By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of laptops for Hays High students at its meeting on Monday.

The district's Technology Committee had recommended buying iPads with keyboards to replace the aging laptops at the high school.

The district budgets to replace the high school devices every four years.

Two Hays High students spoke during the public comments session of the meeting. Both advocated for the continued use of laptops.

Although the students cited more computing power available on the laptops, Scott Summers, director of technology, said the iPads actually beat the Dell laptops the students are using now for computing power.

However, to gain the computing power students said they wanted in a student-led survey, the district would have to upgrade to MacBook Pros, Summers said.

The board approved a bid from Dell for&nbsp;$605,935 for 1,100 devices. iPads would have cost about $150,000 less over the life of the computers.&nbsp;

The MacBook Pros would have cost about $120,000 more than the Dells over the four-year life of the computers. The estimated costs include buyback of old devices, Summers said.

Board member Ruth Ruder commended the students for coming before the board with their concerns. Ruder, whose daughter attends Hays High, said several students approached her and expressed their desires to continue to use laptops.&nbsp;

Board member Jayme Goetz, a former teacher in the district, said teachers approached her saying they preferred laptops for their classes.

The board unanimously approved the purchase of the Dell laptops.

The board approved the purchase of bleachers and a press box for Hays High softball at a cost of $178,160 from Heartland Seating. It also approved&nbsp;bleachers at the new Hays Middle School athletic field from Heartland Seating for $127,442.

Board members asked about moving the old bleachers from Hays Middle School to the new location.&nbsp;

Superintendent Ron Wilson said he thought the community will continue to use the field at the current middle school.

He said he was also concerned about the stability of the old bleachers if they had to be disassembled and bolted back together. He expressed concerns about liability issues.

New weight racks were purchased for the new high school with bond funds. Additional weights are needed for the facility.&nbsp;

The board&nbsp;approved the purchase of weights and equipment from BSN Sports for $54,492 from the capital outlay fund.

The board also discussed moving the election of board officers from July to January.&nbsp;

The district financial year starts July 1. However, board elections, which used to be in April, are now in November.&nbsp;

The board made no decisions on the elections Monday night. They will discuss the issue again at their June meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742870908693.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 School Board Update" 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=nws3v-185ff99-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of laptops for Hays High students at its meeting on Monday.The district's Technology Committee had recommended buying iPads with keyboards to replace the aging laptops at the high school.The district budgets to replace the high school devices every four years.Two Hays High students spoke during the public comments session of the meeting. Both advocated for the continued use of laptops.Although the students cited more computing power available on the laptops, Scott Summers, director of technology, said the iPads actually beat the Dell laptops the students are using now for computing power.However, to gain the computing power students said they wanted in a student-led survey, the district would have to upgrade to MacBook Pros, Summers said.The board approved a bid from Dell for&nbsp;$605,935 for 1,100 devices. iPads would have cost about $150,000 less over the life of the computers.&nbsp;The MacBook Pros would have cost about $120,000 more than the Dells over the four-year life of the computers. The estimated costs include buyback of old devices, Summers said.Board member Ruth Ruder commended the students for coming before the board with their concerns. Ruder, whose daughter attends Hays High, said several students approached her and expressed their desires to continue to use laptops.&nbsp;Board member Jayme Goetz, a former teacher in the district, said teachers approached her saying they preferred laptops for their classes.The board unanimously approved the purchase of the Dell laptops.<h2>Bleachers</h2>The board approved the purchase of bleachers and a press box for Hays High softball at a cost of $178,160 from Heartland Seating. It also approved&nbsp;bleachers at the new Hays Middle School athletic field from Heartland Seating for $127,442.Board members asked about moving the old bleachers from Hays Middle School to the new location.&nbsp;Superintendent Ron Wilson said he thought the community will continue to use the field at the current middle school.He said he was also concerned about the stability of the old bleachers if they had to be disassembled and bolted back together. He expressed concerns about liability issues.New weight racks were purchased for the new high school with bond funds. Additional weights are needed for the facility.&nbsp;The board&nbsp;approved the purchase of weights and equipment from BSN Sports for $54,492 from the capital outlay fund.<h2>Board elections</h2>The board also discussed moving the election of board officers from July to January.&nbsp;The district financial year starts July 1. However, board elections, which used to be in April, are now in November.&nbsp;The board made no decisions on the elections Monday night. They will discuss the issue again at their June meeting.

🎙 Hays USD 489 school board votes to purchase laptops for Hays High students

HaysMed is excited to welcome Jennifer McDowell, APRN, to its team at the Convenient Care Clinic and HaysMed Family Medicine.

McDowell earned her bachelor of science in nursing from Fort Hays State University before completing her master of science in nursing as a family nurse practitioner. With almost a decade of nursing experience in family healthcare and dermatology, she will be a valuable addition to the team.

In her hybrid role, McDowell will provide care at both the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic and HaysMed Family Medicine. These clinics offer quick, high-quality, and affordable care for patients of all ages, addressing non-life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention.

"I am excited to join HaysMed and serve the Hays community. I am passionate about providing quality healthcare to patients across the lifespan, from children to older adults. Building meaningful relationships and ensuring every patient feels heard, supported, and cared for is at the heart of my practice. I look forward to making a positive impact at HaysMed." said McDowell.

Her addition reflects HaysMed’s commitment to expanding and enhancing healthcare services to meet the growing needs of Hays and the western Kansas region.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742578111937.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Jennifer McDowell, APRN. HaysMed" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Jennifer McDowell, APRN. HaysMed</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed is excited to welcome Jennifer McDowell, APRN, to its team at the Convenient Care Clinic and HaysMed Family Medicine.McDowell earned her bachelor of science in nursing from Fort Hays State University before completing her master of science in nursing as a family nurse practitioner. With almost a decade of nursing experience in family healthcare and dermatology, she will be a valuable addition to the team.In her hybrid role, McDowell will provide care at both the Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic and HaysMed Family Medicine. These clinics offer quick, high-quality, and affordable care for patients of all ages, addressing non-life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention."I am excited to join HaysMed and serve the Hays community. I am passionate about providing quality healthcare to patients across the lifespan, from children to older adults. Building meaningful relationships and ensuring every patient feels heard, supported, and cared for is at the heart of my practice. I look forward to making a positive impact at HaysMed." said McDowell.Her addition reflects HaysMed’s commitment to expanding and enhancing healthcare services to meet the growing needs of Hays and the western Kansas region.

HaysMed welcomes new APRN provider

Hays Community Theatre is looking to add new members to its board of directors.&nbsp;Hays Community Theatre is a 501c3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization.

The organization would be interested in people with experience in any of the following areas: fundraising, obtaining sponsorships, grant writing, accounting, graphic design, advertising, website updates, involvement in a non-profit, an interest in the arts, a desire to be involved and help our theatre succeed. We strive to have a board with a wide range of knowledge.

New board members must be willing to work with others, communicate professionally and must be reliable.

While it is certainly acceptable if you do, it is not necessary that you have a desire to be on the stage, or to direct shows.

Application information is available&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hctks.com/get-involved">https://www.hctks.com/get-involved</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742482152866.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Community TheatreHays Community Theatre is looking to add new members to its board of directors.&nbsp;Hays Community Theatre is a 501c3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization.The organization would be interested in people with experience in any of the following areas: fundraising, obtaining sponsorships, grant writing, accounting, graphic design, advertising, website updates, involvement in a non-profit, an interest in the arts, a desire to be involved and help our theatre succeed. We strive to have a board with a wide range of knowledge.New board members must be willing to work with others, communicate professionally and must be reliable.While it is certainly acceptable if you do, it is not necessary that you have a desire to be on the stage, or to direct shows.Application information is available&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hctks.com/get-involved">https://www.hctks.com/get-involved</a>.&nbsp;

Hays Community Theatre opens applications for new board members

HAYS, KS – USD 489 Early Childhood Connections is now accepting applications for enrollment in its high-quality early childhood education programs for the upcoming school year. Families with young children are encouraged to apply to ensure their child receives a solid foundation for future academic success. USD 489 Early Childhood Connections provides comprehensive early learning opportunities designed to support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Our programs serve children from birth to age five, offering a nurturing and engaging environment that promotes school readiness and lifelong learning.

"Early childhood education is a critical investment in a child's future," said Donna Hudson-Hamilton, Director of Early Childhood Services. "Our programs help young learners build the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. We encourage all eligible families to explore the opportunities available through Early Childhood Connections."

Enrollment is open to families in Ellis, Rush, Russell, and Rooks Counties. Programs include options for prenatal through age three and Pre-Kindergarten services, with eligibility based on age, income, and other qualifying factors. In addition to educational programming, enrolled families receive access to valuable resources such as health screenings, family support services, and community partnerships.

Spaces are limited, and families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To make an enrollment inquiry visit www.usd489connections.com or call 785-623-2430.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738084118566.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, KS – USD 489 Early Childhood Connections is now accepting applications for enrollment in its high-quality early childhood education programs for the upcoming school year. Families with young children are encouraged to apply to ensure their child receives a solid foundation for future academic success. USD 489 Early Childhood Connections provides comprehensive early learning opportunities designed to support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Our programs serve children from birth to age five, offering a nurturing and engaging environment that promotes school readiness and lifelong learning."Early childhood education is a critical investment in a child's future," said Donna Hudson-Hamilton, Director of Early Childhood Services. "Our programs help young learners build the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. We encourage all eligible families to explore the opportunities available through Early Childhood Connections."Enrollment is open to families in Ellis, Rush, Russell, and Rooks Counties. Programs include options for prenatal through age three and Pre-Kindergarten services, with eligibility based on age, income, and other qualifying factors. In addition to educational programming, enrolled families receive access to valuable resources such as health screenings, family support services, and community partnerships.Spaces are limited, and families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To make an enrollment inquiry visit www.usd489connections.com or call 785-623-2430.&nbsp;

🎤 Forward Ever: Part 2: Kris Munsch of Hays on leadership, entrepreneurship

The Hays USD 489 school board will consider several capital purchaes during its meeting at 6:30 tonight.

The board will consider a project to install softball bleachers and a press box at a cost of $178,160 from Heartland Seating.

It will consider the purchase of three sets of additional bleachers at the new Hays Middle School athletic field from Heartland Seating for $127,442.

It will consider the purchase of laptops for Hays High students from Dell Technologies for $605,935. This is part of the budgeted device replacement program for the district.

The board will consider the purchase of weights and equipment from BSN Sports for $54,492 for the new Hays High School.

The board is also set to consider moving the election of officers to January instead of July.

The baord will discuss hiring a seperate project manager just for the school board to oversee the bond projects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608234493687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will consider several capital purchaes during its meeting at 6:30 tonight.The board will consider a project to install softball bleachers and a press box at a cost of $178,160 from Heartland Seating.It will consider the purchase of three sets of additional bleachers at the new Hays Middle School athletic field from Heartland Seating for $127,442. It will consider the purchase of laptops for Hays High students from Dell Technologies for $605,935. This is part of the budgeted device replacement program for the district.The board will consider the purchase of weights and equipment from BSN Sports for $54,492 for the new Hays High School.The board is also set to consider moving the election of officers to January instead of July.The baord will discuss hiring a seperate project manager just for the school board to oversee the bond projects.

Hays USD 489 to consider capital purchases at meeting tonight

COLBY — “Harmonies of Love” will be the theme of the 2025 Tumbleweed Chorus annual show on Saturday, March 29 at 2 p.m. CDT at Colby Community College’s Cultural Arts Center. The doors open at 1:30 p.m., with the show ending about 4:30 p.m. 

This is the 43rd annual show for the Tumbleweed Chorus, whose members hale from throughout northwest Kansas.

The Colby Tumbleweed Chorus together with Hays High Plains Chorus will headline this year’s show, performing “Harmonies of Love”-themed musical selections including “The Longest Time”, “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”, “Lullaby”, “In the Still of the Night”, “Orange Colored Sky”, “Sweet and Lovely”, and “My Honey’s Lovin’ Arms.”

This year’s guest barbershop quartet is Linc 182, the 2023 Illinois State district champion quartet from Bloomington, and competitors in the 2024 International Quartet Barbershop competition. 

Some of the fun-oriented songs that Linc 182 are known for include “Your First Day in Heaven”, “This Could Be the Start of Something Big”, “Toyland”, “As Long As I’m Singing”, “Chordbuster’s March” and “The Best Times I Ever Had (I Owe ‘Em to My Dear Ol’ Dad).” 

The group’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082824190167">Facebook page is Linc 182</a>. Lincoln, now 13, is the youngest member of this professional quartet.

The western Kansas barbershop quartets Uncalled 4, Genuine Gents, and Prairie Timbre and the Northwest Kansas women’s barbershop group, Prairie Rose Harmony, will join the combined Tumbleweed and Hays High Plains Chorus on this year’s show.

The Tumbleweed Chorus and Prairie Rose Harmony groups’ annual show are their major fund-raising efforts for the year. The Tumbleweed Chorus is an affiliate of the Barbershop Harmony Society, whose mission is to keep vocal music alive and healthy.

This year’s show will also take a moment to honor the late Curtis Duncan, longtime radio personality in northwest Kansas who had become a fixture as master of ceremonies in past Colby Barbershop spring shows.

Tickets for the show cost $10, and are available by calling 785-694-3057 or contacting local Tumbleweed Chorus or Prairie Rose Harmony members. Numerous area businesses make the show possible through their generous program advertising.

The Tumbleweed Chorus and the western Kansas quartets will also appear on the Hays High Plains Chorus shows the following weekend. The afternoon show is Saturday, April 5 at 2 p.m. at Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center on Fort Hays State University campus. The evening show begins at 7 p.m. Doors open an hour before either show. 

The 2008 International First place award winning OC Times are the headliner quartet.

The music of OC Times is inspired by artists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. This young, energetic group breathes new life into swing standards, country favorites and rock ‘n roll classics. Hailing from Orange County, Calif., OC Times’s fresh style, repertoire and sound naturally appeals to youth, while paying tribute to the past.

 General admission for either Hays show is $15 and can be purchased in advance on Eventbrite.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741789249614.jpeg" alt="Colby Tumbleweed Chorus. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Colby Tumbleweed Chorus. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCOLBY — “Harmonies of Love” will be the theme of the 2025 Tumbleweed Chorus annual show on Saturday, March 29 at 2 p.m. CDT at Colby Community College’s Cultural Arts Center. The doors open at 1:30 p.m., with the show ending about 4:30 p.m. This is the 43rd annual show for the Tumbleweed Chorus, whose members hale from throughout northwest Kansas.The Colby Tumbleweed Chorus together with Hays High Plains Chorus will headline this year’s show, performing “Harmonies of Love”-themed musical selections including “The Longest Time”, “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”, “Lullaby”, “In the Still of the Night”, “Orange Colored Sky”, “Sweet and Lovely”, and “My Honey’s Lovin’ Arms.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741789359989.jpeg" alt="Linc 182. Courtesy phots&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Linc 182. Courtesy phots&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>This year’s guest barbershop quartet is Linc 182, the 2023 Illinois State district champion quartet from Bloomington, and competitors in the 2024 International Quartet Barbershop competition. Some of the fun-oriented songs that Linc 182 are known for include “Your First Day in Heaven”, “This Could Be the Start of Something Big”, “Toyland”, “As Long As I’m Singing”, “Chordbuster’s March” and “The Best Times I Ever Had (I Owe ‘Em to My Dear Ol’ Dad).” The group’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082824190167">Facebook page is Linc 182</a>. Lincoln, now 13, is the youngest member of this professional quartet.The western Kansas barbershop quartets Uncalled 4, Genuine Gents, and Prairie Timbre and the Northwest Kansas women’s barbershop group, Prairie Rose Harmony, will join the combined Tumbleweed and Hays High Plains Chorus on this year’s show.The Tumbleweed Chorus and Prairie Rose Harmony groups’ annual show are their major fund-raising efforts for the year. The Tumbleweed Chorus is an affiliate of the Barbershop Harmony Society, whose mission is to keep vocal music alive and healthy.This year’s show will also take a moment to honor the late Curtis Duncan, longtime radio personality in northwest Kansas who had become a fixture as master of ceremonies in past Colby Barbershop spring shows.Tickets for the show cost $10, and are available by calling 785-694-3057 or contacting local Tumbleweed Chorus or Prairie Rose Harmony members. Numerous area businesses make the show possible through their generous program advertising.Hays shows are April 5The Tumbleweed Chorus and the western Kansas quartets will also appear on the Hays High Plains Chorus shows the following weekend. The afternoon show is Saturday, April 5 at 2 p.m. at Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center on Fort Hays State University campus. The evening show begins at 7 p.m. Doors open an hour before either show. The 2008 International First place award winning OC Times are the headliner quartet.The music of OC Times is inspired by artists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. This young, energetic group breathes new life into swing standards, country favorites and rock ‘n roll classics. Hailing from Orange County, Calif., OC Times’s fresh style, repertoire and sound naturally appeals to youth, while paying tribute to the past. General admission for either Hays show is $15 and can be purchased in advance on Eventbrite.

Barbershoppers present “Harmonies of Love” March 29 in Colby, April 5 in Hays

Elda Mae
(Widener) Lyon, 84, passed away Friday, March 21, 2025, at Sunporch of Smith
County, Smith Center, KS.

Elda was born on
September 4, 1940, in rural Phillips County, KS, the daughter of Esbon and
Gertrude (Wehrli) Widener. Elda grew up on a farm north of Gretna, KS. She
graduated from the 8th&nbsp;grade in Phillipsburg, KS, in May 1955. She and her
family moved to Gaylord, KS, shortly after. &nbsp;Elda married Robert “Bob”
James in 1956 in Gaylord. From this union, three sons, Sam, Danny, and Tom,
were born. Elda was baptized on August 27, 1971, at the United Church of
Kensington, KS. On August 28, 1971, she married Loren Lyon in Kensington.
&nbsp;From this union, a son, Matt, was born. Elda enjoyed her lifelong
residency in Kensington. Elda learned early in life that her calling was to
serve others. She obtained her CNA and CMA and enjoyed working at the
Phillipsburg Hospital, Prairie Haven in Kensington, and Phillips County
Retirement Center. Elda and Loren then opened L&amp;E Café in Kirwin, KS, and
ran this business for 15 years, selling it in 2012.&nbsp; While the café was
open, Elda could always be found in the kitchen making coconut cream, chocolate
and peanut butter pies, fried chicken or anything else on the menu. When her
boys went in to eat, she often put them to work in the kitchen, washing dishes,
or serving food.

Elda loved listening to
Loren play his guitar and in their younger years, they enjoyed going dancing as
much as they could; they frequently took the boys with them. Elda loved baking
and cooking at home as well, and she was always humming a tune. Elda also loved
bossing Loren around. Elda was the frequent recipient of Loren’s onery streaks,
but she always got her revenge. Elda had a fiery side to her which always
brought out Loren’s slight head turn and sly smile. They truly were a match
made in heaven. Elda loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
When her grandchildren were younger, she planned elaborate holiday celebrations
such as hiding Easter eggs throughout the yard and house, followed by large
meals for the family to enjoy.

Elda is preceded in
death by her parents, a brother, Roy Widener, two sisters, Donna Campbell and
Maxine Hensley-Duncan, her husband, and a son, Danny James.

Elda is survived by
three sons, Sam (Lana) James of Blue Hill, NE, Tom (Lisa) James of Athol, and
Matt (Shawna) Lyon of Hays; one brother, Don Widener of Colorado, two
half-brothers, Harold Widener of Salina and Junior Widener of Stockton and a
half-sister, Shirley Widener-Lewis of Florida; 10 grandchildren, and 16 great
grandchildren.

A celebration of Elda’s
life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 28, 2025, at All Faiths Funeral
Chapel, 113 S. Madison St., Smith Center, KS, with Pastor Chris Baker
officiating; a luncheon will follow.&nbsp; Inurnment will take place at the
Belmont Cemetery, Speed, KS. Afterwards, a dessert reception will be held at
the Speed Community Building. &nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given
to Sunporch of Smith County in Smith Center and can be sent in care of the
funeral chapel.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.allfaithsfuneralchapel.com">www.allfaithsfuneralchapel.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742841558121.jpeg" alt="Elda Mae (Widener) Lyon," />
 <figcaption>Elda Mae (Widener) Lyon,</figcaption>
 </figure>Elda Mae
(Widener) Lyon, 84, passed away Friday, March 21, 2025, at Sunporch of Smith
County, Smith Center, KS.Elda was born on
September 4, 1940, in rural Phillips County, KS, the daughter of Esbon and
Gertrude (Wehrli) Widener. Elda grew up on a farm north of Gretna, KS. She
graduated from the 8th&nbsp;grade in Phillipsburg, KS, in May 1955. She and her
family moved to Gaylord, KS, shortly after. &nbsp;Elda married Robert “Bob”
James in 1956 in Gaylord. From this union, three sons, Sam, Danny, and Tom,
were born. Elda was baptized on August 27, 1971, at the United Church of
Kensington, KS. On August 28, 1971, she married Loren Lyon in Kensington.
&nbsp;From this union, a son, Matt, was born. Elda enjoyed her lifelong
residency in Kensington. Elda learned early in life that her calling was to
serve others. She obtained her CNA and CMA and enjoyed working at the
Phillipsburg Hospital, Prairie Haven in Kensington, and Phillips County
Retirement Center. Elda and Loren then opened L&amp;E Café in Kirwin, KS, and
ran this business for 15 years, selling it in 2012.&nbsp; While the café was
open, Elda could always be found in the kitchen making coconut cream, chocolate
and peanut butter pies, fried chicken or anything else on the menu. When her
boys went in to eat, she often put them to work in the kitchen, washing dishes,
or serving food.Elda loved listening to
Loren play his guitar and in their younger years, they enjoyed going dancing as
much as they could; they frequently took the boys with them. Elda loved baking
and cooking at home as well, and she was always humming a tune. Elda also loved
bossing Loren around. Elda was the frequent recipient of Loren’s onery streaks,
but she always got her revenge. Elda had a fiery side to her which always
brought out Loren’s slight head turn and sly smile. They truly were a match
made in heaven. Elda loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
When her grandchildren were younger, she planned elaborate holiday celebrations
such as hiding Easter eggs throughout the yard and house, followed by large
meals for the family to enjoy.Elda is preceded in
death by her parents, a brother, Roy Widener, two sisters, Donna Campbell and
Maxine Hensley-Duncan, her husband, and a son, Danny James.Elda is survived by
three sons, Sam (Lana) James of Blue Hill, NE, Tom (Lisa) James of Athol, and
Matt (Shawna) Lyon of Hays; one brother, Don Widener of Colorado, two
half-brothers, Harold Widener of Salina and Junior Widener of Stockton and a
half-sister, Shirley Widener-Lewis of Florida; 10 grandchildren, and 16 great
grandchildren.A celebration of Elda’s
life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 28, 2025, at All Faiths Funeral
Chapel, 113 S. Madison St., Smith Center, KS, with Pastor Chris Baker
officiating; a luncheon will follow.&nbsp; Inurnment will take place at the
Belmont Cemetery, Speed, KS. Afterwards, a dessert reception will be held at
the Speed Community Building. &nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given
to Sunporch of Smith County in Smith Center and can be sent in care of the
funeral chapel.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.allfaithsfuneralchapel.com">www.allfaithsfuneralchapel.com</a>

Elda Mae (Widener) Lyon

Lawrence 'Larry' Eugene Winder, 79, of Newport, North Carolina,
passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the Crystal Coast
Hospice House.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, April 12, 2025
at 10:00 AM at St Joseph Catholic Church, 215 West 13th Street Hays, KS 67601.
Inurnment will follow the Mass in the Parish Cemetery.&nbsp;

Larry, born on May 14, 1945, in St. Joseph, Missouri, was the
beloved son of the late Erwin and Idyl “Darlene” Winder. He served his country
honorably in the United States Navy, a chapter of his life that filled him with
pride. Following his military service, Larry enjoyed a successful career as
Vice President of Global Purchasing, where he made significant contributions to
his field.

In his earlier years Larry was quite the outdoorsman, enjoying
fishing and hunting, he also excelled as a skilled woodworker. In later years,
his happy place was the golf course, where he not only honed his skills but
also achieved the remarkable feat of making two hole-in-ones.

A devoted member of St. Egbert Catholic Church, Larry held
steadfast to the beliefs that guided his life. He was a true family man,
cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. Larry will be remembered by
his family as a loving husband, a wonderful father, and a proud grandfather and
great-grandfather.

Though he may no longer be with them in person, Lawrence's legacy
of love will forever be cherished by his family. He is survived by his
daughters, Kimberly Rice and husband George of Newport, NC and Amy Barmann and
husband Kyle of St. Joseph, MO; brother, Charles Winder and wife Phyllis of St.
Joseph, MO; grandchildren, Phillip, Whitney, Collin, Devon, and Lexi; and
great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Waylon, and Suede.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his
beloved wife of 43 years, Nila Mae Breit Winder who passed away in 2023, and
his sister, Karen Huey.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made
to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 322 8th Ave., 16th Floor, New York,
NY 10001.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences on
Larry's tribute page via: <a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/</a>

Local arrangements by Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/0769b1c2-fe3e-4c6a-8b27-9cd2f02dd923" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in
memory of Lawrence Eugene Winder, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/0769b1c2-fe3e-4c6a-8b27-9cd2f02dd923" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742840904002.png" alt="Lawrence 'Larry' Eugene Winder" />
 <figcaption>Lawrence 'Larry' Eugene Winder</figcaption>
 </figure>Lawrence 'Larry' Eugene Winder, 79, of Newport, North Carolina,
passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the Crystal Coast
Hospice House.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, April 12, 2025
at 10:00 AM at St Joseph Catholic Church, 215 West 13th Street Hays, KS 67601.
Inurnment will follow the Mass in the Parish Cemetery.&nbsp;Larry, born on May 14, 1945, in St. Joseph, Missouri, was the
beloved son of the late Erwin and Idyl “Darlene” Winder. He served his country
honorably in the United States Navy, a chapter of his life that filled him with
pride. Following his military service, Larry enjoyed a successful career as
Vice President of Global Purchasing, where he made significant contributions to
his field.In his earlier years Larry was quite the outdoorsman, enjoying
fishing and hunting, he also excelled as a skilled woodworker. In later years,
his happy place was the golf course, where he not only honed his skills but
also achieved the remarkable feat of making two hole-in-ones.A devoted member of St. Egbert Catholic Church, Larry held
steadfast to the beliefs that guided his life. He was a true family man,
cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. Larry will be remembered by
his family as a loving husband, a wonderful father, and a proud grandfather and
great-grandfather.Though he may no longer be with them in person, Lawrence's legacy
of love will forever be cherished by his family. He is survived by his
daughters, Kimberly Rice and husband George of Newport, NC and Amy Barmann and
husband Kyle of St. Joseph, MO; brother, Charles Winder and wife Phyllis of St.
Joseph, MO; grandchildren, Phillip, Whitney, Collin, Devon, and Lexi; and
great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Waylon, and Suede.In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his
beloved wife of 43 years, Nila Mae Breit Winder who passed away in 2023, and
his sister, Karen Huey.As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made
to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 322 8th Ave., 16th Floor, New York,
NY 10001.Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences on
Larry's tribute page via: <a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/</a>Local arrangements by Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/0769b1c2-fe3e-4c6a-8b27-9cd2f02dd923" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in
memory of Lawrence Eugene Winder, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/0769b1c2-fe3e-4c6a-8b27-9cd2f02dd923" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

Lawrence 'Larry' Eugene Winder

Richard Dale “Dick” Wilson, 77, of
Russell, Kansas, died on January 10, 2025, at his home in Russell.

Dick was born on February 16,
1947, in Hays, Kansas, the son of Dale R. and Lila May (Harshbarger)
Wilson.&nbsp; Dick grew up in Russell, Bunker
Hill, Luray and Paradise, Kansas areas.&nbsp;
He graduated from Paradise High School and Kansas State University with
a bachelor’s degree in vocational agriculture.&nbsp;


Dick taught at Natoma High School
before returning to Kansas State University where he received a second
bachelor’s degree in business administration.&nbsp;
He then joined the United States Air Force where he had various duties
but most notably worked as a missileer in a nuclear missile silo.&nbsp; Because of the long hours working in the
missile silo, he participated in a program that allowed him to get a master’s
degree.&nbsp; Dick served in the Air Force for
20 years and retired as a major.&nbsp; 

After retiring from the Air Force,
he returned to Russell where he helped his father at the salvage yard and also
worked at a variety of jobs.&nbsp; He had a
life-long love of cars and collected many over the years.&nbsp; He also loved to cook and started the holiday
meals at the church for those that didn’t have family living close.&nbsp; He was happy to see that the serving of
holiday meals had grown to serve the Russell community.

He was a driver’s education
instructor for Wilson and Russell public schools and drove a school bus.&nbsp; He also worked as a funeral helper for
several years with Russell Funeral Home in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a member of the Trinity United
Methodist Church, the Mason’s and Elks Lodge.

Surviving family include his
sister Carolyn Funk and husband Larry of St. George, Kansas; niece Lora Collins
(Shane); great nieces Katherine, Michaela and Christine Collins of Chelsea,
Alabama, and great nephew Garrison Funk of Syracuse, New York.

He was preceded in death by his
parents and nephew Bradley Funk.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740519568089.png" alt="Richard Dale “Dick” Wilson" />
 <figcaption>Richard Dale “Dick” Wilson</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard Dale “Dick” Wilson, 77, of
Russell, Kansas, died on January 10, 2025, at his home in Russell.Dick was born on February 16,
1947, in Hays, Kansas, the son of Dale R. and Lila May (Harshbarger)
Wilson.&nbsp; Dick grew up in Russell, Bunker
Hill, Luray and Paradise, Kansas areas.&nbsp;
He graduated from Paradise High School and Kansas State University with
a bachelor’s degree in vocational agriculture.&nbsp;
Dick taught at Natoma High School
before returning to Kansas State University where he received a second
bachelor’s degree in business administration.&nbsp;
He then joined the United States Air Force where he had various duties
but most notably worked as a missileer in a nuclear missile silo.&nbsp; Because of the long hours working in the
missile silo, he participated in a program that allowed him to get a master’s
degree.&nbsp; Dick served in the Air Force for
20 years and retired as a major.&nbsp; After retiring from the Air Force,
he returned to Russell where he helped his father at the salvage yard and also
worked at a variety of jobs.&nbsp; He had a
life-long love of cars and collected many over the years.&nbsp; He also loved to cook and started the holiday
meals at the church for those that didn’t have family living close.&nbsp; He was happy to see that the serving of
holiday meals had grown to serve the Russell community.He was a driver’s education
instructor for Wilson and Russell public schools and drove a school bus.&nbsp; He also worked as a funeral helper for
several years with Russell Funeral Home in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a member of the Trinity United
Methodist Church, the Mason’s and Elks Lodge.Surviving family include his
sister Carolyn Funk and husband Larry of St. George, Kansas; niece Lora Collins
(Shane); great nieces Katherine, Michaela and Christine Collins of Chelsea,
Alabama, and great nephew Garrison Funk of Syracuse, New York.He was preceded in death by his
parents and nephew Bradley Funk.

Richard Dale 'Dick' Wilson

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;of Fort Hays State was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-District Team for the third-straight year in the Central Region. He was a selection on the second team once again. Hammeke helped the Tigers to their 15th NCAA Tournament appearance and 22-10 overall record in 2024-25.

This is the second all-region award for Hammeke this season after also being named to the D2CCA All-Central Region Second Team. It was his second career regional honor from the D2CCA.Hammeke finished the season averaging 16.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He scored in double figures 31 times and dished out three or more assists in games 28 times.

Hammeke is now the all-time leading scorer in FHSU Men's Basketball history, finishing his career with 2,086 points. He also ranks third all-time in assists with 576 and second all-time in steals with 175. With 585 career rebounds, Hammeke was the only active NCAA Division II player in 2024-25 with at least 2,000 career points, 500 career assists, and 500 career rebounds. He also ranks second all-time in field goals made (715), third in 3-point field goals made (214), and fourth in free-throws made (442) in FHSU program history.

Hammeke is a five-time All-MIAA selection overall, receiving first-team honors each of the last three seasons. In his first year on the court at FHSU, he was the MIAA Freshman of the Year.

Hammeke was one of 10 players selected to the NABC All-District Team for the Central Region. He is one of four players to earn the honor from the MIAA, Jordan Frison of Pittsburg State, Jacob Hanna of Washburn and Jack Bachelor of Washburn. The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference had four selections on the team and the Great American Conference had two.

NABC All-District Team for the Central Region in 2024-25. Central Region First Team Jordan Frison, Pittsburg State Jacob Hanna, Washburn Carson Johnson, MSU Moorhead Antwan Kimmons, Concordia-St. Paul Caleb Van De Griend, Minot State

Second Team Jack Bachelor, Washburn Hobert Grayson, Ouachita Baptist Kaleb Hammeke, Fort Hays State Stevie Strong, Southern Nazarene Kyreese Willingham, Minnesota State

Coach of the Year: Brett Ballard, Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742832924926.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;of Fort Hays State was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-District Team for the third-straight year in the Central Region. He was a selection on the second team once again. Hammeke helped the Tigers to their 15th NCAA Tournament appearance and 22-10 overall record in 2024-25.This is the second all-region award for Hammeke this season after also being named to the D2CCA All-Central Region Second Team. It was his second career regional honor from the D2CCA.Hammeke finished the season averaging 16.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He scored in double figures 31 times and dished out three or more assists in games 28 times.Hammeke is now the all-time leading scorer in FHSU Men's Basketball history, finishing his career with 2,086 points. He also ranks third all-time in assists with 576 and second all-time in steals with 175. With 585 career rebounds, Hammeke was the only active NCAA Division II player in 2024-25 with at least 2,000 career points, 500 career assists, and 500 career rebounds. He also ranks second all-time in field goals made (715), third in 3-point field goals made (214), and fourth in free-throws made (442) in FHSU program history.Hammeke is a five-time All-MIAA selection overall, receiving first-team honors each of the last three seasons. In his first year on the court at FHSU, he was the MIAA Freshman of the Year.Hammeke was one of 10 players selected to the NABC All-District Team for the Central Region. He is one of four players to earn the honor from the MIAA, Jordan Frison of Pittsburg State, Jacob Hanna of Washburn and Jack Bachelor of Washburn. The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference had four selections on the team and the Great American Conference had two.NABC All-District Team for the Central Region in 2024-25. Central Region First Team Jordan Frison, Pittsburg State Jacob Hanna, Washburn Carson Johnson, MSU Moorhead Antwan Kimmons, Concordia-St. Paul Caleb Van De Griend, Minot StateSecond Team Jack Bachelor, Washburn Hobert Grayson, Ouachita Baptist Kaleb Hammeke, Fort Hays State Stevie Strong, Southern Nazarene Kyreese Willingham, Minnesota StateCoach of the Year: Brett Ballard, Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Hammeke named to NABC All-District team for third-straight year

Erma
Alberta (Stithem) Graham-Sander passed away at the age of 82 on Tuesday, March
18, 2025, at the Logan Manor Community Services assisted living facility. Erma
was born on February 15, 1943, to Albert C. “Bud” and Frances L. (Knouf)
Stithem in Hays, KS. Raised in Zurich, KS, she attended Zurich Grade School and
graduated from Palco High School in 1961. She then attended Fort Hays State
University where she met her husband Mitchell S. “Mick” Graham Sr. They were
married on July 25, 1964, in Hays, KS. 

Mick
and Erma began their married life custom cutting throughout Texas, Oklahoma and
Kansas until settling on the family farm in rural Gove County, KS. After Mick’s
passing in 1986, she moved to Oakley where she worked in childcare at the
Oakley Methodist Church and in foodservice at the Logan County Hospital. She
then moved to Hays in 1993 where she worked for FHSU in foodservice. 

While
living in Hays, Erma met Marvin Sander. They were married on September 6, 1997,
and made their home in Oakley. After returning to Oakley, Erma worked as a
teacher at DSNWK until she retired. They enjoyed taking their classic cars to
car shows and playing cards with their card club until Marvin’s passing in
2022. 

Throughout
her life, she was a member of the General Federated Women’s Club, Christian
Mothers, and Daughters of Isabela. She loved attending events for her grandkids
and spending time with friends. 

Erma
was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Frances; her husbands, Mick
and Marvin; and her sister Charlotte L. Stithem. 

She
is survived and missed by her children, Mitchell S. (Richard Young) Graham Jr.
of Oklahoma City, OK, Melissa S. (Trent) Pinero of Panama City Beach, FL and
Mark (Melissa McCormack) Graham of Prairie View, KS; grandchildren, Annastacia,
Abigail, Trent II, Kaden and Olivia and great grandchildren, Raegyn and Raimey.


The
funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 1:00
p.m., Monday, March 24, 2025, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, KS, followed by a
graveside service at the Grainfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be
made to Logan Manor Community Services, 415 Washington St, Logan, KS 67646. For
information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742826691641.jpeg" alt="Erma Alberta (Stithem) Graham-Sander" />
 <figcaption>Erma Alberta (Stithem) Graham-Sander</figcaption>
 </figure>Erma
Alberta (Stithem) Graham-Sander passed away at the age of 82 on Tuesday, March
18, 2025, at the Logan Manor Community Services assisted living facility. Erma
was born on February 15, 1943, to Albert C. “Bud” and Frances L. (Knouf)
Stithem in Hays, KS. Raised in Zurich, KS, she attended Zurich Grade School and
graduated from Palco High School in 1961. She then attended Fort Hays State
University where she met her husband Mitchell S. “Mick” Graham Sr. They were
married on July 25, 1964, in Hays, KS. Mick
and Erma began their married life custom cutting throughout Texas, Oklahoma and
Kansas until settling on the family farm in rural Gove County, KS. After Mick’s
passing in 1986, she moved to Oakley where she worked in childcare at the
Oakley Methodist Church and in foodservice at the Logan County Hospital. She
then moved to Hays in 1993 where she worked for FHSU in foodservice. While
living in Hays, Erma met Marvin Sander. They were married on September 6, 1997,
and made their home in Oakley. After returning to Oakley, Erma worked as a
teacher at DSNWK until she retired. They enjoyed taking their classic cars to
car shows and playing cards with their card club until Marvin’s passing in
2022. Throughout
her life, she was a member of the General Federated Women’s Club, Christian
Mothers, and Daughters of Isabela. She loved attending events for her grandkids
and spending time with friends. Erma
was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Frances; her husbands, Mick
and Marvin; and her sister Charlotte L. Stithem. She
is survived and missed by her children, Mitchell S. (Richard Young) Graham Jr.
of Oklahoma City, OK, Melissa S. (Trent) Pinero of Panama City Beach, FL and
Mark (Melissa McCormack) Graham of Prairie View, KS; grandchildren, Annastacia,
Abigail, Trent II, Kaden and Olivia and great grandchildren, Raegyn and Raimey.
The
funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 1:00
p.m., Monday, March 24, 2025, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, KS, followed by a
graveside service at the Grainfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be
made to Logan Manor Community Services, 415 Washington St, Logan, KS 67646. For
information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

Erma Alberta (Stithem) Graham-Sander

Tuesday, March 25
 KAYS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Emporia State, 2:30pm

Wednesday, March 26 none

Thursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pm

Saturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pm

Sunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

Monday, March 24 noneTuesday, March 25
 KAYS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Emporia State, 2:30pmWednesday, March 26 noneThursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmFriday, March 28 noneSaturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmSunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

Roxy (Green) Tate, a 1972 Fort Hays State graduate, recently made a significant gift to the university that will keep her family’s name alive. Last year, she sold her family’s 160-acre homestead near Osborne. The property included the original limestone house where she spent her childhood.

As an only child, saying goodbye to the land that had been in her mother’s family since the 1880s was bittersweet for Roxy. By creating a nursing scholarship at FHSU with the sale of the land, she will give back to rural Kansas and honor her family’s legacy.

Roxy says the scholarship encompasses her family of homesteaders and their heritage. Her grandfather, Nicholas Bergsma, came to the United States from Holland in the 1870s, landing in New York and eventually making his way to Kansas.

By 1886, he and his brother, Jacob, had each “proved up” their own 160-acre homestead. Jacob never married, but Nicholas and his wife, Emma, had 12 children; Roxy’s mother, Minnie, was the youngest.

Emma was widowed in 1914 at the age of 44 but managed to keep the homestead through World Wars I and II, as well as the Great Depression. Emma retained ownership until she died in 1956. After World War II, Roxy’s parents, Bill and Minnie Green, took over the daily farming tasks. Minnie passed away in 1979, and Bill continued farming into his late 70s with the help of his stepson.

Roxy came to Fort Hays State University to study sociology and journalism. As part of her journalism coursework, she worked two years on the annually published Reveille yearbook, serving one of those as editor, and two years on the weekly campus newspaper.

Roxy wanted to leave something lasting behind to honor her parents. With some of the sales proceeds, Roxy established the William and Minnie (Bergsma) Green Nursing Scholarship at FHSU to ensure her family’s legacy will live on in perpetuity through the work of future Kansas nurses.

Many nursing students remain in western Kansas after graduating from Fort Hays State, and Roxy is very pleased that the family scholarship will focus on nursing and strengthening the healthcare resources in rural Kansas.

“Kansas is a homestead state, and this is largely forgotten,” Roxy said, “It was important for me to ensure that the Bergsma name is remembered as a part of that history and that my father is also honored. Dad was so proud to be a farmer and stockman.”

Join Roxy in making a difference at Fort Hays State University. Give back in honor of friends, family, loved ones, or a business, and support the area of campus that means the most to you. Among other options available, you can give the gift of land, stock, property, or grain. 

To learn more about how you can start a scholarship or make a gift to FHSU, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0b8qTGUC-2BWTp-2FgE8trnmiRCmIgKN0RnozggvdgnZC6uLHC56_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOIbxmc0R00sUhyVoVRP6TN8xqPVKNVVq6Qdc0Sw0icLTcJdNXbPHx89pf7wyYxX-2FznXhZxiI2oScD44BXCWdZRiMRyj2JLpg6jAtrLGhxZhPgJhNxkVCHXHfoXPNkqRb-2FLkxJx3Tl2Ahp1uyw9JcL4gDNEh7Us3kufV7W-2FElR2t9s3AJRhU2bYvBKXTiuz-2FIX9nB-2FgVj9p2wF5cZ7jHCRqN2z-2FHBKRa9LeW1H2ICjKNKKFoLAtQpOOYu5TQRQJjok">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu,</a>&nbsp;or call 785-628-5620.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742402174107.jpeg" alt="Minnie and Bill Green circa 1946. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Minnie and Bill Green circa 1946. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU Foundation Roxy (Green) Tate, a 1972 Fort Hays State graduate, recently made a significant gift to the university that will keep her family’s name alive. Last year, she sold her family’s 160-acre homestead near Osborne. The property included the original limestone house where she spent her childhood.As an only child, saying goodbye to the land that had been in her mother’s family since the 1880s was bittersweet for Roxy. By creating a nursing scholarship at FHSU with the sale of the land, she will give back to rural Kansas and honor her family’s legacy.Roxy says the scholarship encompasses her family of homesteaders and their heritage. Her grandfather, Nicholas Bergsma, came to the United States from Holland in the 1870s, landing in New York and eventually making his way to Kansas.By 1886, he and his brother, Jacob, had each “proved up” their own 160-acre homestead. Jacob never married, but Nicholas and his wife, Emma, had 12 children; Roxy’s mother, Minnie, was the youngest.Emma was widowed in 1914 at the age of 44 but managed to keep the homestead through World Wars I and II, as well as the Great Depression. Emma retained ownership until she died in 1956. After World War II, Roxy’s parents, Bill and Minnie Green, took over the daily farming tasks. Minnie passed away in 1979, and Bill continued farming into his late 70s with the help of his stepson.Roxy came to Fort Hays State University to study sociology and journalism. As part of her journalism coursework, she worked two years on the annually published Reveille yearbook, serving one of those as editor, and two years on the weekly campus newspaper.Roxy wanted to leave something lasting behind to honor her parents. With some of the sales proceeds, Roxy established the William and Minnie (Bergsma) Green Nursing Scholarship at FHSU to ensure her family’s legacy will live on in perpetuity through the work of future Kansas nurses.Many nursing students remain in western Kansas after graduating from Fort Hays State, and Roxy is very pleased that the family scholarship will focus on nursing and strengthening the healthcare resources in rural Kansas.“Kansas is a homestead state, and this is largely forgotten,” Roxy said, “It was important for me to ensure that the Bergsma name is remembered as a part of that history and that my father is also honored. Dad was so proud to be a farmer and stockman.”Join Roxy in making a difference at Fort Hays State University. Give back in honor of friends, family, loved ones, or a business, and support the area of campus that means the most to you. Among other options available, you can give the gift of land, stock, property, or grain. To learn more about how you can start a scholarship or make a gift to FHSU, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0b8qTGUC-2BWTp-2FgE8trnmiRCmIgKN0RnozggvdgnZC6uLHC56_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOIbxmc0R00sUhyVoVRP6TN8xqPVKNVVq6Qdc0Sw0icLTcJdNXbPHx89pf7wyYxX-2FznXhZxiI2oScD44BXCWdZRiMRyj2JLpg6jAtrLGhxZhPgJhNxkVCHXHfoXPNkqRb-2FLkxJx3Tl2Ahp1uyw9JcL4gDNEh7Us3kufV7W-2FElR2t9s3AJRhU2bYvBKXTiuz-2FIX9nB-2FgVj9p2wF5cZ7jHCRqN2z-2FHBKRa9LeW1H2ICjKNKKFoLAtQpOOYu5TQRQJjok">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu,</a>&nbsp;or call 785-628-5620.

FHSU alumna leaving a legacy with gift of land

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Sleep-related deaths are the leading cause of death for infants over 28 days and claim 3,500 lives each year in the United States. According to the most recent data provided by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas 2021 infant mortality rate was 5.3 per 1,000 live births. This means nearly 200 babies did not survive to celebrate their first birthday.

The good news is that overall, the infant rate has declined significantly from 2002 to 2021. Furthermore, the 2022 Kansas State Child Death Review Board reported that 58% of all Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths were found sleeping in an adult bed and 98% of the SIDS deaths had one or more factors contributing to an unsafe sleep environment.

“Too many babies are dying, which means too many families are grieving” says Christy Schunn,&nbsp;executive director of Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network.

&nbsp;"While we have made progress over the last ten years, the KIDS Network remains committed to working with partners across Kansas to continue intervention efforts to decrease infant mortality and protect the lives of our state’s youngest and most vulnerable population."

Together with Cottonwood District and Infant Toddler Services- Kid Link, the KIDS Network will host a Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower, Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at St. Nicholas Church, 2901 E. 13th St., Hays.

Community Baby Showers are an interactive and educational event for expectant parents or new parents (under six months) and their support people to learn the ABCs of Safe Sleep—all babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in Clutter-free Crib. 

The pregnant women who attend the shower and receive the safe sleep training will receive a free portable crib and a wearable blanket, based on availability. Breastfeeding, tobacco awareness, and mental health resources will be available in addition to many other vendors who will have giveaways and door prizes. Refreshments will be served. 

Do you know someone who could benefit? Encourage them to attend the Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower in either Barton or Ellis County. Educational sessions begin every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Pre- and post-surveys will be required to receive crib and wearable blanket.

To sign up for the Ellis County Community Baby Shower visit:<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUqqdieTFCaHqrY"> bit.ly/ellisco-communitybabyshower</a>

Barton County Health Department and Kansas Children’s Services League Healthy Families will be co-hosting the Barton County Community Baby Shower on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. This event is at an indoor location this year at the Great Bend Events Center, Great Bend.&nbsp;

Over 20 different organizations will be providing information for attendees. Door prize drawings will be held during the event. Safe sleep demonstrations will be presented throughout the event. Pregnant women or those with infants 6 months of age and under who complete the safe sleep pre- and post-test as well as the safe sleep demonstration will receive a portable crib and sleep sack until supplies run out. 

We will also be providing a car seat check lane in the parking lot. Certified Car Seat Technicians are available to teach attendees to properly install car seats. Technicians can also check already installed car seats to make sure they are installed properly. 

Tdap vaccine will be available to pregnant women or caregivers to protect newborns from pertussis. Nurses will be available to check immunization records for attendees and make recommendations if vaccines are due.

Come check out the local resources for new families at the Great Bend Events Center on Thursday, April 24, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

The KIDS Network is a nonprofit agency serving individuals who have been touched by the tragedy of infant death or SIDS in Kansas and those individuals or organizations who strive to reduce the risk of infant deaths by providing supportive services, community education, professional training and supporting associated research.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or MONIQUEK@KSU.EDU.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictSleep-related deaths are the leading cause of death for infants over 28 days and claim 3,500 lives each year in the United States. According to the most recent data provided by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas 2021 infant mortality rate was 5.3 per 1,000 live births. This means nearly 200 babies did not survive to celebrate their first birthday.The good news is that overall, the infant rate has declined significantly from 2002 to 2021. Furthermore, the 2022 Kansas State Child Death Review Board reported that 58% of all Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths were found sleeping in an adult bed and 98% of the SIDS deaths had one or more factors contributing to an unsafe sleep environment.“Too many babies are dying, which means too many families are grieving” says Christy Schunn,&nbsp;executive director of Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network.&nbsp;"While we have made progress over the last ten years, the KIDS Network remains committed to working with partners across Kansas to continue intervention efforts to decrease infant mortality and protect the lives of our state’s youngest and most vulnerable population."Together with Cottonwood District and Infant Toddler Services- Kid Link, the KIDS Network will host a Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower, Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at St. Nicholas Church, 2901 E. 13th St., Hays.Community Baby Showers are an interactive and educational event for expectant parents or new parents (under six months) and their support people to learn the ABCs of Safe Sleep—all babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in Clutter-free Crib. The pregnant women who attend the shower and receive the safe sleep training will receive a free portable crib and a wearable blanket, based on availability. Breastfeeding, tobacco awareness, and mental health resources will be available in addition to many other vendors who will have giveaways and door prizes. Refreshments will be served. Do you know someone who could benefit? Encourage them to attend the Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower in either Barton or Ellis County. Educational sessions begin every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Pre- and post-surveys will be required to receive crib and wearable blanket. To sign up for the Ellis County Community Baby Shower visit:<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUqqdieTFCaHqrY"> bit.ly/ellisco-communitybabyshower</a>Barton County Health Department and Kansas Children’s Services League Healthy Families will be co-hosting the Barton County Community Baby Shower on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. This event is at an indoor location this year at the Great Bend Events Center, Great Bend.&nbsp;Over 20 different organizations will be providing information for attendees. Door prize drawings will be held during the event. Safe sleep demonstrations will be presented throughout the event. Pregnant women or those with infants 6 months of age and under who complete the safe sleep pre- and post-test as well as the safe sleep demonstration will receive a portable crib and sleep sack until supplies run out. We will also be providing a car seat check lane in the parking lot. Certified Car Seat Technicians are available to teach attendees to properly install car seats. Technicians can also check already installed car seats to make sure they are installed properly. Tdap vaccine will be available to pregnant women or caregivers to protect newborns from pertussis. Nurses will be available to check immunization records for attendees and make recommendations if vaccines are due.Come check out the local resources for new families at the Great Bend Events Center on Thursday, April 24, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.The KIDS Network is a nonprofit agency serving individuals who have been touched by the tragedy of infant death or SIDS in Kansas and those individuals or organizations who strive to reduce the risk of infant deaths by providing supportive services, community education, professional training and supporting associated research.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or MONIQUEK@KSU.EDU.

KOERNER: Safe Sleep community baby showers

Alvin Francis Urban, 91, Loretto, Kansas, passed away Saturday, March
22, 2025, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.

Alvin (Al) was born August 12, 1933, in Loretto,
Kansas, the son of Frank and Rosalia (Breit) Urban.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident of Rush County,
Kansas.&nbsp; A 1951 graduate of Bison High
School, Bison, Kansas. He was a third generation farmer and worked tirelessly
on the farm until he was 80.

On June 1, 1959, Al married Elaine Klima at St.
John the Baptist Catholic Church, Clyde, Kansas.&nbsp; They most recently celebrated their 65th
wedding anniversary.

Al was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church,
Liebenthal, Kansas, and the VFW.&nbsp; He
enjoyed playing cards, bowling, and baseball.&nbsp;
He was a member of the Loretto Bluejays baseball team in his younger
years. Al cherished his German heritage and was very humbled by the generations
of relatives that preceded him.&nbsp; He loved
to listen to polka music and loved to be part of any celebration. 

Al’s dry sense of humor was always present, and
a sparkle in his eye gave you an indication that a good story or joke was soon
to follow.&nbsp; 

Al was extremely proud of his 1955 Ford Fairlane
and was happy to tell a story about how it closely resembled his first car when
Elaine and he had gotten married.&nbsp; 

He was an avid
follower of Royals, Mariners, Chiefs and K-State.&nbsp; He loved to discuss baseball and football
stats and players. He never missed any of his kids' sporting events.&nbsp; 

Al was a veteran of the United States Army and
was very proud of his service and was able to share his overseas Germany
deployment with his brother Rueben.&nbsp; He
loved to talk to anyone who had served in the military and was always willing
to share a story of his service.

Survivors include:&nbsp; his wife, Elaine Urban, Loretto, Kansas; one
son, David Urban (Gail), Manhattan, Kansas; two daughters, Debora McLain
(Randall), Norman, Oklahoma, and Danette Riordan (Frank), Anacortes, Washington;
eight grandchildren, Chris McLain (Jessica), Seattle, Washington, Randi McLain,
Dallas, Texas, Morgan Urban, Wichita, Kansas, Megan Thornton (Tyler), Wamego,
Kansas, Grant Urban, Manhattan, Kansas, Madison Schmitz (Nathan), Manhattan,
Kansas, Dylan Riordan, Honolulu, Hawaii, and Brooke Riordan, Hanford,
California; six great grandchildren; one brother, Rueben Urban (Virginia),
Loretto, Kansas; and one sister, Arlene Stramel (Gary), Hays, Kansas.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 27, 2025,
from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine, Loretto,
Kansas.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will
be at 7:00 P.M.&nbsp; 

Church visitation will be Friday, March 28,
2025, from 9:30 A.M. to 10:20 A.M. at St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine,
Loretto, Kansas.

Funeral service will be Friday, March 28, 2025,
at 10:30 A.M. at St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine, Loretto, Kansas, with
Father Reginald A. Urban and Father Donald Zimmerman officiating.&nbsp; Interment will be in St. Mary’s&nbsp; Cemetery, Loretto, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family
requests memorials to masses or St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine, Loretto,
Kansas.

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the
family at <a href="http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com">www.janousekfuneralhome.com</a>.

Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719
Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742774763182.jpeg" alt="Alvin Francis Urban" />
 <figcaption>Alvin Francis Urban</figcaption>
 </figure>Alvin Francis Urban, 91, Loretto, Kansas, passed away Saturday, March
22, 2025, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.Alvin (Al) was born August 12, 1933, in Loretto,
Kansas, the son of Frank and Rosalia (Breit) Urban.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident of Rush County,
Kansas.&nbsp; A 1951 graduate of Bison High
School, Bison, Kansas. He was a third generation farmer and worked tirelessly
on the farm until he was 80.On June 1, 1959, Al married Elaine Klima at St.
John the Baptist Catholic Church, Clyde, Kansas.&nbsp; They most recently celebrated their 65th
wedding anniversary.Al was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church,
Liebenthal, Kansas, and the VFW.&nbsp; He
enjoyed playing cards, bowling, and baseball.&nbsp;
He was a member of the Loretto Bluejays baseball team in his younger
years. Al cherished his German heritage and was very humbled by the generations
of relatives that preceded him.&nbsp; He loved
to listen to polka music and loved to be part of any celebration. Al’s dry sense of humor was always present, and
a sparkle in his eye gave you an indication that a good story or joke was soon
to follow.&nbsp; Al was extremely proud of his 1955 Ford Fairlane
and was happy to tell a story about how it closely resembled his first car when
Elaine and he had gotten married.&nbsp; He was an avid
follower of Royals, Mariners, Chiefs and K-State.&nbsp; He loved to discuss baseball and football
stats and players. He never missed any of his kids' sporting events.&nbsp; Al was a veteran of the United States Army and
was very proud of his service and was able to share his overseas Germany
deployment with his brother Rueben.&nbsp; He
loved to talk to anyone who had served in the military and was always willing
to share a story of his service.Survivors include:&nbsp; his wife, Elaine Urban, Loretto, Kansas; one
son, David Urban (Gail), Manhattan, Kansas; two daughters, Debora McLain
(Randall), Norman, Oklahoma, and Danette Riordan (Frank), Anacortes, Washington;
eight grandchildren, Chris McLain (Jessica), Seattle, Washington, Randi McLain,
Dallas, Texas, Morgan Urban, Wichita, Kansas, Megan Thornton (Tyler), Wamego,
Kansas, Grant Urban, Manhattan, Kansas, Madison Schmitz (Nathan), Manhattan,
Kansas, Dylan Riordan, Honolulu, Hawaii, and Brooke Riordan, Hanford,
California; six great grandchildren; one brother, Rueben Urban (Virginia),
Loretto, Kansas; and one sister, Arlene Stramel (Gary), Hays, Kansas.He was preceded in death by his parents.Visitation will be Thursday, March 27, 2025,
from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine, Loretto,
Kansas.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will
be at 7:00 P.M.&nbsp; Church visitation will be Friday, March 28,
2025, from 9:30 A.M. to 10:20 A.M. at St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine,
Loretto, Kansas.Funeral service will be Friday, March 28, 2025,
at 10:30 A.M. at St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine, Loretto, Kansas, with
Father Reginald A. Urban and Father Donald Zimmerman officiating.&nbsp; Interment will be in St. Mary’s&nbsp; Cemetery, Loretto, Kansas.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family
requests memorials to masses or St. Mary’s Help Of Christians Shrine, Loretto,
Kansas.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the
family at <a href="http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com">www.janousekfuneralhome.com</a>.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719
Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Alvin Francis Urban

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Softball pushed its win streak to nine games with a doubleheader sweep of Northwest Missouri State on Sunday afternoon (Mar. 23) at Fleharty Family Field. The Tigers won by scores of 11-3 (5 inn.) and 4-3, moving to 20-6 overall and 5-1 in the MIAA. The Bearcats fell to 12-19 overall and 2-8 in the MIAA. This is the fastest FHSU has reached 20 wins in a season under 11th&nbsp;year head coach Adrian Pilkington.

Fort Hays State 11, Northwest Missouri State 3 (5 inn.) The Tigers had to fight through some early adversity to get on track in the first game. The Bearcats put a run on the board before the Tigers recorded an out in the first inning as the first four batters reached base.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;fought through the early struggles to get three straight outs and limit the damage to just two runs. The Tigers would instantly flip the game in their favor in the bottom half of the opening inning.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilliana-ramirez-johnson/8189">Lilliana Ramirez-Johnson</a>&nbsp;started a rally with a 1-out double.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;walked and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/abbey-duarte/8206">Abbey Duarte</a>&nbsp;singled to load the bases.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;cut the Bearcat lead in half with a sacrifice fly RBI and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;walked to load the bases again.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;followed with a two-RBI single to put the Tigers up 3-2 and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;delivered an RBI single to make it 4-2 Tigers.

The Tigers kept piling on runs to build a strong lead with two in the second, and one each in the third and fourth to make the lead 8-2. In the second, Ramirez-Johnson doubled home a run and Duarte singled in a run.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;launched a solo homer to left center field in the third and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;had a sacrifice fly RBI in the fourth.

The Bearcats picked up one more run in the fifth on an RBI triple, but the Tigers responded with three runs in the bottom half of the inning to force the run rule.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch and then Curry eventually drove in the game winning runs on a 2-RBI single up the middle.

Schmidt moved to 9-2 overall on the season with the win. She allowed five hits, walked one, and struck out one. NWMSU starter Cassidy Paulson took the loss, now 2-4, allowing the first six runs to FHSU in 2 innings of work. Olivia Moyer allowed three runs in 2.1 innings of relief and Kylee Rockhold allowed two runs in the fifth and did not record an out.

Fort Hays State 4, Northwest Missouri State 3 Fort Hays State never trailed in the second contest, but had NWMSU pull within a run twice in the game.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;slammed the door on any hope of a Bearcat comeback by retiring the final seven batters of the game. She threw a complete game with seven strikeouts, moving to 9-4 on the season, while scattering seven hits.

The Tigers only had one RBI in the game and took advantage of Bearcat miscues that produced three of the four runs. The Tigers loaded the bases in the second and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to pick up the only FHSU RBI of the game. Later in the inning, she scored on a passed ball to make it 2-0. After NWMSU hit a solo home run in the fourth, the Tigers moved up 4-1 in the bottom of the inning when the Bearcats committed a throwing error with two outs that allowed two runs to score.

A 2-RBI double was the final damage for NWMSU on the scoreboard in the fifth, but Egger worked out of danger to hang on to the lead and went on to close out the game with authority.

Jaydn Streigle took a tough-luck loss for NWMSU, allowing just one earned run. She allowed six hits and struck out four, moving to 3-6 on the season.

Fort Hays State heads on the road next weekend for conference doubleheaders at Washburn (Fri. Mar. 28) and Emporia State (Sat. Mar. 29).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742771887936.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Softball pushed its win streak to nine games with a doubleheader sweep of Northwest Missouri State on Sunday afternoon (Mar. 23) at Fleharty Family Field. The Tigers won by scores of 11-3 (5 inn.) and 4-3, moving to 20-6 overall and 5-1 in the MIAA. The Bearcats fell to 12-19 overall and 2-8 in the MIAA. This is the fastest FHSU has reached 20 wins in a season under 11th&nbsp;year head coach Adrian Pilkington.<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/2061446896&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/adrian-pilkington-postgame" title="Adrian Pilkington Postgame vs. Northwest Missouri State (March 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Adrian Pilkington Postgame vs. Northwest Missouri State (March 23, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State 11, Northwest Missouri State 3 (5 inn.) The Tigers had to fight through some early adversity to get on track in the first game. The Bearcats put a run on the board before the Tigers recorded an out in the first inning as the first four batters reached base.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;fought through the early struggles to get three straight outs and limit the damage to just two runs. The Tigers would instantly flip the game in their favor in the bottom half of the opening inning.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilliana-ramirez-johnson/8189">Lilliana Ramirez-Johnson</a>&nbsp;started a rally with a 1-out double.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;walked and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/abbey-duarte/8206">Abbey Duarte</a>&nbsp;singled to load the bases.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;cut the Bearcat lead in half with a sacrifice fly RBI and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;walked to load the bases again.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;followed with a two-RBI single to put the Tigers up 3-2 and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;delivered an RBI single to make it 4-2 Tigers.<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/2061447504&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/fhsu-sb-highlights-vs" title="Fort Hays State SB Game 1 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State SB Game 1 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers kept piling on runs to build a strong lead with two in the second, and one each in the third and fourth to make the lead 8-2. In the second, Ramirez-Johnson doubled home a run and Duarte singled in a run.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;launched a solo homer to left center field in the third and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;had a sacrifice fly RBI in the fourth.The Bearcats picked up one more run in the fifth on an RBI triple, but the Tigers responded with three runs in the bottom half of the inning to force the run rule.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch and then Curry eventually drove in the game winning runs on a 2-RBI single up the middle.Schmidt moved to 9-2 overall on the season with the win. She allowed five hits, walked one, and struck out one. NWMSU starter Cassidy Paulson took the loss, now 2-4, allowing the first six runs to FHSU in 2 innings of work. Olivia Moyer allowed three runs in 2.1 innings of relief and Kylee Rockhold allowed two runs in the fifth and did not record an out.Fort Hays State 4, Northwest Missouri State 3 Fort Hays State never trailed in the second contest, but had NWMSU pull within a run twice in the game.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;slammed the door on any hope of a Bearcat comeback by retiring the final seven batters of the game. She threw a complete game with seven strikeouts, moving to 9-4 on the season, while scattering seven hits.The Tigers only had one RBI in the game and took advantage of Bearcat miscues that produced three of the four runs. The Tigers loaded the bases in the second and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to pick up the only FHSU RBI of the game. Later in the inning, she scored on a passed ball to make it 2-0. After NWMSU hit a solo home run in the fourth, the Tigers moved up 4-1 in the bottom of the inning when the Bearcats committed a throwing error with two outs that allowed two runs to score.<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/2061447888&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/fhsu-sb-highlights-vs-1" title="Fort Hays State SB Game 2 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State SB Game 2 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)</a></div></div>A 2-RBI double was the final damage for NWMSU on the scoreboard in the fifth, but Egger worked out of danger to hang on to the lead and went on to close out the game with authority.Jaydn Streigle took a tough-luck loss for NWMSU, allowing just one earned run. She allowed six hits and struck out four, moving to 3-6 on the season.UP NEXTFort Hays State heads on the road next weekend for conference doubleheaders at Washburn (Fri. Mar. 28) and Emporia State (Sat. Mar. 29).&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 FHSU runs win streak to nine with sweep of Bearcats

PITTSBURG, Kan. – Fort Hays State&nbsp;

overcame an early deficit and relied on a clutch home run from Defek Woolwine along with strong relief pitching from Kaleb Carpenter and Branden Chavez and beat Pittsburg State 5-4 Sunday afternoon at Al Ortolani Field.&nbsp;

Pittsburg State wasted no time getting on the board in the bottom of the first. Alex Rodgers led off with a triple to right-center, putting immediate pressure on Tigers' starter Trevor Baugh. Rickey Sanchez capitalized with a sacrifice fly to center, scoring Rodgers to give the Gorillas a 1-0 lead.

Fort Hays State (19-6, 14-2 MIAA), who won two of three in the series,&nbsp; answered in the third inning. After Cooper Howell&nbsp;reached on a single and Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;followed with a hit of his own, a wild pitch advanced both runners into scoring position. Trey DeGarmo&nbsp;came through with a single up the middle, plating Saavedra to even the score at 1-1.

Pittsburg State quickly regained the lead in the bottom half of the third. Rodgers, who was a sparkplug at the top of the lineup, reached again—this time with a single to left. He swiped second and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Sanchez. Moments later, Bugner dropped a bunt single, allowing Rodgers to cross home and put the Gorillas back in front, 2-1.

The Gorillas tacked on two more runs in the fifth. Rodgers drew a walk and advanced to third on a single by Sanchez. Bugner continued his hot day at the plate with another RBI single, scoring Rodgers. Later in the inning, Hayden Dyer added a sacrifice groundout to drive in Sanchez, extending Pittsburg State's lead to 4-1.

In the top of the sixth, Woolwine started the Tigers rally with a single through the right side. Brady Kreutzer followed with a base hit of his own, putting two aboard with no outs. Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;then delivered a clutch RBI single up the middle, scoring Woolwine to cut the deficit to 4-2. Kreutzer later came home on a fielder's choice by Luis Ayala, making it a one-run game at 4-3.

The Tigers took their first lead of the game in the seventh in dramatic fashion. Saavedra ripped a double to left to start the inning, setting the stage for Woolwine. The senior first baseman launched a two-run homer over the right-field wall, flipping the script and giving Fort Hays a 5-4 lead.

Once the Tigers took the lead, the bullpen took control. Kaleb Carpenter&nbsp;entered in the fifth inning and silenced Pittsburg State's offense, tossing 2 2/3 scoreless frames while striking out five and allowing just two hits. Brandon Chavez&nbsp;came in for the eighth and picked up a crucial six-out save, his eighth of the season. He worked a flawless eighth and, after issuing a one-out walk in the ninth, retired Rodgers and Sanchez to secure the win.

With the win, Fort Hays improved to 19-6 overall and 14-2 in MIAA play, streng&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742764623313.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsPITTSBURG, Kan. – Fort Hays State&nbsp;

overcame an early deficit and relied on a clutch home run from Defek Woolwine along with strong relief pitching from Kaleb Carpenter and Branden Chavez and beat Pittsburg State 5-4 Sunday afternoon at Al Ortolani Field.&nbsp;Pittsburg State wasted no time getting on the board in the bottom of the first. Alex Rodgers led off with a triple to right-center, putting immediate pressure on Tigers' starter Trevor Baugh. Rickey Sanchez capitalized with a sacrifice fly to center, scoring Rodgers to give the Gorillas a 1-0 lead.Fort Hays State (19-6, 14-2 MIAA), who won two of three in the series,&nbsp; answered in the third inning. After Cooper Howell&nbsp;reached on a single and Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;followed with a hit of his own, a wild pitch advanced both runners into scoring position. Trey DeGarmo&nbsp;came through with a single up the middle, plating Saavedra to even the score at 1-1.Pittsburg State quickly regained the lead in the bottom half of the third. Rodgers, who was a sparkplug at the top of the lineup, reached again—this time with a single to left. He swiped second and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Sanchez. Moments later, Bugner dropped a bunt single, allowing Rodgers to cross home and put the Gorillas back in front, 2-1.The Gorillas tacked on two more runs in the fifth. Rodgers drew a walk and advanced to third on a single by Sanchez. Bugner continued his hot day at the plate with another RBI single, scoring Rodgers. Later in the inning, Hayden Dyer added a sacrifice groundout to drive in Sanchez, extending Pittsburg State's lead to 4-1.In the top of the sixth, Woolwine started the Tigers rally with a single through the right side. Brady Kreutzer followed with a base hit of his own, putting two aboard with no outs. Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;then delivered a clutch RBI single up the middle, scoring Woolwine to cut the deficit to 4-2. Kreutzer later came home on a fielder's choice by Luis Ayala, making it a one-run game at 4-3.The Tigers took their first lead of the game in the seventh in dramatic fashion. Saavedra ripped a double to left to start the inning, setting the stage for Woolwine. The senior first baseman launched a two-run homer over the right-field wall, flipping the script and giving Fort Hays a 5-4 lead.Once the Tigers took the lead, the bullpen took control. Kaleb Carpenter&nbsp;entered in the fifth inning and silenced Pittsburg State's offense, tossing 2 2/3 scoreless frames while striking out five and allowing just two hits. Brandon Chavez&nbsp;came in for the eighth and picked up a crucial six-out save, his eighth of the season. He worked a flawless eighth and, after issuing a one-out walk in the ninth, retired Rodgers and Sanchez to secure the win.n the sixth.With the win, Fort Hays improved to 19-6 overall and 14-2 in MIAA play, streng&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Tigers rally for series win at Pittsburg State

Lawrence
Joseph Brown better known as 'LB', died in Hays, Kansas on March 19th, 2025 at
the age of 69. LB was born on December 27, 1955 in Hays Kansas to Lawrence
Firmin and JoAnn (Lang) Brown.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742752970897.jpeg" alt="Lawrence Joseph Brown 'LB'" />
 <figcaption>Lawrence Joseph Brown 'LB'</figcaption>
 </figure>Lawrence
Joseph Brown better known as 'LB', died in Hays, Kansas on March 19th, 2025 at
the age of 69. LB was born on December 27, 1955 in Hays Kansas to Lawrence
Firmin and JoAnn (Lang) Brown.

LB attended St. Joseph’s military academy as the last freshman class, then
attending TMP until his graduation in 1973. He attended FHSU for 3 years
majoring in broadcasting, but did not complete his degree due to the arrival of
his 4 children Kristy, Bridget, Rachel and Larry Jr.

He is best known as a smart, witty, extraordinarily funny and music loving man.
He spent decades as a well versed and trusted mechanic. The muffler master as
some called him. He became co-owner of Browns Service Center in 1981 until its
closure in 1993. He worked in many auto shops around Hays before his retirement
in 2022 where he spent the remainder of his life with his cats, Gracie and
Buddy, in a farmhouse on a sleepy Kansas dirt road discovering, learning and
reminiscing about all things’ music.One of LB’s greatest loves was music. A true music fan. Mostly classic rock,
although he appreciated and respected many genres. The louder the music the
better. He had a great set of ears as a sound man for Celebration, The Jimmy
Dee Band, High Risk, Code Blue, Blue Healers and various bands throughout his
young life that brought him great joy. We hope our father is behind a sound
booth somewhere or at the bowling lane with the other “Swill Hogs”.

LB was a friend to all and stranger to none.

Survivors include his four children, Kristy Brown, Bridget Hargraves (Keith),
Rachel Tyler (Travis) and Larry Brown Jr (Ashley); a brother, Pat Brown; as
well as his grandchildren, Eli, Josephine, Noah and Shelby with Lawrence Taylor
Brown due to arrive in June.He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Firmin and JoAnn Brown; and a
son-in-law, Erik Ward.

Memorial services will be 11:00 AM Friday, March 28, 2025, with visitation from
10:00 AM to service time at Keithley Funeral Homes-Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine
Hays, KS 67601.

Immediately following services lunch and celebration gathering in memory of LB
will be at the Hays VFW.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the organization of your choice in LB’s
memory.

Please share memories with the family on LB’s tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>