grand reopening of the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Matt and Tiffany Mayo at the grand reopening of the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"I'm excited to be off the road and be able to interact with a lot more people than I used to," Matt said.The couple kept the establishment's original charm while expanding its offerings to include bourbon tastings, comedy and open mic nights, and heartier menu options like pasta.The menu also features blackened lemon herb salmon, bierocks, an extensive wine selection, and monthly food and drink specials.The building also includes a semi-private back room that can host small gatherings of 20 to 25 people, such as bridal showers, baby showers and other special celebrations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751052702764.jpeg" alt="The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Former owners Shaun and Heather Musil listed The Paisley Pear for sale in April 2024. Matt and Tiffany purchased it that October."Shaun was very forthcoming and helpful," Matt said. "He's been very good to work with, and I appreciate everything he's done."Shaun and Heather announced their decision to sell the Paisley Pear to prioritize time with loved ones.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/223bd7bf-8dea-4547-ae5c-bd7da96b547f">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays' original wine bar The Paisley Pear up for sale</a>The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays.You can follow the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thePaisleyPear">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and visit their website&nbsp;<a href="https://paisleypear.net/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0Yyy7sLH091DPxWw_n5nDmkRMfU8xNnGzsVPgp8ZMFwIvebLjlAuwa61o_aem_AfmQLKtB-j65K_4yC10SCjc6BPDT5J4mhempbdXCuwrlYHWPOFToxi5TX68ZRrK7lkXlSHHzPjrGrFhZlOI0bEAT">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays' The Paisley Pear celebrates grand reopening

Diana M. Dinkel, 70, Victoria, died Thursday, June 26, 2025
at HaysMed.

She was born October 1, 1954 in Hays, the daughter of Leon
A. and Lillian (Dreiling) Dinkel.&nbsp; She
was a graduate of Victoria High School with the class of 1972, earned a
Bachelor’s Degree in business administration from Fort Hays State University,
and then she worked for Sears doing merchandise ordering.&nbsp; Diana was a talented musician who played the
saxophone, accordion, piano, and played guitar at the Comeau Catholic Campus
Center.&nbsp; Diana was a devout Catholic and a
member of the Basilica of St. Fidelis.&nbsp; She
enjoyed family gatherings, graciously put the needs of others before her own,
and lovingly cared for her nieces, nephews, and parents.

Survivors include her mother Lillian of Victoria, two
brothers, George Dinkel and wife Linda of Wichita and Joseph Dinkel of
Victoria, three sisters, Mary Stecklein and husband Duane of Munjor, Annette
Wiesner and husband Raymond of Hays, and Therese Augustine and husband Vern of
Overland Park, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father Leon.

Mass of Christian burial was Saturday, June 28, 2025 at the
Basilica of St. Fidelis with Fr. Curtis Carlson, OFM Cap. officiating.&nbsp; Burial followed in St. Fidelis Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Basilica of
St. Fidelis or for masses.&nbsp; Funeral
arrangements are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, and
condolences and memories of Diana may be shared with her family at
www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728779344280.jpg" alt="Diana M. Dinkel" />
 <figcaption>Diana M. Dinkel</figcaption>
 </figure>Diana M. Dinkel, 70, Victoria, died Thursday, June 26, 2025
at HaysMed.She was born October 1, 1954 in Hays, the daughter of Leon
A. and Lillian (Dreiling) Dinkel.&nbsp; She
was a graduate of Victoria High School with the class of 1972, earned a
Bachelor’s Degree in business administration from Fort Hays State University,
and then she worked for Sears doing merchandise ordering.&nbsp; Diana was a talented musician who played the
saxophone, accordion, piano, and played guitar at the Comeau Catholic Campus
Center.&nbsp; Diana was a devout Catholic and a
member of the Basilica of St. Fidelis.&nbsp; She
enjoyed family gatherings, graciously put the needs of others before her own,
and lovingly cared for her nieces, nephews, and parents.Survivors include her mother Lillian of Victoria, two
brothers, George Dinkel and wife Linda of Wichita and Joseph Dinkel of
Victoria, three sisters, Mary Stecklein and husband Duane of Munjor, Annette
Wiesner and husband Raymond of Hays, and Therese Augustine and husband Vern of
Overland Park, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.She was preceded in death by her father Leon.Mass of Christian burial was Saturday, June 28, 2025 at the
Basilica of St. Fidelis with Fr. Curtis Carlson, OFM Cap. officiating.&nbsp; Burial followed in St. Fidelis Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Basilica of
St. Fidelis or for masses.&nbsp; Funeral
arrangements are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, and
condolences and memories of Diana may be shared with her family at
www.haysmemorial.com

Diana M. Dinkel

Shirley
E. Ochs, 61, of Park, KS passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on
June 27, 2025, after a second battle with cancer. She was born on October 11,
1963, to Billy and Sophie Ochs. Shirley was the fifth of their six daughter
family. She was raised on a farm near Park, KS and really enjoyed the outdoors
and her quiet country life. Shirley’s interests were art, fashion, sports and
dance.

Shirley
believed education was very important. She was always eager to learn new
things. She graduated from Fort Hays State University, Colby Community College
and Goodland Vo-Tech.

Shirley
worked as a bank teller, receptionist, medical transcriptionist, pharmacy tech
and manager trainee. Her favorite and most important job was being a caregiver
for her parents for over 20 years until her cancer returned.

Shirley
treasured her family and friends. She enjoyed spending time with her nieces and
nephews. Many hours were spent playing outside with them. There was a special
place for all of them in her heart. She made an&nbsp;impact on their lives and
everyone’s that she met. She will be greatly missed.

Shirley
was a member of the Sacred Heart Church in Park and a member of their Altar
Society. Religion was an important part of her life. She prayed and talked to
God daily knowing that he was always with her no matter what.

She
was preceded in death by her father Billy G. Ochs and mother Sophie Ochs. She
is survived by her sisters, Beverly and husband Darold Zimmerman, Darlene and
husband Melvern Zimmerman, Kay Ann and husband Larry Schmidt, Jo Ann and
husband Ronald Zimmerman, Marilyn and husband Larry Heier; 14 nieces and
nephews.

A
Rosary will be said at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Park, with burial in
the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Church or for Masses
and may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For
information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751296706643.jpeg" alt="Shirley E. Ochs" />
 <figcaption>Shirley E. Ochs</figcaption>
 </figure>Shirley
E. Ochs, 61, of Park, KS passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on
June 27, 2025, after a second battle with cancer. She was born on October 11,
1963, to Billy and Sophie Ochs. Shirley was the fifth of their six daughter
family. She was raised on a farm near Park, KS and really enjoyed the outdoors
and her quiet country life. Shirley’s interests were art, fashion, sports and
dance.Shirley
believed education was very important. She was always eager to learn new
things. She graduated from Fort Hays State University, Colby Community College
and Goodland Vo-Tech.Shirley
worked as a bank teller, receptionist, medical transcriptionist, pharmacy tech
and manager trainee. Her favorite and most important job was being a caregiver
for her parents for over 20 years until her cancer returned.Shirley
treasured her family and friends. She enjoyed spending time with her nieces and
nephews. Many hours were spent playing outside with them. There was a special
place for all of them in her heart. She made an&nbsp;impact on their lives and
everyone’s that she met. She will be greatly missed.Shirley
was a member of the Sacred Heart Church in Park and a member of their Altar
Society. Religion was an important part of her life. She prayed and talked to
God daily knowing that he was always with her no matter what.She
was preceded in death by her father Billy G. Ochs and mother Sophie Ochs. She
is survived by her sisters, Beverly and husband Darold Zimmerman, Darlene and
husband Melvern Zimmerman, Kay Ann and husband Larry Schmidt, Jo Ann and
husband Ronald Zimmerman, Marilyn and husband Larry Heier; 14 nieces and
nephews.A
Rosary will be said at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Park, with burial in
the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Church or for Masses
and may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For
information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

Shirley E. Ochs

Clarence Charles Pfeifer, age 91, of WaKeeney, KS,
formerly of St. Peter, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025,
at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney.

Clarence was born on October 7, 1933, in St. Peter to Frank
J. and Catherine (Dinkel) Pfeifer.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army,
assigned to Charlie Battery, 9th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Missile Battalion
during the Cold War era. He was stationed at the Presidio in San Francisco, CA.
After completing his service, he returned home to St. Peter, where he spent
many years working alongside his father and brothers at Pfeifer Service
Station.

On May 7, 1958, Clarence married the love of his life,
Thelma Zerr, at the Catholic Church in Park, KS. They recently celebrated 67
wonderful years of marriage in May 2025.

Clarence loved his family deeply. He also loved farming and
spent many years working the land. He enjoyed visiting with customers at the
service station, always ready for a good conversation. He had a passion for
collecting antique tractors.

Clarence was a lifelong member of St. Anthony Catholic
Church in St. Peter and later joined Christ the King Catholic Church in
WaKeeney. He was a proud member of the 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus and lived
out his faith with quiet strength and service.

He is survived by his wife, Thelma, and their children:
Arnold Pfeifer of Englewood, CO; Jeanetta McDonald of Hays, KS; Randall Pfeifer
(Michelle) of Hill City, KS; Leon Pfeifer (Beverly) of Hays; Terry Pfeifer of
Prague, OK; and Norman Pfeifer (Renee) of Littleton, CO.

He was a proud grandfather to Michael McDonald (Julie),
Tyler McDonald, Bre Patton (Jeff), Ryan Pfeifer (Kristen), Marcus Pfeifer
(Anissa), Eric Pfeifer (Kiley), Stephanie Black (Kevin), Adam Pfeifer (Brooke),
Kyle Pfeifer (Baylee), Timothy Pfeifer, and Derek Pfeifer. Clarence also leaves
behind 16 great-grandchildren; his brother, Lloyd Pfeifer (Linda); sisters,
Caroline Flax and Catherine Heier (Felix); sisters-in-law, Anna Pfeifer,
Alfreda Pfeifer, and Rosalie Pfeifer; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Albert
Pfeifer, Alvin Pfeifer, and Allen Pfeifer; and sisters, Helen Zimmerman and
Pauline Zerr.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from
5:00–7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St., WaKeeney, KS, with the
Rosary prayed at 7:00 p.m.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated
on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 412
N 9th St., WaKeeney, KS. Interment will follow at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery
at WaKeeney at approximately 11:15 a.m. A small repast will be held at Christ
the King Parish Hall following the committal, where family and friends are
invite

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751240129184.jpeg" alt="Clarence Charles Pfeifer" />
 <figcaption>Clarence Charles Pfeifer</figcaption>
 </figure>Clarence Charles Pfeifer, age 91, of WaKeeney, KS,
formerly of St. Peter, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025,
at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney.Clarence was born on October 7, 1933, in St. Peter to Frank
J. and Catherine (Dinkel) Pfeifer.He proudly served his country in the United States Army,
assigned to Charlie Battery, 9th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Missile Battalion
during the Cold War era. He was stationed at the Presidio in San Francisco, CA.
After completing his service, he returned home to St. Peter, where he spent
many years working alongside his father and brothers at Pfeifer Service
Station.On May 7, 1958, Clarence married the love of his life,
Thelma Zerr, at the Catholic Church in Park, KS. They recently celebrated 67
wonderful years of marriage in May 2025.Clarence loved his family deeply. He also loved farming and
spent many years working the land. He enjoyed visiting with customers at the
service station, always ready for a good conversation. He had a passion for
collecting antique tractors.Clarence was a lifelong member of St. Anthony Catholic
Church in St. Peter and later joined Christ the King Catholic Church in
WaKeeney. He was a proud member of the 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus and lived
out his faith with quiet strength and service.He is survived by his wife, Thelma, and their children:
Arnold Pfeifer of Englewood, CO; Jeanetta McDonald of Hays, KS; Randall Pfeifer
(Michelle) of Hill City, KS; Leon Pfeifer (Beverly) of Hays; Terry Pfeifer of
Prague, OK; and Norman Pfeifer (Renee) of Littleton, CO.He was a proud grandfather to Michael McDonald (Julie),
Tyler McDonald, Bre Patton (Jeff), Ryan Pfeifer (Kristen), Marcus Pfeifer
(Anissa), Eric Pfeifer (Kiley), Stephanie Black (Kevin), Adam Pfeifer (Brooke),
Kyle Pfeifer (Baylee), Timothy Pfeifer, and Derek Pfeifer. Clarence also leaves
behind 16 great-grandchildren; his brother, Lloyd Pfeifer (Linda); sisters,
Caroline Flax and Catherine Heier (Felix); sisters-in-law, Anna Pfeifer,
Alfreda Pfeifer, and Rosalie Pfeifer; along with many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Albert
Pfeifer, Alvin Pfeifer, and Allen Pfeifer; and sisters, Helen Zimmerman and
Pauline Zerr.Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from
5:00–7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St., WaKeeney, KS, with the
Rosary prayed at 7:00 p.m.The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated
on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 412
N 9th St., WaKeeney, KS. Interment will follow at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery
at WaKeeney at approximately 11:15 a.m. A small repast will be held at Christ
the King Parish Hall following the committal, where family and friends are
invite

Clarence Charles Pfeifer

EMPORIA, Kan. — A Lyon County jury has found Adam Jay Hrabik, 45, of Lyons, guilty of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer and aggravated assault, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced Friday.

Hrabik was charged in connection with the October 2020 shooting of Lyons Police Officer Cory Ryan and Lyons High School teacher Brian Friess. Officer Ryan was shot multiple times while responding to a 911 call from Friess, who had reported being threatened with a firearm. Both men sustained serious injuries, and Ryan spent nearly two weeks hospitalized in Wichita before recovering.

Originally charged with attempted capital murder, Hrabik was convicted after nearly five years of legal proceedings. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorneys General Nicole Southall and J.D. Hatcher, and investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation with support from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Rice County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol.

“We are deeply thankful for the tireless efforts and commitment of our law enforcement partners,” said Southall. “It is a profound relief to see justice delivered for the victims, whose strength in the face of hardship is truly commendable.”

Deputy Attorney General Jessica Domme praised the courage of law enforcement officers, stating, “We commend their unwavering courage and resilience in the face of danger.”

Hrabik is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21 at 1:00 p.m. in Rice County District Court by Senior Judge Merlin Wheeler.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751056811541.png" alt="Hrabik photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Hrabik photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMPORIA, Kan. — A Lyon County jury has found Adam Jay Hrabik, 45, of Lyons, guilty of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer and aggravated assault, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced Friday.Hrabik was charged in connection with the October 2020 shooting of Lyons Police Officer Cory Ryan and Lyons High School teacher Brian Friess. Officer Ryan was shot multiple times while responding to a 911 call from Friess, who had reported being threatened with a firearm. Both men sustained serious injuries, and Ryan spent nearly two weeks hospitalized in Wichita before recovering.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751055784729.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene in Lyons in 2020 -file photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene in Lyons in 2020 -file photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Originally charged with attempted capital murder, Hrabik was convicted after nearly five years of legal proceedings. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorneys General Nicole Southall and J.D. Hatcher, and investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation with support from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Rice County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol.“We are deeply thankful for the tireless efforts and commitment of our law enforcement partners,” said Southall. “It is a profound relief to see justice delivered for the victims, whose strength in the face of hardship is truly commendable.”Deputy Attorney General Jessica Domme praised the courage of law enforcement officers, stating, “We commend their unwavering courage and resilience in the face of danger.”Hrabik is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21 at 1:00 p.m. in Rice County District Court by Senior Judge Merlin Wheeler.

Jury: Man guilty in attempted murder of Kansas officer

Missouri is one of only two states in which judges can unilaterally impose the death penalty when a jury can’t agree on whether the defendant should be sentenced to death. In most other states, a deadlocked jury results in a sentence of life without parole

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

A Missouri man who was sentenced to death by a trial judge in 2009 despite a jury deadlocking on whether he should be executed has been scheduled to undergo lethal injection in October.&nbsp;

The Missouri Supreme Court last week issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/SC90286WARRANT.PDF?courtCode=SC&amp;di=209718" target="_blank">warrant</a>&nbsp;for the execution of Lance Shockley, who recently exhausted his state and federal appeals and was convicted of the 2005 murder of Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Carl Dewayne Graham Jr.&nbsp;

The court announced the execution date last week.

Graham was shot and killed in his rural Carter County driveway. Graham had been investigating Shockley’s role in a fatal drunk driving accident, which the prosecution argued gave Shockley the motive to kill him. Shockley has insisted he’s innocent.

A jury in 2009 found Shockley guilty of first-degree murder. But&nbsp;in the punishment phase of Shockley’s trial, the jury failed to reach a unanimous decision on whether he should be executed.&nbsp;

In most states with active death penalty laws, that deadlock would have resulted in the defendant being sentenced to life without parole.&nbsp;

But under Missouri law, Shockley’s penalty case then got handed off to a Carter County circuit judge who, after independent review, sentenced him to death.

Only Missouri and Indiana give judges the authority to unilaterally decide on the death penalty, a fact that&nbsp;<a href="https://philadelphia.citybuzz.co/article/483510/dla-piper-files-amicus-brief-with-us-supreme-court-in-missouri-capital-case" target="_blank">over the years</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/opinion/editorial/editorial-missouri-lets-judges-impose-death-sentences-if-juries-dont-that-should-change/article_b6c15e00-4cc4-11ee-bd57-8b920a2a85f0.html" target="_blank">has drawn scrutiny</a>&nbsp;from those who believe it places too much power in the hands of one person and denies defendants their constitutional rights to trial by jury and protection against cruel and unusual punishment.

In 2023 Amber McLaughlin was executed because of the unilateral decision of a trial judge.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article270281972.html" target="_blank">S</a><a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article270281972.html" target="_blank">everal retired judges&nbsp;</a>opposed the execution in a letter to then-Gov. Mike Parson, calling it a “flaw in Missouri’s capital sentencing scheme.”

An&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pogo.org/analysis/who-should-make-decision-on-life-and-death" target="_blank">analysis included in an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court organized by the national nonprofit watchdog group Project on Government Oversight&nbsp;</a>found Missouri judges, who are elected in most parts of the state, have been more likely than juries to impose death sentences.&nbsp;

In cases without jury deadlock, from 2000 to 2018, the jury imposed a death sentence in 64% of cases. But in deadlocked cases with a trial judge making the decision, the death penalty was imposed in 86% of cases, according to the brief.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/10/group-of-republican-lawmakers-raise-concerns-about-missouri-death-penalty/">in recent years have filed legislation&nbsp;</a>to eliminate judge-imposed executions, but the proposals have made little progress.

Shockley has denied his involvement in Graham’s death, citing the lack of physical evidence or eyewitnesses. His attorneys&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/APPELLANT%20LANCE%20SHOCKLEYS%20SUR-REPLY%20IN%20OPPOSITION%20TO%20THE%20STATES%20MOTION%20TO%20SET%20AN%20EXECUTION%20DATE.PDF?courtCode=SC&amp;di=209165" target="_blank">have tried</a>&nbsp;unsuccessfully to get evidence from the crime scene tested for DNA and have argued the police failed to investigate other possible suspects.

“Shockley’s defense at trial was that he was not the one who killed Sgt. Graham,” his attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/APPELLANT%20LANCE%20SHOCKLEYS%20SUR-REPLY%20IN%20OPPOSITION%20TO%20THE%20STATES%20MOTION%20TO%20SET%20AN%20EXECUTION%20DATE.PDF?courtCode=SC&amp;di=209165" target="_blank">wrote in a brief last month.</a>&nbsp;“Shockley has never wavered in that position.”&nbsp;

His attorney didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

The prosecution said Shockley borrowed a relative’s car the afternoon of Graham’s death and the car matched the description witnesses gave of one parked near Graham’s house the afternoon of his murder. Prosecutors also argued the recovered bullets may have been consistent with the caliber of a rifle Shockley owned. No murder weapon was found.

The Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://law.justia.com/cases/missouri/supreme-court/2013/sc90286.html" target="_blank">Supreme Court</a>, responding to the defense’s argument that the death penalty was excessive or disproportionate punishment for a case relying on circumstantial proof, said courts have previously upheld death sentences in cases hinging on strong circumstantial evidence and here, “the circumstantial evidence was strong.”

Shockley would be the first person executed in Missouri this year, barring intervention from Gov. Mike Kehoe or the U.S. Supreme Court.&nbsp;

Last year, Missouri executed four people. It was one of four states responsible for 76% of executions that year,&nbsp;<a href="https://dpic-cdn.org/production/documents/DPI-2024-Year-End-Report.pdf?dm=1735847939" target="_blank">according to the Death Penalty Information Center.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750874127475.png" alt="Shockley photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Shockley photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Missouri is one of only two states in which judges can unilaterally impose the death penalty when a jury can’t agree on whether the defendant should be sentenced to death. In most other states, a deadlocked jury results in a sentence of life without parole</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>A Missouri man who was sentenced to death by a trial judge in 2009 despite a jury deadlocking on whether he should be executed has been scheduled to undergo lethal injection in October.&nbsp;The Missouri Supreme Court last week issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/SC90286WARRANT.PDF?courtCode=SC&amp;di=209718" target="_blank">warrant</a>&nbsp;for the execution of Lance Shockley, who recently exhausted his state and federal appeals and was convicted of the 2005 murder of Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Carl Dewayne Graham Jr.&nbsp;The court announced the execution date last week.Graham was shot and killed in his rural Carter County driveway. Graham had been investigating Shockley’s role in a fatal drunk driving accident, which the prosecution argued gave Shockley the motive to kill him. Shockley has insisted he’s innocent.A jury in 2009 found Shockley guilty of first-degree murder. But&nbsp;in the punishment phase of Shockley’s trial, the jury failed to reach a unanimous decision on whether he should be executed.&nbsp;In most states with active death penalty laws, that deadlock would have resulted in the defendant being sentenced to life without parole.&nbsp;But under Missouri law, Shockley’s penalty case then got handed off to a Carter County circuit judge who, after independent review, sentenced him to death.Only Missouri and Indiana give judges the authority to unilaterally decide on the death penalty, a fact that&nbsp;<a href="https://philadelphia.citybuzz.co/article/483510/dla-piper-files-amicus-brief-with-us-supreme-court-in-missouri-capital-case" target="_blank">over the years</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/opinion/editorial/editorial-missouri-lets-judges-impose-death-sentences-if-juries-dont-that-should-change/article_b6c15e00-4cc4-11ee-bd57-8b920a2a85f0.html" target="_blank">has drawn scrutiny</a>&nbsp;from those who believe it places too much power in the hands of one person and denies defendants their constitutional rights to trial by jury and protection against cruel and unusual punishment.In 2023 Amber McLaughlin was executed because of the unilateral decision of a trial judge.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article270281972.html" target="_blank">S</a><a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article270281972.html" target="_blank">everal retired judges&nbsp;</a>opposed the execution in a letter to then-Gov. Mike Parson, calling it a “flaw in Missouri’s capital sentencing scheme.”An&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pogo.org/analysis/who-should-make-decision-on-life-and-death" target="_blank">analysis included in an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court organized by the national nonprofit watchdog group Project on Government Oversight&nbsp;</a>found Missouri judges, who are elected in most parts of the state, have been more likely than juries to impose death sentences.&nbsp;In cases without jury deadlock, from 2000 to 2018, the jury imposed a death sentence in 64% of cases. But in deadlocked cases with a trial judge making the decision, the death penalty was imposed in 86% of cases, according to the brief.A bipartisan group of lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/10/group-of-republican-lawmakers-raise-concerns-about-missouri-death-penalty/">in recent years have filed legislation&nbsp;</a>to eliminate judge-imposed executions, but the proposals have made little progress.Shockley has denied his involvement in Graham’s death, citing the lack of physical evidence or eyewitnesses. His attorneys&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/APPELLANT%20LANCE%20SHOCKLEYS%20SUR-REPLY%20IN%20OPPOSITION%20TO%20THE%20STATES%20MOTION%20TO%20SET%20AN%20EXECUTION%20DATE.PDF?courtCode=SC&amp;di=209165" target="_blank">have tried</a>&nbsp;unsuccessfully to get evidence from the crime scene tested for DNA and have argued the police failed to investigate other possible suspects.“Shockley’s defense at trial was that he was not the one who killed Sgt. Graham,” his attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/APPELLANT%20LANCE%20SHOCKLEYS%20SUR-REPLY%20IN%20OPPOSITION%20TO%20THE%20STATES%20MOTION%20TO%20SET%20AN%20EXECUTION%20DATE.PDF?courtCode=SC&amp;di=209165" target="_blank">wrote in a brief last month.</a>&nbsp;“Shockley has never wavered in that position.”&nbsp;His attorney didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.The prosecution said Shockley borrowed a relative’s car the afternoon of Graham’s death and the car matched the description witnesses gave of one parked near Graham’s house the afternoon of his murder. Prosecutors also argued the recovered bullets may have been consistent with the caliber of a rifle Shockley owned. No murder weapon was found.The Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://law.justia.com/cases/missouri/supreme-court/2013/sc90286.html" target="_blank">Supreme Court</a>, responding to the defense’s argument that the death penalty was excessive or disproportionate punishment for a case relying on circumstantial proof, said courts have previously upheld death sentences in cases hinging on strong circumstantial evidence and here, “the circumstantial evidence was strong.”Shockley would be the first person executed in Missouri this year, barring intervention from Gov. Mike Kehoe or the U.S. Supreme Court.&nbsp;Last year, Missouri executed four people. It was one of four states responsible for 76% of executions that year,&nbsp;<a href="https://dpic-cdn.org/production/documents/DPI-2024-Year-End-Report.pdf?dm=1735847939" target="_blank">according to the Death Penalty Information Center.&nbsp;</a>

Execution date set for man sentenced to die for killing Patrol Sgt.

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported one new cases of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 80 cases in 11 counties.

The Associated Press reported the U.S. logged fewer than 20&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-vaccine-mmr-covid-exemptions-87cbfe44d8599b68408861f9b62421ed">measles cases</a>&nbsp;last week, though Iowa announced the state's first outbreak Thursday and Georgia confirmed its second Wednesday.

There have been 1,214 confirmed measles cases this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. Health officials in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">Texas, where the nation's biggest outbreak</a>&nbsp;raged during the late winter and spring, confirmed six cases in the last week.

There are three other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mexico-canada-ontario-0956a30c043b030ae79bc9f67c6ce89c">major outbreaks</a>&nbsp;in North America. The longest, in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/Documents/M/24/measles-ontario-epi-summary.pdf?rev=3d8451977cd34084a8b494a6a11b4f1a&amp;sc_lang=en&amp;hash=48D1A6D0D037B39BD421AAF060204EE0">2,179 cases</a>&nbsp;from mid-October through June 17. The province logged its first death June 5 in a baby who got congenital measles but also had other preexisting conditions.

Another outbreak in Alberta, Canada, has sickened&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alberta.ca/measles">996 as of Thursday</a>. And the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-measles-vaccines-misinformation-mmr-mennonites-misinformation-ea6158b9a4d513b20f33cbc09034e5c2">Mexican state of Chihuahua</a>&nbsp;had 2,335 measles cases and four deaths as of Friday, according to data from the state health ministry.

Other U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-kansas-ohio-mmr-vaccination-new-mexico-texas-569474272df9baaad1f6d73462ebe92a">states with active outbreaks</a>&nbsp;— which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Arizona, Colorado, Illinois,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3">Kansas</a>, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota and Oklahoma.

Measles cases also have been reported this year in Alaska, Arkansas, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.

Health officials declared earlier outbreaks in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania over after six weeks of no new cases. Tennessee’s outbreak also appears to be over.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085628490.png" alt="&nbsp;Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported one new cases of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 80 cases in 11 counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750876489660.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Associated Press reported the U.S. logged fewer than 20&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-vaccine-mmr-covid-exemptions-87cbfe44d8599b68408861f9b62421ed">measles cases</a>&nbsp;last week, though Iowa announced the state's first outbreak Thursday and Georgia confirmed its second Wednesday.There have been 1,214 confirmed measles cases this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. Health officials in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">Texas, where the nation's biggest outbreak</a>&nbsp;raged during the late winter and spring, confirmed six cases in the last week.There are three other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mexico-canada-ontario-0956a30c043b030ae79bc9f67c6ce89c">major outbreaks</a>&nbsp;in North America. The longest, in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/Documents/M/24/measles-ontario-epi-summary.pdf?rev=3d8451977cd34084a8b494a6a11b4f1a&amp;sc_lang=en&amp;hash=48D1A6D0D037B39BD421AAF060204EE0">2,179 cases</a>&nbsp;from mid-October through June 17. The province logged its first death June 5 in a baby who got congenital measles but also had other preexisting conditions.Another outbreak in Alberta, Canada, has sickened&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alberta.ca/measles">996 as of Thursday</a>. And the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-measles-vaccines-misinformation-mmr-mennonites-misinformation-ea6158b9a4d513b20f33cbc09034e5c2">Mexican state of Chihuahua</a>&nbsp;had 2,335 measles cases and four deaths as of Friday, according to data from the state health ministry.Other U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-kansas-ohio-mmr-vaccination-new-mexico-texas-569474272df9baaad1f6d73462ebe92a">states with active outbreaks</a>&nbsp;— which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Arizona, Colorado, Illinois,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3">Kansas</a>, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota and Oklahoma.In the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">two elementary school-aged children</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">epicenter in West Texas</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">adult in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;have died of measles this year. All were unvaccinated.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-vaccines-autism-measles-obesity-food-dye-f26089856550e978d28fd25b653d8103">preventable through vaccines</a>&nbsp;and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.<h2>Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?</h2>Measles cases also have been reported this year in Alaska, Arkansas, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.Health officials declared earlier outbreaks in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania over after six weeks of no new cases. Tennessee’s outbreak also appears to be over.Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. The CDC said in May that more than twice as many measles have come from outside of the U.S. compared to May of last year. Most of those are in unvaccinated Americans returning home. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.<h2>What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine?</h2>The best way to avoid measles is to get the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html">measles, mumps and rubella</a>&nbsp;vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.Getting another MMR shot as an adult is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said.People who have documentation that they had measles are immune and those born before 1957 generally don’t need the shots because so many children got measles back then that they have “presumptive immunity."Measles has a harder time spreading through communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — due to “herd immunity.” But childhood vaccination rates have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">declined nationwide</a>&nbsp;since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.<h2>What are the symptoms of measles?</h2>Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html">dangerous complications</a>&nbsp;such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.<h2>How can you treat measles?</h2>

Fewer new measles cases in Kansas this week

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Construction is scheduled to begin&nbsp; before the end of the year on homes in the Grove addition.

The addition will include 50 single-family homes, 50 villas and four duplexes.

Construction crews, which are ahead of schedule, are very close to completing the streets, sewer, water curbs and gutters. That work is expected to be completed within the next few weeks, followed by the electrical installation.&nbsp;

Construction on houses should start in September or October.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>&nbsp;is expected to be completed by late July. The center will be the new home for the Hays Senior Center, a new child care center operated by Bright Minds Academy and multi-use community rooms.

A ribbon cutting for that facility is set for 9 a.m. Aug. 29.

Grow Hays is still a little short of budget for the community center. Anyone interesting in donating to that project can contact Grow Hays at&nbsp;785-628-3102.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs said the community center will be an amazing facility. She said she expects many more seniors to participate in the senior center when it moves into its new facility.

"Besides that, when you walk into that big open space with the glass in the back, it is really a special place," she said, "and I can't imagine if I lived in the Grove that I wouldn't want to rent those units for family gatherings."

The other housing addition Grow Hays has been heavily involved with, the Tallgrass Addition, has been highly successful, Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, said.

Since developers began building there in 2022, all the homes have sold before they were completed, with a waiting list still in place.

That demand, combined with a 2019 study showing seniors were a significant economic driver and recruitment opportunity for the community, prompted Grow Hays to embark on the Grove project.

Although the addition is geared toward seniors, it will have no age restrictions, Williams said.

The addition is conveniently located next to HaysMed as well as the Center for Health Improvement.

In addition, the Grove will feature a multi-use path that will eventually connect existing paths running from the Hays Recreation Center, behind HaysMed, to the Sternberg Museum and on to Hall Street, and ultimately 41st Street in northwest Hays.

When both the Grove trail and a section being built by the city connect, there will be six miles of continuous trail.

&nbsp;Some of the features of the homes will include • Slab on grade construction • 3-foot doorways • Open floor plans • 9-foot ceilings • Granite, quartz or onyx counter tops • Solid core doors • High efficiency HVAC • Optional storm shelters

A homeowners association will be responsible for all exterior maintenance.

This includes • Insurance for exteriors and exterior repairs on all of the homes, including roofs and siding • Lawn maintenance • Snow removal&nbsp;

Homeowners association fees have yet to be calculated. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/43bd3666-a30c-449a-acde-9e1bec020952">The Grove is being built within a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District, so homeowners will not be required to pay special assessments.</a>

Homeowners will be responsible for insuring the interior and their contents.

"You do subject yourself to certain rules and regulations," Williams said. "You're not going to park your boat in front of your unit. You're not going to park your camper in front of your unit. There are some limitations. That is just the way it is.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887395295.jpeg" alt="An aerial photo of the Grove housing addition on north Canterbury. Water, sewer, curbs and gutter should be complete within the next few weeks. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>An aerial photo of the Grove housing addition on north Canterbury. Water, sewer, curbs and gutter should be complete within the next few weeks. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostConstruction is scheduled to begin&nbsp; before the end of the year on homes in the Grove addition.The addition will include 50 single-family homes, 50 villas and four duplexes.Construction crews, which are ahead of schedule, are very close to completing the streets, sewer, water curbs and gutters. That work is expected to be completed within the next few weeks, followed by the electrical installation.&nbsp;Construction on houses should start in September or October.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887660555.jpeg" alt="The layout of the Grove housing addition.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The layout of the Grove housing addition.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>&nbsp;is expected to be completed by late July. The center will be the new home for the Hays Senior Center, a new child care center operated by Bright Minds Academy and multi-use community rooms.A ribbon cutting for that facility is set for 9 a.m. Aug. 29.Grow Hays is still a little short of budget for the community center. Anyone interesting in donating to that project can contact Grow Hays at&nbsp;785-628-3102.Mayor Sandy Jacobs said the community center will be an amazing facility. She said she expects many more seniors to participate in the senior center when it moves into its new facility."Besides that, when you walk into that big open space with the glass in the back, it is really a special place," she said, "and I can't imagine if I lived in the Grove that I wouldn't want to rent those units for family gatherings."The other housing addition Grow Hays has been heavily involved with, the Tallgrass Addition, has been highly successful, Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887699603.jpeg" alt="Aerial view of the Grove. Fifty slab-on-grade homes will be built in the main portion of the addition." />
 <figcaption>Aerial view of the Grove. Fifty slab-on-grade homes will be built in the main portion of the addition.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887846184.jpeg" alt="Aerial photo of the Grove. The area that will be the Villas is on the lower left side of the image.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Aerial photo of the Grove. The area that will be the Villas is on the lower left side of the image.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Since developers began building there in 2022, all the homes have sold before they were completed, with a waiting list still in place.That demand, combined with a 2019 study showing seniors were a significant economic driver and recruitment opportunity for the community, prompted Grow Hays to embark on the Grove project.Although the addition is geared toward seniors, it will have no age restrictions, Williams said.The addition is conveniently located next to HaysMed as well as the Center for Health Improvement.In addition, the Grove will feature a multi-use path that will eventually connect existing paths running from the Hays Recreation Center, behind HaysMed, to the Sternberg Museum and on to Hall Street, and ultimately 41st Street in northwest Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887774653.jpeg" alt="What the exteriors and courtyard for the Villas might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>What the exteriors and courtyard for the Villas might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887798785.jpeg" alt="Villa garage. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Villa garage. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750887810052.jpeg" alt="What a patio for one of the Villa patio homes might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>What a patio for one of the Villa patio homes might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When both the Grove trail and a section being built by the city connect, there will be six miles of continuous trail.&nbsp;Some of the features of the homes will include • Slab on grade construction • 3-foot doorways • Open floor plans • 9-foot ceilings • Granite, quartz or onyx counter tops • Solid core doors • High efficiency HVAC • Optional storm sheltersA homeowners association will be responsible for all exterior maintenance.This includes • Insurance for exteriors and exterior repairs on all of the homes, including roofs and siding • Lawn maintenance • Snow removal&nbsp;Homeowners association fees have yet to be calculated. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/43bd3666-a30c-449a-acde-9e1bec020952">The Grove is being built within a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District, so homeowners will not be required to pay special assessments.</a>Homeowners will be responsible for insuring the interior and their contents."You do subject yourself to certain rules and regulations," Williams said. "You're not going to park your boat in front of your unit. You're not going to park your camper in front of your unit. There are some limitations. That is just the way it is."Unfortunately, if you can't live with that, it's probably not a good place for you to be."Pets will be allowed, although the homeowners association may have restrictions on the types and sizes of pets.The homeowners association will likely restrict short-term rentals and Airbnbs. Although there may be some allowances for long-term rentals, Williams said he doubted investors would purchase these homes at these prices as rental properties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750888221379.jpeg" alt="An example of what the interior of one of the Villas might look like. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>An example of what the interior of one of the Villas might look like. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750888236260.jpeg" alt="An example of what a master suite in one of the Villas might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>An example of what a master suite in one of the Villas might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750888249425.jpeg" alt="What a kitchen in one of the Villas might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>What a kitchen in one of the Villas might look like.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The original plan was to build multi-family units on the corner of 27th and Canterbury streets, but developers seemed less interested in this concept, Williams said.Grow Hays pivoted and decided to build the Villas.These will be two-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car-garage patio homes.The homes' entrances will face each other in a courtyard configuration, with the garages in the rear of the homes off of a paved alley.Williams said the housing addition will be dense, but private. The patios will be on opposite sides of each other. There will also be provisions for privacy or pet fencing if desired.The Villas will be offered at a lower price point, with smaller square footage — specifically 1,000 square feet — compared to the 1,500 square feet in the homes in the Grove proper.The villas will feature similar interior amenities to those of the other homes in the Grove. The garages will be slightly oversized to accommodate more storage. The patio homes can also be equipped with storm shelters.Work on the Villas is further behind the Grove proper because Grow Hays was waiting to take control of the last existing home on the parcel. It will be either sold and moved or demolished, Williams said.The larger homes in the Grove will cost about $390,000 or more, depending on floor plan and interior finishes. The Villas will cost about $295,000 or more.Williams said although the cost of buying a new home is greater than that of an older home, it may result in your homeowner's insurance, property taxes and utility expenses decreasing.Williams said Grow Hays has received interest from about 50 potential homeowners, but he does not think all of those individuals will ultimately purchase homes.The build is going to start with at least five homes, he said.If you are interested in learning more about buying a home in the Grove, you can contact Grow Hays at&nbsp;785-628-3102.