By TISA MASON FHSU President

In 2014, a young woman from the heart of Topeka, Kansas, named Morgan Jibowu embarked on a remarkable journey that would lead her not only to academic excellence but also to making a profound difference in the world of public health. Her trajectory, beginning at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and flourishing at the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes in underserved communities.

Morgan discovered Fort Hays State University through the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS), an enriching early college program that provided her with opportunities not readily available elsewhere. The warmth and support of the FHSU community, combined with generous scholarships, solidified her decision to remain at the institution after she completed high school and the KAMS program.

 “The incredible professors who made learning personal and inspiring were a significant part of my journey,” Morgan recalls. “FHSU allowed me to grow intellectually, personally, and professionally, and it felt like home.”

Her experiences at KAMS would lay a strong foundation, leading her to pursue research that not only developed her technical skills but also sparked a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. “The early science fairs and research projects ignited my curiosity, pushing me to ask hard questions and seek meaningful answers. I found immense joy in building new knowledge,” she expresses. Her passion for research during her time at FHSU built the groundwork for her current endeavors in epidemiology.

Now a postdoctoral associate, Morgan focuses on vector-borne (primarily insect-transmitted) and neglected tropical diseases, striving to enhance health outcomes for marginalized communities. “I am particularly driven by the importance of translating scientific research into tangible, real-world solutions,” she shares. Her determination to bridge gaps in healthcare reflects a deep commitment to policy reform, aiming to enhance access to quality care for those who need it most.

In May, Morgan returned to her roots at KAMS, where she delivered the commencement address for the Class of 2025. Her speech resonated with wisdom drawn from her experiences. “I emphasized the importance of expanding our definition of success,” she reflected. “Success isn’t just about accolades; it’s also about resilience, nurturing your well-being, and showing up for others.” Morgan’s perspective reminds us that while we strive for ambition, the journey is equally important, filled with moments of connection and personal growth.

She also imparted crucial lessons on embracing rejection as a pathway to growth: “If you’re never hearing ‘no,’ you’re probably not aiming high enough. Each rejection proves that you’re challenging yourself, and that's where real transformation occurs.” This mindset has propelled Morgan forward, inspiring her to tackle the immense challenges present in public health today.

As an epidemiologist, Morgan recognizes the vital connection between research and implementation. “One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that research findings translate into effective policy changes and intervention strategies,” she states. Her work encompasses sophisticated investigations, including studying mosquito populations in Harris County, Texas, and understanding the disruptions of environmental factors, such as climate change and urbanization, on disease outbreaks. Her findings are crucial in developing strategies that can prevent vector-borne diseases and promote public health.

Morgan's journey from her formative years in Topeka to her impactful career in public health serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. She encourages aspiring epidemiologists to remain focused on the core mission of enhancing health outcomes. “Ask yourself: How does my work improve public health, especially for underserved populations?” she advises.

There is so much to admire about Morgan. Her accomplishments are truly remarkable. Equally important are the values she embodies; values we hold dear as a university community — resilience, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her commitment to service and desire to create meaningful change exemplify what it means to lead a life of purpose. Morgan Jibowu does not just aim to build a career; she strives to construct a legacy that impacts the lives of others, nurturing the spirit of compassion within the field of public health.

With gratitude for the mentors, friends, and experiences that have shaped her path, Morgan looks forward to the next generation of Tigers at FHSU and KAMS. She is a living testament to the profound impact that a supportive community can have on an individual's journey, and her story is an inspiration to all who dare to dream.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU PresidentIn 2014, a young woman from the heart of Topeka, Kansas, named Morgan Jibowu embarked on a remarkable journey that would lead her not only to academic excellence but also to making a profound difference in the world of public health. Her trajectory, beginning at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and flourishing at the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes in underserved communities.Morgan discovered Fort Hays State University through the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS), an enriching early college program that provided her with opportunities not readily available elsewhere. The warmth and support of the FHSU community, combined with generous scholarships, solidified her decision to remain at the institution after she completed high school and the KAMS program. “The incredible professors who made learning personal and inspiring were a significant part of my journey,” Morgan recalls. “FHSU allowed me to grow intellectually, personally, and professionally, and it felt like home.”Her experiences at KAMS would lay a strong foundation, leading her to pursue research that not only developed her technical skills but also sparked a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. “The early science fairs and research projects ignited my curiosity, pushing me to ask hard questions and seek meaningful answers. I found immense joy in building new knowledge,” she expresses. Her passion for research during her time at FHSU built the groundwork for her current endeavors in epidemiology.Now a postdoctoral associate, Morgan focuses on vector-borne (primarily insect-transmitted) and neglected tropical diseases, striving to enhance health outcomes for marginalized communities. “I am particularly driven by the importance of translating scientific research into tangible, real-world solutions,” she shares. Her determination to bridge gaps in healthcare reflects a deep commitment to policy reform, aiming to enhance access to quality care for those who need it most.In May, Morgan returned to her roots at KAMS, where she delivered the commencement address for the Class of 2025. Her speech resonated with wisdom drawn from her experiences. “I emphasized the importance of expanding our definition of success,” she reflected. “Success isn’t just about accolades; it’s also about resilience, nurturing your well-being, and showing up for others.” Morgan’s perspective reminds us that while we strive for ambition, the journey is equally important, filled with moments of connection and personal growth.She also imparted crucial lessons on embracing rejection as a pathway to growth: “If you’re never hearing ‘no,’ you’re probably not aiming high enough. Each rejection proves that you’re challenging yourself, and that's where real transformation occurs.” This mindset has propelled Morgan forward, inspiring her to tackle the immense challenges present in public health today.As an epidemiologist, Morgan recognizes the vital connection between research and implementation. “One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that research findings translate into effective policy changes and intervention strategies,” she states. Her work encompasses sophisticated investigations, including studying mosquito populations in Harris County, Texas, and understanding the disruptions of environmental factors, such as climate change and urbanization, on disease outbreaks. Her findings are crucial in developing strategies that can prevent vector-borne diseases and promote public health.Morgan's journey from her formative years in Topeka to her impactful career in public health serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. She encourages aspiring epidemiologists to remain focused on the core mission of enhancing health outcomes. “Ask yourself: How does my work improve public health, especially for underserved populations?” she advises.There is so much to admire about Morgan. Her accomplishments are truly remarkable. Equally important are the values she embodies; values we hold dear as a university community — resilience, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her commitment to service and desire to create meaningful change exemplify what it means to lead a life of purpose. Morgan Jibowu does not just aim to build a career; she strives to construct a legacy that impacts the lives of others, nurturing the spirit of compassion within the field of public health.With gratitude for the mentors, friends, and experiences that have shaped her path, Morgan looks forward to the next generation of Tigers at FHSU and KAMS. She is a living testament to the profound impact that a supportive community can have on an individual's journey, and her story is an inspiration to all who dare to dream.

Heart of a Tiger: A beacon of hope in public health

HAYS
- Taber Stokes had three hits, Lorenzo Rios drove in three runs and three Hays Larks
pitchers combined to strike out 21 batters as the Larks opened their four-game
series with the Gameday Angels with an 11-4 victory Thursday night at Larks
Park.

The
21 strikeouts is the most by a Larks team since 2023 when they fanned 19 vs. the
Five Tool (TX) Kraken at the NBC World Series.

Starter
Dalton Campbell (3-0) fanned nine over the first four innings and was awarded
the win. Jordan Stribling struck out seven in three innings of relief and Julio
Ramos had five strikeouts over the last two innings.

The
Larks took the lead with a three run second then after the Angels scored single
runs in the third and fourth to pull within a run, the Larks added five in the bottom
of the fourth.

Dylan
LaRue hit a two-run double to get the Larks on the board in the third. Lorenzo
Rios hit a two-run homer and Trent Baker an RBI double to highlight the big
fourth inning which pushed the lead to 8-2.

The
Larks (8-1-1, 5-1 RMBL) added two more in the fifth on a Rios RBI triple and a
wild pitch. They closed the scoring on J Babcock’s RBI double in the sixth.

David
Brabb had three hits to lead the Angels (4-4, 0-1 RMBL).

The Larks have homered in six straight games. Brady Kreutzer and Dylan LaRue each have hit two during the stretch. Jackson Babcock, Trent Baker and Lorenzo Rios have also gone deep during this stretch.

They Larks hit five home runs in their win over the Dodge City A's on June 7th.

Game
two of the four-game series is Friday at Larks Park. First pitch is at 7:00
p.m. It’s Big Brothers/Sisters Night. Admission is free courtesy of buyout
sponsors Glassman Corp., Wil Fischer Distributing, Tommy's Express Car Wash and
Jimmy John’s.

Hays Post SportsHAYS
- Taber Stokes had three hits, Lorenzo Rios drove in three runs and three Hays Larks
pitchers combined to strike out 21 batters as the Larks opened their four-game
series with the Gameday Angels with an 11-4 victory Thursday night at Larks
Park.The
21 strikeouts is the most by a Larks team since 2023 when they fanned 19 vs. the
Five Tool (TX) Kraken at the NBC World Series.Starter
Dalton Campbell (3-0) fanned nine over the first four innings and was awarded
the win. Jordan Stribling struck out seven in three innings of relief and Julio
Ramos had five strikeouts over the last two innings.The
Larks took the lead with a three run second then after the Angels scored single
runs in the third and fourth to pull within a run, the Larks added five in the bottom
of the fourth.Dylan
LaRue hit a two-run double to get the Larks on the board in the third. Lorenzo
Rios hit a two-run homer and Trent Baker an RBI double to highlight the big
fourth inning which pushed the lead to 8-2.The
Larks (8-1-1, 5-1 RMBL) added two more in the fifth on a Rios RBI triple and a
wild pitch. They closed the scoring on J Babcock’s RBI double in the sixth.David
Brabb had three hits to lead the Angels (4-4, 0-1 RMBL).HOME RUN POWERThe Larks have homered in six straight games. Brady Kreutzer and Dylan LaRue each have hit two during the stretch. Jackson Babcock, Trent Baker and Lorenzo Rios have also gone deep during this stretch.They Larks hit five home runs in their win over the Dodge City A's on June 7th.UP
NEXTGame
two of the four-game series is Friday at Larks Park. First pitch is at 7:00
p.m. It’s Big Brothers/Sisters Night. Admission is free courtesy of buyout
sponsors Glassman Corp., Wil Fischer Distributing, Tommy's Express Car Wash and
Jimmy John’s.THURSDAY’S
RMBL RESULTSRoughriders
10, Liberal 5

⚾ Larks fan 21 in series opening win over Angels

The Hays Larks host Gameday Thursday at Larks Park.&nbsp;

First pitch is set&nbsp; for 7 p.m at Larks Park.&nbsp;

You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host Gameday Thursday at Larks Park.&nbsp;First pitch is set&nbsp; for 7 p.m at Larks Park.&nbsp;You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a> Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks host Gameday

Ashly Nicole Frenzl, age 37, of
Kansas&nbsp; City, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025.

She was born on December 16, 1987, in Hays, Kansas, to Michael W. and Jane M.
(Rajewski) Frenzl.

She was the director of accounting and compliance for United Country Real
Estate Company in Kansas City.&nbsp; Prior to moving to Kansas City, she worked
at Brungardt-Hower-Ward-Elliott &amp; Pfeifer; Golden Plains Credit Union; and
Fort Hays State University.

Ashly was a member of Saint Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church while living
in Hays.&nbsp; She was a 2006 graduate of T.M.P.-Marian High School, a graduate
of Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, and a
licensed C.P.A.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ashly was always for a new adventure.&nbsp; She loved to travel, dance, enjoyed
quilting, painting, going to music festivals, concerts, and spending time on
the beach with her friends. 

Ashly is survived by her parents, Michael Frenzl and Jane Rajewski, Hays, KS;
her sister, Amy Feldt and husband, Cory, Hays, KS; her grandmother, Edna
(Kolste) Frenzl, Hays, KS; her nieces, Ava and Olivia Feldt; her nephews, Jaxson
and Maddox Feldt; her little four-legged friend, Penelope; her special friend,
Ryan Holsman, Kansas City, MO; and her many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
&nbsp;&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Larry Frenzl; James and Marian
(Kuhlman) Rajewski.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, July 3, 2025,
at Saint Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church, 2901 East 13th Street,
Hays, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Fred Gatschet.&nbsp; 

The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. Thursday, at Saint
Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church.&nbsp; A family rosary will be said at 10:30
A.M. Thursday.

In Lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials made payable to: Fort Hays
State University Endowment or St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital in Care of
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601. 

Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750267988201.jpeg" alt="Ashly Nicole Frenzl" />
 <figcaption>Ashly Nicole Frenzl</figcaption>
 </figure>Ashly Nicole Frenzl, age 37, of
Kansas&nbsp; City, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025.She was born on December 16, 1987, in Hays, Kansas, to Michael W. and Jane M.
(Rajewski) Frenzl.She was the director of accounting and compliance for United Country Real
Estate Company in Kansas City.&nbsp; Prior to moving to Kansas City, she worked
at Brungardt-Hower-Ward-Elliott &amp; Pfeifer; Golden Plains Credit Union; and
Fort Hays State University.Ashly was a member of Saint Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church while living
in Hays.&nbsp; She was a 2006 graduate of T.M.P.-Marian High School, a graduate
of Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, and a
licensed C.P.A.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashly was always for a new adventure.&nbsp; She loved to travel, dance, enjoyed
quilting, painting, going to music festivals, concerts, and spending time on
the beach with her friends. Ashly is survived by her parents, Michael Frenzl and Jane Rajewski, Hays, KS;
her sister, Amy Feldt and husband, Cory, Hays, KS; her grandmother, Edna
(Kolste) Frenzl, Hays, KS; her nieces, Ava and Olivia Feldt; her nephews, Jaxson
and Maddox Feldt; her little four-legged friend, Penelope; her special friend,
Ryan Holsman, Kansas City, MO; and her many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
&nbsp;&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Larry Frenzl; James and Marian
(Kuhlman) Rajewski.A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, July 3, 2025,
at Saint Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church, 2901 East 13th Street,
Hays, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Fred Gatschet.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. Thursday, at Saint
Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church.&nbsp; A family rosary will be said at 10:30
A.M. Thursday.In Lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials made payable to: Fort Hays
State University Endowment or St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital in Care of
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601. Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Ashly Nicole Frenzl

GREENSBORO, N.C. - Fort Hays State catcher Luis Ayala was named to the 2025 American Baseball Coaches Association Central Region All-Defensive Team, announced Thursday by the ABCA.

This year's MIAA Gold Glove winner led the league with 17 runners caught stealing. He totaled 329 putouts behind the dish, seventh-most in the league, and added 34 assists while posting a fielding percentage of .989. The Panama City, Panama native appeared in 45 games on the year and allowed just one passed ball.

The Tigers have now had a player earn a spot on the regional All-Defensive Team for two consecutive seasons after Trey DeGarmo was picked for the honor at third base last season. Ayala's effort helped the Tigers reach the postseason for a second-consecutive season and win 32 games, the highest team total since 2007.

Ayala was one of six MIAA student-athletes listed on the regional All-Defensive Team, with the Northern Sun earning two spots and the Great American Conference garnering the final award.

2025 ABCA NCAA Div. II All-Defensive Team: Central Region Position - Player - School C - Luis Ayala - Fort Hays State 1B - Cade Cancilla - Arkansas Monticello 2B - Andrew Ramirez - Rogers State 3B - Jacob Steele - Central Missouri SS - Rickey Sanchez - Pittsburg State OF - Nolan Drossel - Sioux Falls OF - Ashton Neuman - Northwest Missouri OF - Jason Axelberg - Augustana} P - Caden Bressler - Washburn

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750414689830.png" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsGREENSBORO, N.C. - Fort Hays State catcher Luis Ayala was named to the 2025 American Baseball Coaches Association Central Region All-Defensive Team, announced Thursday by the ABCA.This year's MIAA Gold Glove winner led the league with 17 runners caught stealing. He totaled 329 putouts behind the dish, seventh-most in the league, and added 34 assists while posting a fielding percentage of .989. The Panama City, Panama native appeared in 45 games on the year and allowed just one passed ball.The Tigers have now had a player earn a spot on the regional All-Defensive Team for two consecutive seasons after Trey DeGarmo was picked for the honor at third base last season. Ayala's effort helped the Tigers reach the postseason for a second-consecutive season and win 32 games, the highest team total since 2007.Ayala was one of six MIAA student-athletes listed on the regional All-Defensive Team, with the Northern Sun earning two spots and the Great American Conference garnering the final award.2025 ABCA NCAA Div. II All-Defensive Team: Central Region Position - Player - School C - Luis Ayala - Fort Hays State 1B - Cade Cancilla - Arkansas Monticello 2B - Andrew Ramirez - Rogers State 3B - Jacob Steele - Central Missouri SS - Rickey Sanchez - Pittsburg State OF - Nolan Drossel - Sioux Falls OF - Ashton Neuman - Northwest Missouri OF - Jason Axelberg - Augustana} P - Caden Bressler - Washburn

⚾ FHSU's Ayala named to Central Region All-Defensive Team

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of a new wheelchair-accessible school bus on Monday.

The low bid was from Kansas Truck for $149,000.

The purchase is part of the school district's five-year transportation plan.

The board did not approve a proposal to purchase&nbsp;$80,938 worth of new video equipment for the district boardroom. The equipment would have been moved to Wilson School when the district vacates Rockwell Administration Center at the completion of the bond projects.

School board members said they would like to revisit the purchase when the administration moves into Wilson in a couple of years.

The district approved a five-year copier lease agreement contract with SumnerOne.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4c2d3e85-7231-4f36-a2e0-a75c7231637b">The board rejected a renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One in May, requesting that the administration issue a request for proposals and bid out the contract.</a>

The board approved a bid from BSN Sports for three scorer's tables for the new Hays High School main and auxiliary gyms for $63,947.

The board voted to move its annual election of board president and vice president to January, better aligning it with the election of board members, which now takes place in November.

The board will have elections for board officers in July as planned, but those officers will serve shortened terms.

Curt Vajnar is the current president, and Jayme Goetz is the current vice president.

At the Monday meeting, Meagan Zampieri Lillpop, Vajnar and Ken Brooks said they would be interested in serving in either position. Goetz said she would serve another term as vice president if elected.

The board also approved year-end transfers and agreed to allow the district to dispose of obsolete property from Lincoln and Hays High schools through a community garage sale. The sale date has not yet been set.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750284265445.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of a new wheelchair-accessible school bus on Monday.The low bid was from Kansas Truck for $149,000.The purchase is part of the school district's five-year transportation plan.<h2>Boardroom video equipment</h2>The board did not approve a proposal to purchase&nbsp;$80,938 worth of new video equipment for the district boardroom. The equipment would have been moved to Wilson School when the district vacates Rockwell Administration Center at the completion of the bond projects.School board members said they would like to revisit the purchase when the administration moves into Wilson in a couple of years.<h2>Copier agreement</h2>The district approved a five-year copier lease agreement contract with SumnerOne.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4c2d3e85-7231-4f36-a2e0-a75c7231637b">The board rejected a renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One in May, requesting that the administration issue a request for proposals and bid out the contract.</a><h2>Scoring tables</h2>The board approved a bid from BSN Sports for three scorer's tables for the new Hays High School main and auxiliary gyms for $63,947.<h2>Board elections</h2>The board voted to move its annual election of board president and vice president to January, better aligning it with the election of board members, which now takes place in November.The board will have elections for board officers in July as planned, but those officers will serve shortened terms.Curt Vajnar is the current president, and Jayme Goetz is the current vice president.At the Monday meeting, Meagan Zampieri Lillpop, Vajnar and Ken Brooks said they would be interested in serving in either position. Goetz said she would serve another term as vice president if elected.The board also approved year-end transfers and agreed to allow the district to dispose of obsolete property from Lincoln and Hays High schools through a community garage sale. The sale date has not yet been set.

Hays USD 489 purchases new school bus

The Kansas Drought Monitor, released today, shows drought is easing across the state, including in Ellis County.

About half of Ellis County shows no drought, while the other half exhibits abnormally dry conditions.

Pockets of moderate and severe drought remain along the Nebraska border.

As of this morning, Hays has received 1.47 inches of rain in June and 10.35 inches of precipitation year to date, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays averages 3.38 inches of rain in June and 11.31 inches of precipitation year to date by the end of June.

Friday's forecast is for a high of 101 in Hays. Hot temperatures and wind will remain in the forecast through Sunday, with a chance of thunderstorms returning on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750357836624.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Kansas Drought Monitor, released today, shows drought is easing across the state, including in Ellis County.About half of Ellis County shows no drought, while the other half exhibits abnormally dry conditions.Pockets of moderate and severe drought remain along the Nebraska border.As of this morning, Hays has received 1.47 inches of rain in June and 10.35 inches of precipitation year to date, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Hays averages 3.38 inches of rain in June and 11.31 inches of precipitation year to date by the end of June.Friday's forecast is for a high of 101 in Hays. Hot temperatures and wind will remain in the forecast through Sunday, with a chance of thunderstorms returning on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Drought eases in northwest Kansas

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The warm weather will perfectly complement the featured exhibit for Friday's annual <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/916bb38b-09bf-4c28-bf9f-4da5a0b67707/downloads/b594ecf6-0b8d-4ba8-bf27-2389a5841f20/summer%20walk%2025%20inside%20ltr.pdf?ver=1750042936043">Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk</a>, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in downtown Hays.

"Vanishing Depths" is a collection of paintings and ceramics by Hays artist Diana Unrein, highlighting the nuances of ocean life, on view through Aug. 13 at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th.

Unrein is a native of Cyprus, the island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. She's lived in the United States for 40 years.&nbsp;

"The water figures so prominently in her life," said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director. "It's always been a recurring element historically."

"You can imagine how difficult that would be to paint water. They're serene. They're beautiful," Meder said.

Unrein's figurative ceramics are also large, still telling the stories that arise from the water.&nbsp;

Unrein has won numerous awards and recognitions for her work, ranging from the local to the global level.&nbsp; This will be the largest single exhibition Unrein has ever presented anywhere.

Meder is excited about the wide variety of arts represented in the walk, which includes several hands-on interactions for children.

Drum making and playing by John Makings, along with a chalk arts station courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, will be set up in the Downtown Pavilion and Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main.

STEM Harvest, 507 Main, will offer AI creative art stations and a glimpse of the building's mural in process by The Brickmob of Wichita.

The musical arts will be featured by the First United Methodist Church's Spirit Ringers at Kat's Hallmark, 1003 Main. The group will perform three concerts at 7 p.m., 7:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Live music will be performed by Martha Miller from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Paisley Pear Wine Bar &amp; Bistro, 1100 Main.&nbsp;

Attendees can get a sneak peek behind the scenes of the musical<a href="https://www.hctks.com/"> "Mama Mia" by the Hays Community Theatre</a>, 121 E. Eighth, which will be performed July 24-26. The group will also host a public karaoke open mic and competition at 8 p.m.&nbsp;

Mother Nature will show off her creations with a little help from K-State Agricultural Research and Cottonwood Extension Master Gardeners open houses.

Tours of the WaterSmart Garden, 601 Main, and the Backyard Family Garden and Perennial/Pollinator Garden, K-State Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave., will be conducted from 6 to 8 p.m.

Other exhibitions include etchings, jewelry, engraved mirrors, wood sculpture, a book signing of "Soon You Will Be Mine" by Hays author Jeanne Riedel, collaborative art banners by DSNWK arts and Fort Hays State University's community-engaged art program, and the MFA work of FHSU student Kelly Chapin-Hagen at the campus Moss Thorns Gallery of Art from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Ellis County Historical Society, Seventh and Main, will feature a traveling exhibit from the Smoky Hill Museum, Salina, titled "A Place to Call Home" as well as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/889e1747-e8ab-4501-adf4-35e170981e29">blue denim buffalo sculpture by Hays artist Pete Felten</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750259191589.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe warm weather will perfectly complement the featured exhibit for Friday's annual <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/916bb38b-09bf-4c28-bf9f-4da5a0b67707/downloads/b594ecf6-0b8d-4ba8-bf27-2389a5841f20/summer%20walk%2025%20inside%20ltr.pdf?ver=1750042936043">Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk</a>, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in downtown Hays."Vanishing Depths" is a collection of paintings and ceramics by Hays artist Diana Unrein, highlighting the nuances of ocean life, on view through Aug. 13 at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th.Unrein is a native of Cyprus, the island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. She's lived in the United States for 40 years.&nbsp;"The water figures so prominently in her life," said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director. "It's always been a recurring element historically."The paintings are large."You can imagine how difficult that would be to paint water. They're serene. They're beautiful," Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261343584.png" alt="Painting by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Painting by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261150152.jpeg" alt="Ceramics by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ceramics by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Unrein's figurative ceramics are also large, still telling the stories that arise from the water.&nbsp;Unrein has won numerous awards and recognitions for her work, ranging from the local to the global level.&nbsp; This will be the largest single exhibition Unrein has ever presented anywhere.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk is Friday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=6fx2p-18de89c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Meder is excited about the wide variety of arts represented in the walk, which includes several hands-on interactions for children.Drum making and playing by John Makings, along with a chalk arts station courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, will be set up in the Downtown Pavilion and Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main.STEM Harvest, 507 Main, will offer AI creative art stations and a glimpse of the building's mural in process by The Brickmob of Wichita.The musical arts will be featured by the First United Methodist Church's Spirit Ringers at Kat's Hallmark, 1003 Main. The group will perform three concerts at 7 p.m., 7:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.Live music will be performed by Martha Miller from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Paisley Pear Wine Bar &amp; Bistro, 1100 Main.&nbsp;Attendees can get a sneak peek behind the scenes of the musical<a href="https://www.hctks.com/"> "Mama Mia" by the Hays Community Theatre</a>, 121 E. Eighth, which will be performed July 24-26. The group will also host a public karaoke open mic and competition at 8 p.m.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750262075463.png" alt="Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners&nbsp; perennial/pollinator garden to support butterflies, native bees, honeybees and other pollinators. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners&nbsp; perennial/pollinator garden to support butterflies, native bees, honeybees and other pollinators. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>Mother Nature will show off her creations with a little help from K-State Agricultural Research and Cottonwood Extension Master Gardeners open houses.Tours of the WaterSmart Garden, 601 Main, and the Backyard Family Garden and Perennial/Pollinator Garden, K-State Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave., will be conducted from 6 to 8 p.m.Other exhibitions include etchings, jewelry, engraved mirrors, wood sculpture, a book signing of "Soon You Will Be Mine" by Hays author Jeanne Riedel, collaborative art banners by DSNWK arts and Fort Hays State University's community-engaged art program, and the MFA work of FHSU student Kelly Chapin-Hagen at the campus Moss Thorns Gallery of Art from 6 to 8 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261665443.jpeg" alt="Hays sculptor Pete Felten and Amanda Rupp, director of the Ellis County Historical Society, welcome Felten’s “Buffalo in Denim” sculpture to the historical society. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to the Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays sculptor Pete Felten and Amanda Rupp, director of the Ellis County Historical Society, welcome Felten’s “Buffalo in Denim” sculpture to the historical society. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to the Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Historical Society, Seventh and Main, will feature a traveling exhibit from the Smoky Hill Museum, Salina, titled "A Place to Call Home" as well as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/889e1747-e8ab-4501-adf4-35e170981e29">blue denim buffalo sculpture by Hays artist Pete Felten</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750264064256.png" alt="Hays Arts Council&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750264136850.png" alt="Hays Arts Council&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

 🎙 Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk set for Friday

Hays High School students will not only be starting school in August in a new school, but they will also have a new schedule and cell phone policy.

Both were discussed at the Hays USD 489 school board meeting on Monday.

The new schedule, which has been dubbed "Move it Mondays" will have students attending all of their classes on Mondays. Students will continue to attend classes based on the maroon and gold block scheduling on Tuesdays through Fridays.

The school had already used the Move It Monday schedule on the first day of each semester. This pilot program would result in the Move It schedule every Monday.

Principal Shawn Henderson said the schedule allows students to have more frequent contact with teachers. He said teachers also expressed concerns students were not well-engaged during Pride time.

Class time increases For the 2024-2025 School Year &nbsp;2-week instructional time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 85 minute/class 5 meetings = 425 minutes over 2-weeks &nbsp;For the 2025-2026 School Year &nbsp;2-week instruction time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 90 minute/class 4 meetings = 440 minutes over 2-weeks

One teacher who spoke in favor of the schedule at the meeting said one of her students missed three weeks of math classes due to wrestling.

She said teachers had issues with 40 minutes of unstructured time. The new schedule will reduce Pride to 20 minutes.

Board member Jayme Goetz met with Henderson, Board President Curt Vajnar and other administrators after she said several questions about the schedule were brought to her by parents and teachers.&nbsp;

"There are teachers and parents who have concerns with this new schedule," Goetz said. "I personally have nothing wrong with this schedule. I do not care if they implement it or not. What I do care about is that those concerns are heard and represented. 

"All I am asking is that the teachers have the opportunity to vote on the implementation of this new schedule this year."

Although the teachers were not given the opportunity to vote on the pilot, the schedule will be part of the negotiated agreement next year if the administration decides to make the change permanent, Henderson said.

Alex Underwood, a teacher, said the idea for the new schedule originated from a building leadership team meeting. The teachers expressed concern about the amount of extra time students have at school during Pride time and guided personal study time, he said.

Students are required to enroll in personal study time. It encompasses a full 86-minute class period, which the students have every other day.

The new schedule was pitched to the whole staff during a morning faculty meeting. Underwood said some concerns were expressed, but nothing significant was noted.

"Hearing not a lot of dissent from other teachers, we thought we could go forward," Underwood said.

He said the negative to the new schedule is classes that work better in a block schedule, such as a culinary class, gym or woods, would have to be more creative about using the shorter 45-minute class schedules on Mondays.

Clubs will still meet during Pride time, but for 20 minutes. Second breakfast will also continue.

During Pride time, students are presented with a social/emotional curriculum, clubs meet and students can pass to see other teachers.

"While that is effective for some teachers, certainly, and some students certainly, the amount of extra time they have in that and their [guided personal study time] for a lot of students is not particularly the most well-used time. So it ends up being kind of a hangout time for students," Underwood said.

Underwood said no teachers have planning time during Pride time, so there's no one to help monitor what's going on in the halls.

"It has evolved in the student culture that it is their time, and they can do whatever they want. They push back against us really hard on that," he said. ... "It's not working super great, and we need a change for sure."

Goetz asked why&nbsp;guided personal study time paras weren't monitoring the hallways during Pride time.

Assistant Principal Becky Hickert said that in order to fully staff guided personal study time, the paras have to take their breaks during Pride time.

Goetz said, "If I am getting phone calls that we are implementing too much in one year, then there's a problem somewhere."

Board member Derek Yarmer said he supported more class time and structure for students.

The board was not required to take action on the schedule proposal.

Teachers at the meeting on Monday said the new cell phone policy is also part of the effort to better focus and engage students.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e8a8e804-b37c-4110-b8cb-aff774a92e83">Beginning in the upcoming school year, students will be prohibited from using cell phones during the school day at the high school.</a>

The board had its first reading of the student handbooks, which contain the new policy, and board members had questions about enforcement.

• On a first offense, the cell phone will be confiscated, and the student can pick up the phone after school. • On a second offense, the parent has to pick up the phone at the school. • On the third offense, the student and parent have to meet with an administrator to draft a memorandum of understanding.

Goetz asked what the administrators would do if a parent refused to follow the policy.

"We would appreciate your support as a board," Henderson said.

He added, "This is going to be a challenge not just for my staff and students, but for their families because our students have been directly communicating with mom and dad during the day, which means mom and dad have a job and they're talking to their students during the day.

"We are all going to have to retrain together," he said. "It can't be just these people standing up here. I can't raise 1,000 kids by myself. We just have the honor of working with them when they come to us."

Henderson said the elimination of cell phone use during the school day will have to be an effort of the entire community.

Goetz and Henderson both encouraged parents to contact the office in the event of an emergency, rather than trying to call students on their cell phones.

Board member Ruth Ruder said, "In the schools that I have heard have banned them, they said it works, and the kids adjusted just fine. We probably handle it worse than they do."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750276873486.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays High School students will not only be starting school in August in a new school, but they will also have a new schedule and cell phone policy.Both were discussed at the Hays USD 489 school board meeting on Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750282606224.png" alt="Sample of the new "Move it Monday" schedule. The Pride Time is listed as "Advisory" on this schedule." />
 <figcaption>Sample of the new "Move it Monday" schedule. The Pride Time is listed as "Advisory" on this schedule.</figcaption>
 </figure>The new schedule, which has been dubbed "Move it Mondays" will have students attending all of their classes on Mondays. Students will continue to attend classes based on the maroon and gold block scheduling on Tuesdays through Fridays.The school had already used the Move It Monday schedule on the first day of each semester. This pilot program would result in the Move It schedule every Monday.Principal Shawn Henderson said the schedule allows students to have more frequent contact with teachers. He said teachers also expressed concerns students were not well-engaged during Pride time.Class time increases For the 2024-2025 School Year &nbsp;2-week instructional time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 85 minute/class 5 meetings = 425 minutes over 2-weeks &nbsp;For the 2025-2026 School Year &nbsp;2-week instruction time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 90 minute/class 4 meetings = 440 minutes over 2-weeksOne teacher who spoke in favor of the schedule at the meeting said one of her students missed three weeks of math classes due to wrestling.She said teachers had issues with 40 minutes of unstructured time. The new schedule will reduce Pride to 20 minutes.Board member Jayme Goetz met with Henderson, Board President Curt Vajnar and other administrators after she said several questions about the schedule were brought to her by parents and teachers.&nbsp;"There are teachers and parents who have concerns with this new schedule," Goetz said. "I personally have nothing wrong with this schedule. I do not care if they implement it or not. What I do care about is that those concerns are heard and represented. "All I am asking is that the teachers have the opportunity to vote on the implementation of this new schedule this year."Although the teachers were not given the opportunity to vote on the pilot, the schedule will be part of the negotiated agreement next year if the administration decides to make the change permanent, Henderson said.Alex Underwood, a teacher, said the idea for the new schedule originated from a building leadership team meeting. The teachers expressed concern about the amount of extra time students have at school during Pride time and guided personal study time, he said.Students are required to enroll in personal study time. It encompasses a full 86-minute class period, which the students have every other day.The new schedule was pitched to the whole staff during a morning faculty meeting. Underwood said some concerns were expressed, but nothing significant was noted."Hearing not a lot of dissent from other teachers, we thought we could go forward," Underwood said.He said the negative to the new schedule is classes that work better in a block schedule, such as a culinary class, gym or woods, would have to be more creative about using the shorter 45-minute class schedules on Mondays.Clubs will still meet during Pride time, but for 20 minutes. Second breakfast will also continue.During Pride time, students are presented with a social/emotional curriculum, clubs meet and students can pass to see other teachers."While that is effective for some teachers, certainly, and some students certainly, the amount of extra time they have in that and their [guided personal study time] for a lot of students is not particularly the most well-used time. So it ends up being kind of a hangout time for students," Underwood said.Underwood said no teachers have planning time during Pride time, so there's no one to help monitor what's going on in the halls."It has evolved in the student culture that it is their time, and they can do whatever they want. They push back against us really hard on that," he said. ... "It's not working super great, and we need a change for sure."Goetz asked why&nbsp;guided personal study time paras weren't monitoring the hallways during Pride time.Assistant Principal Becky Hickert said that in order to fully staff guided personal study time, the paras have to take their breaks during Pride time.Goetz said, "If I am getting phone calls that we are implementing too much in one year, then there's a problem somewhere."Board member Derek Yarmer said he supported more class time and structure for students.The board was not required to take action on the schedule proposal.<h2>Cell phones</h2>Teachers at the meeting on Monday said the new cell phone policy is also part of the effort to better focus and engage students.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e8a8e804-b37c-4110-b8cb-aff774a92e83">Beginning in the upcoming school year, students will be prohibited from using cell phones during the school day at the high school.</a>The board had its first reading of the student handbooks, which contain the new policy, and board members had questions about enforcement.• On a first offense, the cell phone will be confiscated, and the student can pick up the phone after school. • On a second offense, the parent has to pick up the phone at the school. • On the third offense, the student and parent have to meet with an administrator to draft a memorandum of understanding.Goetz asked what the administrators would do if a parent refused to follow the policy."We would appreciate your support as a board," Henderson said.He added, "This is going to be a challenge not just for my staff and students, but for their families because our students have been directly communicating with mom and dad during the day, which means mom and dad have a job and they're talking to their students during the day."We are all going to have to retrain together," he said. "It can't be just these people standing up here. I can't raise 1,000 kids by myself. We just have the honor of working with them when they come to us."Henderson said the elimination of cell phone use during the school day will have to be an effort of the entire community.Goetz and Henderson both encouraged parents to contact the office in the event of an emergency, rather than trying to call students on their cell phones.Board member Ruth Ruder said, "In the schools that I have heard have banned them, they said it works, and the kids adjusted just fine. We probably handle it worse than they do."

Hays High presents Move it Monday schedule; board discusses cell phones

A Hays developer plans to renovate the second floor of the building at 1012 Main St. into Airbnb-rentable units.

Tim Speno, One Twenty&nbsp;Seven Investments, is requesting the city of Hays to apply for $300,000 in grant money through the Kansas Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Commercial Rehabilitation program to assist with the redevelopment project. 

Although the program funds projects owned and operated by private developers, cities and counties are still required to be the official applicants for the CDBG funds.

A matching fund of 25 percent from the developer is required as part of the project. No city funds would be disbursed.

The building, initially constructed in 1917 as the Hays Building and Loan Association, has housed various businesses over the years and is currently home to Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio.&nbsp;

The renovation will involve exterior masonry, interior plumbing, HVAC, and roof improvements to create three rentable units. The quilt studio will continue to operate on the ground floor.

City commissioners will consider Speno's request at their work session Thursday afternoon.

Also on the agenda is a rezoning request at 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to a residential multi-family district.

The owner, AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to&nbsp;build a housing development with units designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.

The Hays Area Planning Commission has already unanimously approved the rezoning request for the&nbsp;.607 acres of undeveloped land directly east of the little Dillons.

Commissioners will also review recommended changes to the city's Unified Development Code for small structures, such as gazebos or garden sheds, to permit a shorter setback. A second consideration is eliminating the maximum of two accessory structures on a lot.

Staff is also recommending removing the restriction in agriculture&nbsp; districts where non-agricultural accessory structures are limited to a maximum size of 50% of the footprint of the main dwelling.

The Hays Area Planning Commission has unanimously approved the three requested changes.

The commission will also be advised of a general nuisance abatement request for 206 E. 14th.

The complete June 19 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06192025-1554">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263139389.png" alt="1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA Hays developer plans to renovate the second floor of the building at 1012 Main St. into Airbnb-rentable units.Tim Speno, One Twenty&nbsp;Seven Investments, is requesting the city of Hays to apply for $300,000 in grant money through the Kansas Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Commercial Rehabilitation program to assist with the redevelopment project. Although the program funds projects owned and operated by private developers, cities and counties are still required to be the official applicants for the CDBG funds.A matching fund of 25 percent from the developer is required as part of the project. No city funds would be disbursed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263247761.png" alt="1012 Main St., downtown Hays. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>1012 Main St., downtown Hays. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The building, initially constructed in 1917 as the Hays Building and Loan Association, has housed various businesses over the years and is currently home to Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio.&nbsp;The renovation will involve exterior masonry, interior plumbing, HVAC, and roof improvements to create three rentable units. The quilt studio will continue to operate on the ground floor.City commissioners will consider Speno's request at their work session Thursday afternoon.Also on the agenda is a rezoning request at 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to a residential multi-family district.The owner, AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to&nbsp;build a housing development with units designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.The Hays Area Planning Commission has already unanimously approved the rezoning request for the&nbsp;.607 acres of undeveloped land directly east of the little Dillons.Commissioners will also review recommended changes to the city's Unified Development Code for small structures, such as gazebos or garden sheds, to permit a shorter setback. A second consideration is eliminating the maximum of two accessory structures on a lot.Staff is also recommending removing the restriction in agriculture&nbsp; districts where non-agricultural accessory structures are limited to a maximum size of 50% of the footprint of the main dwelling.The Hays Area Planning Commission has unanimously approved the three requested changes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750265211704.png" alt="206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo" />
 <figcaption>206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission will also be advised of a general nuisance abatement request for 206 E. 14th.The complete June 19 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06192025-1554">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays developer plans rental units in portion of downtown building

Steven Lynn Engelhardt, 70, of Hiawatha, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on June
15, 2025.

Steve was
born on January 31, 1955, in Norton, Kansas, to Charles “Archie” and Mildred
(Bantam) Engelhardt. He grew up in Long Island, Kansas, and graduated from
Northern Valley High School in 1973. He went on to attend Fort Hays State
University and later began working for the university’s Farm Crops Division,
where he dedicated over 30 years of service before retiring in 2010.

After his
retirement from the university, Steve moved to Hiawatha, Kansas, where he
worked for Hemisphere GNSS and later for Summit Truck Bodies. He officially
retired again in 2022—but true to form, returned to part-time work at
Hemisphere GNSS just a few months later, eventually wrapping up his time there
in April 2025.

Steve was
known for his hands-on spirit and his uncanny ability to fix or tinker with
just about anything. His favorite pastime was riding his motorcycle with
friends and taking in the beautiful Kansas countryside. He developed many close
friendships in Hiawatha and cherished the time spent with those who became like
family.

Above all,
Steve loved his family. He was a devoted father who was always there to listen
and offer sound advice. He took pride in passing his wisdom on to his children
and grandchildren and always had a “dad joke” at the ready. He was the kind of
grandpa who would drive long distances to attend a special event, no matter how
small, just to show he cared. He is survived by his daughter, Miranda Lynn
Engelhardt Abate, and her husband, Tim Abate, of Belton, Missouri; his son,
Devin Cole Engelhardt, and his wife, Brittany, of Peculiar, Missouri; and his
beloved grandchildren: Olyvia, Thomas, Gianna, Cale, and Adalynn. He is also
survived by his former wife, Patricia Englert of Belton, Missouri; his brother,
Delwyn Engelhardt and wife Diane of Temple, Texas; his sister, Colette Craig of
Topeka, Kansas and&nbsp;lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews.&nbsp;He
was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral
services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Plumer-Gobber
Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Almena, Kansas.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., prior to the service.

Memorial
contributions may be made in Steve’s name and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber
Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com" target="_blank">www.plumergobber.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263791763.jpeg" alt="Steven Lynn Engelhardt" />
 <figcaption>Steven Lynn Engelhardt</figcaption>
 </figure>Steven Lynn Engelhardt, 70, of Hiawatha, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on June
15, 2025.Steve was
born on January 31, 1955, in Norton, Kansas, to Charles “Archie” and Mildred
(Bantam) Engelhardt. He grew up in Long Island, Kansas, and graduated from
Northern Valley High School in 1973. He went on to attend Fort Hays State
University and later began working for the university’s Farm Crops Division,
where he dedicated over 30 years of service before retiring in 2010.After his
retirement from the university, Steve moved to Hiawatha, Kansas, where he
worked for Hemisphere GNSS and later for Summit Truck Bodies. He officially
retired again in 2022—but true to form, returned to part-time work at
Hemisphere GNSS just a few months later, eventually wrapping up his time there
in April 2025.Steve was
known for his hands-on spirit and his uncanny ability to fix or tinker with
just about anything. His favorite pastime was riding his motorcycle with
friends and taking in the beautiful Kansas countryside. He developed many close
friendships in Hiawatha and cherished the time spent with those who became like
family.Above all,
Steve loved his family. He was a devoted father who was always there to listen
and offer sound advice. He took pride in passing his wisdom on to his children
and grandchildren and always had a “dad joke” at the ready. He was the kind of
grandpa who would drive long distances to attend a special event, no matter how
small, just to show he cared. He is survived by his daughter, Miranda Lynn
Engelhardt Abate, and her husband, Tim Abate, of Belton, Missouri; his son,
Devin Cole Engelhardt, and his wife, Brittany, of Peculiar, Missouri; and his
beloved grandchildren: Olyvia, Thomas, Gianna, Cale, and Adalynn. He is also
survived by his former wife, Patricia Englert of Belton, Missouri; his brother,
Delwyn Engelhardt and wife Diane of Temple, Texas; his sister, Colette Craig of
Topeka, Kansas and&nbsp;lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews.&nbsp;He
was preceded in death by his parents.Funeral
services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Plumer-Gobber
Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Almena, Kansas.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., prior to the service.Memorial
contributions may be made in Steve’s name and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber
Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com" target="_blank">www.plumergobber.com</a>

Steven Lynn Engelhardt

Melva Jo Dortland, 94, of Gorham,
Kansas, died on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays,
Kansas.&nbsp; 

Melva was born on November 03,
1930, in Luray, Kansas, the daughter of Melvin and Josephine (Shiroky)
Schurr.&nbsp; As a young girl she lived in
Luray and graduated from Luray High School before moving to Russell,
Kansas.&nbsp; She was united in marriage to
Herbert J. “Junior” Black on March 05, 1949, in Great Bend, Kansas, from this
union they were blessed with 4 children Cathy, Steve, Roger and Beverly.&nbsp; Herbert died on March 27, 1964, in a tragic
car accident.&nbsp; Melva found love again and
was united in marriage to Elmer Dortland on April 20, 1965, in Gorham, Kansas,
and from this union they were blessed with 2 children JoAnn and Darrell.&nbsp; Elmer preceded her in death on October 12,
2010.&nbsp; She was a longtime member of St.
Mary Catholic Church of Gorham.&nbsp; She was
very active in her church life.&nbsp; She was
a member of the Gorham parish council, the Daughters of Isabella, President of
the Salina Diocese Council of Catholic Women (SDCCW) and the first women in the
Gorham church to be a lecture and eucharistic minister.&nbsp; Her faith in God was incredible.

Later in life she enjoyed visiting
with family and friends, she loved to talk, watching news and sports on TV,
playing cards, doing puzzles, and her favorite getting Dairy Queen.&nbsp; Most of all she loved her family.&nbsp; She was a strong woman who was there to
support her family through every step of life.&nbsp;
She loved to cook, care, play, listen, and watch them.&nbsp; She was proud of her children and the their
families.

Surviving family includes her
daughter Cathy Jacobs (Steve) of Gorham, Kansas, son Roger Black (Trudy) of
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, daughter Beverly Driscoll of Hoisington, Kansas, daughter
JoAnn Kilian (Stuart) and son Darrell Dortland (Kayla) all of Gorham, Kansas;
brother George Schurr (Pat) and sister Donna Frederick all of Salina, Kansas
and sister Eva Jean Hackerott of Topeka, Kansas; 13 grandchildren Brenda
Slattery, Kevin Jacobs, Stacey McKenna, Kyle Jacobs, Jaime Liudahl, Sarah Rosa,
Ben Black, Chris and David Driscoll, Cameron Kilian, Joseph, Tiffany and
Camille Dortland and many great grandchildren.&nbsp;


She was preceded in death by her
parents, 2 husbands, son Steve Black, brother Richard Schurr and granddaughter
Valerie Boomhower.

A celebration of the funeral mass
will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic
Church in Gorham, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial will
follow at the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Gorham, Kansas.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. on
Friday, June 20, 2025, at the mortuary.&nbsp;
The vigil and rosary will be held at 7 P.M. on Friday evening, June 20,
2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Gorham with family greeting guests from 6
P.M. to 7 P.M.&nbsp;

 In lieu of flowers the
family requests memorials be given to St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Gorham,
Kansas.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary
of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750257613991.jpeg" alt="Melva Jo Dortland" />
 <figcaption>Melva Jo Dortland</figcaption>
 </figure>Melva Jo Dortland, 94, of Gorham,
Kansas, died on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays,
Kansas.&nbsp; Melva was born on November 03,
1930, in Luray, Kansas, the daughter of Melvin and Josephine (Shiroky)
Schurr.&nbsp; As a young girl she lived in
Luray and graduated from Luray High School before moving to Russell,
Kansas.&nbsp; She was united in marriage to
Herbert J. “Junior” Black on March 05, 1949, in Great Bend, Kansas, from this
union they were blessed with 4 children Cathy, Steve, Roger and Beverly.&nbsp; Herbert died on March 27, 1964, in a tragic
car accident.&nbsp; Melva found love again and
was united in marriage to Elmer Dortland on April 20, 1965, in Gorham, Kansas,
and from this union they were blessed with 2 children JoAnn and Darrell.&nbsp; Elmer preceded her in death on October 12,
2010.&nbsp; She was a longtime member of St.
Mary Catholic Church of Gorham.&nbsp; She was
very active in her church life.&nbsp; She was
a member of the Gorham parish council, the Daughters of Isabella, President of
the Salina Diocese Council of Catholic Women (SDCCW) and the first women in the
Gorham church to be a lecture and eucharistic minister.&nbsp; Her faith in God was incredible.Later in life she enjoyed visiting
with family and friends, she loved to talk, watching news and sports on TV,
playing cards, doing puzzles, and her favorite getting Dairy Queen.&nbsp; Most of all she loved her family.&nbsp; She was a strong woman who was there to
support her family through every step of life.&nbsp;
She loved to cook, care, play, listen, and watch them.&nbsp; She was proud of her children and the their
families.Surviving family includes her
daughter Cathy Jacobs (Steve) of Gorham, Kansas, son Roger Black (Trudy) of
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, daughter Beverly Driscoll of Hoisington, Kansas, daughter
JoAnn Kilian (Stuart) and son Darrell Dortland (Kayla) all of Gorham, Kansas;
brother George Schurr (Pat) and sister Donna Frederick all of Salina, Kansas
and sister Eva Jean Hackerott of Topeka, Kansas; 13 grandchildren Brenda
Slattery, Kevin Jacobs, Stacey McKenna, Kyle Jacobs, Jaime Liudahl, Sarah Rosa,
Ben Black, Chris and David Driscoll, Cameron Kilian, Joseph, Tiffany and
Camille Dortland and many great grandchildren.&nbsp;
She was preceded in death by her
parents, 2 husbands, son Steve Black, brother Richard Schurr and granddaughter
Valerie Boomhower.A celebration of the funeral mass
will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic
Church in Gorham, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial will
follow at the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Gorham, Kansas.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. on
Friday, June 20, 2025, at the mortuary.&nbsp;
The vigil and rosary will be held at 7 P.M. on Friday evening, June 20,
2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Gorham with family greeting guests from 6
P.M. to 7 P.M.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers the
family requests memorials be given to St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Gorham,
Kansas.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary
of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Melva Jo Dortland

Nabholz Construction is working on phase two of the O'Loughlin Elementary School renovation and addition.&nbsp;

Footings and foundations are being prepared for Phase 2, which is indicated in blue on the floor plan above. That includes three classrooms, a bathroom and a shared study area that will also serve as a storm shelter for the school, Brett Collins, Nabholz's project executive, said.

Underground utility work is also being completed in that area.

Grading is being done on phase one, which can be seen in orange on the left side of the floor plan above. Work on underground utilities will also begin in that area soon, Collins said.

That addition to the school will include the cafeteria, a new kitchen and art classroom.

Both phases one and two are scheduled to be completed by May.

Renovations on the existing portion of the school have also begun.

Improvements to the existing portions of the school will include paint, flooring and ceilings. That work has been divided into two phases. The portion in purple on the right side of the floor plan above will be done this summer.&nbsp;

Next summer, renovations will be completed on Phase 6, which is on the left side of the floor plan, marked in green.

The renovation work is being split, so construction will not interrupt classes during the school year.

Work is also ongoing on the new drive, which will create additional stacking space for pickup and drop-off on the southwest side of the school. District officials hope the new drive will help alleviate some of the congestion on Hall Street before and after school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750258789355.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostNabholz Construction is working on phase two of the O'Loughlin Elementary School renovation and addition.&nbsp;Footings and foundations are being prepared for Phase 2, which is indicated in blue on the floor plan above. That includes three classrooms, a bathroom and a shared study area that will also serve as a storm shelter for the school, Brett Collins, Nabholz's project executive, said.Underground utility work is also being completed in that area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261632134.png" alt="Construction of a classroom addition that will also serve as a storm shelter is underway on the north side of O'Loughlin Elementary School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Construction of a classroom addition that will also serve as a storm shelter is underway on the north side of O'Loughlin Elementary School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Grading is being done on phase one, which can be seen in orange on the left side of the floor plan above. Work on underground utilities will also begin in that area soon, Collins said.That addition to the school will include the cafeteria, a new kitchen and art classroom.Both phases one and two are scheduled to be completed by May.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261806998.png" alt="Interior renovations are also underway at O'Loughlin Elementary School. Half of the existing building will be painted, as well as have new ceilings and floor coverings installed this summer. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Interior renovations are also underway at O'Loughlin Elementary School. Half of the existing building will be painted, as well as have new ceilings and floor coverings installed this summer. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Renovations on the existing portion of the school have also begun.Improvements to the existing portions of the school will include paint, flooring and ceilings. That work has been divided into two phases. The portion in purple on the right side of the floor plan above will be done this summer.&nbsp;Next summer, renovations will be completed on Phase 6, which is on the left side of the floor plan, marked in green.The renovation work is being split, so construction will not interrupt classes during the school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261218345.png" alt="The new drive for pick up and drop off for O'Loughlin Elementary School, southwest of the school, is under construction. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The new drive for pick up and drop off for O'Loughlin Elementary School, southwest of the school, is under construction. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Work is also ongoing on the new drive, which will create additional stacking space for pickup and drop-off on the southwest side of the school. District officials hope the new drive will help alleviate some of the congestion on Hall Street before and after school.

Construction underway on O'Loughlin Elementary School addition, renovation

DODGE CITY, Kan. — Eagle Media will serve as the official radio broadcast partner of the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

The broadcast team features Gerard Wellbrock as play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively. Glen Grunwald will serve as the producer.

The game will air live across five Eagle Media markets:

Additional coverage will be available on affiliate stations in Beloit (1190 AM, 102.9 FM, 105.5 FM) and Coffeyville (690 AM/104.1 FM).

Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with a 30-minute show featuring interviews and more.

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.

<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725282945901.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>DODGE CITY, Kan. — Eagle Media will serve as the official radio broadcast partner of the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.The broadcast team features Gerard Wellbrock as play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively. Glen Grunwald will serve as the producer.The game will air live across five Eagle Media markets:<ul>
 <li>Hutchinson (102.9 FM – flagship station)
</li><li>Great Bend (100.7 FM)
</li><li>Hays (101.9 FM)
</li><li>Salina (910 AM/107.5 FM)</li><li>Manhattan (103.5 FM)
</li>
 </ul>Additional coverage will be available on affiliate stations in Beloit (1190 AM, 102.9 FM, 105.5 FM) and Coffeyville (690 AM/104.1 FM).Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with a 30-minute show featuring interviews and more.The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

Eagle Media to serve as official radio home of Kansas Shrine Bowl

The construction of the new Hays High School is on budget and on schedule to open in August at the start of the school year.

Nabholz Construction provided an update on the construction project and presented information about a proposed change order for the high school.

Turf has been laid on the athletic fields. Flooring is almost complete in the two gyms, and work on the bleachers is ongoing.

Workers are completing the punch list on areas A and B of the high school. This includes the science labs.

The west wing, which includes parts A and B, the center atrium (area C) and the east wing (areas D and E), is set to be substantially complete by July 7.

The rest of the project is scheduled to be substantially complete by Aug. 13.

Dylan Weddle, Nabholz project manager, presented the board with $111,062 in change orders for the Hays High project at the school board meeting Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750190815339.png" alt="The turf has been laid for the new Hays High School football field. The school is scheduled to open in August, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The turf has been laid for the new Hays High School football field. The school is scheduled to open in August, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Hays High on schedule, budget, but without murals" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=8s8a3-18dd50f-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
</div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe construction of the new Hays High School is on budget and on schedule to open in August at the start of the school year.Nabholz Construction provided an update on the construction project and presented information about a proposed change order for the high school.Turf has been laid on the athletic fields. Flooring is almost complete in the two gyms, and work on the bleachers is ongoing.Workers are completing the punch list on areas A and B of the high school. This includes the science labs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191181442.png" alt="Newly turfed Hays High soccer field.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Newly turfed Hays High soccer field.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191243670.png" alt="Hays High football field. The home bleachers and atheltic wing can be seen on the right. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays High football field. The home bleachers and atheltic wing can be seen on the right. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The west wing, which includes parts A and B, the center atrium (area C) and the east wing (areas D and E), is set to be substantially complete by July 7.The rest of the project is scheduled to be substantially complete by Aug. 13.<h2>High school change order</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191348983.png" alt="Complete bond projects budget. The school board did not approved $38,000 for murals at Hays High School in the latest change order for the project. More than $300,000 remains in the Hays High School contingency fund." />
 <figcaption>Complete bond projects budget. The school board did not approved $38,000 for murals at Hays High School in the latest change order for the project. More than $300,000 remains in the Hays High School contingency fund.</figcaption>
 </figure>Dylan Weddle, Nabholz project manager, presented the board with $111,062 in change orders for the Hays High project at the school board meeting Monday night.The change orders are still well within the $1 million contingency fund established for the project. With the latest change orders that have been approved, more than $300,000 remains in the high school project's contingency fund, with the project nearing completion.The change order included modifications to the track and field layout. Superintendent Ron Wilson said after a meeting with coaches, it was decided there wasn't enough room between the pole vault and high jump areas, so the designers moved the pole vault area.There were similar concerns about the two discus rings being too close together. The change order also included some changes to the sidewalks in the softball and baseball areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191639731.png" alt="Main gym. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Main gym. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191658330.png" alt="The school board voted&nbsp; Monday to not pay for a change order for murals for the new Hays High School. This mural in the auxillary gym was already completed, and Nabholz Construction will have to eat the cost of the painting. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The school board voted&nbsp; Monday to not pay for a change order for murals for the new Hays High School. This mural in the auxillary gym was already completed, and Nabholz Construction will have to eat the cost of the painting. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The board did not approve the $38,000 change order for murals inside the high school.Weddle said one of these murals in the auxiliary gym is complete. He said Nabholz moved forward with the painting to keep the project on schedule.He said the murals were not included in the original budget because the designers and the district were undecided about their placement until the project was under construction.Because the school board did not approve that change order, Nabholz will be responsible for the work that has already been done.Board member Derek Yarmer said he saw the murals as an unneeded expense.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191851678.png" alt="The entrances for the new high school have been completed. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>The entrances for the new high school have been completed. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>Yarmer said he thought the district should dedicate the $38,000 to other buildings in the district.Board President Curt Vainar and Vice President Jayme Goetz said the district could revisit the murals once all of the other bond projects are complete.Board member Ruth Ruder said, "We are going to have this big, beautiful high school and we're not going to see these murals for a year or two or five years."Board member Ken Brooks noted the murals will cost more if they are delayed.He added, "We're cheating them out of money."He said that is not the way to treat a company that provides good work for the district.Goetz said, "That's the risk that's involved."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191921975.png" alt="Academic areas in the new high school are nearing completion. On the left is a special education classroom. On the right is a science classroom. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Academic areas in the new high school are nearing completion. On the left is a special education classroom. On the right is a science classroom. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruder noted Roosevelt had murals and logos in its new addition. She emphasized that branding is important.Yarmer argued spending the $38,000 on the murals was going to prevent bathrooms from being repaired in other buildings.Brooks said no, it was not. The funds for the murals were well within the contingency fund for the high school."We can have both," Brooks said.Yarmer said, "We can't the way we are spending money."The motion to approve the change orders without the murals passed on a vote of 4-3, with Brooks, Ruder and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp voting against.Brooks asked again after the vote what the district was going to do to compensate Nabholz for the mural that had already been completed.Yarmer said, "It's free."Weddle said Nabholz would not charge the district for the completed mural.