One of the bison at Frontier Park west had a baby over the weekend.

The little one was being a little shy today with the storm clouds, but you can see the calf nestled with its mother under the pasture shelter.

On April 13, the city of Hays posted last year's calves and the one open cow headed off to new pastures,&nbsp;making room for new arrivals.

More calves are expected in just 30 to 45 days. 

The city of Hays maintains this historic bison herd as a living reminder of our heritage, the post said.

"It’s one of the coolest ways we honor and preserve our community's connection to the frontier days!" the post said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745530900035.jpeg" alt="New baby bison at Frontier Park that was born over the weekend. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>New baby bison at Frontier Park that was born over the weekend. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostOne of the bison at Frontier Park west had a baby over the weekend.The little one was being a little shy today with the storm clouds, but you can see the calf nestled with its mother under the pasture shelter.On April 13, the city of Hays posted last year's calves and the one open cow headed off to new pastures,&nbsp;making room for new arrivals.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745530969314.jpeg" alt="The baby bison and its mother relax under a shelter at Frontier Park as storm clouds roll in on Thursday.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The baby bison and its mother relax under a shelter at Frontier Park as storm clouds roll in on Thursday.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745531015622.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>More calves are expected in just 30 to 45 days. The city of Hays maintains this historic bison herd as a living reminder of our heritage, the post said."It’s one of the coolest ways we honor and preserve our community's connection to the frontier days!" the post said.

New baby bison born at Frontier Park

The RPM races in Hays have been canceled this weekend due to weather.

The RPM races in Hays have been canceled this weekend due to weather.

RPM races canceled this weekend

EDITOR'S NOTE. The story has been updated with a location of the accident other then what the KHP originally reported.

ELLIS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Element driven by Andrew Holland, 50, Fort Worth, Texas, was westbound on Interstate 70 approximately four miles east of Ellis passing another vehicle. 

The SUV hydroplaned across the westbound lanes, traveled off the roadway on the north side, continued sliding, traveled down the grass hill and overturned on the passenger side through the KDOT fence.

EMS transported the driver and a passenger Emma Holland, 18, Fort Worth, Texas, to Hays Medical Center. They were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

EDITOR'S NOTE. The story has been updated with a location of the accident other then what the KHP originally reported.ELLIS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Element driven by Andrew Holland, 50, Fort Worth, Texas, was westbound on Interstate 70 approximately four miles east of Ellis passing another vehicle. The SUV hydroplaned across the westbound lanes, traveled off the roadway on the north side, continued sliding, traveled down the grass hill and overturned on the passenger side through the KDOT fence.EMS transported the driver and a passenger Emma Holland, 18, Fort Worth, Texas, to Hays Medical Center. They were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized in Hays after SUV hydroplanes on I-70

Pauline
Randolph, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, joined the love of
her life Wayne Randolph in heaven on April 21, 2025, passing away in her sleep
at Lincoln Community Care Center in Hugo, Colorado. Born on March 7, 1930,
the
oldest child of Richard F. and Magdaline (Kreutzer) Brungardt, she grew up on a
farm south of Hoxie with her siblings Almetha, Marcella, Paul, Marvin, Viola,
Imogene, Mary, Leo, and Thelma.

After
graduating from Monument High School in Monument, Kansas, Pauline attended Fort
Hays State University for a year. Pauline spent time as a teacher (for a year),
a doctor’s receptionist, a high school cafeteria cook, and a baby sitter.&nbsp;

On
September 18, 1950, Pauline married Robert Wayne Randolph in Grainfield,
Kansas. Together they raised four children, Richard, Robert, Dianna, and
Cynthia in Hoxie and nurtured and loved eight grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren,
and four great-great-grandchildren. A woman of many interests she loved to bake
(those M&amp;M oatmeal cookies were to die for) along with crocheting and doing
needlepoint. She loved polka dancing and dancing in general so much that she
told Wayne when they were dating “if you want to be my boyfriend, you have to
learn to dance.” So, he did, and they did— dance for the joy of it whenever the
spirit moved them even on Sunday mornings.

Pauline
(Polly to her friends and family) was known for being a good friend and
coworker, her generous and kind heart, her infectious laugh, being the straight
“man” for Wayne’s sense of humor, and being a very lenient grandmother to her
eight grandchildren (oh, the shenanigans that went on in the basement of her
home on Noble Street). Pauline and Wayne loved hosting and attending family
reunions. Family was extremely important to her.&nbsp;

Pauline
is survived by siblings Almetha Mendenhall, Imogene Thomas, and Mary Smith; her
children Richard (Yvonne) Randolph of Surprise, AZ, Robert (Linda) Randolph of
Hoxie, Cynthia (Jeff) Myers of Eads, and son-in-law Mike Matthews of Hoxie; her
grandchildren Stacie Taylor, Shelley (Warren) Johnson, Ryan (Hanna) Randolph,
Kelsey (Greg) Havran, Matthew (Sarah) Randolph, Christopher (Kathryn) Matthews,
Candace Myers, and Adam Myers; 19 great grandchildren Josh (Ashli), Cayle
(Jill), Peyton (Macy), Alexis (Danny), Macey, Gabriel, Chloe, Haven, Matthias,
Jayden, Riley, Joe, Cambria, Caler, Emmylia, Linus Wayne, Hayden, Theodore, and
Oliver; and 4 great great grandchildren Kadence, Harper, Jaxon, and Kendall.

Pauline
is now reunited in heaven with her parents, her husband Wayne, her daughter
Dianna Matthews, and her siblings Marcella Bullard, Paul, Marvin, Viola Jacobs,
Leo, and Thelma Krallman who preceded her in death.

The
visitation will be held from 3-7 at
Mickey Leopold Funeral Home on Sunday, April 27 with Rosary to follow at 7. The
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, April 28, 2025, at 10:30, at St.
Francis Catholic Church in Hoxie. Interment to follow. Memorials may be made to
Sheridan County Benefit Walk or Sheridan County Historical Society and may be
mailed in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745507807865.jpeg" alt="Pauline Randolph" />
 <figcaption>Pauline Randolph</figcaption>
 </figure>Pauline
Randolph, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, joined the love of
her life Wayne Randolph in heaven on April 21, 2025, passing away in her sleep
at Lincoln Community Care Center in Hugo, Colorado. Born on March 7, 1930,
the
oldest child of Richard F. and Magdaline (Kreutzer) Brungardt, she grew up on a
farm south of Hoxie with her siblings Almetha, Marcella, Paul, Marvin, Viola,
Imogene, Mary, Leo, and Thelma.After
graduating from Monument High School in Monument, Kansas, Pauline attended Fort
Hays State University for a year. Pauline spent time as a teacher (for a year),
a doctor’s receptionist, a high school cafeteria cook, and a baby sitter.&nbsp;On
September 18, 1950, Pauline married Robert Wayne Randolph in Grainfield,
Kansas. Together they raised four children, Richard, Robert, Dianna, and
Cynthia in Hoxie and nurtured and loved eight grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren,
and four great-great-grandchildren. A woman of many interests she loved to bake
(those M&amp;M oatmeal cookies were to die for) along with crocheting and doing
needlepoint. She loved polka dancing and dancing in general so much that she
told Wayne when they were dating “if you want to be my boyfriend, you have to
learn to dance.” So, he did, and they did— dance for the joy of it whenever the
spirit moved them even on Sunday mornings.Pauline
(Polly to her friends and family) was known for being a good friend and
coworker, her generous and kind heart, her infectious laugh, being the straight
“man” for Wayne’s sense of humor, and being a very lenient grandmother to her
eight grandchildren (oh, the shenanigans that went on in the basement of her
home on Noble Street). Pauline and Wayne loved hosting and attending family
reunions. Family was extremely important to her.&nbsp;Pauline
is survived by siblings Almetha Mendenhall, Imogene Thomas, and Mary Smith; her
children Richard (Yvonne) Randolph of Surprise, AZ, Robert (Linda) Randolph of
Hoxie, Cynthia (Jeff) Myers of Eads, and son-in-law Mike Matthews of Hoxie; her
grandchildren Stacie Taylor, Shelley (Warren) Johnson, Ryan (Hanna) Randolph,
Kelsey (Greg) Havran, Matthew (Sarah) Randolph, Christopher (Kathryn) Matthews,
Candace Myers, and Adam Myers; 19 great grandchildren Josh (Ashli), Cayle
(Jill), Peyton (Macy), Alexis (Danny), Macey, Gabriel, Chloe, Haven, Matthias,
Jayden, Riley, Joe, Cambria, Caler, Emmylia, Linus Wayne, Hayden, Theodore, and
Oliver; and 4 great great grandchildren Kadence, Harper, Jaxon, and Kendall.Pauline
is now reunited in heaven with her parents, her husband Wayne, her daughter
Dianna Matthews, and her siblings Marcella Bullard, Paul, Marvin, Viola Jacobs,
Leo, and Thelma Krallman who preceded her in death.The
visitation will be held from 3-7 at
Mickey Leopold Funeral Home on Sunday, April 27 with Rosary to follow at 7. The
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, April 28, 2025, at 10:30, at St.
Francis Catholic Church in Hoxie. Interment to follow. Memorials may be made to
Sheridan County Benefit Walk or Sheridan County Historical Society and may be
mailed in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.

Pauline Randolph

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Hays hit a high of 67 Wednesday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays received 2.17 inches of rain as of 8 a.m. today. Hays has received 2.41 in the month of April. The low for Wednesday night was 54.

On average, Hays receives 2.10 inches of rain in April and 4.57 inches by the end of April.&nbsp;

The forecast for today is a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms, with a high of 71 and a low of 45. Winds are expected to be 9 to 16 mph.

The chance for thunderstorms continues on Friday with a high of 60. Showers and thunderstorms are expected on Saturday and Sunday.

By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostHays hit a high of 67 Wednesday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Hays received 2.17 inches of rain as of 8 a.m. today. Hays has received 2.41 in the month of April. The low for Wednesday night was 54.On average, Hays receives 2.10 inches of rain in April and 4.57 inches by the end of April.&nbsp;The forecast for today is a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms, with a high of 71 and a low of 45. Winds are expected to be 9 to 16 mph.The chance for thunderstorms continues on Friday with a high of 60. Showers and thunderstorms are expected on Saturday and Sunday.

Hays receives soaking rain Wednesday; storm trend to continue

Current Thomas More Prep-Marian English teacher and theatre director Travis Grizzell, who is widely known for his parts in community theater productions, is ready for a new role.

Grizzell will be the Advancement Director for Hays Catholic Schools, continuing within an organization that he has been a part of since 2007.

Grizzell will take over that position on June 1, but he already feels quite at home with Hays Catholic Schools, which is comprised of Holy Family Elementary School and TMP-M, where he is heavily involved as a teacher, theater director, and forensics coach at the high school.

“I'm honored to serve as advancement director and look forward to working in a new capacity as we build upon the storied history of TMP-Marian and Hays Catholic Schools,” said Grizzell, who is also the current board president of the Hays Community Theatre.

Grizzell will continue as the TMP-Marian fall musical and spring play director.

Chad Meitner, principal at TMP-M, is impressed with Grizzell’s ability to form relationships with anyone and compassionately lead others.

"As one of the hardest working men I know, he is a rock for so many students, families and co-workers," Meitner said. "Whether it’s teaching a great piece of literature, leading a rehearsal for the musical, or just sharing a humorous comment to lighten your day, Travis is someone that makes everyone around him better."

Grizzell may be stepping into a new role, but those who will work closely with him are not worried a bit about his capabilities.

"Travis has an unmatched work ethic,” Alumni Board President Michelle ‘97 Schlyer said.

“What excites me most about Travis joining our advancement/alumni team is his strong ties to our younger alumni base. He has built great relationships with students and families. I look forward to him reconnecting with his former students and engaging them back to their alma mater with his creativity and enthusiasm!" she said.

Grizzell and his wife, Pamela, call Hays home. Grizzell moved to Hays from Macksville after graduating high school in 1997. Pamela grew up in Hays, graduating from TMP-M in 1986.

Their two daughters both graduated from TMP-Marian, Elizabeth in 2012 and Rebecca in 2014.

The couple’s two grandchildren are enrolled in Holy Family Elementary as sixth-generation Hays Catholic School students!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745504781327.png" alt="Travis Grizzell" />
 <figcaption>Travis Grizzell</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas More Prep-MarianCurrent Thomas More Prep-Marian English teacher and theatre director Travis Grizzell, who is widely known for his parts in community theater productions, is ready for a new role.Grizzell will be the Advancement Director for Hays Catholic Schools, continuing within an organization that he has been a part of since 2007.Grizzell will take over that position on June 1, but he already feels quite at home with Hays Catholic Schools, which is comprised of Holy Family Elementary School and TMP-M, where he is heavily involved as a teacher, theater director, and forensics coach at the high school.“I'm honored to serve as advancement director and look forward to working in a new capacity as we build upon the storied history of TMP-Marian and Hays Catholic Schools,” said Grizzell, who is also the current board president of the Hays Community Theatre.Grizzell will continue as the TMP-Marian fall musical and spring play director.Chad Meitner, principal at TMP-M, is impressed with Grizzell’s ability to form relationships with anyone and compassionately lead others."As one of the hardest working men I know, he is a rock for so many students, families and co-workers," Meitner said. "Whether it’s teaching a great piece of literature, leading a rehearsal for the musical, or just sharing a humorous comment to lighten your day, Travis is someone that makes everyone around him better."Grizzell may be stepping into a new role, but those who will work closely with him are not worried a bit about his capabilities."Travis has an unmatched work ethic,” Alumni Board President Michelle ‘97 Schlyer said.“What excites me most about Travis joining our advancement/alumni team is his strong ties to our younger alumni base. He has built great relationships with students and families. I look forward to him reconnecting with his former students and engaging them back to their alma mater with his creativity and enthusiasm!" she said.Grizzell and his wife, Pamela, call Hays home. Grizzell moved to Hays from Macksville after graduating high school in 1997. Pamela grew up in Hays, graduating from TMP-M in 1986.Their two daughters both graduated from TMP-Marian, Elizabeth in 2012 and Rebecca in 2014.The couple’s two grandchildren are enrolled in Holy Family Elementary as sixth-generation Hays Catholic School students!

TMP-Marian teacher named advancement director for Hays Catholic Schools

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A public hearing will be conducted during the Hays City Commission meeting this afternoon for issuance of industrial revenue bonds requested by A&amp;A Coors Inc. and an exemption from ad valorem property taxes. 

The business, located on East Eighth Street, plans to construct a new 43,000-square-foot commercial warehouse and distribution facility in the industrial park at Ninth and Commerce Parkway. 

Also on the agenda are two bid request awards.

• $136,483 to Morgan Brothers Construction, La Crosse, for parking lot and access improvements at the water resources facility, 1000 Vine.

• $101,420 to C-Hawkk Construction LLC, Eudora, for pavement markings on Hall Street, East 13th Street, and the Vine Street roundabouts .&nbsp;

The complete agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04242025-1542">here</a>.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA public hearing will be conducted during the Hays City Commission meeting this afternoon for issuance of industrial revenue bonds requested by A&amp;A Coors Inc. and an exemption from ad valorem property taxes. The business, located on East Eighth Street, plans to construct a new 43,000-square-foot commercial warehouse and distribution facility in the industrial park at Ninth and Commerce Parkway. Also on the agenda are two bid request awards.• $136,483 to Morgan Brothers Construction, La Crosse, for parking lot and access improvements at the water resources facility, 1000 Vine.• $101,420 to C-Hawkk Construction LLC, Eudora, for pavement markings on Hall Street, East 13th Street, and the Vine Street roundabouts .&nbsp;The complete agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04242025-1542">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Public hearing today for A&A Coors building request of industrial revenue bonds 

Thursday, April 24
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Colorado Rockies, 12:30pm
 KFIX: Hays High SB (DH) vs. Great Bend, 3:45pm

Friday, April 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs Houston Astros, 6:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State BSB vs. Northwest Missouri State, 6:40pm

Saturday, April 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs Houston Astros, 5:30pm

Sunday, April 27
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Northwest Missouri State, 11:40am &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs Houston Astros, 12:30pm

Thursday, April 24
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Colorado Rockies, 12:30pm
 KFIX: Hays High SB (DH) vs. Great Bend, 3:45pmFriday, April 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs Houston Astros, 6:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State BSB vs. Northwest Missouri State, 6:40pmSaturday, April 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs Houston Astros, 5:30pmSunday, April 27
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Northwest Missouri State, 11:40am &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs Houston Astros, 12:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The Hays Arts Council spring art walk was moved five years ago from Friday evenings for a few short hours to a full day on Saturdays.

It's been a boon to downtown businesses, says Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, allowing art enthusiasts to also enjoy shopping at the local boutiques and restaurants.

"We want people to enjoy the art, but there's also the opportunity to pop into little stores, even if they're not on the art walk," she said.&nbsp;

Having it on the weekend also allows more out-of-town visitors to enjoy the art walk.&nbsp;

"It really allows you to savor it and make it a full day. We know we're contributing to the vitality and economic impact of downtown. community," Meder said.

The walk is anchored by the 56th annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition in the Hays Arts Center.&nbsp;Fifty-six pieces from more than 270 submissions were selected by juror Jay D. Nelson.&nbsp;The exhibition will run through June 6.

The list of art stops is available online on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">Hays Arts Council website</a>, with media ranging from hand-turned wood vessels, jewelry design and a book signing to the more traditional paint, ceramics and photography.&nbsp;

Several culminating exhibits will be presented by Fort Hays State University art students. Hays High students will also have an art showcase at 809 Studio.

Two exhibits will be at Fort Hays State University in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art and the Taylor Gallery.&nbsp;

The FHSU Jazz Band will present a concert at 2 p.m. in the downtown pavilion, 10th and Main, where a chalk art station for the kids and young at heart will be set up, courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.

After the art walk, performances will be presented that evening by the Hays Community Theatre with "Bus Stop" by William Inge and the FHSU "New Music Festival" concert.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=uah9p-1881afa-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745436986270.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Arts Council spring art walk was moved five years ago from Friday evenings for a few short hours to a full day on Saturdays.It's been a boon to downtown businesses, says Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, allowing art enthusiasts to also enjoy shopping at the local boutiques and restaurants."We want people to enjoy the art, but there's also the opportunity to pop into little stores, even if they're not on the art walk," she said.&nbsp;Having it on the weekend also allows more out-of-town visitors to enjoy the art walk.&nbsp;"It really allows you to savor it and make it a full day. We know we're contributing to the vitality and economic impact of downtown. community," Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745437067046.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745411149937.png" alt="Hays Arts Council" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council</figcaption>
 </figure>The walk is anchored by the 56th annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition in the Hays Arts Center.&nbsp;Fifty-six pieces from more than 270 submissions were selected by juror Jay D. Nelson.&nbsp;The exhibition will run through June 6.The list of art stops is available online on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">Hays Arts Council website</a>, with media ranging from hand-turned wood vessels, jewelry design and a book signing to the more traditional paint, ceramics and photography.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745437103797.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Several culminating exhibits will be presented by Fort Hays State University art students. Hays High students will also have an art showcase at 809 Studio.Two exhibits will be at Fort Hays State University in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art and the Taylor Gallery.&nbsp;The FHSU Jazz Band will present a concert at 2 p.m. in the downtown pavilion, 10th and Main, where a chalk art station for the kids and young at heart will be set up, courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.After the art walk, performances will be presented that evening by the Hays Community Theatre with "Bus Stop" by William Inge and the FHSU "New Music Festival" concert.

🎙 Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk set for Saturday

On April 2, Humanities Kansas (HK) was notified that the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) was suspended. As a result, HK has been forced to make immediate cuts to grants and programs across Kansas. The termination of federal funding puts HK resources at risk and will impact HK's ability to team up with local museums, libraries, and cultural organizations in communities of all sizes.&nbsp;As library leaders, we have been fielding questions from concerned community members wondering the impact of this cut on our libraries and local communities.&nbsp;

Humanities events bring people together to learn, engage, and build community. In 2024 alone, HK supported 207 events serving 473,649 citizens in the Big First District. Over the past three years in north central Kansas, HK has supported 60 speaker presentations, four grants for local-level projects, a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibit, a Vietnam veterans’ oral history project, and 11 poetry events. These projects explored history, supported civic engagement, and preserved important stories.

Amplify this impact across the state: in 2024 HK supported 488 events in 126 communities. More than 607,000 Kansans engaged with thoughtful and important programming exploring Kansas stories.&nbsp;

HK has been a strong partner in uplifting history and culture in Hays and our surrounding communities. The Ellis County Historical Society is collecting oral histories of Vietnam veterans, which will be preserved at the Kansas Historical Society and the Library of Congress. The Hays Public Library regularly hosts Speakers Bureau presentations that explore Kansas stories and are free to attend. An HK grant to the Nicodemus Historical Society supported a short film, “African American Pioneers,” which brings an important Kansas story to a national audience. These examples are a few of the many ways HK’s work helps us look toward the future while honoring our local history.&nbsp;

While the current speed and accessibility of online media has its benefits, how will our stories and community issues be retained for the future? HK supports local libraries, museums, and community groups as they preserve community histories one project at a time. At the heart of it, this work strengthens our community and connecst us with our neighbors and our collective past.&nbsp;

Suspension of the National Endowment for the Humanities and ultimately state grants to Humanities Kansas will lead to fewer and lower quality presentations, exhibitions, discussions, and preservation projects in Hays and surrounding communities.&nbsp;

If you want to learn more about Humanities Kansas and its impact on Kansans, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/">https://www.humanitieskansas.org/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

— Ginger Williams Fort Hays State University, dean of Library Services

— Brandon Hines Hays Public Library, director&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On April 2, Humanities Kansas (HK) was notified that the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) was suspended. As a result, HK has been forced to make immediate cuts to grants and programs across Kansas. The termination of federal funding puts HK resources at risk and will impact HK's ability to team up with local museums, libraries, and cultural organizations in communities of all sizes.&nbsp;As library leaders, we have been fielding questions from concerned community members wondering the impact of this cut on our libraries and local communities.&nbsp;Humanities events bring people together to learn, engage, and build community. In 2024 alone, HK supported 207 events serving 473,649 citizens in the Big First District. Over the past three years in north central Kansas, HK has supported 60 speaker presentations, four grants for local-level projects, a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibit, a Vietnam veterans’ oral history project, and 11 poetry events. These projects explored history, supported civic engagement, and preserved important stories.Amplify this impact across the state: in 2024 HK supported 488 events in 126 communities. More than 607,000 Kansans engaged with thoughtful and important programming exploring Kansas stories.&nbsp;HK has been a strong partner in uplifting history and culture in Hays and our surrounding communities. The Ellis County Historical Society is collecting oral histories of Vietnam veterans, which will be preserved at the Kansas Historical Society and the Library of Congress. The Hays Public Library regularly hosts Speakers Bureau presentations that explore Kansas stories and are free to attend. An HK grant to the Nicodemus Historical Society supported a short film, “African American Pioneers,” which brings an important Kansas story to a national audience. These examples are a few of the many ways HK’s work helps us look toward the future while honoring our local history.&nbsp;While the current speed and accessibility of online media has its benefits, how will our stories and community issues be retained for the future? HK supports local libraries, museums, and community groups as they preserve community histories one project at a time. At the heart of it, this work strengthens our community and connecst us with our neighbors and our collective past.&nbsp;Suspension of the National Endowment for the Humanities and ultimately state grants to Humanities Kansas will lead to fewer and lower quality presentations, exhibitions, discussions, and preservation projects in Hays and surrounding communities.&nbsp;If you want to learn more about Humanities Kansas and its impact on Kansans, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/">https://www.humanitieskansas.org/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;— Ginger Williams Fort Hays State University, dean of Library Services— Brandon Hines Hays Public Library, director&nbsp;&nbsp;

Letter: Impact of Humanities Kansas on Hays community

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Kansas Legislature concluded its session with a budget bill that allocates $208 million in additional funding to schools for the upcoming fiscal year.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3e0bf8bc-ae47-47d3-9aec-b7c581745dde">SEE RELATED STORY: Gov. Laura Kelly signs budget bill, issues dozens of line-item vetoes, asks Legislature to try again</a>

The Legislature also approved $10 million in additional funding for special education statewide. Kyle Carlin, director of the special education co-op, said the Legislature eliminated a $200 per-teacher reimbursement for special education, resulting in a net increase of only about $7.5 million.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said only two years remain on the current school funding formula. The Legislature has formed a task force to review funding.

"We're in a pretty interesting time in terms of finance and how schools are funded," Wilson said.

Senate Bill 114 will allow students from non-public and virtual schools to participate in public school activities. Wilson said locally this allowed Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) students to participate in Hays High School activities.

The high school immediately gained two track athletes from the KAMS program.

Another Senate bill will require school districts to include a fetal development component in any classes on human growth, human development or human sexuality.&nbsp;

The Legislature has eliminated the safe and secure schools funding. The Hays district used those funds repeatedly for various projects, including the installation of secure entrances at schools.

Professional development funds, mentor teacher and teachers of excellence funding, which is paid to teachers who have their national board certification, were all cut by the Legislature this year.

Last year, the district received $16,798 in state aid for professional development. This year, the district would have received&nbsp;$27,750, according to Chris Hipp, USD 489 assistant superintendent of business services.

Last year, the district received $11,284 in mentor teacher funding and $14,000 in&nbsp;teachers of excellence funding, Hipp said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714489195274.png" alt="Photo Courtesy KS Legislature YouTube" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KS Legislature YouTube</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Kansas Legislature concluded its session with a budget bill that allocates $208 million in additional funding to schools for the upcoming fiscal year.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3e0bf8bc-ae47-47d3-9aec-b7c581745dde">SEE RELATED STORY: Gov. Laura Kelly signs budget bill, issues dozens of line-item vetoes, asks Legislature to try again</a>The Legislature also approved $10 million in additional funding for special education statewide. Kyle Carlin, director of the special education co-op, said the Legislature eliminated a $200 per-teacher reimbursement for special education, resulting in a net increase of only about $7.5 million.Superintendent Ron Wilson said only two years remain on the current school funding formula. The Legislature has formed a task force to review funding."We're in a pretty interesting time in terms of finance and how schools are funded," Wilson said.<h2>School activities</h2>Senate Bill 114 will allow students from non-public and virtual schools to participate in public school activities. Wilson said locally this allowed Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) students to participate in Hays High School activities.The high school immediately gained two track athletes from the KAMS program.<h2>Human development</h2>Another Senate bill will require school districts to include a fetal development component in any classes on human growth, human development or human sexuality.&nbsp;<h2>Cuts</h2>The Legislature has eliminated the safe and secure schools funding. The Hays district used those funds repeatedly for various projects, including the installation of secure entrances at schools.Professional development funds, mentor teacher and teachers of excellence funding, which is paid to teachers who have their national board certification, were all cut by the Legislature this year.Last year, the district received $16,798 in state aid for professional development. This year, the district would have received&nbsp;$27,750, according to Chris Hipp, USD 489 assistant superintendent of business services.Last year, the district received $11,284 in mentor teacher funding and $14,000 in&nbsp;teachers of excellence funding, Hipp said.

Kansas Legislature adds general funding for schools, cuts elsewhere

The Fort Hays State University Shotgun Team traveled to the 2025 ACUI/SCTP National Championship with determination and something to prove. Fueled by months of hard work and preparation, the Tigers were ready to unleash their talent on the national stage.

The competition took place during the week of March 17–23. After an early and dark Monday morning departure, the team arrived in San Antonio, Texas, ready to compete. Tuesday was dedicated to practice and acclimation, allowing the athletes to prepare mentally for the demanding week ahead.

The competition began on Wednesday with Trap and Doubles Trap. True to form, the Tigers battled a challenging north wind but performed admirably, scoring 490x500 in Trap and 468x500 in Doubles Trap. Though they narrowly missed the podium in both events, their scores kept them within striking distance.

Thursday brought clear skies and new opportunities. The team took on Sporting Clays first, facing tough targets with resilience and determination. Their 433x500 score kept them in contention, but again, just shy of the podium. That afternoon, Doubles Skeet was next, and the Tigers delivered this time. With a phenomenal score of 482x500, they earned a second-place finish and a spot on the podium.

Heading into the final day, the Tigers knew they needed big scores to stay in the hunt for a national title. Friday morning’s Super Sporting event proved to be a turning point. With a chip on their shoulder, the team stepped up and posted an impressive 471x500—earning a first-place podium finish and propelling them back into championship contention.

The final event was Skeet, and the Tigers came out strong, pushing toward an epic comeback. Despite a solid 492x500 score and a third-place finish, they ultimately fell just four targets short of tying the Division II National Champions.

When all was said and done, the FHSU Shotgun Sports Team earned the title of 2025 ACUI/SCTP Division II National Runner-Up with an outstanding High Overall Team score of 2836x3000. While it wasn’t the ending they had hoped for, the coaching staff couldn’t be prouder of the grit, growth, and unity this young team displayed throughout the week.

Team members include:&nbsp;Xander Winchel, Spring Hill; Max Werner, Phillipsburg; Luke Bower, Silver City, NM; Cory Walker, Live Oak, Calif.; Kyler Niblock, Hoxie; Dawson Arnett, Shawnee, Okla.; Grant Rainey, Pottsboro, Tex.; Emily Miller, Norton; Michaela Baalmann, Wichita; Braden Chambers, Chelsea, Okla.; Austin Smith, Weatherford, Okla.; Tyler Smelker, La Mesa, NM; Andrew Saville, Shawnee; Zach Garrett, Arp, Tex; Shay Mahnken, Pittsburg; Peter Saville, Shawnee; Tommy Thew, Oden, Ark.; Breanna Zogg, Cable, Wis.; Logan Schmidt, Hays; and Blake Coble, Berthoud, Colo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745330140896.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University Shotgun Team. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University Shotgun Team. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThe Fort Hays State University Shotgun Team traveled to the 2025 ACUI/SCTP National Championship with determination and something to prove. Fueled by months of hard work and preparation, the Tigers were ready to unleash their talent on the national stage.The competition took place during the week of March 17–23. After an early and dark Monday morning departure, the team arrived in San Antonio, Texas, ready to compete. Tuesday was dedicated to practice and acclimation, allowing the athletes to prepare mentally for the demanding week ahead.The competition began on Wednesday with Trap and Doubles Trap. True to form, the Tigers battled a challenging north wind but performed admirably, scoring 490x500 in Trap and 468x500 in Doubles Trap. Though they narrowly missed the podium in both events, their scores kept them within striking distance.Thursday brought clear skies and new opportunities. The team took on Sporting Clays first, facing tough targets with resilience and determination. Their 433x500 score kept them in contention, but again, just shy of the podium. That afternoon, Doubles Skeet was next, and the Tigers delivered this time. With a phenomenal score of 482x500, they earned a second-place finish and a spot on the podium.Heading into the final day, the Tigers knew they needed big scores to stay in the hunt for a national title. Friday morning’s Super Sporting event proved to be a turning point. With a chip on their shoulder, the team stepped up and posted an impressive 471x500—earning a first-place podium finish and propelling them back into championship contention.The final event was Skeet, and the Tigers came out strong, pushing toward an epic comeback. Despite a solid 492x500 score and a third-place finish, they ultimately fell just four targets short of tying the Division II National Champions.When all was said and done, the FHSU Shotgun Sports Team earned the title of 2025 ACUI/SCTP Division II National Runner-Up with an outstanding High Overall Team score of 2836x3000. While it wasn’t the ending they had hoped for, the coaching staff couldn’t be prouder of the grit, growth, and unity this young team displayed throughout the week.Team members include:&nbsp;Xander Winchel, Spring Hill; Max Werner, Phillipsburg; Luke Bower, Silver City, NM; Cory Walker, Live Oak, Calif.; Kyler Niblock, Hoxie; Dawson Arnett, Shawnee, Okla.; Grant Rainey, Pottsboro, Tex.; Emily Miller, Norton; Michaela Baalmann, Wichita; Braden Chambers, Chelsea, Okla.; Austin Smith, Weatherford, Okla.; Tyler Smelker, La Mesa, NM; Andrew Saville, Shawnee; Zach Garrett, Arp, Tex; Shay Mahnken, Pittsburg; Peter Saville, Shawnee; Tommy Thew, Oden, Ark.; Breanna Zogg, Cable, Wis.; Logan Schmidt, Hays; and Blake Coble, Berthoud, Colo.

FHSU Shotgun Team finishes as 2025 ACUI/SCTP Division II national runner-up

INDIANAPOLIS – Fort Hays State Baseball is among the ten teams under consideration for the NCAA Tournament in the first set of Central Region rankings released on Wednesday. The top four teams in the MIAA, which includes FHSU, are among the list, along with five schools from the Great American Conference (GAC) and one from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).

Eight teams are selected to compete in the NCAA Tournament from the Central Region. Regionals are broken down into two four-team double elimination brackets, hosted at two different sites. The winners of each four-team regional move on to the best-of-3 Super Regional matchup for the Central Region, which determines the advancing team to the eight-team NCAA Championship site.

In the PDF spreadsheet link for the Central Region provided at the bottom of the region rankings page on NCAA.com, the Tigers are ranked sixth for in-region RPI.

In the first release of the rankings, teams being considered at this time are listed alphabetically. Next week, the rankings will have teams ranked 1-10 in the region as teams go into their final weekend of regular season play.

Fort Hays State hosts Northwest Missouri State for a three-game series this weekend at Larks Park in Hays. Pack the Park is scheduled for Friday night (Apr. 25) at 7 p.m.

Below are the NCAA Central Region Rankings for April 23, 2025. School - D2 Overall Record - In-Region Record Arkansas-Monticello - 28-17 - 28-16 Arkansas Tech - 25-19 - 25-17 Central Missouri - 32-9 - 31-9 Central Oklahoma - 31-13 - 31-13 Fort Hays State (Kan.) - 29-11 - 29-11 Harding (Ark.) - 34-12 - 30-12 Henderson State (Ark.) - 27-18 - 27-18 Minnesota State - 34-4 - 33-3 Pittsburg State (Kan.) - 33-8 - 33-8 Southern Arkansas - 29-16 - 29-16&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745466610066.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsINDIANAPOLIS – Fort Hays State Baseball is among the ten teams under consideration for the NCAA Tournament in the first set of Central Region rankings released on Wednesday. The top four teams in the MIAA, which includes FHSU, are among the list, along with five schools from the Great American Conference (GAC) and one from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).Eight teams are selected to compete in the NCAA Tournament from the Central Region. Regionals are broken down into two four-team double elimination brackets, hosted at two different sites. The winners of each four-team regional move on to the best-of-3 Super Regional matchup for the Central Region, which determines the advancing team to the eight-team NCAA Championship site.In the PDF spreadsheet link for the Central Region provided at the bottom of the region rankings page on NCAA.com, the Tigers are ranked sixth for in-region RPI.In the first release of the rankings, teams being considered at this time are listed alphabetically. Next week, the rankings will have teams ranked 1-10 in the region as teams go into their final weekend of regular season play.Fort Hays State hosts Northwest Missouri State for a three-game series this weekend at Larks Park in Hays. Pack the Park is scheduled for Friday night (Apr. 25) at 7 p.m.Below are the NCAA Central Region Rankings for April 23, 2025. School - D2 Overall Record - In-Region Record Arkansas-Monticello - 28-17 - 28-16 Arkansas Tech - 25-19 - 25-17 Central Missouri - 32-9 - 31-9 Central Oklahoma - 31-13 - 31-13 Fort Hays State (Kan.) - 29-11 - 29-11 Harding (Ark.) - 34-12 - 30-12 Henderson State (Ark.) - 27-18 - 27-18 Minnesota State - 34-4 - 33-3 Pittsburg State (Kan.) - 33-8 - 33-8 Southern Arkansas - 29-16 - 29-16&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ FHSU  among 10 teams under consideration in first NCAA region rankings

Please
note: Visitation location has changed. 

Visitation will be Thursday 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at St. Mary's Church 703 Monroe
street in Ellis.

Randy Amrein, age 48 of Fremont, Nebraska, passed away, Friday, April 18, 2025.


He was born August 5, 1976, in Hays, Kansas, to Dean and Cynthia (Weber)
Amrein. Randy graduated from Ellis High School in 1994.



Randy became a licensed electrician through the Union and moved to Fremont in
1996 where he owned and operated his electrician business, RND Services Inc.



Randy was always the life of the party. He would often have a Busch Light in
his hand while laughing and carrying on with family and friends. He was an
active member of the Elkhorn Valley Rifle Club and Outy Obsessions Hunting
Excursions. He loved his time outdoors as an avid hunter as well as his time
golfing. Randy enjoyed playing cornhole and was a member of the War Eagle
Baggers. Most of all Randy was always Dakota’s number one fan cheering him on
while watching him play sports.



Randy is survived by his son, Dakota Amrein of Fremont; father, Dean Amrein of
Ellis, KS; mother, Cynthia Amrein of Omaha, NE; and sister, Wendy Amrein of
Hays, KS.


He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Elizabeth Amrein and
Bud Weber; and he will be together again with Megan Amrein.

Ellis 

Visitation will be Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM
with a combined parish vigil and rosary at 7:00 PM all at St. Mary's Catholic
Church 703 Monroe, Ellis 



The Funeral Mass will be 10:30 AM Friday, April 25, 2025 at with Fr. Dana Clark
officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary's Cemetery.



Memorial contributions are suggested to be made payable to Dakota Amrein. These
funds will be used for Dreams for Dakota and help him to pursue his passions.


Please share memories and words of comfort on Randy's tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>


Services in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745251605364.png" alt="Randy Amrein" />
 <figcaption>Randy Amrein</figcaption>
 </figure>Please
note: Visitation location has changed. 

Visitation will be Thursday 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at St. Mary's Church 703 Monroe
street in Ellis.

Randy Amrein, age 48 of Fremont, Nebraska, passed away, Friday, April 18, 2025.
He was born August 5, 1976, in Hays, Kansas, to Dean and Cynthia (Weber)
Amrein. Randy graduated from Ellis High School in 1994.

Randy became a licensed electrician through the Union and moved to Fremont in
1996 where he owned and operated his electrician business, RND Services Inc.

Randy was always the life of the party. He would often have a Busch Light in
his hand while laughing and carrying on with family and friends. He was an
active member of the Elkhorn Valley Rifle Club and Outy Obsessions Hunting
Excursions. He loved his time outdoors as an avid hunter as well as his time
golfing. Randy enjoyed playing cornhole and was a member of the War Eagle
Baggers. Most of all Randy was always Dakota’s number one fan cheering him on
while watching him play sports.

Randy is survived by his son, Dakota Amrein of Fremont; father, Dean Amrein of
Ellis, KS; mother, Cynthia Amrein of Omaha, NE; and sister, Wendy Amrein of
Hays, KS.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Elizabeth Amrein and
Bud Weber; and he will be together again with Megan Amrein.

Ellis Visitation will be Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM
with a combined parish vigil and rosary at 7:00 PM all at St. Mary's Catholic
Church 703 Monroe, Ellis 

The Funeral Mass will be 10:30 AM Friday, April 25, 2025 at with Fr. Dana Clark
officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary's Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made payable to Dakota Amrein. These
funds will be used for Dreams for Dakota and help him to pursue his passions.

Please share memories and words of comfort on Randy's tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

Randy Amrein

The National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a severe weather outlook for potential hail, which is in effect from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday.

The storms are forecast to develop in western Kansas and move eastward with the potential for severe storms. The storms are expected to weaken by sunset.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745433087033.jpeg" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe National Weather Service in Dodge City has issued a severe weather outlook for potential hail, which is in effect from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday.The storms are forecast to develop in western Kansas and move eastward with the potential for severe storms. The storms are expected to weaken by sunset.&nbsp;

Severe weather outlook for Ellis County Wednesday

Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson gave an update on the bond projects at the school board meeting on Monday night.

Work continues on the base for the new football field. Wilson said the turf should be laid within the next couple of weeks.

The new Hays High School building is set to open in August.

Subflooring is being laid in gym B of the new Hays High School building.

Work at the new HHS building has also included the epoxying of the floor in the main kitchen and carpeting in area D.

Drywall will be hung in areas G and F, and work will continue on the subfloor of gym B next week.

Concrete for the seating on the main floor of the performing arts center is underway, Wilson said.

The bathroom and concession stand for the new Hays Middle School field are being built.

The current Hays High School will be remodeled into a middle school. Students are set to move into the remodeled space in January.

The current middle school will become Felten Elementary School.

Dirt work is ongoing on 12th Street at O'Loughlin Elementary School for the new drop-off and pickup area, Wilson said.

In May, USD 489 will celebrate four years since it began its bond journey. The school bond committee first met in May 2021, and voters passed the bond issue in May 2022.

"We still have a year and a few months to go," Wilson said. "I think it's going great. We're really changing our community and schools."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745358833640.png" alt="The base for the new football field at Hays High. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>The base for the new football field at Hays High. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson gave an update on the bond projects at the school board meeting on Monday night.Work continues on the base for the new football field. Wilson said the turf should be laid within the next couple of weeks.The new Hays High School building is set to open in August.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745358884573.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745358984057.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Subflooring is being laid in gym B of the new Hays High School building.Work at the new HHS building has also included the epoxying of the floor in the main kitchen and carpeting in area D.Drywall will be hung in areas G and F, and work will continue on the subfloor of gym B next week.Concrete for the seating on the main floor of the performing arts center is underway, Wilson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745358919408.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745358957127.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745420812620.png" alt="New Hays Middle School bathrooms and concession stand.&nbsp;Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>New Hays Middle School bathrooms and concession stand.&nbsp;Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The bathroom and concession stand for the new Hays Middle School field are being built.The current Hays High School will be remodeled into a middle school. Students are set to move into the remodeled space in January.The current middle school will become Felten Elementary School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745420673244.png" alt="O'Loughlin Elementary School.&nbsp;Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>O'Loughlin Elementary School.&nbsp;Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745420718895.png" alt="O'Loughlin Elementary School's new access road. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>O'Loughlin Elementary School's new access road. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Dirt work is ongoing on 12th Street at O'Loughlin Elementary School for the new drop-off and pickup area, Wilson said.In May, USD 489 will celebrate four years since it began its bond journey. The school bond committee first met in May 2021, and voters passed the bond issue in May 2022."We still have a year and a few months to go," Wilson said. "I think it's going great. We're really changing our community and schools."

Hays USD 489 superintendent gives school board bond projects update

Aubrey Brooks, a special education teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, was recognized as the Hays USD 489 Teacher of the Year nominee at the school board meeting on Monday.

Brooks is in her 17th year teaching at Roosevelt and has also taught kindergarten and first grade.

She is piloting a social-emotional learning program for students who require additional support, Superintendent Ron Wilson said.

Brooks is a 2006 graduate of Fort Hays State University, holding a bachelor's degree in elementary education with a minor in special education.&nbsp;

She completed her national board certification in 2019 and also earned certification in literacy and teacher clarity. She is also a Letters facilitator.

"Aubrey is a very valuable member on the school's building leadership team," Wilson said. "She is very involved in analyzing data and reviewing school goals and ways Roosevelt can improve."

She was also recognized at the regional Teacher of the Year banquet on April 12, but did not advance to the next level of Teacher of the Year nominations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745418749421.jpeg" alt="Aubrey Brooks was nominated as the Hays USD 489 Teacher of the Year. She was recognized at the school board meeting on Monday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Aubrey Brooks was nominated as the Hays USD 489 Teacher of the Year. She was recognized at the school board meeting on Monday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAubrey Brooks, a special education teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, was recognized as the Hays USD 489 Teacher of the Year nominee at the school board meeting on Monday.Brooks is in her 17th year teaching at Roosevelt and has also taught kindergarten and first grade.She is piloting a social-emotional learning program for students who require additional support, Superintendent Ron Wilson said.Brooks is a 2006 graduate of Fort Hays State University, holding a bachelor's degree in elementary education with a minor in special education.&nbsp;She completed her national board certification in 2019 and also earned certification in literacy and teacher clarity. She is also a Letters facilitator."Aubrey is a very valuable member on the school's building leadership team," Wilson said. "She is very involved in analyzing data and reviewing school goals and ways Roosevelt can improve."She was also recognized at the regional Teacher of the Year banquet on April 12, but did not advance to the next level of Teacher of the Year nominations.Brooks said simply, "I love my job."

Hays school board honors Teacher of Year nominee

Nora Jean Keller
was born April 29,1941 at St. Anthony Hospital in Hays, Kansas to Joseph and
Margaret (Ruder) Wiesner. She was affectionately known as "Jeannie"
by her family. Nora passed peacefully surrounded by her family January 29, 2025
at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City, Kansas at the age of 83.

One of ten
children, her early childhood was spent between the family farm near Ellis,
Kansas and their family home in town. She attended St. Mary's School graduating
the 8th grade in 1955 and Ellis High School in 1959. Nora worked as a nanny in
Denver, Colorado to pay for her education at the Denver Business College,
graduating with secretarial skills that would last a lifetime.

She returned to
Ellis and married Al Keller on October 22, 1960. They were married for 56 years
and raised three children together.

Nora was
employed as a typist for local doctors, FHSU professors and historians in Ellis
County.

As a young
family they moved to Emmett, Kansas in 1967 and lived in areas that provided
garden space and apple orchards. Growing children and gardens kept her busy as
a homemaker; she loved sewing and canning tomatoes, applesauce and her famous
dill pickles.

In 1969 they
moved to Garden City where they remained.

Nora worked in
the water well industry as a secretary and bookkeeper for Peerless Pump, Inc.
and Minter-Wilson Drilling, Inc. for over 40 years. She also kept books for
Al's oil business, Texas Refinery Corp. Nora was involved in her children's
favorite sport, softball. and enjoyed traveling with her husband. Together they
vacationed in Mexico, Hawaii, and many other parts of the U.S.

She was a member
of St. Mary Catholic Church in Garden City, where she volunteered in the
rectory office.

Her hobbies
included playing cards and Bingo, crocheting, puzzles, baking, gardening,
pulling weeds and listening to Elvis. She also spent hours playing and singing
with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and supporting their activities.
They were her sunshine.

Nora is survived
by her daughter Connie (Michael) Hoffman of Garden City, KS and sons Mitchell
Keller of Hays, KS and Michael Keller of Garden City, KS.

She was the
proud grandmother of seven grandchildren, Audra (Jared) Bogard, Lansing, Kelsi
(Jeremy) Pfannenstiel, Hays. Adam (Misha) Hoffman, Holcomb, Justin (Joy)
Keller, Tokyo, Japan, Jason (Natalie) Keller, Olathe, Michael (Melanie)
Garrison, Garden City and John Snyder, Lawrence. As well as fourteen
great-grandchildren; Laine, Maya, Ethan, Halle, Miden, Ace, Danika, Sabina,
Jace, Jordy, Sloane, Rori, Wyatt, Willow and one on the way.

Her surviving
siblings are Mary Frances Bauer, James (Gwen) Wiesner, Tom Wiesner, Laura Mae
(Bernie) Schoenberger, Bernie (Mary Alice) Wiesner, Gregory Wiesner, and Kathy
Wiesner. and many nieces and nephews.

Nora is preceded
in death by her husband Al who died on July 4, 2016. She is also preceded in
death by her parents; two brothers, Leonard Wiesner and Harold Wiesner and a
daughter in-law Susan Snyder.

Nora will be
remembered for her quick wit, memorable laugh and resilient strength. Nora's
faith led her to be gentle, kind and forgiving. She looked for good, the
sunshine and beauty, and lived in the moment.

A graveside
service and interment will take place at 12:00 pm April 26, 2025 in Mt. Hope
Cemetery, of Ellis, Kansas.

The family suggests memorials to St. Mary Catholic
Church-Blueprint for our Future or ABC Pregnancy Care, both in care of the funeral home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745419833814.jpeg" alt="Nora Jean Keller" />
 <figcaption>Nora Jean Keller</figcaption>
 </figure>Nora Jean Keller
was born April 29,1941 at St. Anthony Hospital in Hays, Kansas to Joseph and
Margaret (Ruder) Wiesner. She was affectionately known as "Jeannie"
by her family. Nora passed peacefully surrounded by her family January 29, 2025
at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City, Kansas at the age of 83.One of ten
children, her early childhood was spent between the family farm near Ellis,
Kansas and their family home in town. She attended St. Mary's School graduating
the 8th grade in 1955 and Ellis High School in 1959. Nora worked as a nanny in
Denver, Colorado to pay for her education at the Denver Business College,
graduating with secretarial skills that would last a lifetime.She returned to
Ellis and married Al Keller on October 22, 1960. They were married for 56 years
and raised three children together.Nora was
employed as a typist for local doctors, FHSU professors and historians in Ellis
County.As a young
family they moved to Emmett, Kansas in 1967 and lived in areas that provided
garden space and apple orchards. Growing children and gardens kept her busy as
a homemaker; she loved sewing and canning tomatoes, applesauce and her famous
dill pickles.In 1969 they
moved to Garden City where they remained.Nora worked in
the water well industry as a secretary and bookkeeper for Peerless Pump, Inc.
and Minter-Wilson Drilling, Inc. for over 40 years. She also kept books for
Al's oil business, Texas Refinery Corp. Nora was involved in her children's
favorite sport, softball. and enjoyed traveling with her husband. Together they
vacationed in Mexico, Hawaii, and many other parts of the U.S.She was a member
of St. Mary Catholic Church in Garden City, where she volunteered in the
rectory office.Her hobbies
included playing cards and Bingo, crocheting, puzzles, baking, gardening,
pulling weeds and listening to Elvis. She also spent hours playing and singing
with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and supporting their activities.
They were her sunshine.Nora is survived
by her daughter Connie (Michael) Hoffman of Garden City, KS and sons Mitchell
Keller of Hays, KS and Michael Keller of Garden City, KS.She was the
proud grandmother of seven grandchildren, Audra (Jared) Bogard, Lansing, Kelsi
(Jeremy) Pfannenstiel, Hays. Adam (Misha) Hoffman, Holcomb, Justin (Joy)
Keller, Tokyo, Japan, Jason (Natalie) Keller, Olathe, Michael (Melanie)
Garrison, Garden City and John Snyder, Lawrence. As well as fourteen
great-grandchildren; Laine, Maya, Ethan, Halle, Miden, Ace, Danika, Sabina,
Jace, Jordy, Sloane, Rori, Wyatt, Willow and one on the way.Her surviving
siblings are Mary Frances Bauer, James (Gwen) Wiesner, Tom Wiesner, Laura Mae
(Bernie) Schoenberger, Bernie (Mary Alice) Wiesner, Gregory Wiesner, and Kathy
Wiesner. and many nieces and nephews.Nora is preceded
in death by her husband Al who died on July 4, 2016. She is also preceded in
death by her parents; two brothers, Leonard Wiesner and Harold Wiesner and a
daughter in-law Susan Snyder.Nora will be
remembered for her quick wit, memorable laugh and resilient strength. Nora's
faith led her to be gentle, kind and forgiving. She looked for good, the
sunshine and beauty, and lived in the moment.A graveside
service and interment will take place at 12:00 pm April 26, 2025 in Mt. Hope
Cemetery, of Ellis, Kansas.The family suggests memorials to St. Mary Catholic
Church-Blueprint for our Future or ABC Pregnancy Care, both in care of the funeral home.

Nora Jean Keller

Wednesday, April 23
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Colorado Rockies, 6:00pm

Wednesday, April 23
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Colorado Rockies, 6:00pmThursday, April 24
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Colorado Rockies, 12:30pm
 KFIX: Hays High SB (DH) vs. Great Bend, 3:45pmFriday, April 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs Houston Astros, 6:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State BSB vs. Northwest Missouri State, 6:40pmSaturday, April 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs Houston Astros, 5:30pmSunday, April 27
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Northwest Missouri State, 11:40am &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs Houston Astros, 12:30pm

GREAT BEND – The Hays High softball team was held to just
two hits and Great Bend scored in four of six innings in a 10-0 Panthers
victory.

Great Bend took an early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first
inning.

The Indians threatened in the top of the second inning but
left two runners on base. 

They were held to just three base runners, one single over
the next four innings, while the Panthers pulled away for the 10-0 run-rule victory.

Jaylee Summers suffered the loss in the circle. She allowed seven
runs, five earned, on nine hits in four innings.

Hays drops to 9-5 and will host Great Bend on Wednesday in
Hays. &nbsp;

Hays Post SportsGREAT BEND – The Hays High softball team was held to just
two hits and Great Bend scored in four of six innings in a 10-0 Panthers
victory.Great Bend took an early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first
inning.The Indians threatened in the top of the second inning but
left two runners on base. They were held to just three base runners, one single over
the next four innings, while the Panthers pulled away for the 10-0 run-rule victory.Jaylee Summers suffered the loss in the circle. She allowed seven
runs, five earned, on nine hits in four innings.Hays drops to 9-5 and will host Great Bend on Wednesday in
Hays. &nbsp;

🥎Indians come up short against Great Bend

T. Warren Hall, 104, Hays, died Monday, April 21, 2025 at
HaysMed.

He was born February 6, 1921 in Hays, the son of Frank John
and Elsie Elizabeth (Giinther) Hall.&nbsp;
Warren graduated from Hays High School in 1940 and attended Fort Hays
State University.&nbsp; On February 11, 1942 he
was united in marriage to Juanita Oglesbee in Beaumont, Texas, and they
celebrated 56 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on October 21,
1998.&nbsp; 

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving during World War II in
the Philippines, Okinawa, and Iwo Jima.&nbsp;
Warren was a rancher and oilman, and in 1948 he and Juanita began life
at the Lazy-H Ranch where they lived until 1990 when they moved to Hays.&nbsp; He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church,
the Masons, the Lions Club, and he loved flowers.&nbsp; Most of all, Warren was family loyal and
loved traveling with his family to many countries and continents including
Europe, Asia, Russia, Africa, South America, and China.

Survivors include his granddaughter Dawn Lantis and husband
Bill Cunningham of Ellis, two great grandchildren, Rachel (Lantis) Nissley and
husband Jason and Alex Lantis, and three great-great grandchildren, Rhett,
Beckett, and Arabella Nissley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Juanita,
daughter Linda Sue (Hall) Neihardt, brother Harold Hall, and his sister Dorothy
Shumaker.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, April 26,
2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Randy Gibbs officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors by the Hays VFW
Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in Fort Hays Memorial Gardens Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9:30 am until service
time at the church.&nbsp; Memorials are
suggested to ALS Foundation.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Warren may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745412663055.jpeg" alt="T. Warren Hall" />
 <figcaption>T. Warren Hall</figcaption>
 </figure>T. Warren Hall, 104, Hays, died Monday, April 21, 2025 at
HaysMed.He was born February 6, 1921 in Hays, the son of Frank John
and Elsie Elizabeth (Giinther) Hall.&nbsp;
Warren graduated from Hays High School in 1940 and attended Fort Hays
State University.&nbsp; On February 11, 1942 he
was united in marriage to Juanita Oglesbee in Beaumont, Texas, and they
celebrated 56 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on October 21,
1998.&nbsp; He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving during World War II in
the Philippines, Okinawa, and Iwo Jima.&nbsp;
Warren was a rancher and oilman, and in 1948 he and Juanita began life
at the Lazy-H Ranch where they lived until 1990 when they moved to Hays.&nbsp; He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church,
the Masons, the Lions Club, and he loved flowers.&nbsp; Most of all, Warren was family loyal and
loved traveling with his family to many countries and continents including
Europe, Asia, Russia, Africa, South America, and China.Survivors include his granddaughter Dawn Lantis and husband
Bill Cunningham of Ellis, two great grandchildren, Rachel (Lantis) Nissley and
husband Jason and Alex Lantis, and three great-great grandchildren, Rhett,
Beckett, and Arabella Nissley.He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Juanita,
daughter Linda Sue (Hall) Neihardt, brother Harold Hall, and his sister Dorothy
Shumaker.Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, April 26,
2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Randy Gibbs officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors by the Hays VFW
Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in Fort Hays Memorial Gardens Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9:30 am until service
time at the church.&nbsp; Memorials are
suggested to ALS Foundation.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Warren may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com