By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Multiple cyberattacks have hit Kansas in recent weeks.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dfb291d-3533-4db7-b901-e54ca761719">City of Wichita</a> and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8f5ab8b5-0dba-404d-95ce-f3b305af707e">Via Christi Hospital in Wichita</a> were affected, and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4688fc8f-5406-4760-b5d0-04d3877a55fc">Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital</a> announced Tuesday it was the subject of a ransomware attack.

Dallas Haselhorst, owner of TreeTop Security in Hays, discussed cyber threats and prevention on Thursday on Eagle Radio's Morning Blend show.

Haselhorst said everyone is vulnerable to cyberattacks.

"It's definitely one of those things that now that technology has become so ubiquitous to everything we do that if you are connected to the internet, in any way, shape, or form, there's a good chance that you could be attacked in some way, shape or form," Haselhorst said.

Haselhorst said hackers are not just after big companies and government agencies.

"We have done [incident responses] for billion dollar companies that are multinational. The smallest response we did was a local business here that had a total of four computers," he said. "It can absolutely affect anyone."

Haselhorst said prevention is the best action.

"I always tell people if you want to be secure, you should have started six months ago," he said, "because it's not an overnight thing even in small environments and businesses we work with. It can take a few months to get them more secure — there's no such thing as 100 percent."

He suggested working with a company that can offer comprehensive services and is not just a reseller of hardware, firewalls and software.

He said to look for frameworks and best practices developed by the National Institute of Standards in Technology or the Center for Internet Security.

"You have a burglar that could go through a 20-foot brick wall, or they could go to the house that has an unlocked door. Which one are they going to do?" Haselhorst said. "They are going to do the unlocked door every single time, regardless of what's inside."

"You need to get your doors all locked and do some basic security measures so the attacker bangs on the door enough and decides it's not worth it and goes to the next one that's a lot easier," he said.

Some basics of securing medical data or energy systems are the same for small companies with sales data.

Although security measures can be expensive, much of what TreeTop does also brings businesses into compliance with regulations.

If a business that accepts credit cards or digital payments is breached, it is liable for any data that might be compromised, Haselhorst said.

"You are basically out of business because you will fined out of business," he said.

Sometimes, cyber security comes down to people.

"If I'm an attacker, why would I go through all of these hoops if I could simply call up Cristina and act like I'm the IT help desk?" Haslehorst said. "'Hey, Cristina, it looks like you got locked out of your account. I can help with that. What's your old password?'"

Unfortunately, Haselhorst said often those tactics work.

"Your people can be the weakest link," he said. "Your people can also be the strongest link."

TreeTop offers free cybersecurity training.

If a hacker makes it past all of the technical barriers, but an employee is adequately trained to recognize phishing attempts, they can stop the hacker, Haselhorst said.

Haselhorst described a phishing attack in which a hacker posed as someone high in a company. A hacker sent 73 emails within 30 minutes, but several employees alerted cybersecurity of the emails.&nbsp;

Those emails were blocked and labeled as missed attacks, which helped train the AI security program, and the emails were removed from users' accounts.

As a user or consumer, there's not much you can do if an entity you do business with has been attacked, Haslehorst said.

However, if you are a business, he recommends cutting digital ties with the affected business or entity. He said he helped some companies do this when the Kansas court system was a cyberattack victim.

Businesses can also limit access to networks and data without completely cutting ties.

If an affected business or entity offers you free ID protection or credit monitoring, Haselhorst said it can help in some regards, but your information is already out there.

He did not suggest buying ID theft protection/credit monitoring.

"It's a running joke among cybersecurity professions, don't buy credit monitoring because your next free year is right around the corner because there's going to be another breech from someone," he said.

"Unfortunately, that's the world we live in that your data is all over the place. Once that cat's out of the bag, it's really hard to put it back in," Haselhorst said.

He suggested watching credit reports and card transactions and signing up for transaction alerts.

He also recommends having regular discussions with your spouse or anyone else on your bank or credit card about charges so you can better track transactions and spot fraud.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716318391157.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays cyber expert discusses security in light of attacks" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hjjhf-161d6d3-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMultiple cyberattacks have hit Kansas in recent weeks.&nbsp;The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dfb291d-3533-4db7-b901-e54ca761719">City of Wichita</a> and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8f5ab8b5-0dba-404d-95ce-f3b305af707e">Via Christi Hospital in Wichita</a> were affected, and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4688fc8f-5406-4760-b5d0-04d3877a55fc">Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital</a> announced Tuesday it was the subject of a ransomware attack.Dallas Haselhorst, owner of TreeTop Security in Hays, discussed cyber threats and prevention on Thursday on Eagle Radio's Morning Blend show.Haselhorst said everyone is vulnerable to cyberattacks."It's definitely one of those things that now that technology has become so ubiquitous to everything we do that if you are connected to the internet, in any way, shape, or form, there's a good chance that you could be attacked in some way, shape or form," Haselhorst said.Haselhorst said hackers are not just after big companies and government agencies."We have done [incident responses] for billion dollar companies that are multinational. The smallest response we did was a local business here that had a total of four computers," he said. "It can absolutely affect anyone."Haselhorst said prevention is the best action."I always tell people if you want to be secure, you should have started six months ago," he said, "because it's not an overnight thing even in small environments and businesses we work with. It can take a few months to get them more secure — there's no such thing as 100 percent."He suggested working with a company that can offer comprehensive services and is not just a reseller of hardware, firewalls and software.He said to look for frameworks and best practices developed by the National Institute of Standards in Technology or the Center for Internet Security."You have a burglar that could go through a 20-foot brick wall, or they could go to the house that has an unlocked door. Which one are they going to do?" Haselhorst said. "They are going to do the unlocked door every single time, regardless of what's inside.""You need to get your doors all locked and do some basic security measures so the attacker bangs on the door enough and decides it's not worth it and goes to the next one that's a lot easier," he said.Some basics of securing medical data or energy systems are the same for small companies with sales data.Although security measures can be expensive, much of what TreeTop does also brings businesses into compliance with regulations.If a business that accepts credit cards or digital payments is breached, it is liable for any data that might be compromised, Haselhorst said."You are basically out of business because you will fined out of business," he said.Sometimes, cyber security comes down to people."If I'm an attacker, why would I go through all of these hoops if I could simply call up Cristina and act like I'm the IT help desk?" Haslehorst said. "'Hey, Cristina, it looks like you got locked out of your account. I can help with that. What's your old password?'"Unfortunately, Haselhorst said often those tactics work."Your people can be the weakest link," he said. "Your people can also be the strongest link."TreeTop offers free cybersecurity training.If a hacker makes it past all of the technical barriers, but an employee is adequately trained to recognize phishing attempts, they can stop the hacker, Haselhorst said.Haselhorst described a phishing attack in which a hacker posed as someone high in a company. A hacker sent 73 emails within 30 minutes, but several employees alerted cybersecurity of the emails.&nbsp;Those emails were blocked and labeled as missed attacks, which helped train the AI security program, and the emails were removed from users' accounts.As a user or consumer, there's not much you can do if an entity you do business with has been attacked, Haslehorst said.However, if you are a business, he recommends cutting digital ties with the affected business or entity. He said he helped some companies do this when the Kansas court system was a cyberattack victim.Businesses can also limit access to networks and data without completely cutting ties.If an affected business or entity offers you free ID protection or credit monitoring, Haselhorst said it can help in some regards, but your information is already out there.He did not suggest buying ID theft protection/credit monitoring."It's a running joke among cybersecurity professions, don't buy credit monitoring because your next free year is right around the corner because there's going to be another breech from someone," he said."Unfortunately, that's the world we live in that your data is all over the place. Once that cat's out of the bag, it's really hard to put it back in," Haselhorst said.He suggested watching credit reports and card transactions and signing up for transaction alerts.He also recommends having regular discussions with your spouse or anyone else on your bank or credit card about charges so you can better track transactions and spot fraud.

🎙 Hays cyber expert discusses security in light of attacks

JOHNSON COUNTY —Two members of the Kansas City Chiefs arrested Friday in Johnson County are due to appear in court Thursday, according to online booking information.

The Johnson County sheriff's office reported&nbsp; 23-year-old Chukwuebuka <a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/chukwuebuka-jason-godrick/">Godrick </a>and 23-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/wanya-morris/">Wanya Morris </a>were booked into jail for misdemeanor marijuana possession.

Both were released on Friday afternoon after posting $2,500 bond.&nbsp;

Morris, an offensive lineman from the University of Oklahoma, was a third-round draft pick (92nd overall) by the Chiefs in the 2023 NFL Draft, according to his bio on the team web site.

Godrick, an offensive lineman, is also entering his second season with the Chiefs. He originally entered the NFL as a designated International Pathway Player with the Chiefs in 2023, according to his bio on the team web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both are due back in court May 23, according to online records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029417033.png" alt="Godrick-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Godrick-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Two members of the Kansas City Chiefs arrested Friday in Johnson County are due to appear in court Thursday, according to online booking information.The Johnson County sheriff's office reported&nbsp; 23-year-old Chukwuebuka <a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/chukwuebuka-jason-godrick/">Godrick </a>and 23-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/wanya-morris/">Wanya Morris </a>were booked into jail for misdemeanor marijuana possession.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029434679.png" alt="Morris-photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Morris-photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029595231.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029631137.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Both were released on Friday afternoon after posting $2,500 bond.&nbsp;Morris, an offensive lineman from the University of Oklahoma, was a third-round draft pick (92nd overall) by the Chiefs in the 2023 NFL Draft, according to his bio on the team web site.Godrick, an offensive lineman, is also entering his second season with the Chiefs. He originally entered the NFL as a designated International Pathway Player with the Chiefs in 2023, according to his bio on the team web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both are due back in court May 23, according to online records.

2 KC Chiefs players due in court after arrest in Kansas

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Hays Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about the upcoming Farmer's Market and Brews on the Bricks.

<div><iframe title="Downtown Farmers Market kicks off May 25" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kt2ef-161d6b0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Hays Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about the upcoming Farmer's Market and Brews on the Bricks.

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Farmers Market kicks off May 25

NEW YORK (AP) — Charlie Colin, bassist and founding member of the American pop-rock&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/music">band</a>&nbsp;Train, best known for their early-aughts hits like “Drops of Jupiter" and “Meet Virginia,” has died. He was 58.

Colin’s sister Carolyn Stephens confirmed her brother's death to The Associated Press Wednesday. He died after slipping and falling in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Brussels, Belgium,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmz.com/2024/05/22/charlie-colin-dead-dies-train-founding-member-fall-shower/#continued">celebrity website TMZ.com reported</a>.

Colin grew up in California and Virginia and attended Berklee College of Music in Boston.

He played in a group called Apostles after college with guitarist Jimmy Stafford and singer Rob Hotchkiss. The band eventually dissolved, and Colin moved to Singapore for a year to write jingles.

Eventually, Colin, Hotchkiss and Stafford relocated to San Francisco, where Train formed in the early ‘90s with singer Pat Monahan. Colin brought in drummer Scott Underwood to round out the group, according to an interview with Colin and Hotchkiss in Berklee’s alumni magazine.

As a founding member of Train, Colin played on the band's first three records, 1998's self-titled album, 2001's “Drops of Jupiter” and 2003's “My Private Nation." The latter two releases peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart.

“Meet Virginia,” from Train's debut album broke the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100, but it was their sophomore album, “Drops of Jupiter,” that confirmed the band's success.

The eight-times platinum title track “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)" — which features&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/the-rolling-stones">the Rolling Stones</a>&nbsp;′ session pianist Chuck Leavell and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/leonard-cohen">Leonard Cohen</a>&nbsp;’s string orchestrator Paul Buckmaster and was written about the death of Monahan's mother — hit No. 5 on the same chart. It also earned two Grammys, for best rock song and best instrumental arrangement accompanying vocalist(s).

Colin left Train in 2003 due to substance abuse. “Charlie is one incredible bass player, but he was in a lot of pain, and the way he was dealing with it was very painful for everyone else around him," Monahan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcsandiego.com/in-your-neighborhood/train/14823/">told NBC San Diego</a>.

In 2015, he reunited with Hotchkiss to start a new band called Painbirds, alongside Tom Luce.

In 2017, he formed another band, the Side Deal, with Sugar Ray’s Stan Frazier and the PawnShop Kings’ Joel and Scott Owen.

On Wednesday, a tribute to Colin appeared on the official Facebook and X social media pages for the band Train. “When I met Charlie Colin, front left, I fell in love with him. He was the sweetest guy and what a handsome chap. Let’s make a band that’s the only reasonable thing to do,” it reads.

“His unique bass playing a beautiful guitar work helped get folks to notice us in SF and beyond. I’ll always have a warm place for him in my heart. I always tried to pull him closer but he had a vision of his own. You’re a legend, Charlie. Go charm the pants off those angels.”

Prior to his death, Colin documented his time in Brussels, writing “Officially my favorite city,” in a March&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4XBXQHIfJ9/?hl=en&amp;img_index=1">Instagram post</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716427609107.png" alt="As a founding member of Train, Colin played on the band's first three records, 1998's self-titled album, 2001's “Drops of Jupiter” and 2003's “My Private Nation." The latter two releases peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart." />
 <figcaption>As a founding member of Train, Colin played on the band's first three records, 1998's self-titled album, 2001's “Drops of Jupiter” and 2003's “My Private Nation." The latter two releases peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart.</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Charlie Colin, bassist and founding member of the American pop-rock&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/music">band</a>&nbsp;Train, best known for their early-aughts hits like “Drops of Jupiter" and “Meet Virginia,” has died. He was 58.Colin’s sister Carolyn Stephens confirmed her brother's death to The Associated Press Wednesday. He died after slipping and falling in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Brussels, Belgium,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmz.com/2024/05/22/charlie-colin-dead-dies-train-founding-member-fall-shower/#continued">celebrity website TMZ.com reported</a>.Colin grew up in California and Virginia and attended Berklee College of Music in Boston.He played in a group called Apostles after college with guitarist Jimmy Stafford and singer Rob Hotchkiss. The band eventually dissolved, and Colin moved to Singapore for a year to write jingles.Eventually, Colin, Hotchkiss and Stafford relocated to San Francisco, where Train formed in the early ‘90s with singer Pat Monahan. Colin brought in drummer Scott Underwood to round out the group, according to an interview with Colin and Hotchkiss in Berklee’s alumni magazine.As a founding member of Train, Colin played on the band's first three records, 1998's self-titled album, 2001's “Drops of Jupiter” and 2003's “My Private Nation." The latter two releases peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart.“Meet Virginia,” from Train's debut album broke the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100, but it was their sophomore album, “Drops of Jupiter,” that confirmed the band's success.The eight-times platinum title track “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)" — which features&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/the-rolling-stones">the Rolling Stones</a>&nbsp;′ session pianist Chuck Leavell and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/leonard-cohen">Leonard Cohen</a>&nbsp;’s string orchestrator Paul Buckmaster and was written about the death of Monahan's mother — hit No. 5 on the same chart. It also earned two Grammys, for best rock song and best instrumental arrangement accompanying vocalist(s).Colin left Train in 2003 due to substance abuse. “Charlie is one incredible bass player, but he was in a lot of pain, and the way he was dealing with it was very painful for everyone else around him," Monahan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcsandiego.com/in-your-neighborhood/train/14823/">told NBC San Diego</a>.In 2015, he reunited with Hotchkiss to start a new band called Painbirds, alongside Tom Luce.In 2017, he formed another band, the Side Deal, with Sugar Ray’s Stan Frazier and the PawnShop Kings’ Joel and Scott Owen.On Wednesday, a tribute to Colin appeared on the official Facebook and X social media pages for the band Train. “When I met Charlie Colin, front left, I fell in love with him. He was the sweetest guy and what a handsome chap. Let’s make a band that’s the only reasonable thing to do,” it reads.“His unique bass playing a beautiful guitar work helped get folks to notice us in SF and beyond. I’ll always have a warm place for him in my heart. I always tried to pull him closer but he had a vision of his own. You’re a legend, Charlie. Go charm the pants off those angels.”Prior to his death, Colin documented his time in Brussels, writing “Officially my favorite city,” in a March&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4XBXQHIfJ9/?hl=en&amp;img_index=1">Instagram post</a>.

Charlie Colin, founding member of the pop-rock band Train, dies at 58

SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas man faces multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in and around Salina.

Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy saw a black 2005 Ford Mustang speeding northbound on Ohio Street in Salina, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. Once the deputy attempted a traffic stop, the driver continued, leading to a chase.

"The deputy turned on the red lights, but the vehicle continued eastbound on Magnolia," Soldan said. "The vehicle made a U-turn on East Magnolia and went back westbound on Magnolia — at this point, the vehicle was fleeing from the deputy. They checked the vehicle's speed at 123 mph in a 35mph zone in the area of Magnolia and Belmont."

Soldan said the driver then ran a red light at Ninth Street and Magnolia Road and turned south onto Interstate 135, where he allegedly reached speeds of 127 mph.

A KHP trooper joined the chase once the driver, later identified as 24-year-old Salina resident Corey Cantrell, Jr., entered the interstate. Since Cantrell reached such extreme speeds on Interstate 135, KHP discontinued the chase.

After a short time, the Saline County Sheriff's Office began receiving multiple reports of a dark vehicle traveling quickly around town.

"We had several reports of people calling, citizens calling dispatch about a vehicle driving through town with no lights on at a high rate of speed," Soldan said.

Then, at about 10:25 p.m., Salina Police Capt. James Feldman said a citizen reported that a black Ford Mustang was driving on Quincy Street without headlights or taillights.

Feldman said that an officer then observed the Mustang in the 800 block of South Front Street, where they attempted a traffic stop, but Cantrell did not stop but traveled at the speed limit.

"The officer turned around on the vehicle and attempted to do a traffic stop at the intersection of Fourth and Wilson," Feldman said. "Then, he continued northbound on Front Street, then turned onto Fourth Street, then to Bond Street, and still did not stop, but he was driving at the speed limit and did not accelerate away, just not pulling over."

After cruising at the posted speed limit on Bond Street, Cantrell turned onto Second Street and pulled into a parking lot at 500 East Crawford Avenue.

Once Cantrell pulled over at the parking lot, police contacted the Sheriff's Office, where&nbsp;deputies arrested him without incident. Soldan said deputies located an alleged THC pen once they arrested Cantrell.

Cantrell is being held on requested charges of felony flee and elude, three counts of failing to stop at a stop sign, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, improper driving on a laned roadway, failing to signal, a few speeding and racing charges due to the extreme speeds and two traffic control signal violations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716378922195.jpeg" alt=" Cantrell photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption> Cantrell photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas man faces multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in and around Salina.Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy saw a black 2005 Ford Mustang speeding northbound on Ohio Street in Salina, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. Once the deputy attempted a traffic stop, the driver continued, leading to a chase."The deputy turned on the red lights, but the vehicle continued eastbound on Magnolia," Soldan said. "The vehicle made a U-turn on East Magnolia and went back westbound on Magnolia — at this point, the vehicle was fleeing from the deputy. They checked the vehicle's speed at 123 mph in a 35mph zone in the area of Magnolia and Belmont."Soldan said the driver then ran a red light at Ninth Street and Magnolia Road and turned south onto Interstate 135, where he allegedly reached speeds of 127 mph.A KHP trooper joined the chase once the driver, later identified as 24-year-old Salina resident Corey Cantrell, Jr., entered the interstate. Since Cantrell reached such extreme speeds on Interstate 135, KHP discontinued the chase.After a short time, the Saline County Sheriff's Office began receiving multiple reports of a dark vehicle traveling quickly around town."We had several reports of people calling, citizens calling dispatch about a vehicle driving through town with no lights on at a high rate of speed," Soldan said.Then, at about 10:25 p.m., Salina Police Capt. James Feldman said a citizen reported that a black Ford Mustang was driving on Quincy Street without headlights or taillights.Feldman said that an officer then observed the Mustang in the 800 block of South Front Street, where they attempted a traffic stop, but Cantrell did not stop but traveled at the speed limit."The officer turned around on the vehicle and attempted to do a traffic stop at the intersection of Fourth and Wilson," Feldman said. "Then, he continued northbound on Front Street, then turned onto Fourth Street, then to Bond Street, and still did not stop, but he was driving at the speed limit and did not accelerate away, just not pulling over."After cruising at the posted speed limit on Bond Street, Cantrell turned onto Second Street and pulled into a parking lot at 500 East Crawford Avenue.Once Cantrell pulled over at the parking lot, police contacted the Sheriff's Office, where&nbsp;deputies arrested him without incident. Soldan said deputies located an alleged THC pen once they arrested Cantrell.Cantrell is being held on requested charges of felony flee and elude, three counts of failing to stop at a stop sign, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, improper driving on a laned roadway, failing to signal, a few speeding and racing charges due to the extreme speeds and two traffic control signal violations.

Sheriff: Kansas driver was traveling 123mph in a 35mph zone

Alice Sanchez, age 84, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at her home in Kansas City, Kansas.

She was born in Post, Texas to Jose and Rafaela (Hernandez) Camargo on July 5, 1939. She was a member of the Leoti Community for a decade of her life with other years spent in Goodland, Topeka, Gardner, and Kansas City, Kansas.

Alice was a member of the Baptist church. She worked as a nurse aide, cook, and ran a restaurant in Goodland. She loved to cook and bake at home. She also spent time on her knitting &amp; crochet projects.&nbsp;

On June 9, 1986, Alice married Santos Sanchez in Goodland, Kansas. He passed away in November of 1999 in Russell, Kansas.

Alice is survived by her daughter Rosa Kennedy of Kansas City, Kansas, two grandchildren - Brittany King of Waterville, Minnesota, and&nbsp;Ricky Steele of De Soto, Kansas, two great-grandchildren - Elizabeth and Lucy, and&nbsp;two nieces -&nbsp;Velma Gill of Smith Center,&nbsp;Kansas, and Lori Gill of Honolulu, Hawaii.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister (Stella Gill), and one brother-in-law(Jesse Gill).

Funeral Services will be held at the Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 4th &amp; J Street, Leoti, Kansas, at 2:30 on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Services will be live-streamed at PriceandSons.com &nbsp;

Interment will be at the Leoti Cemetery in Leoti, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716410684983.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alice Sanchez, age 84, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at her home in Kansas City, Kansas.She was born in Post, Texas to Jose and Rafaela (Hernandez) Camargo on July 5, 1939. She was a member of the Leoti Community for a decade of her life with other years spent in Goodland, Topeka, Gardner, and Kansas City, Kansas.Alice was a member of the Baptist church. She worked as a nurse aide, cook, and ran a restaurant in Goodland. She loved to cook and bake at home. She also spent time on her knitting &amp; crochet projects.&nbsp;On June 9, 1986, Alice married Santos Sanchez in Goodland, Kansas. He passed away in November of 1999 in Russell, Kansas.Alice is survived by her daughter Rosa Kennedy of Kansas City, Kansas, two grandchildren - Brittany King of Waterville, Minnesota, and&nbsp;Ricky Steele of De Soto, Kansas, two great-grandchildren - Elizabeth and Lucy, and&nbsp;two nieces -&nbsp;Velma Gill of Smith Center,&nbsp;Kansas, and Lori Gill of Honolulu, Hawaii.She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister (Stella Gill), and one brother-in-law(Jesse Gill).Funeral Services will be held at the Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 4th &amp; J Street, Leoti, Kansas, at 2:30 on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Services will be live-streamed at PriceandSons.com &nbsp;There will be no visitationInterment will be at the Leoti Cemetery in Leoti, Kansas.

Alice Sanchez

WASHINGTON (AP) —In an isolated part of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration headquarters known as the 12th-floor “bubble,” chief Anne Milgram made an unusual request of top deputies summoned in March for what she called the “Marijuana Meeting”: Nobody could take notes.

Over the next half hour, she broke the news that the Biden administration would soon be issuing a long-awaited order&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-rescheduling-drug-policy-biden-15b43441670757b0c2bfa36731e47d07">reclassifying pot as a less-dangerous drug</a>, a major hurdle toward federal legalization that DEA has long resisted. And Milgram went on to reveal another twist, according to two people familiar with the private meeting who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, that the process normally steered by the DEA had been taken over by the U.S. Justice Department and the action would not be signed by her but by Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Milgram didn't give aides a reason for the unprecedented omission and neither she nor the DEA has explained since. But it unfolded this past week exactly as laid out in that meeting two months ago, with the most significant drug policy change in 50 years launched without the support of the nation’s premier narcotics agency.

“DEA has not yet made a determination as to its views of the appropriate schedule for marijuana,” reads a sentence tucked 13 pages into Garland’s 92-page order last Thursday outlining the Biden administration proposal to shift pot from its current Schedule I alongside heroin and LSD to the less tightly regulated Schedule III with such drugs as ketamine and some anabolic steroids.

Internal records accompanying the order indicate the DEA sent a memo to the Justice Department in late January seeking additional scientific input to determine whether marijuana has an accepted medical use, a key requirement for reclassification. But those concerns were overruled by Justice Department attorneys, who deemed the DEA’s criteria “impermissibly narrow.”

Several current and former DEA officials told the AP they believe politics may be at play, contending the Justice Department is moving forward with the marijuana reclassification because President Joe Biden wants to use the issue to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-young-voters-marijuana-reclassification-dea-193e97fc2dd7b32b7d7ad50b4ea80aa0">woo voters in his re-election</a>&nbsp;campaign and wasn’t willing to give the DEA time for more studies that likely would have dragged beyond Election Day.

Those officials also noted that while the Controlled Substances Act grants the attorney general responsibility for regulating the sale of dangerous drugs, federal law still delegates the authority to classify drugs to the DEA administrator.

“It’s crystal clear to me that the Justice Department hijacked the rescheduling process, placing politics above public safety,” said Derek Maltz, a retired agent who once headed the DEA’s Special Operations Division. “If there’s scientific evidence to support this decision, then so be it. But you’ve got to let the scientists evaluate it.”

Former DEA Administrator Tim Shea said the striking absence of Milgram’s sign-off suggests she was backing “the DEA professionals.”

“If she had supported it she would have signed it and sent it in,” said Shea, who served in the Trump administration. “DEA was opposed to this and the politics entered and overruled them. It’s demoralizing. Everybody from the agents in the streets to the leadership in DEA knows the dangers this brings.”

The White House did not respond to a request for comment but Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre previously said Biden was committed to fulfilling a 2020 campaign promise. “He said no person, no American who possesses marijuana should go to jail. It is affecting communities across the country, including communities of color.”

Justice Department attorneys defended Garland’s decision to proceed without Milgram’s backing, saying in a separate memo that the action was prompted by “sharply different views” between DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services. The HHS last year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/2016-17954-HHS.pdf">recommended</a>&nbsp;reclassifying marijuana, deeming it less risky to public health than cocaine, heroin and oxycodone, and effective in treating anorexia, pain and other ailments.

HHS concluded in part that “although abuse of marijuana produces clear evidence of a risk to public health, that risk is relatively lower than” that posed by other drugs.

The DEA balked at those findings and Garland’s order cites at least 10 times when the drug agency requested additional information before blessing HHS’ medical findings. It did not respond to AP questions seeking further comment.

The Justice Department didn't comment on internal differences but in a statement said that the proposal was “consistent with the scientific and medical determinations of HHS."

The dissonance within the federal government underscores the continuing debate over the risks posed by cannabis, even as 38 states have legalized medical marijuana and 24 have legalized its recreational use. All the while, more voters — 70% of adults, according to a Gallup poll last fall — support legalization, the highest level yet recorded by the polling firm.

“The argument that marijuana is as dangerous as fentanyl, cocaine and meth is laughable,” said Matthew C. Zorn, a Houston-based attorney who writes a newsletter on cannabis regulation. “The DEA isn’t where most Americans are. They’re standing on the wrong side of history.”

But even HHS’ National Institute on Drug Abuse has come out with statements in apparent conflict with HHS’ recommendation to reclassify pot, saying the potency of marijuana has been steadily increasing over the years, resulting in higher numbers of emergency room visits to treat a wide range of physical and mental effects, from breathing problems and mental impairment to hallucinations and paranoia.

“Whether smoking or otherwise consuming marijuana has therapeutic benefits that outweigh its health risks is still an open question that science has not resolved,” Nora Volkow, a neuroscientist who leads NIDA, is currently quoted as saying on the institute’s website. A NIDA spokesperson said rescheduling would facilitate research more into the drug.

The NIDA last performed a medical evaluation of marijuana in 2015 — a year before the Obama administration's DEA rejected a similar request to reschedule the drug.

This time, after Biden ordered a review of the drug’s status in 2022, HHS adopted new criteria to reach its rescheduling conclusion, taking into account the states that have already legalized medical marijuana.

The rescheduling move,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-biden-dea-criminal-justice-pot-f833a8dae6ceb31a8658a5d65832a3b8">first reported</a>&nbsp;by the AP last month, faces a potentially lengthy process. The DEA, which is not bound by HHS' medical determinations at this point, will take&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-rescheduling-drug-policy-biden-15b43441670757b0c2bfa36731e47d07">public comment</a>&nbsp;on the rescheduling plan before a review by an administrative judge and the publishing of a final rule. Federal prosecutions involving marijuana are already exceedingly rare but a Schedule III classification would still make pot a controlled substance subject to rules and regulations

For her part, Milgram has said little about her stance on marijuana and was not asked about it during her confirmation. When she took the helm of the agency in 2021, she privately told colleagues she considered the legalization debate a distraction from the far more serious fentanyl crisis, according to one of the people who spoke to the AP.

Milgram is known for a progressive, data-driven approach to law enforcement dating to her days as the Democratic attorney general of New Jersey. When the state’s governor, a close ally, signed a bill in 2010 making the state the 14th to make marijuana legal for medical purposes, she said only that the legislation was “workable.”

This past week, she was similarly opaque in a three-sentence announcement to DEA employees obtained by the AP.

“As required,” she wrote, “the DEA will post this notice and all attachments on our website.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691592576687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —In an isolated part of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration headquarters known as the 12th-floor “bubble,” chief Anne Milgram made an unusual request of top deputies summoned in March for what she called the “Marijuana Meeting”: Nobody could take notes.Over the next half hour, she broke the news that the Biden administration would soon be issuing a long-awaited order&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-rescheduling-drug-policy-biden-15b43441670757b0c2bfa36731e47d07">reclassifying pot as a less-dangerous drug</a>, a major hurdle toward federal legalization that DEA has long resisted. And Milgram went on to reveal another twist, according to two people familiar with the private meeting who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, that the process normally steered by the DEA had been taken over by the U.S. Justice Department and the action would not be signed by her but by Attorney General Merrick Garland.Milgram didn't give aides a reason for the unprecedented omission and neither she nor the DEA has explained since. But it unfolded this past week exactly as laid out in that meeting two months ago, with the most significant drug policy change in 50 years launched without the support of the nation’s premier narcotics agency.“DEA has not yet made a determination as to its views of the appropriate schedule for marijuana,” reads a sentence tucked 13 pages into Garland’s 92-page order last Thursday outlining the Biden administration proposal to shift pot from its current Schedule I alongside heroin and LSD to the less tightly regulated Schedule III with such drugs as ketamine and some anabolic steroids.Internal records accompanying the order indicate the DEA sent a memo to the Justice Department in late January seeking additional scientific input to determine whether marijuana has an accepted medical use, a key requirement for reclassification. But those concerns were overruled by Justice Department attorneys, who deemed the DEA’s criteria “impermissibly narrow.”Several current and former DEA officials told the AP they believe politics may be at play, contending the Justice Department is moving forward with the marijuana reclassification because President Joe Biden wants to use the issue to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-young-voters-marijuana-reclassification-dea-193e97fc2dd7b32b7d7ad50b4ea80aa0">woo voters in his re-election</a>&nbsp;campaign and wasn’t willing to give the DEA time for more studies that likely would have dragged beyond Election Day.Those officials also noted that while the Controlled Substances Act grants the attorney general responsibility for regulating the sale of dangerous drugs, federal law still delegates the authority to classify drugs to the DEA administrator.“It’s crystal clear to me that the Justice Department hijacked the rescheduling process, placing politics above public safety,” said Derek Maltz, a retired agent who once headed the DEA’s Special Operations Division. “If there’s scientific evidence to support this decision, then so be it. But you’ve got to let the scientists evaluate it.”Former DEA Administrator Tim Shea said the striking absence of Milgram’s sign-off suggests she was backing “the DEA professionals.”“If she had supported it she would have signed it and sent it in,” said Shea, who served in the Trump administration. “DEA was opposed to this and the politics entered and overruled them. It’s demoralizing. Everybody from the agents in the streets to the leadership in DEA knows the dangers this brings.”The White House did not respond to a request for comment but Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre previously said Biden was committed to fulfilling a 2020 campaign promise. “He said no person, no American who possesses marijuana should go to jail. It is affecting communities across the country, including communities of color.”Justice Department attorneys defended Garland’s decision to proceed without Milgram’s backing, saying in a separate memo that the action was prompted by “sharply different views” between DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services. The HHS last year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/2016-17954-HHS.pdf">recommended</a>&nbsp;reclassifying marijuana, deeming it less risky to public health than cocaine, heroin and oxycodone, and effective in treating anorexia, pain and other ailments.HHS concluded in part that “although abuse of marijuana produces clear evidence of a risk to public health, that risk is relatively lower than” that posed by other drugs.The DEA balked at those findings and Garland’s order cites at least 10 times when the drug agency requested additional information before blessing HHS’ medical findings. It did not respond to AP questions seeking further comment.The Justice Department didn't comment on internal differences but in a statement said that the proposal was “consistent with the scientific and medical determinations of HHS."The dissonance within the federal government underscores the continuing debate over the risks posed by cannabis, even as 38 states have legalized medical marijuana and 24 have legalized its recreational use. All the while, more voters — 70% of adults, according to a Gallup poll last fall — support legalization, the highest level yet recorded by the polling firm.“The argument that marijuana is as dangerous as fentanyl, cocaine and meth is laughable,” said Matthew C. Zorn, a Houston-based attorney who writes a newsletter on cannabis regulation. “The DEA isn’t where most Americans are. They’re standing on the wrong side of history.”But even HHS’ National Institute on Drug Abuse has come out with statements in apparent conflict with HHS’ recommendation to reclassify pot, saying the potency of marijuana has been steadily increasing over the years, resulting in higher numbers of emergency room visits to treat a wide range of physical and mental effects, from breathing problems and mental impairment to hallucinations and paranoia.“Whether smoking or otherwise consuming marijuana has therapeutic benefits that outweigh its health risks is still an open question that science has not resolved,” Nora Volkow, a neuroscientist who leads NIDA, is currently quoted as saying on the institute’s website. A NIDA spokesperson said rescheduling would facilitate research more into the drug.The NIDA last performed a medical evaluation of marijuana in 2015 — a year before the Obama administration's DEA rejected a similar request to reschedule the drug.This time, after Biden ordered a review of the drug’s status in 2022, HHS adopted new criteria to reach its rescheduling conclusion, taking into account the states that have already legalized medical marijuana.The rescheduling move,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-biden-dea-criminal-justice-pot-f833a8dae6ceb31a8658a5d65832a3b8">first reported</a>&nbsp;by the AP last month, faces a potentially lengthy process. The DEA, which is not bound by HHS' medical determinations at this point, will take&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-rescheduling-drug-policy-biden-15b43441670757b0c2bfa36731e47d07">public comment</a>&nbsp;on the rescheduling plan before a review by an administrative judge and the publishing of a final rule. Federal prosecutions involving marijuana are already exceedingly rare but a Schedule III classification would still make pot a controlled substance subject to rules and regulationsFor her part, Milgram has said little about her stance on marijuana and was not asked about it during her confirmation. When she took the helm of the agency in 2021, she privately told colleagues she considered the legalization debate a distraction from the far more serious fentanyl crisis, according to one of the people who spoke to the AP.Milgram is known for a progressive, data-driven approach to law enforcement dating to her days as the Democratic attorney general of New Jersey. When the state’s governor, a close ally, signed a bill in 2010 making the state the 14th to make marijuana legal for medical purposes, she said only that the legislation was “workable.”This past week, she was similarly opaque in a three-sentence announcement to DEA employees obtained by the AP.“As required,” she wrote, “the DEA will post this notice and all attachments on our website.”_____

Top U.S. drug agency a holdout in Biden's push to loosen  marijuana restrictions

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Incentive requests for a couple of projects through the city of Hays' economic development program will be considered on Thursday.

Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. plans to construct a new shop and office north of Interstate 70 on six acres northwest of the intersection of 48th Street and General Hays Road at 4885 Vine. It's the site of the former Hays Livestock sales barn.

The owners are requesting the establishment of a commercial improvement district with a 2% sales tax and the issuance of industrial revenue bonds. 

It's estimated the CID sales tax will generate $1 million during the maximum 22-year term.&nbsp;IRBs would allow a sales tax exemption for purchases related to the construction of the $2.6 million project. 

Commissioners will consider two resolutions for those requests.&nbsp;

The second project at 1108 N. Main in downtown Hays involves redeveloping the existing building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb called Chestnut Suites. The building was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.

Chestnut Suites is pursuing a $300,000 community development block grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce.&nbsp;

The city of Hays must be the official applicant for the CDBG funds, although developer Adam Pray will own and operate the project. Components of the grant application require an interlocal agreement between the city and the developer, two resolutions, and a public hearing.

No city funds would be disbursed for the $3.2 million project.

The commission will also vote on a three-year contract renewal for city attorney services with&nbsp;Dreiling, Bieker &amp; Hoffman. 

Some expenses would go up to reflect the current costs of providing city attorney and municipal prosecution services for Hays. The main change is the monthly retainer, which increases to $12,500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716393802297.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners at the May 16 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners at the May 16 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIncentive requests for a couple of projects through the city of Hays' economic development program will be considered on Thursday.Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. plans to construct a new shop and office north of Interstate 70 on six acres northwest of the intersection of 48th Street and General Hays Road at 4885 Vine. It's the site of the former Hays Livestock sales barn.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714949794159.png" alt="The planned new location of Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>The planned new location of Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>The owners are requesting the establishment of a commercial improvement district with a 2% sales tax and the issuance of industrial revenue bonds. It's estimated the CID sales tax will generate $1 million during the maximum 22-year term.&nbsp;IRBs would allow a sales tax exemption for purchases related to the construction of the $2.6 million project. No property tax abatement is requested.Commissioners will consider two resolutions for those requests.&nbsp;The second project at 1108 N. Main in downtown Hays involves redeveloping the existing building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb called Chestnut Suites. The building was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716393146439.png" alt="Planned location of Chestnut Suites in downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Planned location of Chestnut Suites in downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Chestnut Suites is pursuing a $300,000 community development block grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce.&nbsp;The city of Hays must be the official applicant for the CDBG funds, although developer Adam Pray will own and operate the project. Components of the grant application require an interlocal agreement between the city and the developer, two resolutions, and a public hearing.No city funds would be disbursed for the $3.2 million project.The commission will also vote on a three-year contract renewal for city attorney services with&nbsp;Dreiling, Bieker &amp; Hoffman. Some expenses would go up to reflect the current costs of providing city attorney and municipal prosecution services for Hays. The main change is the monthly retainer, which increases to $12,500.

Hays City Commission to vote on economic help for development projects

A couple of spring thunderstorms rumbled through Hays Tuesday night into early morning Wednesday.

The official rainfall amount measured at the K-State Agricultural Center was just shy of a half-inch at 0.49 inches.

That brings the total amount of rain so far in May to&nbsp;1.83 inches. The average for all of May is 3.34 inches.

So far this year, Hays has received 5.60 inches of moisture. The 154-cumulative average is&nbsp;7.92 inches by the end of May, leaving a shortage of two and a third inches.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716390809457.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA couple of spring thunderstorms rumbled through Hays Tuesday night into early morning Wednesday.The official rainfall amount measured at the K-State Agricultural Center was just shy of a half-inch at 0.49 inches.That brings the total amount of rain so far in May to&nbsp;1.83 inches. The average for all of May is 3.34 inches.So far this year, Hays has received 5.60 inches of moisture. The 154-cumulative average is&nbsp;7.92 inches by the end of May, leaving a shortage of two and a third inches.&nbsp;

More thunderstorms bring rain to Hays; still 2 inches below normal

Due to the observance of the Memorial Day on May 27, Hays' refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows: 

Monday, May 27 and Tuesday, May 28 routes will both be picked up on&nbsp; May 28.&nbsp;

 Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday routes will not be altered.

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 a.m., and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule. 

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the observance of the Memorial Day on May 27, Hays' refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows: Monday, May 27 and Tuesday, May 28 routes will both be picked up on&nbsp; May 28.&nbsp; Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday routes will not be altered.It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 a.m., and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule. City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Hays' refuse, recycling schedule changes for holiday 

By LAAH TUCKER American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109

Natoma American Legion Post 109 with the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 109, will be commemorating the 159th Memorial Day Observance on Monday, May 27, 2024. American flags will be posted on veterans' graves by the Post and Unit with volunteers at 7 cemeteries in Osborne and Russell Counties. Natoma's Avenue of Flags will be placed by Post 109 and the Sons of the American Legion. Monday’s cemetery services will be observed at Natoma Catholic, 9:30 AM; North Immanuel Lutheran, 10 AM; Paradise Mount Herman, 10:30 AM; Natoma City Cemetery, 11 AM. The program will include Post 109 Color Guard; welcome and Pledge of Allegiance by Jenjer Murphy, Unit 109 president; Veterans will be remembered by name from the American Revolution, Civil War, War of 1812, Mexican American War, Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, Iraq, Conflicts, and through Peace Times by Shawna Dunlap, Unit 109 Chaplain. Camdyn Makings and Andreya Lyle will present poppies for each veteran; Prayer and Message will be given by Pastor Thayne Sparke, Codell Community Church. Everyone will be invited to sing “My Country Tis of Thee” and “God Bless America”. Post Commander William Workman and American Legion Post 109 will present a 21 Gun Salute followed by Lucy Alexander playing “Taps”.

At 11:45 AM, Corporal James W. Castor will be remembered by his sister, Judy Castor, during a dedication of an iron bench located in front of Natoma American Legion Post 109 Hall. Corporal Castor was awarded the Silver Star of Valor, Purple Heart, and many other medals following his death by enemy fire while rescuing fellow soldiers near Quang Nam Province Vietnam, August 8, 1969. After the dedication, a traditional Memorial Day Beef and Noodle Community Dinner will be served by the American Legion Auxiliary, 12 Noon, Post 109 Hall, 520 North First Street, Natoma.

For God and Country, the Natoma American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary continue serving veterans, their families, children, youth, and community with a myriad of projects throughout the year. For information on joining the organizations contact:

Post Commander William Workman, 785-224-7993; Auxiliary President. Jenjer Murphy,

785-885-8079. Poppy is the Remembrance Memorial flower since 1919. After the Second Battle of Ypres, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a physician with the Canadian Expeditionary Force, wrote the poem, "In Flanders Fields", in 1915. The opening lines refer to the fields of poppies that grew among the soldiers' graves in Flanders. In 1918, inspired by the poem, YWCA worker Moina Michael attended a YWCA Overseas War Secretaries' conference wearing a silk poppy pinned to her coat and distributed over two dozen more to others present. In 1920, the National American Legion adopted it as their official memorial symbol. Each red crepe paper poppy is hand crafted by a Kansas Disabled Veteran. 100% of donations help disabled and deserving Kansas Veterans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705067071723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By LAAH TUCKER American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109Natoma American Legion Post 109 with the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 109, will be commemorating the 159th Memorial Day Observance on Monday, May 27, 2024. American flags will be posted on veterans' graves by the Post and Unit with volunteers at 7 cemeteries in Osborne and Russell Counties. Natoma's Avenue of Flags will be placed by Post 109 and the Sons of the American Legion. Monday’s cemetery services will be observed at Natoma Catholic, 9:30 AM; North Immanuel Lutheran, 10 AM; Paradise Mount Herman, 10:30 AM; Natoma City Cemetery, 11 AM. The program will include Post 109 Color Guard; welcome and Pledge of Allegiance by Jenjer Murphy, Unit 109 president; Veterans will be remembered by name from the American Revolution, Civil War, War of 1812, Mexican American War, Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, Iraq, Conflicts, and through Peace Times by Shawna Dunlap, Unit 109 Chaplain. Camdyn Makings and Andreya Lyle will present poppies for each veteran; Prayer and Message will be given by Pastor Thayne Sparke, Codell Community Church. Everyone will be invited to sing “My Country Tis of Thee” and “God Bless America”. Post Commander William Workman and American Legion Post 109 will present a 21 Gun Salute followed by Lucy Alexander playing “Taps”.At 11:45 AM, Corporal James W. Castor will be remembered by his sister, Judy Castor, during a dedication of an iron bench located in front of Natoma American Legion Post 109 Hall. Corporal Castor was awarded the Silver Star of Valor, Purple Heart, and many other medals following his death by enemy fire while rescuing fellow soldiers near Quang Nam Province Vietnam, August 8, 1969. After the dedication, a traditional Memorial Day Beef and Noodle Community Dinner will be served by the American Legion Auxiliary, 12 Noon, Post 109 Hall, 520 North First Street, Natoma.For God and Country, the Natoma American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary continue serving veterans, their families, children, youth, and community with a myriad of projects throughout the year. For information on joining the organizations contact:Post Commander William Workman, 785-224-7993; Auxiliary President. Jenjer Murphy,785-885-8079. Poppy is the Remembrance Memorial flower since 1919. After the Second Battle of Ypres, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a physician with the Canadian Expeditionary Force, wrote the poem, "In Flanders Fields", in 1915. The opening lines refer to the fields of poppies that grew among the soldiers' graves in Flanders. In 1918, inspired by the poem, YWCA worker Moina Michael attended a YWCA Overseas War Secretaries' conference wearing a silk poppy pinned to her coat and distributed over two dozen more to others present. In 1920, the National American Legion adopted it as their official memorial symbol. Each red crepe paper poppy is hand crafted by a Kansas Disabled Veteran. 100% of donations help disabled and deserving Kansas Veterans.

Natoma American Legion to commemorate 159th Memorial Day

After changing the bulletin boards in her room once a month for four decades, the walls of&nbsp;Teresa Schrant's classroom were finally bare last week. 

She was gathering boxes to pack her extensive collection of M&amp;M memorabilia, mostly gifts over the years. She's been in the classroom, which she is now leaving, for 24 years.

"That's longer than some people have been in their homes," she said. "It'll be strange."

Big No. 43 silver balloons were tucked into a corner along with an antique school desk that had been in her childhood basement. Sitting on that antique desk was a privilege for her fourth-grade students.

Schrant, 65, retired last week after teaching 43 years at Holy Family Elementary School.

But Schrant is leaving Holy Family entirely, she said. How could she? It's her home.

Schrant grew up blocks from Holy Family, then a public school, Jefferson Elementary. She said she didn't know there was a lunch recess until the fifth grade because she walked home every day for lunch.

Schrant said she fell into education. A Hays native, she said she didn't know what she wanted to study when she entered Fort Hays State University.

She grew up a middle child in a large family with four siblings. Her sisters and brothers played school often. Children's time was not so structured then, she said—more time was spent using one's imagination and less time in activities like dance or sports.

As she grew older, she frequently babysat and discovered her love for children. She and her husband have three boys and seven grandchildren.

After taking a few education courses at Fort Hays, she said she knew she wanted to be a teacher.

Although she was a product of public education, she applied at Holy Family and was hired the same day she was interviewed by Sister Mary Alice Walters.

That corner of Hays has always been her home. Not only did she attend school in the building now Holy Family, but she is also a long-time parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary, the church adjacent to the Catholic elementary school.

She said teaching in a Catholic school has helped her grow in her faith.&nbsp;

"Shirley Dinkel, who taught Catholic school for years and years, always used to talk about how she was growing little disciples, and I always love that analogy," Schrant said.

In 2020, Schrant received a stem cell transplant to treat cancer, and had to leave her classroom for two years. She said her faith was important to her during that time. 

"In the last few years, [my faith] just exploded," she said.

The treatment had to be delayed because of COVID, and she said she was frustrated because she wanted to go back to school.

"This is home to me. It's always been home to me," she said. "I went to school here. I taught school here. I still go to church here. It will always be home."

Her husband noticed that she never said she was going to work. She always said she was going to school.

"I never viewed this as work," she said. "This was always school to me. It was just something I wanted to do. I don't think there was ever a day I woke up and said, 'Ugh, we have school today."

Although Schrant is certified to teach grades K-9, she only taught two age levels during her four decades in the profession — second and fourth grades, retiring as a fourth-grade teacher.

She said she loves working with fourth graders because they can get a joke but are still eager to learn.

On her desk was a tattered copy of "James and the Giant Peach," a favorite of both her and her students. She said she didn't have the time this year to read the book to them.

During her decades as a teacher, students' lessons have become more structured, and there is less time for reading to the kids aloud, which she once did multiple times a week.

She said students are more attuned to emotions now than they were when she was a child, but she also bemoaned a loss of innocence that has come with the prevalence of social media and the rise of technology.

"I try to make school fun for them," she said.&nbsp;

She had a student in her class who didn't like to read, but he snuck a Snap-on tool catalog into the classroom. He worked in the summer, and he used the money he made to buy tools.&nbsp;

She made a deal with him that he could look at his catalog once he finished his AR reading.

When he was in high school, he came back to show her the truck he had bought.

In her retirement, Schrant said she intends to spend more time with her family. She hopes to have the freedom to travel to her grandchildren's activities now that they all live in Kansas.

She will still help with the altar servers on Tuesday and Thursday, which she has been doing for the last two years.

She hasn't ruled out the possibility of returning as a substitute teacher, and if she really can't handle being away from school, she also considered working as a paraeducator.

"I think I will miss it a ton," she said. "I'll miss the kids."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716222630666.jpeg" alt="Teresa Schrant is retiring after 43 years as an educator at Holy Family Elementary School. She spent the last 24 years in this fourth-grade classroom. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Schrant is retiring after 43 years as an educator at Holy Family Elementary School. She spent the last 24 years in this fourth-grade classroom. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter changing the bulletin boards in her room once a month for four decades, the walls of&nbsp;Teresa Schrant's classroom were finally bare last week. She was gathering boxes to pack her extensive collection of M&amp;M memorabilia, mostly gifts over the years. She's been in the classroom, which she is now leaving, for 24 years."That's longer than some people have been in their homes," she said. "It'll be strange."Big No. 43 silver balloons were tucked into a corner along with an antique school desk that had been in her childhood basement. Sitting on that antique desk was a privilege for her fourth-grade students.Schrant, 65, retired last week after teaching 43 years at Holy Family Elementary School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716222891799.jpeg" alt="Teresa Schrant's nephew drew this chalk drawing outside of Holy Family Elementary School to honor her retirement. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Schrant's nephew drew this chalk drawing outside of Holy Family Elementary School to honor her retirement. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>But Schrant is leaving Holy Family entirely, she said. How could she? It's her home.Schrant grew up blocks from Holy Family, then a public school, Jefferson Elementary. She said she didn't know there was a lunch recess until the fifth grade because she walked home every day for lunch.Schrant said she fell into education. A Hays native, she said she didn't know what she wanted to study when she entered Fort Hays State University.She grew up a middle child in a large family with four siblings. Her sisters and brothers played school often. Children's time was not so structured then, she said—more time was spent using one's imagination and less time in activities like dance or sports.As she grew older, she frequently babysat and discovered her love for children. She and her husband have three boys and seven grandchildren.After taking a few education courses at Fort Hays, she said she knew she wanted to be a teacher.Although she was a product of public education, she applied at Holy Family and was hired the same day she was interviewed by Sister Mary Alice Walters.That corner of Hays has always been her home. Not only did she attend school in the building now Holy Family, but she is also a long-time parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary, the church adjacent to the Catholic elementary school.She said teaching in a Catholic school has helped her grow in her faith.&nbsp;"Shirley Dinkel, who taught Catholic school for years and years, always used to talk about how she was growing little disciples, and I always love that analogy," Schrant said.In 2020, Schrant received a stem cell transplant to treat cancer, and had to leave her classroom for two years. She said her faith was important to her during that time. "In the last few years, [my faith] just exploded," she said.The treatment had to be delayed because of COVID, and she said she was frustrated because she wanted to go back to school."This is home to me. It's always been home to me," she said. "I went to school here. I taught school here. I still go to church here. It will always be home."Her husband noticed that she never said she was going to work. She always said she was going to school."I never viewed this as work," she said. "This was always school to me. It was just something I wanted to do. I don't think there was ever a day I woke up and said, 'Ugh, we have school today."Although Schrant is certified to teach grades K-9, she only taught two age levels during her four decades in the profession — second and fourth grades, retiring as a fourth-grade teacher.She said she loves working with fourth graders because they can get a joke but are still eager to learn.On her desk was a tattered copy of "James and the Giant Peach," a favorite of both her and her students. She said she didn't have the time this year to read the book to them.During her decades as a teacher, students' lessons have become more structured, and there is less time for reading to the kids aloud, which she once did multiple times a week.She said students are more attuned to emotions now than they were when she was a child, but she also bemoaned a loss of innocence that has come with the prevalence of social media and the rise of technology."I try to make school fun for them," she said.&nbsp;She had a student in her class who didn't like to read, but he snuck a Snap-on tool catalog into the classroom. He worked in the summer, and he used the money he made to buy tools.&nbsp;She made a deal with him that he could look at his catalog once he finished his AR reading.When he was in high school, he came back to show her the truck he had bought.In her retirement, Schrant said she intends to spend more time with her family. She hopes to have the freedom to travel to her grandchildren's activities now that they all live in Kansas.She will still help with the altar servers on Tuesday and Thursday, which she has been doing for the last two years.She hasn't ruled out the possibility of returning as a substitute teacher, and if she really can't handle being away from school, she also considered working as a paraeducator."I think I will miss it a ton," she said. "I'll miss the kids."

Holy Family teacher retires after 43 years

GREENFIELD, Iowa (AP) — Multiple people were killed when a tornado tore through Greenfield and left a wide swath of obliterated homes, crumpled cars and splintered trees, while outside the small town, massive wind turbines were buckled and twisted to the ground by the howling winds.

After devastating the town of 2,000 residents, the storms moved eastward to pummel parts of Illinois and Wisconsin, knocking out power to more than 130,000 customers in the two states.

Greenfield's hospital was among the buildings that were damaged in the town, which meant that at least a dozen people who were hurt had to be taken to facilities elsewhere, according to Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla.

“Sadly we can confirm that there have been fatalities,” Dinkla said at a news conference Tuesday night, without specifying how many. “We’re still counting at this time.”

He said he thought they had accounted for all of the town’s residents but that searches would continue if anyone was reported missing. The Adair County Health System said in a Facebook post Tuesday night that it had set up a triage center at the Greenfield high school and that people who need medical attention should go there.

The tornado destroyed much of Greenfield, which is located about 55 miles (90 kilometers) southwest of Des Moines, during a day that saw multiple tornadoes, giant hail and heavy rain in several states.

Authorities announced a mandatory curfew for the town and said they would only allow residents to enter Greenfield until Wednesday morning. They also ordered media representatives to leave the city Tuesday night.

In the aftermath of the storm, mounds of broken wood from homes, branches, car parts and other debris littered lots where homes once stood. Some trees still standing were stripped of their limbs and leaves. Residents helped each other salvage furniture and other belongings that were strewn in every direction.

Rogue Paxton said he sheltered in the basement of his home when the storm moved through. He told WOI-TV he thought the house was lost but said his family got lucky.

“But everyone else is not so much, like my brother Cody, his house just got wiped,” Paxton said. “Then you see all these people out here helping each other. ... Everything’s going to be fine because we have each other, but it’s just going to be really, really rough. It is a mess."

Multiple tornadoes were reported throughout the state, and one also apparently took down several 250-foot (76-meter) wind turbines in southwest Iowa. Some of the turbines caught fire, sending plumes of smoke into the air.

Wind farms are built to withstand tornadoes, hurricanes and other powerful winds. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, turbines are designed to shut off when winds exceed certain thresholds, typically around 55 mph (89 kph). They also lock and feather their blades and turn into the wind, to minimize the strain.

Greenfield bills itself on its website as a “friendly wave as you walk” type of place with tree-lined streets — before the storm — and as the “perfect place to grow.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716371806181.png" alt="Tornado damage in Greenfield, Iowa -photo courtesy KCCI" />
 <figcaption>Tornado damage in Greenfield, Iowa -photo courtesy KCCI</figcaption>
 </figure>GREENFIELD, Iowa (AP) — Multiple people were killed when a tornado tore through Greenfield and left a wide swath of obliterated homes, crumpled cars and splintered trees, while outside the small town, massive wind turbines were buckled and twisted to the ground by the howling winds.After devastating the town of 2,000 residents, the storms moved eastward to pummel parts of Illinois and Wisconsin, knocking out power to more than 130,000 customers in the two states.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716372219187.png" alt="Tornado damage in Greenfield, Iowa -photo courtesy KCCI" />
 <figcaption>Tornado damage in Greenfield, Iowa -photo courtesy KCCI</figcaption>
 </figure>Greenfield's hospital was among the buildings that were damaged in the town, which meant that at least a dozen people who were hurt had to be taken to facilities elsewhere, according to Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla.“Sadly we can confirm that there have been fatalities,” Dinkla said at a news conference Tuesday night, without specifying how many. “We’re still counting at this time.”He said he thought they had accounted for all of the town’s residents but that searches would continue if anyone was reported missing. The Adair County Health System said in a Facebook post Tuesday night that it had set up a triage center at the Greenfield high school and that people who need medical attention should go there.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716371767050.png" alt="Tornado damage in Greenfield, Iowa -photo courtesy KCCI" />
 <figcaption>Tornado damage in Greenfield, Iowa -photo courtesy KCCI</figcaption>
 </figure>The tornado destroyed much of Greenfield, which is located about 55 miles (90 kilometers) southwest of Des Moines, during a day that saw multiple tornadoes, giant hail and heavy rain in several states.Authorities announced a mandatory curfew for the town and said they would only allow residents to enter Greenfield until Wednesday morning. They also ordered media representatives to leave the city Tuesday night.In the aftermath of the storm, mounds of broken wood from homes, branches, car parts and other debris littered lots where homes once stood. Some trees still standing were stripped of their limbs and leaves. Residents helped each other salvage furniture and other belongings that were strewn in every direction.Rogue Paxton said he sheltered in the basement of his home when the storm moved through. He told WOI-TV he thought the house was lost but said his family got lucky.“But everyone else is not so much, like my brother Cody, his house just got wiped,” Paxton said. “Then you see all these people out here helping each other. ... Everything’s going to be fine because we have each other, but it’s just going to be really, really rough. It is a mess."Multiple tornadoes were reported throughout the state, and one also apparently took down several 250-foot (76-meter) wind turbines in southwest Iowa. Some of the turbines caught fire, sending plumes of smoke into the air.Wind farms are built to withstand tornadoes, hurricanes and other powerful winds. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, turbines are designed to shut off when winds exceed certain thresholds, typically around 55 mph (89 kph). They also lock and feather their blades and turn into the wind, to minimize the strain.Greenfield bills itself on its website as a “friendly wave as you walk” type of place with tree-lined streets — before the storm — and as the “perfect place to grow.”Mary Long, the owner of Long’s Market in downtown Greenfield, said she rode out the storm at her business in the community’s historic town square, which largely escaped damage. Long said there appeared to be widespread damage on the east and south sides of town.“I could hear this roaring, like the proverbial freight train, and then it was just done,” she said.Camille Blair said the Greenfield Chamber of Commerce office where she works closed around 2 p.m. ahead of the storm.“I can see from my house it kind of went in a straight line down the road,” she said of the tornado.Gov. Kim Reynolds said she planned to visit Greenfield on Wednesday morning.“It was just a few weeks ago that tornadoes hit several other Iowa communities, and it’s hard to believe that it’s happened again,” she said in a statement. “Iowans are strong and resilient, and we will get through this together.”In southwestern Iowa, video posted to social media showed a tornado just northwest of Red Oak. Farther east and north, the National Weather Service issued multiple tornado warnings for areas near the towns of Griswold, Corning, Fontanelle and Guthrie Center, among others.Iowa was braced for severe weather after the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center gave most of the state a high chance of seeing severe thunderstorms with the potential for strong tornadoes. Des Moines public schools ended classes two hours early and canceled evening activities.The storms and tornado warnings moved into Wisconsin Tuesday evening and night, including a warning for the capital, Madison.Earlier in the day, residents to the west in Omaha, Nebraska, awoke to sirens blaring and widespread power outages as torrential rain, high winds and large hail pummeled the area. The deluge flooded basements and submerged cars. Television station&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/video-flash-flooding-threatens-morning-commute-across-omaha-metro/60855897">KETV</a>&nbsp;showed firefighters rescuing people from vehicles.In Illinois, dust storms led authorities to shut down stretches of two interstates due to low visibility. Winds gusts of up to 45 mph (74 kph) hit the McLean area, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Chuck Schaffer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716260078620.png" alt="Tornado damage in Johnson County, Kansas from Sunday- photo National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Tornado damage in Johnson County, Kansas from Sunday- photo National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>The storms followed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/storms-tornadoes-oklahoma-houston-00c6e5913a03c24191bceefd65b00fdf">days of extreme weather</a>&nbsp;that have ravaged much of the middle section of the country. Strong winds, large hail and tornadoes swept parts of Oklahoma and Kansas late Sunday, damaging homes and injuring two in Oklahoma.Another round of storms Monday night raked Colorado and western Nebraska and saw the city of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hailstorm-severe-weather-yuma-colorado-500eaddbefc1dc2865770451266e6bbe">Yuma, Colorado</a>, blanketed in hail the size of baseballs and golf balls, turning streets into rivers of water and ice.In Texas,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/houston-severe-weather-power-outages-f94a73d198b0c1789684a44b48454d2b">deadly storms</a>&nbsp;hit the Houston area last week, killing at least eight people. Those storms Thursday knocked out power to hundreds of thousands for days, leaving many in the dark and without air conditioning during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/houston-texas-storms-power-outages-86643a6d7decd28e971774e03b52e51d">hot and humid weather</a>. The total of deaths was raised Tuesday from seven to include a man who died from carbon monoxide poisoning while running a generator after his power went out. Hurricane-force winds reduced businesses and other structures to debris and shattered glass in downtown skyscrapers.Bob Oravec, lead forecaster with the National Weather Service, said the system is expected to turn south Wednesday, bringing more severe weather to parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and southern Missouri.