WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-9e77d16a88d634b0dde5b2455c96dddf">Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington</a>&nbsp;were shot and killed while leaving an event at a Jewish museum, and the suspect yelled,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">“Free, free Palestine” after he was arrested</a>, police said.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-washington-jewish-museum-shooting-photos-9bb0f101b642c6b74ee24c08001878b3">The stunning attack</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday evening prompted Israeli missions to beef up their security and lower their flags to half-staff. It came as Israel has launched another major offensive in the Gaza Strip in a war with Hamas that has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-washington-jewish-museum-shooting-0dd228eaea670cd06416b9a777912748">heightened tensions across the Middle East and internationally</a>&nbsp;and as antisemitic acts are on the rise.

The two people killed, identified as Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli citizen, and Sarah Milgrim, an American, were a young couple about to be engaged, according to Yechiel Leiter, the Israeli ambassador to the U.S.

Lischinsky told others at an event he attended before he was killed that he was looking forward to returning to Israel to celebrate an upcoming Jewish holiday, said Ted Deutch, the chief executive of the American Jewish Committee, which had put on the reception.

The couple were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum when the suspect, who had been seen pacing outside the museum, approached a group of four people and opened fire, Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/mayor-attorney-general-condemn-deadly-shooting-incident-outside-jewish-museum-in-washington-dc-32607e74992e4bbba64e83e683c13699">at a news conference.</a>

The gunman, identified by police as Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, then walked into the museum, was detained by event security and began chanting, “Free, free Palestine,” Smith said.

“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW!” President Donald Trump posted on social media early Thursday. “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA."

Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;’s office said Thursday he was shocked.

“We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism and wild incitement against Israel,” he said in a statement.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Washington, led by former judge Jeanine Pirro, will prosecute the case.

It was not immediately clear whether Rodriguez had an attorney who could comment on his behalf. A telephone number listed in public records rang unanswered.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino wrote in a post on social media that “early indicators are that this is an act of targeted violence.”

The influential pan-Arab satellite channel Al Jazeera aired on a loop what appeared to be mobile phone footage of the gunman, wearing a suit jacket and slacks, being pulled away after the shooting, his hands behind his back.

The war, ignited by Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 people and resulted in the abduction of some 250 hostages, has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced most of its population.

In the time since, Israel’s devastating campaign in Gaza has killed more than 53,000 people, mostly women and children, according to local health authorities, whose count doesn’t differentiate between combatants and civilians. The fighting has displaced 90% of the territory’s roughly 2 million population,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-hostages-05-21-2025-11444e8b684b983dbb64daa5854b7b14">sparked a hunger crisis</a>&nbsp;and obliterated vast swaths of Gaza’s urban landscape.

<a href="https://apnews.com/video/witness-recounts-moment-staff-members-of-israeli-embassy-killed-in-shooting-near-dcs-jewish-museum-3bbc508261bd4ec99995ba90aaf6d5f9">The shooting followed</a>&nbsp;the AJC's annual Young Diplomats reception at the museum.

“Sarah and Yaron were stolen from us,” said Deutch, the AJC's chief executive. “Moments before they were murdered, they were smiling, laughing and enjoying an event with colleagues and friends. We are in shock and heartbroken as we attempt to process this immense tragedy.”

He described Milgrim, from Overland Park, Kansas, as “warm and compassionate, committed to peace building and passionate about sustainability and people-to-people relations." He said Lischinsky was a staff member of the embassy's political department who at the event told others that he was eager to return to Israel to celebrate the holiday of Shavuot with his family.

Yoni Kalin and Katie Kalisher were inside the museum when they heard gunshots, and a man came inside looking distressed. Kalin said people came to his aid and brought him water, thinking he needed help, without realizing he was the suspect. When police arrived, he pulled out a red keffiyeh, the Palestinian headscarf, and repeatedly yelled, “Free Palestine,’” Kalin said.

“This event was about humanitarian aid,” Kalin said. “How can we actually help both the people in Gaza and the people in Israel? How can we bring together Muslims and Jews and Christians to work together to actually help innocent people? And then here he is just murdering two people in cold blood.”

Last week, the Capital Jewish Museum was one of the local nonprofits in Washington awarded funding from a $500,000 grant program to increase its security. The museum’s leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/antisemitism-united-states-jews-donald-trump-2c2db56fd4d994cbabfde037cb107af8">were concerned because it is a Jewish organization</a>&nbsp;and due to its new LGBTQ exhibit, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/capital-jewish-museum-receives-dc-grant-amid-security-concerns-for-lgbtq-exhibit/3918302/?_osource=SocialFlowTwt_DCBrand">NBC4 Washington</a>.

“We recognize that there are threats associated with this as well,” Executive Director Beatrice Gurwitz told the TV station. “And again, we want to ensure that our space is as welcoming and secure for everybody who comes here while we are exploring these stories.”

In response to the shooting, the museum said in a statement it is “deeply saddened and horrified by the senseless violence.”

Israeli diplomats have a history of being targeted by violence, both by state-backed assailants and Palestinian militants over the decades of the wider Israeli-Palestinian conflict that grew out of the founding of Israel in 1948. The Palestinians seek Gaza and the West Bank for a future state, with east Jerusalem as its capital — lands Israel captured in the 1967 war. However, the peace process between the sides has been stalled for years.

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-9e77d16a88d634b0dde5b2455c96dddf">Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington</a>&nbsp;were shot and killed while leaving an event at a Jewish museum, and the suspect yelled,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">“Free, free Palestine” after he was arrested</a>, police said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">All of Kansas joins in prayer for Overland Park native Sarah Milgrim and her soon-to-be fiancé, Yaron Lischinsky — victims of an unspeakable murder in Washington, DC. Our hearts are with their families and friends, the Overland Park community, and the entire Israeli Embassy…&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1925565902843502910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My heart goes out to the family of Sarah Milgrim, an Overland Park native and KU alumna, who was killed last evening along with her companion, in an antisemitic attack in our nation’s capital. People in our area know the pain of religious-based violence. We pray for its end.&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1925553929644867739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-washington-jewish-museum-shooting-photos-9bb0f101b642c6b74ee24c08001878b3">The stunning attack</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday evening prompted Israeli missions to beef up their security and lower their flags to half-staff. It came as Israel has launched another major offensive in the Gaza Strip in a war with Hamas that has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-washington-jewish-museum-shooting-0dd228eaea670cd06416b9a777912748">heightened tensions across the Middle East and internationally</a>&nbsp;and as antisemitic acts are on the rise.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yaron and Sarah were our friends and colleagues. They were in the prime of their lives. This evening, a terrorist shot and killed them as they exited an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in DC. The entire embassy staff is heartbroken and devastated by their murder. No words… <a href="https://t.co/2HytKDp8Fr">pic.twitter.com/2HytKDp8Fr</a>&mdash; Embassy of Israel to the USA (@IsraelinUSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelinUSA/status/1925447599164702743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The two people killed, identified as Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli citizen, and Sarah Milgrim, an American, were a young couple about to be engaged, according to Yechiel Leiter, the Israeli ambassador to the U.S.Lischinsky told others at an event he attended before he was killed that he was looking forward to returning to Israel to celebrate an upcoming Jewish holiday, said Ted Deutch, the chief executive of the American Jewish Committee, which had put on the reception.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747908243268.jpeg" alt="Law enforcement work the scene after two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum, Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement work the scene after two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum, Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)</figcaption>
 </figure>The couple were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum when the suspect, who had been seen pacing outside the museum, approached a group of four people and opened fire, Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/mayor-attorney-general-condemn-deadly-shooting-incident-outside-jewish-museum-in-washington-dc-32607e74992e4bbba64e83e683c13699">at a news conference.</a>The gunman, identified by police as Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, then walked into the museum, was detained by event security and began chanting, “Free, free Palestine,” Smith said.“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW!” President Donald Trump posted on social media early Thursday. “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA."<h2>Israel's reaction</h2>Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;’s office said Thursday he was shocked.“We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism and wild incitement against Israel,” he said in a statement.The U.S. Attorney's Office in Washington, led by former judge Jeanine Pirro, will prosecute the case.It was not immediately clear whether Rodriguez had an attorney who could comment on his behalf. A telephone number listed in public records rang unanswered.FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino wrote in a post on social media that “early indicators are that this is an act of targeted violence.”<h2>Israel's campaign in Gaza</h2>The influential pan-Arab satellite channel Al Jazeera aired on a loop what appeared to be mobile phone footage of the gunman, wearing a suit jacket and slacks, being pulled away after the shooting, his hands behind his back.The war, ignited by Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 people and resulted in the abduction of some 250 hostages, has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced most of its population.In the time since, Israel’s devastating campaign in Gaza has killed more than 53,000 people, mostly women and children, according to local health authorities, whose count doesn’t differentiate between combatants and civilians. The fighting has displaced 90% of the territory’s roughly 2 million population,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-hostages-05-21-2025-11444e8b684b983dbb64daa5854b7b14">sparked a hunger crisis</a>&nbsp;and obliterated vast swaths of Gaza’s urban landscape.<h2>‘In cold blood’</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/video/witness-recounts-moment-staff-members-of-israeli-embassy-killed-in-shooting-near-dcs-jewish-museum-3bbc508261bd4ec99995ba90aaf6d5f9">The shooting followed</a>&nbsp;the AJC's annual Young Diplomats reception at the museum.“Sarah and Yaron were stolen from us,” said Deutch, the AJC's chief executive. “Moments before they were murdered, they were smiling, laughing and enjoying an event with colleagues and friends. We are in shock and heartbroken as we attempt to process this immense tragedy.”He described Milgrim, from Overland Park, Kansas, as “warm and compassionate, committed to peace building and passionate about sustainability and people-to-people relations." He said Lischinsky was a staff member of the embassy's political department who at the event told others that he was eager to return to Israel to celebrate the holiday of Shavuot with his family.Yoni Kalin and Katie Kalisher were inside the museum when they heard gunshots, and a man came inside looking distressed. Kalin said people came to his aid and brought him water, thinking he needed help, without realizing he was the suspect. When police arrived, he pulled out a red keffiyeh, the Palestinian headscarf, and repeatedly yelled, “Free Palestine,’” Kalin said.“This event was about humanitarian aid,” Kalin said. “How can we actually help both the people in Gaza and the people in Israel? How can we bring together Muslims and Jews and Christians to work together to actually help innocent people? And then here he is just murdering two people in cold blood.”Last week, the Capital Jewish Museum was one of the local nonprofits in Washington awarded funding from a $500,000 grant program to increase its security. The museum’s leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/antisemitism-united-states-jews-donald-trump-2c2db56fd4d994cbabfde037cb107af8">were concerned because it is a Jewish organization</a>&nbsp;and due to its new LGBTQ exhibit, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/capital-jewish-museum-receives-dc-grant-amid-security-concerns-for-lgbtq-exhibit/3918302/?_osource=SocialFlowTwt_DCBrand">NBC4 Washington</a>.“We recognize that there are threats associated with this as well,” Executive Director Beatrice Gurwitz told the TV station. “And again, we want to ensure that our space is as welcoming and secure for everybody who comes here while we are exploring these stories.”In response to the shooting, the museum said in a statement it is “deeply saddened and horrified by the senseless violence.”Israeli diplomats have a history of being targeted by violence, both by state-backed assailants and Palestinian militants over the decades of the wider Israeli-Palestinian conflict that grew out of the founding of Israel in 1948. The Palestinians seek Gaza and the West Bank for a future state, with east Jerusalem as its capital — lands Israel captured in the 1967 war. However, the peace process between the sides has been stalled for years.___

Woman killed in terrorist shooting in D.C. was from Kansas 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The 12th Street Bridge in Hays is expected to be replaced as O'Loughlin Elementary prepares to open a new drop-off and pick-up entrance nearby.

The Ellis County Commission discussed the bridge’s future at Tuesday’s meeting. County Administrator Darin Myers said the initial plan was to close the bridge to help secure a grant, but updated school traffic plans now direct traffic onto 12th Street.

This raised concerns about higher traffic volumes, prompting the commission to shift its focus towards replacement options and working with the city of Hays on traffic planning.

"It's going to have to become a priority, and we're going to have to rework that. I don't want a failure with a bunch of families crossing that," Ellis County Commissioner Nathan Leiker said.

The bridge is narrow, without sidewalks and has structural problems, such as concrete damage and moisture seepage. Myers said action will be needed within the next 10 years, including larger and deeper pilings for replacement.

"However, if this traffic load increases by 30% to 50%, 10 years is going to become five years," Myers said.

Myers said the current traffic study is outdated, but recent data show that about 336 vehicles cross the 12th Street Bridge daily.

"We're going to get this traffic study updated and see what options we have as part of these meetings between the city, the county and the school to come up with a good solution," Myers said.

USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson and O'Loughlin Elementary Principal Rene Burns spoke at the commission meeting with Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay.

Burns said the congestion on Hall Street creates a dangerous situation with vehicles and students crossing. As for the bridge, she does not anticipate increased pedestrian or bicycle traffic.

"That's too far for any students to be going through there. I don't anticipate any of our families crossing by foot or bike," she said.

Mackay and Myers said pedestrians continue to use the bridge despite expectations, and the bridge will need a complete replacement, which could cost between $3 million and $5 million.

Wilson said while an entrance will remain on the front side of O'Loughlin along Hall Street, most students and families will use the new drive access. Pick-up and drop-off will continue on school grounds, not on 12th Street.

Wilson said the new entrance is expected to be ready by August 2026, although construction could be completed earlier.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854262310.jpeg" alt="The 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe 12th Street Bridge in Hays is expected to be replaced as O'Loughlin Elementary prepares to open a new drop-off and pick-up entrance nearby.The Ellis County Commission discussed the bridge’s future at Tuesday’s meeting. County Administrator Darin Myers said the initial plan was to close the bridge to help secure a grant, but updated school traffic plans now direct traffic onto 12th Street.This raised concerns about higher traffic volumes, prompting the commission to shift its focus towards replacement options and working with the city of Hays on traffic planning."It's going to have to become a priority, and we're going to have to rework that. I don't want a failure with a bunch of families crossing that," Ellis County Commissioner Nathan Leiker said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854498077.jpeg" alt="Damaged concrete on the 12th Street bridge railing in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Damaged concrete on the 12th Street bridge railing in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854627733.jpeg" alt="The roadway of the 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The roadway of the 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854682164.jpeg" alt="The bottom of the 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The bottom of the 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854711344.jpeg" alt="Pieces of concrete from the bridge found on the ground underneath. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pieces of concrete from the bridge found on the ground underneath. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The bridge is narrow, without sidewalks and has structural problems, such as concrete damage and moisture seepage. Myers said action will be needed within the next 10 years, including larger and deeper pilings for replacement."However, if this traffic load increases by 30% to 50%, 10 years is going to become five years," Myers said.Myers said the current traffic study is outdated, but recent data show that about 336 vehicles cross the 12th Street Bridge daily."We're going to get this traffic study updated and see what options we have as part of these meetings between the city, the county and the school to come up with a good solution," Myers said.USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson and O'Loughlin Elementary Principal Rene Burns spoke at the commission meeting with Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay.Burns said the congestion on Hall Street creates a dangerous situation with vehicles and students crossing. As for the bridge, she does not anticipate increased pedestrian or bicycle traffic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854767698.png" alt="O'Loughlin Elementary School addition site plan. The map shows a new parking and access road on the southwest side to 12th Street. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>O'Loughlin Elementary School addition site plan. The map shows a new parking and access road on the southwest side to 12th Street. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>"That's too far for any students to be going through there. I don't anticipate any of our families crossing by foot or bike," she said.Mackay and Myers said pedestrians continue to use the bridge despite expectations, and the bridge will need a complete replacement, which could cost between $3 million and $5 million.Wilson said while an entrance will remain on the front side of O'Loughlin along Hall Street, most students and families will use the new drive access. Pick-up and drop-off will continue on school grounds, not on 12th Street.Wilson said the new entrance is expected to be ready by August 2026, although construction could be completed earlier.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747854797931.jpeg" alt="The 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The 12th Street bridge in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County Commission discuss replacing Hays bridge

Hays city commissioners will vote during their Thursday meeting on a recommended low bid of $6.6 million to Smoky Hill, LLC, Salina, for reconstruction of the deteriorated crosswind runway 4-22 and Taxiway M at Hays Regional Airport.

The Federal Aviation Administration would pay for 95 percent of the project.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;consultant agreement for construction&nbsp;engineering services with Lochner, Lenexa, for $445,800 will also be voted upon. The FAA would again pay for 95 percent of the cost.

Three items for Covenant Estates 1st Addition in northwest Hays are up for a vote.&nbsp;

Commissioners will decide on a rezoning request, final plat and annexation of the property west of Thunderbird between 33rd and 41st streets.

The complete May 22 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05222025-1548">here</a>.

&nbsp;The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707443867250.png" alt="Hays Regional Airport" />
 <figcaption>Hays Regional Airport</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostHays city commissioners will vote during their Thursday meeting on a recommended low bid of $6.6 million to Smoky Hill, LLC, Salina, for reconstruction of the deteriorated crosswind runway 4-22 and Taxiway M at Hays Regional Airport.The Federal Aviation Administration would pay for 95 percent of the project.&nbsp;A&nbsp;consultant agreement for construction&nbsp;engineering services with Lochner, Lenexa, for $445,800 will also be voted upon. The FAA would again pay for 95 percent of the cost.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747851312144.png" alt="Covenant Estates 1st Addition. Image courtesy City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Covenant Estates 1st Addition. Image courtesy City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Three items for Covenant Estates 1st Addition in northwest Hays are up for a vote.&nbsp;Commissioners will decide on a rezoning request, final plat and annexation of the property west of Thunderbird between 33rd and 41st streets.The complete May 22 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05222025-1548">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays City Commission to vote on runway reconstruction, Covenant Estates rezoning

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-9e77d16a88d634b0dde5b2455c96dddf">Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington</a>&nbsp;were shot and killed Wednesday evening while leaving an event at a Jewish museum, and the suspect yelled,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">“Free, free Palestine” after he was arrested</a>, police said.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar identified the victims as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim. Lischinsky was a research assistant, and Milgrim organized visits and missions to Israel.

They were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum when the suspect approached a group of four people and opened fire, Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/mayor-attorney-general-condemn-deadly-shooting-incident-outside-jewish-museum-in-washington-dc-32607e74992e4bbba64e83e683c13699">at a news conference.</a>

The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, was observed pacing outside the museum before the shooting, walked into the museum after the shooting and was detained by event security, Smith said.

When he was taken into custody, the suspect began chanting, “Free, free Palestine,” Smith said. She said law enforcement did not believe there was an ongoing threat to the community.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-washington-jewish-museum-shooting-photos-9bb0f101b642c6b74ee24c08001878b3">The stunning attack</a>&nbsp;prompted Israeli missions to beef up their security. The shooting comes as Israel has launched another major offensive in the Gaza Strip in a war with Hamas that has heightened tensions across the Middle East and internationally.

Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;’s office said Thursday that he was “shocked” by the “horrific, antisemitic” shooting.

Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter said the two people killed were a young couple about to be engaged, saying the man had purchased a ring this week with the intent to propose next week in Jerusalem.

Former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Mike Herzog told Israeli Army Radio that the woman killed was an American employee of the embassy and the man was Israeli.

Attorney General Pam Bondi said she was at the scene with former judge Jeanine Pirro, who serves as the U.S. attorney in Washington and whose office would prosecute the case.

The statement from Netanyahu’s office said he spoke to Bondi, who told him Trump was “involved in managing the incident” and the U.S. would bring the perpetrator to justice.

Dan Bongino, deputy director of the FBI, wrote in a post on social media that “early indicators are that this is an act of targeted violence.”

The influential pan-Arab satellite channel Al Jazeera aired on a loop what appeared to be mobile phone footage of the alleged gunman, wearing a suit jacket and slacks, being pulled away after the shooting, his hands behind his back.

The war in the Gaza Strip began with the Palestinian militant group Hamas coming out of Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023, to kill 1,200 people and take some 250 hostages back to the coastal enclave.

The violence occurred following the American Jewish Committee's annual Young Diplomats reception at the museum.

"This is a shocking act of violence and our community is holding each other tighter tonight," Ted Deutch, American Jewish Committee’s chief executive, said in a statement early Thursday. “At this painful moment, we mourn with the victims’ families, loved ones, and all of Israel. May their memories be for a blessing."

Yoni Kalin and Katie Kalisher were inside the museum when they heard gunshots and a man came inside looking distressed, they said. Kalin said people came to his aid and brought him water, thinking he needed help, without realizing he was the suspect. When police arrived, he pulled out a red keffiyeh and repeatedly yelled, “Free Palestine,’” Kalin said.

In response to the shooting, the museum said in a statement that they are “deeply saddened and horrified by the senseless violence outside the Museum this evening.”

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington CEO Gil Preuss said in a statement that he was horrified by the shooting and mourned the loss of the two people killed.

“Our hearts are with their families and loved ones, and with all of those who are impacted by this tragic act of antisemitic violence,” he said.

Israeli diplomats in the past have been targeted by violence, both by state-backed assailants and Palestinian militants over the decades of the wider Israeli-Palestinian conflict that grew out of the founding of Israel in 1948. The Palestinians seek Gaza and the West Bank for a future state, with east Jerusalem as its capital — lands Israel captured in the 1967 war. However, the peace process between the sides has been stalled for years.

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-jewish-museum-shooting-9e77d16a88d634b0dde5b2455c96dddf">Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington</a>&nbsp;were shot and killed Wednesday evening while leaving an event at a Jewish museum, and the suspect yelled,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">“Free, free Palestine” after he was arrested</a>, police said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!” —President Donald J. Trump <a href="https://t.co/Z30bjAQOpZ">pic.twitter.com/Z30bjAQOpZ</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1925405865382703451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar identified the victims as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim. Lischinsky was a research assistant, and Milgrim organized visits and missions to Israel.They were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum when the suspect approached a group of four people and opened fire, Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/mayor-attorney-general-condemn-deadly-shooting-incident-outside-jewish-museum-in-washington-dc-32607e74992e4bbba64e83e683c13699">at a news conference.</a>The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, was observed pacing outside the museum before the shooting, walked into the museum after the shooting and was detained by event security, Smith said.When he was taken into custody, the suspect began chanting, “Free, free Palestine,” Smith said. She said law enforcement did not believe there was an ongoing threat to the community.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-embassy-washington-jewish-museum-shooting-photos-9bb0f101b642c6b74ee24c08001878b3">The stunning attack</a>&nbsp;prompted Israeli missions to beef up their security. The shooting comes as Israel has launched another major offensive in the Gaza Strip in a war with Hamas that has heightened tensions across the Middle East and internationally.“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW!” President Donald Trump posted on social media early Thursday. “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA."<h2>Israel's reaction</h2>Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;’s office said Thursday that he was “shocked” by the “horrific, antisemitic” shooting.“We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism and wild incitement against Israel,” he said in a statement.Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter said the two people killed were a young couple about to be engaged, saying the man had purchased a ring this week with the intent to propose next week in Jerusalem.Former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Mike Herzog told Israeli Army Radio that the woman killed was an American employee of the embassy and the man was Israeli.Attorney General Pam Bondi said she was at the scene with former judge Jeanine Pirro, who serves as the U.S. attorney in Washington and whose office would prosecute the case.The statement from Netanyahu’s office said he spoke to Bondi, who told him Trump was “involved in managing the incident” and the U.S. would bring the perpetrator to justice.It was not immediately clear whether Rodriguez had an attorney who could comment on his behalf. A telephone number listed in public records rang unanswered.Dan Bongino, deputy director of the FBI, wrote in a post on social media that “early indicators are that this is an act of targeted violence.”<h2>Israel's campaign in Gaza</h2>The influential pan-Arab satellite channel Al Jazeera aired on a loop what appeared to be mobile phone footage of the alleged gunman, wearing a suit jacket and slacks, being pulled away after the shooting, his hands behind his back.The war in the Gaza Strip began with the Palestinian militant group Hamas coming out of Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023, to kill 1,200 people and take some 250 hostages back to the coastal enclave.In the time since, Israel’s devastating campaign in Gaza has killed more than 53,000 people, mostly women and children, according to local health authorities, whose count doesn’t differentiate between combatants and civilians. The fighting has displaced 90% of the territory’s roughly 2 million population,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-hostages-05-21-2025-11444e8b684b983dbb64daa5854b7b14">sparked a hunger crisis</a>&nbsp;and obliterated vast swaths of Gaza’s urban landscape.<h2>‘In cold blood’</h2>The violence occurred following the American Jewish Committee's annual Young Diplomats reception at the museum."This is a shocking act of violence and our community is holding each other tighter tonight," Ted Deutch, American Jewish Committee’s chief executive, said in a statement early Thursday. “At this painful moment, we mourn with the victims’ families, loved ones, and all of Israel. May their memories be for a blessing."Yoni Kalin and Katie Kalisher were inside the museum when they heard gunshots and a man came inside looking distressed, they said. Kalin said people came to his aid and brought him water, thinking he needed help, without realizing he was the suspect. When police arrived, he pulled out a red keffiyeh and repeatedly yelled, “Free Palestine,’” Kalin said.“This event was about humanitarian aid,” Kalin said. “How can we actually help both the people in Gaza and the people in Israel? How can we bring together Muslims and Jews and Christians to work together to actually help innocent people? And then here he is just murdering two people in cold blood.”Last week, the Capital Jewish Museum was one of the local nonprofits in Washington awarded funding from a $500,000 grant program to increase its security. The museum’s leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/antisemitism-united-states-jews-donald-trump-2c2db56fd4d994cbabfde037cb107af8">were concerned because it is a Jewish organization</a>&nbsp;and due to its new LGBTQ exhibit, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/capital-jewish-museum-receives-dc-grant-amid-security-concerns-for-lgbtq-exhibit/3918302/?_osource=SocialFlowTwt_DCBrand">NBC4 Washington</a>.“We recognize that there are threats associated with this as well,” Executive Director Beatrice Gurwitz told the TV station. “And again, we want to ensure that our space is as welcoming and secure for everybody who comes here while we are exploring these stories.”In response to the shooting, the museum said in a statement that they are “deeply saddened and horrified by the senseless violence outside the Museum this evening.”The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington CEO Gil Preuss said in a statement that he was horrified by the shooting and mourned the loss of the two people killed.“Our hearts are with their families and loved ones, and with all of those who are impacted by this tragic act of antisemitic violence,” he said.Israeli diplomats in the past have been targeted by violence, both by state-backed assailants and Palestinian militants over the decades of the wider Israeli-Palestinian conflict that grew out of the founding of Israel in 1948. The Palestinians seek Gaza and the West Bank for a future state, with east Jerusalem as its capital — lands Israel captured in the 1967 war. However, the peace process between the sides has been stalled for years.___

Terror in DC: Israeli Embassy staffers killed near Jewish museum

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Sports

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs baseball team is headed back
to the state tournament for the second year after they picked up wins over
Ellinwood and Ellis Wednesday, claiming the regional championship.

&nbsp;SEMIFINALS: TMP 9,
Ellinwood 4 The Monarchs rallied from an early deficit and took advantage
of 11 walks in a 9-4 victory over Ellinwood in the first semifinal game of the
day Wednesday.

The Eagles struck first, scoring two runs in the top of the
first inning, but the Monarchs answered with two runs in the bottom of the first.

Grant Nehls drove in the Monarchs' first run on a single,
and then two batters later, Ty Schmeidler singled home Nehls for a 2-2 game
through one inning.

Following a scoreless top of the second inning, TMP scored
three runs in the bottom on four straight walks, three with the bases loaded
for a 5-2 TMP lead.

&nbsp;TMP added a pair of
runs on back-to-back RBI groundouts in the bottom of the fourth and they added
a third run on a Jacob Seib RBI single, making it 8-2 TMP.

Ellinwood was able to get a pair of runs back in the top of
the fifth inning before TMP added a single run on a wild pitch in the bottom of
the fifth as the Monarchs went on to the 9-4 victory.

Caden Dinkel finished three-for-four. Adler Brown walked
three times, and Ty Schmeidler drove in two runs.

Carson Liles earned the win, allowing four runs, one earned,
on six hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in seven innings. 

In the day's second semifinal, Ellis held off Sacred Heart
4-3, setting up an all-Ellis County final.

FINALS: TMP 15, Ellis 0 (4 innings) The Monarchs took advantage of 10 walks and cruised to a
15-0 victory over Ellis in four innings.

Monarchs’ starter Ty Schmeidler had to work out of a bases-loaded
jam in the top of the first inning, and then the offense took over, scoring six
runs in the first inning.

Schmeidler helped his cause, doubling a pair of runs home,
with the bases loaded to put TMP up 2-0.

Two batters later, Connor Breit walked with the bases loaded,
putting TMP up 3-0.

Schmeidler followed that by scoring on a wild pitch, and TMP
took a 5-3 lead on a Isaac Purinton RBI ground out. TMP added one more in the
inning on a error for a 6-0 lead.

In a four-run second inning the Monarchs tripled twice,
doubled and walked twice for a 10-0 lead through two innings.

They added an 11th run on a third inning error in
an 11-0 TMP lead.

They closed the game out scoring on back-to-back walks, a
hit by pitch and a third bases loaded walk as TMP took the 15-0 run-rule
victory. 

TMP’s Ty Schmeidler earned the victory. He allowed just
three hits, and with one walk and struck out six

Grant Nehls was two-for-two. Schmeidler drove in three runs
and Connor Breit added two.

The 2-1A State Tournament is on Thursday, May 29 and Friday, May 30 at the Great Bend Sports Complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747892702357.png" alt="The TMP-Marian Monarchs claim their own 2-1A Regional title on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (TMP-Marian courtesy photo)_" />
 <figcaption>The TMP-Marian Monarchs claim their own 2-1A Regional title on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (TMP-Marian courtesy photo)_</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post SportsHAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs baseball team is headed back
to the state tournament for the second year after they picked up wins over
Ellinwood and Ellis Wednesday, claiming the regional championship.&nbsp;SEMIFINALS: TMP 9,
Ellinwood 4 The Monarchs rallied from an early deficit and took advantage
of 11 walks in a 9-4 victory over Ellinwood in the first semifinal game of the
day Wednesday.The Eagles struck first, scoring two runs in the top of the
first inning, but the Monarchs answered with two runs in the bottom of the first.Grant Nehls drove in the Monarchs' first run on a single,
and then two batters later, Ty Schmeidler singled home Nehls for a 2-2 game
through one inning.Following a scoreless top of the second inning, TMP scored
three runs in the bottom on four straight walks, three with the bases loaded
for a 5-2 TMP lead.&nbsp;TMP added a pair of
runs on back-to-back RBI groundouts in the bottom of the fourth and they added
a third run on a Jacob Seib RBI single, making it 8-2 TMP.Ellinwood was able to get a pair of runs back in the top of
the fifth inning before TMP added a single run on a wild pitch in the bottom of
the fifth as the Monarchs went on to the 9-4 victory.Caden Dinkel finished three-for-four. Adler Brown walked
three times, and Ty Schmeidler drove in two runs.Carson Liles earned the win, allowing four runs, one earned,
on six hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in seven innings. In the day's second semifinal, Ellis held off Sacred Heart
4-3, setting up an all-Ellis County final.FINALS: TMP 15, Ellis 0 (4 innings) The Monarchs took advantage of 10 walks and cruised to a
15-0 victory over Ellis in four innings.Monarchs’ starter Ty Schmeidler had to work out of a bases-loaded
jam in the top of the first inning, and then the offense took over, scoring six
runs in the first inning.Schmeidler helped his cause, doubling a pair of runs home,
with the bases loaded to put TMP up 2-0.Two batters later, Connor Breit walked with the bases loaded,
putting TMP up 3-0.Schmeidler followed that by scoring on a wild pitch, and TMP
took a 5-3 lead on a Isaac Purinton RBI ground out. TMP added one more in the
inning on a error for a 6-0 lead.In a four-run second inning the Monarchs tripled twice,
doubled and walked twice for a 10-0 lead through two innings.They added an 11th run on a third inning error in
an 11-0 TMP lead.They closed the game out scoring on back-to-back walks, a
hit by pitch and a third bases loaded walk as TMP took the 15-0 run-rule
victory. TMP’s Ty Schmeidler earned the victory. He allowed just
three hits, and with one walk and struck out sixGrant Nehls was two-for-two. Schmeidler drove in three runs
and Connor Breit added two.The 2-1A State Tournament is on Thursday, May 29 and Friday, May 30 at the Great Bend Sports Complex.

⚾ TMP claims regional title; headed back to 2- 1A state tournament

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post Sports

HAYS - A pair of one run wins on Wednesday lifted the Hays High Indians to a 5A State Tournament berth.

Semifinals: Hays 6, Salina South 5 Jalen Smith's bottom of the seventh inning single propelled Hays High to a victory in the semifinal round of the regional play with a 6-5 victory.

Neither team scored through the first three innings. Each team put a runner as far as third base in the third inning but didn't take advantage. Defensively, Hays cut down a runner at the plate on a squeeze play to keep the game scoreless. Landon Hardman led of the bottom of the third with a triple. He was left stranded there three batters later.

Hays broke through in the fourth inning with three runs. Trace Jacobs worked a one-out walk. Brett Rhoades drove him home with a single then moved to third on an Ian McGuire single. Both would scored on Hardman's second extra base hit of the game. His double gave the Indians a 3-0 advantage.

Carter Graham mashed his fourth homerun of the season in the next inning. A two run shot just inside the left field foul pole put the Indians ahead 5-0.&nbsp;

Hays would need all those runs. Three hits by South and two Hays errors put four runs on the board for the Cougars in the sixth. A triple in the top of the seventh drove in the tying run at 5-5. South had the go-ahead run at third base but couldn't execute a squeeze play that resulted in the runner being tagged out.

Three straight singles in the bottom of the seventh provided the walk-off for Hays. Bennett Smith led off the inning with a single in his first and only at-bat of the regional tournament. Johnny Cano added a bunt single. Jalen Smith's third hit of the game drove in Kaleb Roe, who was running for Bennett Smith, to decide the game.

Graham threw 5 1/3 innings allowing four runs, none of which were earned. He struck out four, walked two, hit one batter and allowed five hits. The win went to Trace Jacobs (2-0) in relief. He allowed one run over 1 2/3 innings of work.&nbsp;

Finals: Hays 2, Andover 1 Johnny Cano pitched a gem in just the second start of his career for the Hays High Indians. Cano threw a complete game in the 2-1 victory.

Hays struck early with a run in the bottom of the first inning. Cano led off with a single and scored on a Trace Jacobs single for the 1-0 lead. There would be no more scoring until the fifth inning.&nbsp;

Cano worked around a walk in the second inning and hit batter to lead off the third. Andover sat down nine straight Indians after the 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

The Trojans tied the game in the top of fifth. They used a pair of singles wrapped around a two-out walk to make the score 1-1. The Indians got the game winning run in the bottom of the inning in an unusual way.

It looked as if Hays was setting themselves up for a big inning. Ian McGuire and Karson Flaska led off the inning with singles. The Indians tried advance the runners with a bunt, but was thrown out at third. Kal Lonsdale recorded his first hit of the year with a single to right field.&nbsp;

The Indians initially were trying to score on the Lonsdale hit. The runners were sent back late and Hardman was thrown out scrambling back to second base. With runners at the corners, Lonsdale took a nonchalant stroll off of first base. The pitcher bent his back knee for a balk advancing Flaska home for what turned out to be the game winning run at a 2-1 score.

Four of the final six outs by Andover were recorded by Ian McGuire tracking down fly balls from his centerfield position. Cam Sanders cut a runner down trying to steal second after Andover led of the sixth with a single. Cano recorded the other with his sixth strikeout, a career high.

Cano (5-1) need just 88 pitches to cover the seven innings. He allowed three hits, one run, walked two, hit one batter and struck out six.

Hays (18-8) will play in the 5A State Baseball Tournament for the first time since 2021. The quarterfinals games will begin on Thursday, May 29th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747909320920.png" alt="Hays High baseball wins their own 5A Regional Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Leo-Harper Field in Hays, Kan. (HHS courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Hays High baseball wins their own 5A Regional Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Leo-Harper Field in Hays, Kan. (HHS courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post SportsHAYS - A pair of one run wins on Wednesday lifted the Hays High Indians to a 5A State Tournament berth.Semifinals: Hays 6, Salina South 5 Jalen Smith's bottom of the seventh inning single propelled Hays High to a victory in the semifinal round of the regional play with a 6-5 victory.Neither team scored through the first three innings. Each team put a runner as far as third base in the third inning but didn't take advantage. Defensively, Hays cut down a runner at the plate on a squeeze play to keep the game scoreless. Landon Hardman led of the bottom of the third with a triple. He was left stranded there three batters later.Hays broke through in the fourth inning with three runs. Trace Jacobs worked a one-out walk. Brett Rhoades drove him home with a single then moved to third on an Ian McGuire single. Both would scored on Hardman's second extra base hit of the game. His double gave the Indians a 3-0 advantage.Carter Graham mashed his fourth homerun of the season in the next inning. A two run shot just inside the left field foul pole put the Indians ahead 5-0.&nbsp;Hays would need all those runs. Three hits by South and two Hays errors put four runs on the board for the Cougars in the sixth. A triple in the top of the seventh drove in the tying run at 5-5. South had the go-ahead run at third base but couldn't execute a squeeze play that resulted in the runner being tagged out.Three straight singles in the bottom of the seventh provided the walk-off for Hays. Bennett Smith led off the inning with a single in his first and only at-bat of the regional tournament. Johnny Cano added a bunt single. Jalen Smith's third hit of the game drove in Kaleb Roe, who was running for Bennett Smith, to decide the game.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2099929746&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-21-25-hhs-bsb-highlights-v" title="5-21-25 HHS BSB Highlights v. Salina S." target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5-21-25 HHS BSB Highlights v. Salina S.</a></div></div>Graham threw 5 1/3 innings allowing four runs, none of which were earned. He struck out four, walked two, hit one batter and allowed five hits. The win went to Trace Jacobs (2-0) in relief. He allowed one run over 1 2/3 innings of work.&nbsp;Finals: Hays 2, Andover 1 Johnny Cano pitched a gem in just the second start of his career for the Hays High Indians. Cano threw a complete game in the 2-1 victory.Hays struck early with a run in the bottom of the first inning. Cano led off with a single and scored on a Trace Jacobs single for the 1-0 lead. There would be no more scoring until the fifth inning.&nbsp;Cano worked around a walk in the second inning and hit batter to lead off the third. Andover sat down nine straight Indians after the 1-0 lead.&nbsp;The Trojans tied the game in the top of fifth. They used a pair of singles wrapped around a two-out walk to make the score 1-1. The Indians got the game winning run in the bottom of the inning in an unusual way.It looked as if Hays was setting themselves up for a big inning. Ian McGuire and Karson Flaska led off the inning with singles. The Indians tried advance the runners with a bunt, but was thrown out at third. Kal Lonsdale recorded his first hit of the year with a single to right field.&nbsp;The Indians initially were trying to score on the Lonsdale hit. The runners were sent back late and Hardman was thrown out scrambling back to second base. With runners at the corners, Lonsdale took a nonchalant stroll off of first base. The pitcher bent his back knee for a balk advancing Flaska home for what turned out to be the game winning run at a 2-1 score.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2099976642&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-21-25-hhs-bsb-highlights-v-1" title="5-21-25 HHS BSB Highlights v. Andover" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5-21-25 HHS BSB Highlights v. Andover</a></div></div>Four of the final six outs by Andover were recorded by Ian McGuire tracking down fly balls from his centerfield position. Cam Sanders cut a runner down trying to steal second after Andover led of the sixth with a single. Cano recorded the other with his sixth strikeout, a career high.Cano (5-1) need just 88 pitches to cover the seven innings. He allowed three hits, one run, walked two, hit one batter and struck out six.Coach Dustin Dreher<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2099974614&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/5-21-25-hhs-bsb-coach" title="5-21-25 HHS BSB Coach Interview v. Andover" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5-21-25 HHS BSB Coach Interview v. Andover</a></div></div>Hays (18-8) will play in the 5A State Baseball Tournament for the first time since 2021. The quarterfinals games will begin on Thursday, May 29th.

⚾ STATE BOUND! HHS wins own 5A Regional

WICHITA - The Hays High Indians' bid for a spot in the 5A State Softball Tournament came up short in the regional finals against Bishop Carroll Wednesday at the Two Rivers Youth Complex.

Semifinals: Hays 11, Andover 5 Hays never trailed in their 11-5 regional semifinal win over Andover. The Indians took a 5-0 lead with three runs in the second and two more in the third.&nbsp;

All of the runs in the third came with two outs. Alyse Zimmerman doubled to score Brynlee Brous and Jaylee Summers for the game's first runs. Brynlee Rupp brought Zimmerman back to the plate with a single.&nbsp;

Four straight hits to open the fourth inning added to more runs for the Indians. Lanie Becker started with a single. Avery Solida doubled and Brous loaded the bases with a single. Katie Klein plated Becker and Solida for a 5-0 lead.

Andover did fight back with two runs in the fourth only to be answered by four more by Hays. Brous knocked in Rupp and Riley Dreher with a single. Soliday scored on a Summers single and Brous scored on an error for a 9-5 lead.&nbsp;

Zimmerman and Klein each scored one more time for the final of 11-5.&nbsp;

Summers (6-5) pitched six innings for the win. She allowed five runs, three earned, on six hits. She walked three and struck out three. Lanie Becker pitched a scoreless seventh.

Finals: Bishop Carroll 9, Hays 0 A six run fifth inning was to much to overcome for the Hays High Indians, falling to Bishop Carroll 9-0 in the regional final.

Brynlee Rupp and Lanie Becker each had a hit in the first inning. It would be the only two hits for Hays in the game. Rupp, Avery Solida, and Brynlee Brous each walked once. Brous reached one more time on an error.

Bishop Carroll scored a single run in the first inning then another in the third. It was the fifth inning that did the damage. The Golden Eagles had seven of their twelve hits in the inning while the Indians had two of their four errors. The result was an 8-0 lead for Bishop Carroll. They added a single run in the sixth for the final of 9-0.

Riley Dreher (9-5) took the loss allowing eight runs, five earned, on ten hits. She recorded one strikeout and walked none. Lanie Becker pitched the sixth and allowed one run.

Hays Post SportsWICHITA - The Hays High Indians' bid for a spot in the 5A State Softball Tournament came up short in the regional finals against Bishop Carroll Wednesday at the Two Rivers Youth Complex.Semifinals: Hays 11, Andover 5 Hays never trailed in their 11-5 regional semifinal win over Andover. The Indians took a 5-0 lead with three runs in the second and two more in the third.&nbsp;All of the runs in the third came with two outs. Alyse Zimmerman doubled to score Brynlee Brous and Jaylee Summers for the game's first runs. Brynlee Rupp brought Zimmerman back to the plate with a single.&nbsp;Four straight hits to open the fourth inning added to more runs for the Indians. Lanie Becker started with a single. Avery Solida doubled and Brous loaded the bases with a single. Katie Klein plated Becker and Solida for a 5-0 lead.Andover did fight back with two runs in the fourth only to be answered by four more by Hays. Brous knocked in Rupp and Riley Dreher with a single. Soliday scored on a Summers single and Brous scored on an error for a 9-5 lead.&nbsp;Zimmerman and Klein each scored one more time for the final of 11-5.&nbsp;Summers (6-5) pitched six innings for the win. She allowed five runs, three earned, on six hits. She walked three and struck out three. Lanie Becker pitched a scoreless seventh.Finals: Bishop Carroll 9, Hays 0 A six run fifth inning was to much to overcome for the Hays High Indians, falling to Bishop Carroll 9-0 in the regional final.Brynlee Rupp and Lanie Becker each had a hit in the first inning. It would be the only two hits for Hays in the game. Rupp, Avery Solida, and Brynlee Brous each walked once. Brous reached one more time on an error.Bishop Carroll scored a single run in the first inning then another in the third. It was the fifth inning that did the damage. The Golden Eagles had seven of their twelve hits in the inning while the Indians had two of their four errors. The result was an 8-0 lead for Bishop Carroll. They added a single run in the sixth for the final of 9-0.Riley Dreher (9-5) took the loss allowing eight runs, five earned, on ten hits. She recorded one strikeout and walked none. Lanie Becker pitched the sixth and allowed one run.Hays ends their season at 17-11.

🥎 Hays High state bid comes up short

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has accepted a luxury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-qatar-air-force-one-2ef13d87b71185bde547abe6840b098c">Boeing 747 jet from Qatar</a>&nbsp;for President Donald Trump to use as Air Force One, the Pentagon said Wednesday, despite ongoing questions about the ethics and legality of taking the expensive gift from a foreign nation.

The Defense Department will “work to ensure proper security measures” on the plane to make it safe for use by the president, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said. He added that the plane was accepted “in accordance with all federal rules and regulations.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-gift-jet-air-force-one-7f9afb461c6b3ac16fca3bb0973715ff">Trump has defended the gift</a>, which came up during his recent Middle East trip, as a way to save tax dollars.

“Why should our military, and therefore our taxpayers, be forced to pay hundreds of millions of Dollars when they can get it for FREE,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114503203859060399">posted on his social media site</a>&nbsp;during the trip.

Others, however, have said Trump's acceptance of an aircraft that has been called a “palace in the sky” is a violation of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/emoluments-clause-trump-jet-qatar-56f995acb57eb741b0214aba5e7e8220">Constitution’s prohibition on foreign gifts</a>. Democrats have been united in outrage, and even some of the Republican president’s GOP allies in Congress have expressed concerns.

“This unprecedented action is a stain on the office of the presidency and cannot go unanswered,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York. “Until Americans get transparency on this shady deal, which apparently includes a corrupt plot for Donald Trump to keep the plane at his library after leaving office, I’ll continue to hold all Department of Justice political nominees.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-plane-qatar-schumer-nominees-senate-8efd139a898c32cb7a1fa554c3e937c7">Schumer has introduced legislation</a>&nbsp;that would prohibit any foreign aircraft from being used as Air Force One and forbid use of taxpayer money to modify or restore the aircraft.

Critics also have noted the need to retrofit the plane to meet security requirements, which would be costly and take time.

“Far from saving money, this unconstitutional action will not only cost our nation its dignity, but it will force taxpayers to waste over $1 billion in taxpayer dollars to overhaul this particular aircraft when we currently have not one, but two fully operational and fully capable Air Force One aircraft,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.

She said during a hearing Tuesday that it is a “dangerous course of action” for the U.S. to accept the aircraft from the Qatari ruling family.

Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told senators that Hegseth has ordered the service to start planning how to update the jet to meet needed standards and acknowledged that the plane will require “significant” modifications.

The Air Force, in a statement, said it is preparing to award a contract to modify a Boeing 747 aircraft, but that any details are classified.

Trump was asked about the move Wednesday while he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ramaphosa-south-africa-9ce43dd5a9cd58e912653c99a8ab1944">meeting in the Oval Office with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa</a>. “They are giving the United States Air Force a jet,” Trump said, bristling at being questioned about the gift by a reporter.

Trump said it was given “not to me, to the United States Air Force, so they could help us out” and noted that “Boeing’s a little bit late, unfortunately.”

Ramaphosa, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-south-africa-oval-office-drama-0080e7c7288860bd0511b8cc4efd06f6">sitting next to Trump</a>&nbsp;and has been working to repair his relationship with the president, said, “I’m sorry I don’t have a plane to give you.”

“If your country was offering the United States Air Force a plane, I would take it,” Trump said.

Trump has presented no national security imperative for a swift upgrade rather than waiting for Boeing to finish new Air Force One jets that have been in the works for years.

He has tried to tamp down some of the opposition by saying he wouldn’t fly around in the aircraft when his term ends. Instead, he said, the plane would be donated to a future presidential library, similar to how the Boeing 707 used by President Ronald Reagan was decommissioned and put on display as a museum piece.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746987808468.png" alt="President Trump took a tour of the jet in February&nbsp; &nbsp;-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Trump took a tour of the jet in February&nbsp; &nbsp;-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has accepted a luxury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-qatar-air-force-one-2ef13d87b71185bde547abe6840b098c">Boeing 747 jet from Qatar</a>&nbsp;for President Donald Trump to use as Air Force One, the Pentagon said Wednesday, despite ongoing questions about the ethics and legality of taking the expensive gift from a foreign nation.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">After President Trump shows videos about genocide, <a href="https://twitter.com/PeterAlexander?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PeterAlexander</a> asks about jet from Qatar. President Trump: &quot;&quot;What are you talking about? You know, you oughta get out of here...you&#39;re a terrible reporter.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/4KgjHOvEUF">pic.twitter.com/4KgjHOvEUF</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1925233710594465954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Defense Department will “work to ensure proper security measures” on the plane to make it safe for use by the president, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said. He added that the plane was accepted “in accordance with all federal rules and regulations.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-gift-jet-air-force-one-7f9afb461c6b3ac16fca3bb0973715ff">Trump has defended the gift</a>, which came up during his recent Middle East trip, as a way to save tax dollars.“Why should our military, and therefore our taxpayers, be forced to pay hundreds of millions of Dollars when they can get it for FREE,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114503203859060399">posted on his social media site</a>&nbsp;during the trip.Others, however, have said Trump's acceptance of an aircraft that has been called a “palace in the sky” is a violation of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/emoluments-clause-trump-jet-qatar-56f995acb57eb741b0214aba5e7e8220">Constitution’s prohibition on foreign gifts</a>. Democrats have been united in outrage, and even some of the Republican president’s GOP allies in Congress have expressed concerns.“This unprecedented action is a stain on the office of the presidency and cannot go unanswered,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York. “Until Americans get transparency on this shady deal, which apparently includes a corrupt plot for Donald Trump to keep the plane at his library after leaving office, I’ll continue to hold all Department of Justice political nominees.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-plane-qatar-schumer-nominees-senate-8efd139a898c32cb7a1fa554c3e937c7">Schumer has introduced legislation</a>&nbsp;that would prohibit any foreign aircraft from being used as Air Force One and forbid use of taxpayer money to modify or restore the aircraft.Critics also have noted the need to retrofit the plane to meet security requirements, which would be costly and take time.“Far from saving money, this unconstitutional action will not only cost our nation its dignity, but it will force taxpayers to waste over $1 billion in taxpayer dollars to overhaul this particular aircraft when we currently have not one, but two fully operational and fully capable Air Force One aircraft,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.She said during a hearing Tuesday that it is a “dangerous course of action” for the U.S. to accept the aircraft from the Qatari ruling family.Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told senators that Hegseth has ordered the service to start planning how to update the jet to meet needed standards and acknowledged that the plane will require “significant” modifications.The Air Force, in a statement, said it is preparing to award a contract to modify a Boeing 747 aircraft, but that any details are classified.Trump was asked about the move Wednesday while he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ramaphosa-south-africa-9ce43dd5a9cd58e912653c99a8ab1944">meeting in the Oval Office with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa</a>. “They are giving the United States Air Force a jet,” Trump said, bristling at being questioned about the gift by a reporter.Trump said it was given “not to me, to the United States Air Force, so they could help us out” and noted that “Boeing’s a little bit late, unfortunately.”Ramaphosa, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-south-africa-oval-office-drama-0080e7c7288860bd0511b8cc4efd06f6">sitting next to Trump</a>&nbsp;and has been working to repair his relationship with the president, said, “I’m sorry I don’t have a plane to give you.”“If your country was offering the United States Air Force a plane, I would take it,” Trump said.Trump has presented no national security imperative for a swift upgrade rather than waiting for Boeing to finish new Air Force One jets that have been in the works for years.He has tried to tamp down some of the opposition by saying he wouldn’t fly around in the aircraft when his term ends. Instead, he said, the plane would be donated to a future presidential library, similar to how the Boeing 707 used by President Ronald Reagan was decommissioned and put on display as a museum piece.___

🎥 Trump responds to question on Defense Dept. accepting jet from Qatar

RENO COUNTY —The Reno County Coroner’s Office has informed the Hutchinson Fire Department of the identity of the man who died the commercial fire that occurred Tuesday morning, according to a media release from the Hutchison Fire Department.

 The victim has been identified as Bret Fallis, a resident of Hutchinson. Firefighters discovered Mr. Fallis in one of the impacted storage units when they responded to the alarm. The exact cause of death has not been released at this time.

The Hutchinson Fire Department has completed its investigation into the fire's origins. The fire originated in the unit where Mr. Fallis was present. After investigation, the fire’s cause was determined to be improper discard of smoking materials igniting combustible materials in the storage unit.

RENO COUNTY — One person died following a fire at the Store'N Go storage facility near 4th Avenue and Bonebrake Street in Hutchinson.

Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, crews were dispatched after the Hutchinson Police Department, already on scene, reported visible smoke from the facility, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, firefighters found one of eight 30-by-220-foot storage buildings filled with smoke. Crews forced entry into multiple units, cutting locks and doors, and launched an aggressive attack on four units actively burning.

While extinguishing the flames, firefighters discovered one deceased individual inside a unit that appeared to be used as a residence. The victim’s identity has not yet been confirmed. The Reno County Coroner’s Medical Investigator is working to determine the cause of death and make a positive identification.&nbsp;

The fire caused moderate damage to four units, with smoke damage affecting approximately 75% of the remaining compartments. No injuries to firefighters were reported. Crews are expected to remain on scene for several hours.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Hutchinson Fire Department’s Fire Marshal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747750466971.jpeg" alt="Hutch Post Photo/Marc Jacobs" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Post Photo/Marc Jacobs</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —The Reno County Coroner’s Office has informed the Hutchinson Fire Department of the identity of the man who died the commercial fire that occurred Tuesday morning, according to a media release from the Hutchison Fire Department. The victim has been identified as Bret Fallis, a resident of Hutchinson. Firefighters discovered Mr. Fallis in one of the impacted storage units when they responded to the alarm. The exact cause of death has not been released at this time.The Hutchinson Fire Department has completed its investigation into the fire's origins. The fire originated in the unit where Mr. Fallis was present. After investigation, the fire’s cause was determined to be improper discard of smoking materials igniting combustible materials in the storage unit.---------------RENO COUNTY — One person died following a fire at the Store'N Go storage facility near 4th Avenue and Bonebrake Street in Hutchinson.Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, crews were dispatched after the Hutchinson Police Department, already on scene, reported visible smoke from the facility, according to a media release.Upon arrival, firefighters found one of eight 30-by-220-foot storage buildings filled with smoke. Crews forced entry into multiple units, cutting locks and doors, and launched an aggressive attack on four units actively burning.While extinguishing the flames, firefighters discovered one deceased individual inside a unit that appeared to be used as a residence. The victim’s identity has not yet been confirmed. The Reno County Coroner’s Medical Investigator is working to determine the cause of death and make a positive identification.&nbsp;The fire caused moderate damage to four units, with smoke damage affecting approximately 75% of the remaining compartments. No injuries to firefighters were reported. Crews are expected to remain on scene for several hours.The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Hutchinson Fire Department’s Fire Marshal.

Victim in fatal Kansas storage unit fire identified 

SPEARVILLE
– Medicine Lodge scored two runs in the top of the sixth to break a 3-all tie
then added four in the seventh and upset the top-seeded TMP-Marian Monarchs 9-3
in the semifinals of the Spearville 2-1A Regional Wednesday afternoon at Tom Feist
Field.

The
fifth-seed Indians (12-7) went on to beat host Spearville 13-3 in the title
game to advance to next week’s 2-1A State Touranment.

The
Monarchs (25-3) grabbed the early lead with a run in the bottom of the first
when Paige Koeningsman drove in her older sister Brooke with a two-out single
to left field.

The
Indians tied it with a run in the top of the second then used two singles, a
walk and a passed ball to score two in the top of the third to take a 3-1 lead.

The
Monarchs get one in the bottom of the fourth on Piper Simpson’s two-out triple.
They tied it in the fifth on a Paige Koeningsman double which scored Hannah
Rose.

Medicine
Lodge took the lead for good in the sixth. They scored the go-ahead run on a
two-out error from first baseman Raegan Allen then added an RBI single for a
5-3 lead. After the Monarchs were retired in order in the bottom of the inning,
the Indians tacked on four runs in the seventh, all with two outs.

TMP
would get two runners on in the bottom of the seventh, but a fly out ended the
game and the season.

Simpson
didn’t allow an earned runs and struck out five in three innings of relief but
suffered the loss. Starter Brynn Rebel allowed three runs on six hits with five
strikeouts and three walks over the first three innings. Bria Windholz gave up four
runs (two earned) on three hits in the seventh.

Hays Post SportsSPEARVILLE
– Medicine Lodge scored two runs in the top of the sixth to break a 3-all tie
then added four in the seventh and upset the top-seeded TMP-Marian Monarchs 9-3
in the semifinals of the Spearville 2-1A Regional Wednesday afternoon at Tom Feist
Field.The
fifth-seed Indians (12-7) went on to beat host Spearville 13-3 in the title
game to advance to next week’s 2-1A State Touranment.The
Monarchs (25-3) grabbed the early lead with a run in the bottom of the first
when Paige Koeningsman drove in her older sister Brooke with a two-out single
to left field.The
Indians tied it with a run in the top of the second then used two singles, a
walk and a passed ball to score two in the top of the third to take a 3-1 lead.The
Monarchs get one in the bottom of the fourth on Piper Simpson’s two-out triple.
They tied it in the fifth on a Paige Koeningsman double which scored Hannah
Rose.Medicine
Lodge took the lead for good in the sixth. They scored the go-ahead run on a
two-out error from first baseman Raegan Allen then added an RBI single for a
5-3 lead. After the Monarchs were retired in order in the bottom of the inning,
the Indians tacked on four runs in the seventh, all with two outs.TMP
would get two runners on in the bottom of the seventh, but a fly out ended the
game and the season.Simpson
didn’t allow an earned runs and struck out five in three innings of relief but
suffered the loss. Starter Brynn Rebel allowed three runs on six hits with five
strikeouts and three walks over the first three innings. Bria Windholz gave up four
runs (two earned) on three hits in the seventh.

🥎 Monarchs upset by Medicine Lodge in Regional semis

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission heard a request from the city of Victoria for help repairing sections of Old Highway 40 during the commission's meeting on Tuesday.

Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay and Victoria Mayor John Schulte discussed potential financial support to fix the deteriorating road approaches connecting Old Highway 40 to East Main and West Main streets.

The total cost to repair both streets is about $79,750. In a request letter, Schulte said while Victoria would prefer to repair both approaches, East Main Street would take priority if only one can be funded due to its higher traffic volume.

The commission will revisit the funding request at a future meeting.

Commissioner Michael Berges continued a discussion from March on creating a plan to maintain and improve roads in Ellis County subdevelopments. Commissioners heard from Ellis County resident Ty Wilson from Stonewood North Additions.

The discussion centered around using special assessment districts to allow residents in subdivisions to request road upgrades funded through their own taxes, not general county funds.

This process requires a majority petition from residents and final approval by the commission. The county cannot initiate the assessment as it must come from the residents.

Wilson said the process unfairly burdens residents with initiating and financing improvements rather than the commission proactively planning or funding them.

"If I [file a petition], which I can, I just forced your hand and added even more to your budgetary problems than you have," he said.

Berges said the commission has directed Mackay to list all subdivisions in the next 60 days, including what type of road they currently have, and provide suggestions for improvement.

Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun discussed with commissioners a grant application that would fully cover upgrades to in-car and body cameras, docking stations, antennas and routers.

Braun also received approval to purchase 16 armored vests for detention officers for about $15,530. Funding is available in the 2025 capital outlay budget.

Commissioners approved waiving municipal waste fees for the 2025 Wild West Festival. The waiver would apply to trash hauled to the Ellis County Transfer Station during the event.

Monique Koerner and Tamara Robertson from the Cottonwood Extension District gave an update on their current programs and activities in the district.

Jami Benyshek, senior audit manager with Adams Brown, LLC, presented the 2024 Ellis County audit report to the commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission heard a request from the city of Victoria for help repairing sections of Old Highway 40 during the commission's meeting on Tuesday.Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay and Victoria Mayor John Schulte discussed potential financial support to fix the deteriorating road approaches connecting Old Highway 40 to East Main and West Main streets.The total cost to repair both streets is about $79,750. In a request letter, Schulte said while Victoria would prefer to repair both approaches, East Main Street would take priority if only one can be funded due to its higher traffic volume.The commission will revisit the funding request at a future meeting.<h2>Subdivision road improvements</h2>Commissioner Michael Berges continued a discussion from March on creating a plan to maintain and improve roads in Ellis County subdevelopments. Commissioners heard from Ellis County resident Ty Wilson from Stonewood North Additions.The discussion centered around using special assessment districts to allow residents in subdivisions to request road upgrades funded through their own taxes, not general county funds.This process requires a majority petition from residents and final approval by the commission. The county cannot initiate the assessment as it must come from the residents.Wilson said the process unfairly burdens residents with initiating and financing improvements rather than the commission proactively planning or funding them."If I [file a petition], which I can, I just forced your hand and added even more to your budgetary problems than you have," he said.Berges said the commission has directed Mackay to list all subdivisions in the next 60 days, including what type of road they currently have, and provide suggestions for improvement.<h2>Ellis County Sheriff's cameras, vests</h2>Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun discussed with commissioners a grant application that would fully cover upgrades to in-car and body cameras, docking stations, antennas and routers.Braun also received approval to purchase 16 armored vests for detention officers for about $15,530. Funding is available in the 2025 capital outlay budget.<h2>Other business</h2>Commissioners approved waiving municipal waste fees for the 2025 Wild West Festival. The waiver would apply to trash hauled to the Ellis County Transfer Station during the event.Monique Koerner and Tamara Robertson from the Cottonwood Extension District gave an update on their current programs and activities in the district.Jami Benyshek, senior audit manager with Adams Brown, LLC, presented the 2024 Ellis County audit report to the commission.

Ellis County Commission discusses highway 40 repairs in Victoria

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, about professional development courses on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: The Chamber in Hays" 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=nawrp-18b26fe-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>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, about professional development courses on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Chamber in Hays to offer professional development courses

After 21 years on the front lines, Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman hung up his helmet on May 12 and bid farewell to the Hays Fire Department.

"It wasn't until the next morning that it really resonated that I was no longer part of that group. It made me realize I was part of something bigger," Zimmerman said.

Zimmerman started as a volunteer with the Ellis County Fire Department before joining the Hays Fire Department full-time on May 12, 2004.

He emphasized&nbsp;the value of passing down experience to newer firefighters and said the most fulfilling part of the job was being there for people in their darkest moments.

"Those people, they'll remember that forever," Zimmerman said. "That's been the most rewarding is helping someone, and six months down the road, you come across them and they thank you for what you did. You can't put a price on that."

Firefighters earn the title of senior firefighter after meeting service time and certification requirements, but true seniority comes through years of experience, Zimmerman said.

Zimmerman said newer firefighters look to experienced veterans for guidance and learning, which helps them better recognize and handle situations before facing them firsthand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747408638136.jpeg" alt="Hays&nbsp;Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman" />
 <figcaption>Hays&nbsp;Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostAfter 21 years on the front lines, Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman hung up his helmet on May 12 and bid farewell to the Hays Fire Department."It wasn't until the next morning that it really resonated that I was no longer part of that group. It made me realize I was part of something bigger," Zimmerman said.Zimmerman started as a volunteer with the Ellis County Fire Department before joining the Hays Fire Department full-time on May 12, 2004.He emphasized&nbsp;the value of passing down experience to newer firefighters and said the most fulfilling part of the job was being there for people in their darkest moments."Those people, they'll remember that forever," Zimmerman said. "That's been the most rewarding is helping someone, and six months down the road, you come across them and they thank you for what you did. You can't put a price on that."Firefighters earn the title of senior firefighter after meeting service time and certification requirements, but true seniority comes through years of experience, Zimmerman said.Zimmerman said newer firefighters look to experienced veterans for guidance and learning, which helps them better recognize and handle situations before facing them firsthand."It's a team effort. It's making sure you're taken care of and the person next to you is taken care of. It's a brotherhood," Zimmerman said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747414308293.jpeg" alt="Hays Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman driving with another firefighter. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman driving with another firefighter. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Zimmerman said fire behavior and building construction have changed drastically over the years. Modern structures burn faster and hotter because of lightweight, petroleum-based materials.Zimmerman said the job is constantly evolving, and no two emergencies are ever alike."It changes daily. You just have to be aware of your surroundings at all times," he said.Although retired from the Hays Fire Department, Zimmerman will remain active as assistant chief in Munjor with the Ellis County Fire Department.His new role focuses more on leadership and command than hands-on firefighting. The department primarily handles wildland fires, which behave differently from structure fires."It'll be nice to be able to take the knowledge I've acquired over 21 years, and put that toward working with the younger ones and directing them in the right way on the county side," Zimmerman said.Zimmerman said two of his most memorable calls were the July 16, 2013, train derailment when a westbound train struck another car and derailed, and a rescue involving an individual trapped inside a grain elevator.Zimmerman plans to spend more time with his three children and focus on expanding the family farm. He said his firefighting career took up about a third of his life."There's a lot that happens at home while you're away from work for a 24-hour shift," he said. "It'll be nice to be around for what's left of the kids growing up and be around my wife more."Zimmerman originally considered the military but found the fire department the ideal path for public service after being approached by Troy Herman, then company chief in Schoenchen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747414336345.jpeg" alt="A celebration cake for Hays Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A celebration cake for Hays Senior Firefighter Brandon Zimmerman. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>